The Grove National Historic Landmark

The Grove is 154+ acres of ecologically diverse prairie grove land preserved and maintained by the Glenview Park District. The Grove was the home of visionary horticulturist and educator, Dr. John Kennicott and his son, Robert Kennicott, Illinois’s first naturalist. The Grove was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976 and offers educational programs, special events, and is open for free regular visitation by the general public. The Redfield Estate is a historic home rental facility at The Grove. Trails are open daily from dawn until dusk. No dogs allowed.

Exhibits

The Grove offers over 3 miles of walking/hiking trails from dawn until dusk daily through woodlands, wetlands, and prairies.

At The Grove's Interpretive Center you'll find a collection of live birds, turtles, snakes, mammals, and fish native to Illinois. The West Hall of the Interpretive Center focuses on the life and work of Robert Kennicott (1835-1866), Illinois' first naturalist. Robert was a major collector for the Smithsonian Institution and accomplished much during his short 30-year life. His most noteworthy achievement was the exploration of Russian America that provided information instrumental in the U.S. purchase of Alaska from Russia.

Participation in Museum Day is open to any tax-exempt or governmental museum or cultural venue on a voluntary basis. Smithsonian magazine encourages museum visitation, but is not responsible for and does not endorse the content of the participating museums and cultural venues, and does not subsidize museums that participate.