Garfield Park is the westmost part of the Chicago Park and Boulevard System. It features a large set of lagoons with marshy borders, an island, and shrubby areas. The best areas for birding are around the western lagoon. The famous Garfield Park Conservatory is two blocks north on Central Park Boulevard.
by bike: Biking to Garfield Park is a breeze. The boulevard system connects from the north and south, as does California Ave. Lke and Washington provide safe routes from the east and west.
by transit: The Conservatory-Central Park Drive Green Line station is just a short walk away. 20-Madison is the best bus route. 82-Hom an is also nearby; plan for a half-mile walk from Maypole to the western lagoon.
by car: Parking is available north and south of Dome Field House. Small parties should arrive at the southern lot. Larger birding groups fit well on the northern lot.
💡 Fun Fact - In 1899, Marshall W. "Major" Taylor broke four cycling records in the Bike and Horse Track that was along the southern end of the park.
Osprey with a goldfish over the Garfield Park Lagoon and just before gulls came in to try and steal it.
Birds
Garfield Park has a good mix of habitats and is host to several waterfowl, warblers, shorebirds, and more throughout the seasons.
Habitats
Lagoons
Two designated Natural Areas
Meadows with mature deciduous trees
Marshy and riparian edges
Shrubby areas
A small island in the eastern lagoon
Accessibility and Amenities
Pedestrian crossing in front of the Dome Field House.
A paved path around the lagoon
Good options for stationary birding.
A casting pier near the parking lot.
Several benches with views into the lagoon
Recommended Routes and Watch Spots
Western Garfield Park Lagoon
The west lagoon is the best birding portion of the park. If driving to the park, use the lot just south of the Gold Dome Building. Bird along the lagoon to arrive back to the Dome. The southwest end of the lagoon features a biodiverse-rich shore, as well as a designated Natural Area. Be sure to stop inside the landmark field house to freshen up.
Garfield pARK Band Shell
One of the few relics of the park’s rich history is the Band Shell, a gazebo for music performances. The area is beautifully overgrown and a sight for eye-level views of birds in migration.
Completing the Lagoon
If you have extra time, cross into the eastern part of the park after the field house to complete the lagoon! There is a new natural area with wildflowers near the southeast end of the lagoon system.
Garfield Park Conservatory
Just north of the park is the Garfield Park Conservatory. Be sure to explore the great exterior to find birds enjoying the gardens. Admission is free.
North Parking Lot
If you want to make a quick pit stop, gather a large group, or want the shortest distance for good looks from a car, the park north of the Dome Field House is your spot.
Birder Stories
Big Sit, Garfield Park, October 8th, 2023 -Christina Harber
Chicago BIPOC Birders was formed in July of 2021. The group’s grassroots efforts have grown steadily thanks to a decentralized structure and frequent gatherings across the Chicagoland region. One such event was their Big Sit at Garfield Park on October 8th, 2024. Highlights of the day included great activity by several Red-tailed Hawks, including one banded individual! The bird was reported to USFWS, for which the group received a certificate for its reporting!
Red-tailed hawk dramatically takes down a squirrel. -yorickgarcia
Additional Resources
Park Links
Related Social Media
Getting Involved
Additional Media
Garfield Park Dome Field House under a beautiful sunset. -yorickgarcia
Acknowledgments
Editor: yorickgarcia
Contributors: Chicago BIPOC Birders, Christina Harber