The Grove image

The Grove

Tourist attraction Historical landmark Nature preserve

One of the Best Places To Visits in Glenview


Address

1421 Milwaukee Ave, Glenview, IL 60025

Website

glenviewparks.org

Contact

(847) 299-6096

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (1K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Tuesday: 8 AM to 4 PM
  • Wednesday: 8 AM to 4 PM
  • Thursday: 8 AM to 4 PM
  • Friday: 8 AM to 4 PM
  • Saturday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Monday: 8 AM to 4 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: nature (17) trails (15) beautiful (14) history (13) Great (12) center (11) walk (11) time (11) great (11) buildings (10)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Venkat C. 1 year ago on Google • 972 reviews
    We love visiting this fantastic nature preserve so well maintained by the Glenview Park district and others. The history of this place, the buildings on site are vivid. The information center museum (of sorts) was fantastic. Spotted a bunch of birds. Wish some of the historical buildings were open to the public. There's no entry fee which is amazing. On Sundays there are free tours of the well preserved Kennicot house, which transports you right back to the 19th Century.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Arun R. 2 years ago on Google
    Nice place to take a short walk. Enjoyed viewing and interacting with birds, reptile, snakes, turtle, fish, possum.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tom L. 2 years ago on Google • 184 reviews
    Have been coming here for many years. I came on field trips and now bring my children here. From the walking paths to the interpretive center, there is something for you to do. Private event space can be rented out. Children can see some of the animals up close.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 S S. 1 year ago on Google • 486 reviews
    Went on a public holiday. It wasn't too crowded, but plenty of other visitors. Our favorite part was probably the tour of the 150 year old Kennicott home. The blacksmith shop was in use at the time. The old school house was nice but locked with no view inside. The log cabin the family lived in for the first 20 years was also locked, but could see everything through the windows. There is lots of other stuff to see just walking around. Great spot to explore more than once.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Craig G. 3 years ago on Google
    Been coming here for years. It's changed some over time but what hasn't? Excellent place for a stroll through the woods. Covid puts a damper on activities, but still a great place to get out and get a little nature. When fully open there are many more things to do. The main house has many live animal specimens including turtles, frogs, fish, all set up with a little bit of history and info. Speaking of history, the site itself has loads of it. Chances are on your strool around the many paths you will encounter deer that seem to be emune to humans. Very cool.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 E. H. 1 year ago on Google • 266 reviews
    It’s the perfect spot for some short hiking trails, we saw several chipmunks and birds at close range, the buildings are gorgeous and the live animals were a big hit in the history center.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Theresa H. 5 months ago on Google • 199 reviews
    Stopped by for the Holiday Market. This year there was only one building that held the market, versus all the buildings.🎅🎄⛄️ Afterwards, we walked around on the trails since it was so nic outside. There are several miles of trails. Lot's of creatures flying and hopping around - Blue Jays, several types of Woodpeckers, Juncos, Sparrows, Nuthatches, squirrels and chipmunks. 🐿🐦🐦‍⬛
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Michael C. 5 months ago on Google • 55 reviews
    Beautiful nature area with history, trails and an interactive center with lots of animals, esp. turtles. The only negative is walking around was not quiet. You could hear the 294 expressway constantly.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rene D. 2 years ago on Google
    A beautiful nature reserve great for hikes with kids. Lots of old buildings to explore, unfortunately they were closed due to covid. The main appeal (for kids at least) is the Interpretive Center. So many animals to see and explore. I highly recommend it to adults as well. It isn’t super “kiddie”.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alex A. 3 years ago on Google
    Deer present
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ericka n Andrew M. 2 years ago on Google
    I always love to walk around the inside to visit Big Al the Alligator Snapping Turtle hes about 100 yrs. Old,, it is so peaceful when you go early in morning.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Namchin D. 2 years ago on Google
    It’s a fine little forest reserve. There you can see some deers and birds, visit rebuilt historic dwellings for Native American and early settlers.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 D P. 4 months ago on Google
    I loved it because they have free viewings and the animals look healthy. They don't pester you, and you can enjoy the mini experience with your loved ones
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 a s. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to walk around and explore, they have a great app that gives you history of the grounds.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Emily R. 10 months ago on Google
    I love The Grove! It was quiet on the Wednesday afternoon I visited. However, Sue in the Interactive Center was awesome! She was super friendly and helped us learn about The Grove and the animals. There’s so much to see and explore! I brought my 6-month-old and she already was interested in things. Excited to make many memories here! Thank you for all you do!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Joyce L. 1 year ago on Google • 387 reviews
    This place is so awesome! So many reptiles to look at. Staff is super nice. We watched them feed the gars and the kids absolutely loved it. The huge snapping turtle is so cool! Also got to pet a possum.

  • 5/5 Ron T. 2 months ago on Google • 146 reviews New
    Many years ago I fell in love with a beautiful woman. It was at the grove where we gazed into each other's eyes and slipped rings of gold on each other's fingers She was a wonderful companion mother to my children and the light of my life We worked hard planned excessively and took all the right steps to secure a future. And in 2023 she passed. All the steps. All the plan's and our future cease to exist. Our life together began at the redfield house I only saw it fitting that it end there. So we booked the Redfield house and had a beautiful ceremony. family and friend's catered food and music. Yes, there were tears. And stories remembering times that made us smile. So in times of good in times of bad I would suggest the Redfield house. Bringing family and friends together for celebrations And memories to last a lifetime.

  • 5/5 Dan S. 2 months ago on Google • 88 reviews New
    Went to the Grove as a "time killer" but ended up thoroughly enjoying ourselves. If you're a history buff or just enjoy nature, you will have a great time. The staff are very helpful and informative. We stayed probably over an hour and could have stayed longer enjoying the nature trails but had previous plans.

  • 5/5 Marie J. 5 months ago on Google • 14 reviews
    Easy trails and beautiful, even in the fall 🍂.

  • 5/5 Cocoloco M. 3 years ago on Google
    Awesome

  • 5/5 Christos 9 months ago on Google • 6 reviews
    The Grove in Glenview, Illinois, is an enchanting oasis that seamlessly blends history, nature, and recreation, making it an absolute delight for visitors of all ages. Spanning 145 acres, this hidden gem offers a diverse array of attractions, ensuring that every visit yields a fresh and enjoyable experience. The Grove's greatest allure lies in its rich historical significance. Stepping into the past, visitors are greeted by authentically restored buildings that depict life in 19th-century Illinois. The quaint, picturesque farmhouse, schoolhouse, and blacksmith shop take guests on a captivating journey through time, complemented by knowledgeable interpreters who eagerly share tales of the era's everyday life. For nature enthusiasts, The Grove does not disappoint. Its serene woodland trails offer a respite from the bustle of everyday life. As you meander through the ancient oak trees, the peaceful atmosphere invites introspection and appreciation for the natural beauty that surrounds you.

  • 5/5 Tina S. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful location I love photographing engagements and wedding photographs there. With mixtures of nature and historical scenery Its a fantastic spot for events to be held!

  • 5/5 Peter K. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice facilities Family friendly

  • 5/5 Keith J. 3 years ago on Google
    Love this place. It's not usually crowded, has historical tours, and is a very peaceful place to take your family.

  • 5/5 Ellary K. 3 years ago on Google
    A very nice place for a picnic and a long walk through the woods.

  • 5/5 Xicana 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place to take a walk and also do photo shoots for all my photographers out there.

  • 5/5 A. Google U. 8 months ago on Google
    Must experience. Amazing fish and reptiles, taxadermy, historic buildings, wild marshes untouched by man, history--a diamond in the rough--you forget where you are once you arrive. Everyone should visit here at least once--there is something for everyone at The Grove.

  • 5/5 Christopher L. 9 months ago on Google
    Fantastic wedding spot. Beautiful.

  • 5/5 Sandra M. 1 year ago on Google
    This place is Awesome I Always have a great walk and Great time every time I'm there I connect with Nature and Enjoy my me time and my Family and Friends have Enjoyed There wonderful outdoors what a Historical Atmosphere and so much to learn and fun for the kids when there is a Event .

  • 5/5 Humera S. 1 year ago on Google
    I walk here every morning. It’s absolutely beautiful, I’ve seen bunnies, white tail deer, ducks and lots of cardinals and oriels.

  • 4/5 Dan Z. 9 months ago on Google
    Great wedding venue! (yes they do events) architecture of the buildings was beautiful, well maintained, surrounded by gardens and trails with sculptures sprinkled in. Disappointing that they are open to the public only one day a year now, a Saturday that we had missed by two days!.....it is what it is.......

  • 5/5 Aarav N. 5 months ago on Google
    This nature preserve is near my house and we go there once a month to discover the history and nature about the Pioneers. Would absolutely recommend if you have time to visit in Glenview, IL.

  • 5/5 Nima J. 1 year ago on Google
    This place is beautiful. With nature and history. The buildings are full of educational nuggets for children from live animals to native America mini village. Also the nature is beautiful you feel like hiking in forest. We have to pay $5 but just because there was an event going on with great live music. We enjoyed it a lot.

  • 5/5 Danielle S. 1 year ago on Google
    Very nice outdoor area. Well maintained trails and easy to access. The log cabin and portage trail was a very interesting piece of local history.

  • 5/5 Mike H. 3 years ago on Google
    What a delightful Oasis after Thursday night traffic. Absolutely enchantment

  • 5/5 Rick U. 3 years ago on Google
    Lots of cool things to see here. Whether inside the nature center or just walking the back 50, lots of wildlife... possibly every species of Midwestern tree. Bluebirds, robins all kinds of different birds. Everything nicely maintained and overseen by nice volunteers. Many opportunities to learn a lot of cool things and to stretch-out the legs! Great turtle pool.

  • 5/5 Floyd A. 3 years ago on Google
    Great historic homestead from 1860's, in the woods. National Historic Landmark.Has a great conference center building also, for special events (small conferences, weddings, and so forth). Nice and quiet considering it's just off a busy road. Highly recommend it.

  • 5/5 L M. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice educational place. It's good to know that we have an important place of history to visit close to us. Visit with Mrs. Claus during Christmas time is awesome. She walks the grounds and you might just bump into her. Lots of things to buy during Christmas. We miss the fall festivities because of covid. Go early though. They close the center around 3 pm.

  • 5/5 Nathanael B. 3 years ago on Google
    I love the grove! They have nice trails and such a wide animal exhibit inside. That 100 year old turtle is the best!

  • 5/5 Occipital N. 4 years ago on Google
    The Grove is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is 145 acres of natural woodlands, wetlands, 200+ year old trees, serenely beautiful walking paths, historic buildings (including Native American) and a gorgeous log building Interpretive Center that was recently updated. The center is filled with historical artifacts and live animals. I attended the grand reopening center on Feb. 22, 2020

  • 5/5 Vladislav G. 3 years ago on Google
    The most amazing nature place in the area. This park is like a gate to another world in the middle of the busy urban area covered with asphalt and concrete. They have some small museum and houses that are more than 100 y.o. Most of the trails are natural, so walking there feels like a hiking in a forest. If you've never been there this gem is a must go place.

  • 5/5 Jon H. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place. Nice history.

  • 5/5 Evelyn O. 3 years ago on Google
    Gorgeous place to visit. The vintage cottage has amazing architecture and antique pieces. The employees are very helpful and kind. They practice all state rules. It's a beautiful site to visit.

  • 5/5 Timbo303Official V. 3 years ago on Google
    One of the most Beautiful Nature Preserves I have ever been to. The expressway actually doesn't help in some spots but that won't affect the review here since that expressway was highly needed back in the day. Also Pokemon GO players should come here there is so much to do in this place, there are tons of weak gyms and lots of pokestops and pokemon that spawn.

  • 1/5 sam c. 3 years ago on Google
    Free the poor, old, and large turtle. If you care about animals, why keep one in such a small enclosure for years and years. It is animal cruelty/abuse.

  • 5/5 Fawzi S. 3 years ago on Google
    The best relaxing place excelent

  • 5/5 Mary C. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place to walk and see many deer

  • 5/5 Sean K. 3 years ago on Google
    Good palce to walk.

  • 5/5 Hojeung K. 3 years ago on Google
    I enjoyed walking with my friends. Safe and beautiful.

  • 5/5 Talita P. 3 years ago on Google
    My kids love visiting The Grove. Lots of learning and exploring opportunities.

  • 5/5 Rick G. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to hike

  • 5/5 Nelli S. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place where you can explore nature and trails.

  • 5/5 Leonor S. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) A place with very nice trails (Original) Un lugar con senderos muy agradables

  • 5/5 Ripcord 2. 3 years ago on Google
    Looks nice

  • 5/5 Erik N. 3 years ago on Google
    Fine

  • 5/5 Kristine H. 3 years ago on Google
    Wonderful outside experience. Staff are great!

  • 4/5 Charlene K. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice October day, trails well kept, tour of house informative...very nice.

  • 5/5 Josh E K. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful spot. Great to walk and relax

  • 5/5 Brian G. 3 years ago on Google
    It was a beautiful fall day at the Grove and it is the first time I have been back since the interpretive center reopened. The new and improved center are done right and a great amount of attention has been given to the life of Robert Kennicott who is one of the great naturalists of the 19th century. The Grove is a fantastic resource and we in glenview are lucky to have this in our community.

  • 5/5 Mary Ellen F. 3 years ago on Google
    A hidden treasure! If a quiet walk in the woods is what you desire this place is it! Well marked trails wide enough for passing others safely!

  • 5/5 Joseph C. 3 years ago on Google
    Bringing the past into the present for future generations

  • 5/5 Mousty B. 3 years ago on Google
    There is very nice for hiking with family,kids and friends.

  • 5/5 George S. 3 years ago on Google
    Awesome place for outdoor event! Great location, great people!

  • 5/5 christine k. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to take a toddler. Walking and enjoying nature. Great place for a little picnic. Also a gigantic and very old turtle.

  • 5/5 Gabrielle F. 3 years ago on Google
    very beautiful!

  • 5/5 Diane L. 3 years ago on Google
    Just beautiful.


Call (847) 299-6096 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Activities
    • ✓️ Hiking
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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