The Grove

Imagine a unique corner of pristine nature preserved amidst modern development. The Grove is a National Historic Landmark located in the city of Schaumburg, USA. Across a vast 150-acre territory, you will find ecologically diverse prairies, shady woodlands, and rare oak-hickory savannas.

This site serves as an open-air museum where history is closely intertwined with ecology. The crown jewel of The Grove is the former estate of Dr. John Kennicott, a renowned 19th-century horticulturist and educator. A visit here allows you not only to enjoy the beauty of nature but also to learn how the early settlers of Illinois lived.

Today, you can see not only historic buildings, such as the 1856 Kennicott House, but also a modern nature interpretation center. The Grove is recognized as a significant historical monument that carefully preserves the region's natural and cultural heritage for future generations.

To plan your visit to The Grove, it’s helpful to have current contact information on hand. This will help you check the schedule for special events or the conditions for visiting the historic buildings.

First and foremost, guests should take a walk along the winding trails that meander through ancient oak forests and wetlands. It is a wonderful opportunity to observe the local fauna: turtles can often be seen in the ponds, and a variety of birds inhabit the forest thickets. The Nature Interpretation Center offers fascinating exhibits detailing the local flora and fauna.

For history buffs, a tour of the Kennicott House is a must. Inside, you can get a glimpse of mid-19th-century life and even look into archives containing thousands of vintage letters and photographs. Equally interesting is the reconstruction of a Potawatomi longhouse, which provides a visual insight into the culture of the indigenous peoples who lived here before the arrival of Europeans.

Both children and adults will likely enjoy exploring the old schoolhouse, where the educational atmosphere of past centuries has been recreated. The Grove is a place where you can not only relax in the fresh air but also take part in educational programs dedicated to pioneer history and environmental protection.

The Grove is conveniently located in the northern suburbs, near the intersection of Milwaukee Avenue and Lake Avenue. For those traveling by car, the easiest way to get here is via the I-94 or I-294 (Tri-State Tollway), exiting at Lake Avenue or Willow Road. Free parking is available for visitors on the park grounds.

If you plan to use public transportation, you can take the Metra commuter train from Chicago to the Glenview station. Since the station is about 5 kilometers from the site, it is recommended to complete the journey by taxi or use the local PACE system buses that run along Milwaukee Ave.

The history of this place began in 1836, when Dr. John Kennicott and his family moved here from New Orleans. On these then-wild lands, he established one of the first commercial plant nurseries and built a home in 1856, becoming a key figure in the region's agricultural development. His passion for nature transformed the area into a true scientific and cultural hub.

The doctor's son, Robert Kennicott, became famous as an outstanding naturalist and explorer. It was here at The Grove that he gathered his first collections of flora and fauna, which later formed the foundation of the Chicago Academy of Sciences, which he founded. His scientific legacy made this place significant for the entire country, attracting the attention of researchers from around the world.

Interestingly, The Grove could have disappeared under development in the 1970s. However, a group of local activists known as the Frog and Fern Ladies launched a massive "Save The Grove" campaign. Thanks to their efforts, the land was saved, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and in 1976, it was designated a National Historic Landmark.

To fully enjoy your visit, it is recommended to set aside 2 to 4 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely stroll along the nature trails, explore the historic buildings, and stop by the interpretation center.

If you plan on a detailed study of the archives or want to participate in one of the educational programs, your visit may take half a day. The peaceful atmosphere of The Grove encourages thoughtful contemplation, so there is definitely no need to rush.

The complex is open to the public daily, making it easy to include in your travel itinerary. On weekdays, from Monday to Friday, the gates of The Grove are open from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

On weekends, the schedule changes slightly: visitors are welcome on Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Please note that the hours for individual historic buildings and exhibition halls within the center may differ from the general grounds schedule.

Exploring the surroundings of Schaumburg and Glenview can greatly enrich your travel experience. After immersing yourself in the history and tranquility of nature at The Grove, you can visit various entertainment centers and water parks located nearby.