Chicago Botanic Garden: We especially like the Chicago Botanic Gardens because of its fantastic Enabling Garden designed especially for people with disabilities. This spectacular exhibit has a "wall of water" fountain right at wheelchair height that wheelchair users can put their hands into. Wheelchairs are available free at the Information Desks in the Gateway and Education Centers. Accessible parking is located in parking lots #1, #2 and #3. Nearly all areas of the Garden are wheelchair accessible. While not located in the City of Chicago, this trip is worth the trek to Glencoe, IL, (approximately 25 miles from downtown). Depending on the season, enjoy waterfalls, shooting fountains and beautiful blooming roses. Whatever your taste in gardens, you will find it here. The 385-acre property includes a suitably romantic English Garden, a thoughtful Japanese paradise, and indoor greenhouses which duplicate the atmosphere of the desert as well as the rainforest. A 45-foot waterfall cascades through the Waterfall Garden and the pools in quiet areas enhance reflection and relaxation. Located in Glencoe, 25 miles north of Chicago, the Chicago Botanic Garden, is managed by the Chicago Horticultural Society. Chicago Botanic Gardens 100 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe 847-835-5440 Cost: Free; $7 per car to park, $5 for seniors Hours: 8 a.m. to sunset daily