Allerton Park and Retreat Center

Allerton named one of the Seven Wonders of Illinois.

Allerton images

Visiting

Admission

There is no admission fee, however, donations are welcome at any of our four outdoor kiosks and help greatly to maintain the Park.

Park Hours

Open: Daily 8 AM–Sundown (gates close at dusk)
Closed: Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year's Day

Before You Visit!!

  • Check for Restorations & Closures
  • Prepare to drive slowly (25 mph) and park only in designated parking lots
    (not along roads/gardens/grass)
  • Note: the Retreat Center (Mansion) is not open to the public on a walk-in basis
    For information about tours, click here

How to Get Here

Directions

Visitor Center

Open: Everyday 9 AM–5 PM (staffed only on weekends April–November)
Closed: Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year's Day

Learn More

Park Maps

Trail and Garden Map | ADA map

Park Rules

  • Butterfly Photo taken at Allerton Park Alcohol/Drugs—It is unlawful for any person to consume liquor or illegal substances or to display liquor containers in the Park.
  • Bicycling—Bicycling is permitted only on designated trails or Park roads where motor vehicles are allowed, unless otherwise posted.
  • Camping—Camping in the Park is prohibited.
  • Fires—Gathering firewood disrupts the forest and soil cycle and is not permitted. Fires are prohibited in the Park. Grills are provided for picnic cooking.
  • Fireworks—Fireworks are not permitted in the Park.
  • Flowers and Plants—Picking flowers either in the formal gardens or in the natural areas is not permitted. Plants may not be removed from the Park.
  • Hunting and Fishing—Hunting and fishing is prohibited in the Park unless authorized by the University of Illinois.
  • No Collecting—Collecting of antlers, mushrooms, rocks, etc. is not permitted.
  • Pets—Pets are welcome in the Park, but they must be kept on a leash of not more than six feet and must be personally attended at all times. Please clean up after your pet.
  • Picnicking and Grilling—Picnickers are welcome. Grill only in designated areas.
  • Weapons—Weapons are not permitted in the Park.

Services Available

  • Restrooms located near main parking lot, in the Visitor Center, and across from the Visitor Center
  • Shady picnic areas near main parking lot and meadow area (Use only BBQ grills provided)
  • Handicap accessible
  • Mobility carts available for elderly/disabled (call for information)
  • Dog watering bowl outside Visitor Center

Allerton Park StatueWhat to do While Visiting

  • Walk through the series of outdoor formal gardens containing part of our 100 sculptures and garden ornaments
  • Hike one of the 7 woodland trails which total over 14 miles
  • Have a picnic in the meadow or at any one of our picnic areas