It's springtime in Chicago but that doesn't always mean balmy weather. In fact, sometimes it's downright chilly, damp and grey. No matter, you can still stop and smell the flowers.
A couple of days ago, when the kids were squirrley and out of school and my house was full of out of town guests I had to escape to someplace warm. I thought of booking a last minute flight to Mexico or stowing away on a Caribbian cruise, but somehow that didn't seem very cost effective. Instead, I remembered the Lincoln Park Conservatory where I hadn't been in years. I grabbed my camera, three kids and my Sis and headed East to Lincoln Park and the Lakefront. We lucked out with a good parking space, braved a half block walk against the north winds blowing off the lake and arrived at the doors of the Lincoln Park Conservatory. We opened the doors and were transported to tropical bliss. The smell of flowers and the peaceful sound of indoor fountains made us feel as if we stepped into paradise. The Annual Chicago Park District Spring Flower Show was in full bloom and runs now through May 10, 2009. The Conservatory is open daily from 9:00 AM till 5:00 PM. It's relaxing, the flowers are stunning, and it's free!