How to Visit

Hours

The Garden is open from dawn to dusk daily. It's very crowded on Saturday and Sunday afternoons especially after 2:00 PM. Quietest times are early on weekday mornings. 

Transit

CTA bus routes 6 and 28 (both from the Loop) and CTA route 15 (from the Red Line) stop at the corner of 59th and Stony Island. 

The Metra main stop (more trains) is at 55th/56th/57th Street. 

You can cross Stony Island and Cornell Drive at 57th (with the light) and walk south around the lagoon behind the Museum of Science and Industry to the Nancy Hayes Bridge.

Or you can cross Stony Island and Cornell Drive at 59th (with the light) and walk over to the Nancy Hayes Bridge. The garden is just south of the bridge.

Parking

Park for free along Stony Island or in the lot on the corner of 60th and Stony Island (entrance on 60th). Cross Cornell Drive at 59th Street and walk to the Nancy Hayes Bridge on the North end of Wooded Island.  

Park for a fee in the lot by Hayes Drive south of the park and walk in on Wooded Island. 

OR park for a fee behind the Museum of Science and Industry off Science Drive. The short route to the garden is to cross the grass to the back terrace of the Museum, along the Columbian Basin, to the west side of the water. 

Permits

With the increase in visitors in the Garden, sharing the space thoughtfully is crucial. Permits are required for photographing large groups, any drones, ceremonies, and events. See Permits & Rentals | Chicago Park District

Dogs

Dogs are not allowed in the Japanese Garden. There are multiple reasons--including disturbing the nesting birds, handling the large crowds, and the effect of acidic urine on plants and stones. Please respect the peace of the garden and the resident wildlife.

Wheels in the Garden 

Wheeled vehicles--including carts, strollers, rolling briefcases, and bicycles--tear up the paths and grass. Please park them at the bicycle rack or inside the gate.