Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool is a small garden in Lincoln Park, near the Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory at 125 W Fullerton Pkwy. A curving stone path circles the lily-covered pond, with a waterfall, native plants and a Prairie-style pavilion along the way. Pause by the water to watch for turtles, fish and birds, or listen for bullfrogs when they are in season. The garden is a quiet stop for a short walk or a seated break from the nearby city streets.
From Victorian pond to Prairie School garden
The lily pond dates to 1889, when it was built to raise tropical water lilies. After years of neglect, landscape architect Alfred Caldwell redesigned the garden in the 1930s. He worked on the project through the Works Progress Administration, shaping the site in the Prairie School style, which sought to blend architecture with the Midwestern landscape.
Caldwell's design gives the water and stone paths a natural, winding form. The garden is also known as the Lincoln Park Lily Pool. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2002.
Paths, pavilion and water
A stone walkway loops around the pond, with winding limestone stepping stones and places to sit. The route passes a prairie-style pavilion, a bridge and the waterfall. Circular benches provide spots to pause and look across the garden.
Native plants surround the water, where lilies grow alongside other vegetation. Turtles, fish and birds may be seen around the pond. Bullfrogs are seasonal, and their calls can sometimes be heard even when the frogs are not in view.
Finding the garden and planning a visit
The Lily Pool is at 125 W Fullerton Pkwy, near the Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory. Its entrance from Fullerton can be difficult to spot. The garden is not always reachable from inside the zoo, so allow for the possibility of exiting and approaching it from the street.
The garden closes for the season and reopens in mid-April. Spring and fall bring especially colorful plantings. If you are driving, parking near the zoo may be paid; a visitor reported that the zoo lot allowed up to 30 minutes free for a quick stop.
FAQ
When does Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool reopen?
It reopens in mid-April after its seasonal closure. Check the garden's website before visiting, as it closes for part of the year.
How long should you spend at Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool?
Allow about 20 to 40 minutes for a walk around the pond and a pause by the water.
Is Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool inside Lincoln Park Zoo?
It is near the zoo, but it is not always accessible directly from inside. You may need to leave the zoo and enter from Fullerton.
What can you see at Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool?
The garden has a lily pond, waterfall, stone paths, native plants, a Prairie-style pavilion and bridge. Turtles, fish and birds live around the water, and bullfrogs may be heard in season.
