The McCraw Family Visitor Center provides informative and interactive elements to enhance visitors’ discovery of all things Allerton!
The Visitor Center is open daily* from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (*Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, & New Year’s Day).
The Gift Shop is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Find available merchandise here.
Learn more about the McCraw Family and their gift to renovate and endow the Visitor Center here.
TOP VISITOR QUESTIONS
The Park is open from 8am to sunset every day* (*Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, & New Year’s Day).
Find information and hours for the Greenhouse Café here.
Allerton Park & Retreat Center is located at 515 Old Timber Road, Monticello, IL 61856. Find the GPS coordinates here.
When you enter the Park, follow the signs for the Visitor Center Parking Lot.
The Greenhouse Caféis open seasonally and offers fresh and classic café refreshments – coffee, sandwiches, salads, and more. Find current hours and view the menu here.
Besides stopping by the McCraw Family Visitor Center, there are several excellent resources available for history buffs. Check out the books in our online store, and find information on guided tours here. You can also read more online here.
Find a full list of FAQs here.
things to do
Explore the Formal Gardens
Allerton’s 14 Formal Gardens feature extensive plantings and over 100 ornaments and sculptures to discover. The Gardens were designed by Robert and John Gregg Allerton and are truly one-of-a-kind. As you stroll through his inspired creation, filled with sculptures collected from his travels around the world, you are transported from daily life into a place where cultural artifacts enhance Mother Nature’s best. (Tip: our Third Saturday Garden Tours offer visitors a detailed tour of the Formal Gardens! Learn more here). View the Gardens map here.
Hike the Trails
Allerton Park consists of over 1,500 acres including over 14 miles hiking trails. Experience the natural areas with a hike along one of our 7 trails where you can explore the variety of native species of forest trees and wildflowers. Each trail features the chance to spot various wildlife based on the trail and dependent upon the season. You may also encounter unique artwork along your journey. View the trails map here and check out our upcoming events for opportunities to join guided hikes.
Plan an Overnight Stay
Sometimes a day spent exploring the wonders of Allerton just isn’t enough. Experience more of what you love with an overnight stay. Take time to slow down and really get away as you discover the peace and magic that visitors have enjoyed for over 70 years. Lodging is available in the Mansion, Gatehouse, House in the Woods, or Evergreen Lodge. Find more information about lodging here and call 217-333-3287 to book your stay.
Visit the Greenhouse Café
The Greenhouse Café offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, drinks, and treats. Grab an Allerton “T” to refresh after a hike, a Sun Singer salad to enjoy between garden visits, or homemade quiche for a leisurely Sunday brunch. Find Café hours and menus here.
Attend an Event
From Formal Garden tours to full moon hikes, meditative yoga sessions to lively concerts, educational workshops or holiday festivities — there is something for everyone at Allerton! Check out our Event Calendar for a schedule of upcoming events.
Explore Monticello
Just five miles down the road, Monticello offers a variety of attractions. Stroll the historic Courthouse Square for a selection of shops, art galleries, and eateries. Take a ride on a vintage train or bike the Sangamon River Bridge Trail. Learn more here.
