63rd Annual Dearborn Garden Walk

Join us on Sunday, July 16th , 2023, and discover one of the country’s oldest garden walks, hosted by the North Dearborn Association. This nationally recognized event draws crowds from all over the world to take part in a one-day, self-guided tour of gorgeous and unique secret gardens throughout Chicago’s historic Near North and Gold Coast neighborhoods.

An intimate garden walk experience, ticket-holders will experience a variety of private rear gardens ranging from minimalist to classic small gardens and patio/terrace designs – each showcasing the most creative use of outdoor space in an urban setting. Many of the gardens are created around entertaining and sitting areas, offering city dwellers additional living quarters in the warmer months.

Visit historic and beautiful architectural buildings during your walk. In addition, visitors can participate in a guided architectural tour of historic Dearborn Parkway that highlights the outstanding architectural facades in the neighborhood.

GARDENS

A not-to-be-missed annual Sunday afternoon adventure! Private garden owners share their secret havens. First-time visitors will be intrigued by the variety of garden styles and the plants used to create them. Return attendees will marvel at the evolution of repeat gardens, and enjoy the new gardens included this year. A bonus pleasure: Numerous charming front gardens easily viewed while strolling the streets of the Dearborn Garden Walk.

ARCHITECTURAL TOURS: Starting at 1:30, 3:30 and 5:00 pm

Trained architecture and neighborhood afficionados will be your guides for this 1-hour tour. Tours begin at the Latin Middle School (North Ave & Dearborn St) and end at RH (Goethe & Dearborn). Tours cover not only the fascinating architecture in the neighborhood, but also the history of the Gold Coast/NDA.

Frequently Asked Questions

It's raining. Is the event still taking place?

Yes! The Garden Walk will still go on if it's raining.

Where can I park?

Discounted valet parking will be available from Latin Middle School at 45 W. North Ave [ticket sale location and the start of the walk]. There is limited on-street parking. The walk is accessible by public transportation: go to “CTATripPlanner.com" and enter the Latin Middle School Address of 45 W. North Ave.There are some public parking garages in the area: 1560 N Sandburg Tr; 65 E. Banks; 1221 N State to name a few.

Where can we eat?

There are many charming restaurants near this area. A few that we can recommend for a casual lunch are: Butch McGuire’s at 20 W Division, The Lodge Tavern at 21 W Division, or Hopsmith Chicago at 18 W Division St For an after-walk dinner or drinks, try the Ambassador Chicago Food Gallery at 1301 N State Pkwy, the Claridge House at 1244 N Dearborn St. or Orso’s Italian Restaurant at 1401 N Wells.

 Are photographs allowed?

Most homeowners are flattered to have their garden photographed. Occasionally, a homeowner may object, and a no photography sign is displayed.  If in doubt, ask the volunteer attendant at the garden about photography.

 Is this a guided tour?

In the brochure is an easy to follow, self-guiding map that allows you to choose your own route to each of the gardens. You can linger or return to gardens at your own pace while allowing yourself time to take part in the gardening seminars and the guided sidewalk architectural tour - both included with your ticket purchase.

 How long does it take to see all the gardens?

Allow at least 3 hours to stroll through the gardens. You will want time to enjoy all the walk has to offer.

 Are children allowed?

There is no charge for children under 16 yrs accompanied by a parent. 

 Is the event pet-friendly?

While we love dogs, your pet would be safer and much happier at home.  The number of guests, confined spaces and summer temperatures can create a safety issue for four-legged creatures.

 Is it wheel chair accessible?

Unfortunately, no, many of the gardens are accessible only through alleys or narrow gangways.

 Can we still purchase the day of the event?

Yes, Tickets are sold from noon to 3:30pm [the Walk is open until 5:00pm].

 Do you offer a senior citizen discount?

No, the most economical option is to purchase the advance “early bird” ticket on-line.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Program Booth Location: Latin Middle School, 45 W North Blvd, Chicago, United States