Burnham Nature Sanctuary (in Burnham Park)

Burnham Nature Sanctuary, nearly twelve acres of prairie and woodland habitat, sits on the west side of Lake Shore Drive in Burnham Park near 47th Street. In 1998, the Chicago Park District began to create this nature sanctuary by restoring the wooded edge and creating a small butterfly meadow and prairie. Since then the nature area has been gradually expanded and enhanced to the gem you see today. Visitors will find prairie wildflowers blooming through spring, summer, and fall, providing color and beauty to the landscape. All plants in the nature area are native to the Chicago region and provide important sources of food and cover for birds, caterpillars and butterflies, and many other species of wildlife. A prairie path and boardwalk transverse the nature area and provide access for viewing the nature sanctuary.