This Hidden Lily Pad Pool in Chicago Just Reopened After a Years-Long Closure

The Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool in Lincoln Park is once again open to the public following a years-long restoration plan. A beloved Chicago treasure, the park is home to a breathtaking lily pad pond, immersive native plant life, and cascading waterfall. Here’s an inside look at the improved garden and everything to know about the historic Windy City hidden gem. A revival years in the making ----------------------------- The Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool dates back to the late 19th century, originally serving as a nursery for aquatic plants, according to the Chicago Park District. A rchitect Alfred Caldwell redesigned the pond in the 1930s, but the site eventually fell into disrepair and sat closed for decades. In 2001, the Park District teamed up with the the Lincoln Park Conservancy (f.k.a. Friends of Lincoln Park) to restore the lily pool to its former glory. Officials fully rehabilitated the pond by 2003, which subsequently became a National Historic Landmark, as well as a Chicago Historic Landmark. Caldwell Lily Pool marks 20 years since revival ----------------------------------------------- Twenty years after the pond’s millennial restoration, officials closed the space in 2023 in order to rebuild its two wooden pavilions and perform additional maintenance. Initially, park officials hoped to reopen the pond by summer 2024, but inclement weather and other factors forced them to extend the timeline. In late August the Lincoln Park Conservancy announced on Facebook that the pond would officially reopen on Monday, September 8. “Your patience throughout the 25th anniversary restoration is appreciated,” read the post. Learn more about the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool and plan your visit here. Source: https://secretchicago.com/alfred-caldwell-lily-pool-chicago-reopens-2025/