ON A ROLL — The Weekly Opine

It was a refreshing start to a refreshing weekend, spending the afternoon at Chicago Botanic Garden. (Photo credit Bethanny A.)

Unhurried pleasure

Last Friday, the Chicago Botanic Garden became the latest local attraction to succumb to my pursuit of checking off boxes. The garden, situated in the tony suburb of Glencoe, is pure visual delight and a perfect place to relax and recharge. A brief, pouring rain shower did not detract from but instead enhanced the beautiful surroundings. Altogether, it was a calm, peaceful experience.

Chicago Botanic Garden is a treasure at least on par with Morton Arboretum and Garfield Park Conservatory. Below, please enjoy photos of this Midwest masterpiece…

Leafy shades of green. (Photo credit The Weekly Opine)

Reminiscent of a holiday sparkler. (Photo credit The Weekly Opine)

Calming triad. (Photos credit Bethanny A.)

A good spot to reflect about summer, or anything else. (Photo credit The Weekly Opine)

View of the Japanese garden. (Photo credit The Weekly Opine)

These tree roots and stump remind of a squid! (Photo credit The Weekly Opine)

The Chicago Botanic Garden’s model railroad exhibit features depictions of some of America’s top sightseeing destinations. Fascinating. (Photo credit Bethanny A.)

The “Lincoln Memorial” at the botanic garden’s rail exhibit. (Photo credit Bethanny A.)

(L) “Mt. Rushmore” at the botanic garden’s rail exhibit. (R) From a distance this looks like a discarded mask. Upon closer inspection it is a flower. (Photos credit Bethanny A.)

I call willow trees the Midwest’s palm trees. (Photo credit The Weekly Opine)

Giant mums near the Chicago Botanic Garden entrance. (Photo credit The Weekly Opine)