Chicago Botanic Garden Lightscape
Through Jan 3Nov 13 – Jan 3 · 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM · Select nights Nov 13, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027; entry slots from 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM nightly, grounds open until 9:30 PM (extended to 10:30 PM on peak weekend nights). Timed-entry reservations every 15 minutes. Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Chicago Botanic Garden1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe, IL 60022 · 20.5 mi approx. from ChicagoDirections
All ages (infants 0–2 free; fully paved, stroller-accessible 1.3-mile walking loop)
From $29Adults from $29 ($26 garden members); Children (ages 3–12) from $16 ($14 members); Toddlers 0–2 free. On-site parking $18 advance purchase / $25 gate purchase (members park free).
About this adventure
Transporting visitors into an otherworldly realm of winter brilliance, Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe features an internationally acclaimed 1.3-mile illuminated walking trail produced in partnership with Sony Music. Guests meander through awe-inspiring light installations including the iconic, soaring Cathedral of Light constructed with tens of thousands of gentle arches, the mesmerizing Fire Garden flickering with hundreds of real flame braziers, singing illuminated trees, and color-morphing neon meadow installations set to curated musical scores. Along the wide paved lakeside trail, festive pit stops offer warm apple cider, decadent hot chocolate, craft beer, wine, and crackling outdoor fire pits where families can roast marshmallows and assemble gooey s'mores. The trail is fully ADA-accessible and stroller friendly. Tickets are sold in timed 15-minute entry increments and regularly sell out weeks in advance for peak December weekend evenings.
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