Dr. John Kennicott, who founded the site in 1836, was the first physician in the area and a pioneer of Illinois horticulture.
The property contains one of the oldest surviving houses in Cook County, originally built in 1856.
The site acts as a critical stopover point for migratory bird species moving along the Mississippi Flyway.
The Redfield Estate, located on the property, was designed in the Arts and Crafts style by architect Thomas Eddy Tallmadge.
The preserve is one of the few remaining examples of the oak grove and prairie habitat that once covered much of Northeastern Illinois.
The Grove is a 150-acre nature preserve in Glenview, Illinois, featuring a rare combination of oak savanna, prairie, and wetland ecosystems. The site is a National Historic Landmark, recognized primarily for being the home of Dr. John Kennicott, a 19th-century pioneer and horticulturalist. Visitors can explore the Kennicott House and the Redfield Estate, both of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The preserve serves as a living museum, maintaining original structures and period-appropriate landscapes. An interactive Interpretive Center provides educational resources regarding the local flora, fauna, and regional history. Miles of gravel and dirt trails wind through wooded areas and restored prairie patches. Wildlife such as turtles, deer, and various migratory birds are frequently sighted in the wetlands. The grounds are managed by the Glenview Park District with a focus on ecological preservation and historical education. It remains a primary destination for studying Illinois pre-settlement landscapes.
The wooden boardwalk overlooking the central pond provides the most scenic view of the wetlands.
Wear insect repellent during the summer months, as the wetlands attract mosquitoes.
Check the Glenview Park District website for seasonal nature programs or historical reenactment schedules before arriving.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching near the wetland boardwalks.
Do not feed the wildlife, as it disrupts the ecological balance of the preserve.
The Interpretive Center is typically closed on major holidays; some historic buildings may have limited seasonal access.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive prairie vegetation and maintain quiet for local wildlife.
