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Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary
Chicago, IL 60640, United States
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Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary

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Mi
Review №1

An amazing little nook in the city filled with birds, a walk by the lake, and an amazing view of the city. Worth a visit if you need some peace and quiet.

Fr
Review №2

This is the coolest bike ride.. Very Awesome view of Chicago skyline. Lakeside. You can walk or ride around the Harbour. Sailboats go east as far as you can. Great bird watching..

Mi
Review №3

Amazing must see view of the city

Am
Review №4

I always enjoy this place

Ro
Review №5

Nice and relaxing during the week days when is not so crowded. On weekends is too busy.

Gr
Review №6

This natural area is not very large, but despite that, it feels a world away from the city. There are plenty of birds to see in the spring, both in the meadow/forest area, in the patch of wetlands, and along the shore. Many of these birds are unlikely to be found anywhere else nearby; this year (2019) there were even piping plovers nesting in the vicinity. There are a few other animals too, and the flowers and vegetation are really pretty. Even if you arent a serious birdwatcher, you will enjoy strolling through and soaking in the sounds and admiring the view. As a bonus, the walk to the nearest Red Line stops and nearby cafés is pleasant.

Sh
Review №7

This has to be one of the most beautiful places in the city! With all the nature and views of the city. Not to mention there are so many different kinds of birds that come back year after year.

Za
Review №8

This is one of the better places in the Midwest to look for birds. Its really stunning how many birds you can find here. There were warblers everywhere when I came here today. The trails are also very nicely maintained. The pier is also very cool.

Ig
Review №9

This place is so nice, I just wish that PEOPLE were no so nasty and take their garbage with them and no leave it here. Anyone looking for a peaceful place to relax, this is it.

Le
Review №10

Great views of the city and peaceful bird watching. Great place to relax!

Gr
Review №11

A lovely stretch of midwestern prairie area for birders and non-birders alike with Lake Michigan and the wonderful Chicago skyline as a backdrop. The perfect escape from the city for an hour or a day.

Ma
Review №12

What a perfect place to look for male to male hook up!just be wear of the police they dress normal civilian clothing.

As
Review №13

People seem to be respectful, which I appreciate. Not too loud so everyone can enjoy the wildlife. A lot of variety to be seen, bring binoculars!

Se
Review №14

Nice and interesting nature preserve. Lots of different types of birds and animals and trees .

Ab
Review №15

An amazing place for birdwatching and walk...A variety of birds...As well as other beautiful sights...

Ka
Review №16

An incredible oasis. Easy to get there by bike.

Ni
Review №17

Stunning place to go hiking and exploring. Did a quick location shoot here and it was a delight. Definitely inspiring and well-intentioned spot. Visit it for sure, if youre a local or visiting the city

Jo
Review №18

The bird sanctuary at Montrose Point is a surprise, really.Basically in the middle of city-life Chicago, with car traffic, air traffic, buildings, boats, et al, passing rather close to the place all the time, it could be hard to imagine this as a contemplative patch of environment; but that is exactly what it is.As you walk into the naturally growing enclosure, so to speak, most of the noise seems to quietly dim away. There is actually a measure of silence in the middle of the area.In the center of the bird sanctuary, the ís a fairly large, more or less open area where paths converge, with trees, foliage, leaves and less grasses/weeds/wild flowers.Pausing in this area, one can see a bit more of the birds one would expect to see, scouting around the natural debris for a little cuisine. Something else rustles among fallen leaves, and then a little chipmunk face peeks out, its tiny body wiggling and working to and fro, to fill the storage for winter.An interesting sight is the moss types and formation on tree trunks and branches here. The Great Artist even works on these canvases, creating patterns, chaos, minute ecosystems and miniature environments in the infinite universe.Its both stunning and captivating. It caught and held our attention for at least an hour before we realized that sunset approaches and its time to retreat to home.What a great, recharging way to spend our Saturday afternoon at Montrose...

Da
Review №19

A very relaxing place with great views of the city skyline.

Jo
Review №20

This is my favorite spot on the Northside. Great little walking areas and a beautiful view of the city

Al
Review №21

Beautiful place to escape from the city and still be in the city!

Gr
Review №22

What a lovely way to spend a unseasonably warm day in January. (Dont get me started about global warming or climate change!) Having a son that is a bird enthusiast drew us to hang out for several hours wandering about and taking in all of the sites.There is something to be said standing among the dunes and native grasses that once werent found here and looking out onto the skyscrapers. It is a juxtaposition that is somehow soothing. To enjoy the bustle of the city only to be steps away from a sanctuary is settling to the soul.I wish others were more appreciative and packed out what they brought in. It takes so little to give back to the environment and others. That being said we left only footprints in the appropriate spots.While we didnt get an in person glimpse of the plover, we did watch mergansers dive in the chilly waters of Lake Michigan for a late lunch. They broke through the nearly mirrored top water with a pop. The buoyancy kicking in as their time under the water came to an end.A fact we had the fortune to uncover was they are the worlds fastest duck! Yes, the fastest! How is that for a casual day at Montrose Point? Life changing? Possibly.Take into consideration the amount of people that meander by never noticing. Jogging, chatting with friends, taking selfies in the diminishing sunlight and maybe never knowing the miraculous duck in their midst...Bird lovers, nature lover, anyone with a pulse should take a moment to explore a slice of paradise in the city we love. Not the city of angels but Chitowns very own Montrose Point Sanctuary! And grab a piece of trash or two, well all be glad you did.

Da
Review №23

Such a nice, calm, peaceful place. Love going there early in the morning when its nice and quiet and you can actually hear nature at its best.

Sy
Review №24

Tiny enclave that lets you imagine youre in the woods a million miles away, instead of being in one of the largest cities in the US.

De
Review №25

Purple Martins enjoying their bird condo!

Je
Review №26

Great birding and views during migration. Recommended by locals.

Be
Review №27

If you are a bird watch lover, this is the place to visit

Wi
Review №28

Love this place. Easy way to escape from the city and relax your mind. Beautiful views of downtown and nature trails. Come check out all the chipmunks.

Jo
Review №29

Great place to see birds with nearby areas to picnic.

Ca
Review №30

Once youre inside surrounded by all of the tall flowers and trees, it truly feels like theres no way youre in the city. I love this spot because it can be a peaceful escape into nature, but you can also get some great views of the Chicago skyline along the lake.

St
Review №31

Skip it... too many people will spoil it

Lu
Review №32

I like to come where when is really windy, and I love it.

Ab
Review №33

Lovely place to visit to see the Chicago Skyline. I went during the day and it was beautiful. Lots of birds around the area. Please take a jacket when visiting in the cold season cause it can get really cold and windy. But overall good place to visit and take pictures.

f1
Review №34

Its a beautiful place :) (asides from a lot of people walking next to each other not wearing masks. please stay safe!!)

Ja
Review №35

Excellent view of lake from the pier. Nice peaceful location

St
Review №36

This place has an amazing view and it has free parking. There are crickets that greet you in the beginning and like to say hello up close. It is very serene and warming to be around all that language.

Ma
Review №37

Super quiet. You hear the occasional plane above you but otherwise you forget you are in an urban area.

Ch
Review №38

Beautiful sanctuary. I would suggest speaking with an expert regarding ideal visiting hours. As all things natural, they have their seasons to visit (i.e. when birds and vegetation are at their prime).A quaint destination for date night, field day, or a detox from city life.

El
Review №39

Love walking in this peaceful place

Ch
Review №40

Beautiful respite in the city.

Ju
Review №41

Even one day after Christmas, this sanctuary is filled with life. Great views of a distant Chicago skyline if you walk to the Far East of the sanctuary. Enjoy!

Da
Review №42

Great beach with stunning views of the Chicago skyline. Free parking, too!!

Mi
Review №43

A beautiful haven. Seeing the beautiful halk seems like it was stalking.And the little blackbirds that attack If you come too close to their nest.

St
Review №44

Amazing place for birdwatching. Basically an oasis within the city.

Ch
Review №45

A nice way to spend a day off. Close to beach and park. Too small, they could expand it some.

Li
Review №46

Nice walk, beautiful scenery.

Pu
Review №47

Cool place to walk

Vi
Review №48

Montrose is one of the great parts of Lincoln Park. Theres plenty to do and nothing to do if you choose. Fishing, Bird Watching, Soccer, kayaking and more.

Ma
Review №49

I didnt see much birds exept for sea guls or well lake guls. Great spot to catch fishes though i saw some really large fish being caught using crawfish.

Jo
Review №50

Amazing sanctuary, great for birdwatching and taking pictures.

Jo
Review №51

Always a delightful area during any season.

El
Review №52

Beautiful peaceful and you get to see beautiful birds

Am
Review №53

Beautiful foliage, amazing wildlife, great Skyline. Highly recommended, went there with my husband and kids and had a wonderful time.

Al
Review №54

I absolutely adore this place. Well maintained, clean, and just a stunning view of the city. My son learned to walk here on the woodchip paths!

Ja
Review №55

Lovely oasis in the city

Ro
Review №56

Beautiful nature spot in the city. Would highly recommend bringing bug spray though!

Da
Review №57

Excellent spot to watch the sunrise! Free parking if you can find space. It gets filled really quickly at about 8am.

Jo
Review №58

Saw some birds I never knew existed here.

Ad
Review №59

Beautiful place to relax and learn about birds homes.Took a walk here with my class and was an amazing feeling because we learned so much and got a better understanding about birds homes we also took soil samoles to help us with a project back in class. If you want to eacape the city and walk in a natural environment place this is it.Different plants and birds live here. We must respect and reserve their home.

Ti
Review №60

Fresh air walk

Re
Review №61

The view is wonderful

Ca
Review №62

Bird sanctuary and harbor - great destination for a vent-off

Su
Review №63

Just nice to hang out!!!

Jo
Review №64

What can I say? I am a bird lover to the max. This well thought out and well cared for conservatory for birds impressed me. With habitat loss for birds having become a major problem, I am grateful for places like this.

Th
Review №65

Awesome! Once you step foot in this sanctuary you totally forget that youre in a large city like Chicago. Its like being in a forest preserve, beautiful, great place to clear your mind

St
Review №66

Great for sighting birds and meeting birders. Good for wild flowers. Good for morning light.

Ra
Review №67

Although it is a rather small sanctuary, the location is unique! It is close to the hearth of Chicago. During the spring migration lots of (small) birds will use it as a stop-over. Birds are easy to spot and not too shy. Besides a bird sanctuary of has the potential to be a spot die butterflies, too. Local nature development projects look promising.

se
Review №68

The city have plenty of money it could be better for people entertainment since the harbor is so blaaaa.

Er
Review №69

A very serene and peaceful place to visit in the city. I never knew this spot existed until recently. Its beautiful, quiet, and a great place to see nature. There a few designated paths to follow and it almost feels like a maze.

Do
Review №70

Beautiful and calming

Ry
Review №71

Great place to see some native birds. There are always plenty to see. Signs right outside prohibit activities like biking and dog walking, but there are still some jerks who will ignore the signs and ruin the atmosphere. Its normal very quiet and serene throughout the day, and there is free parking right outside.

sz
Review №72

Only got a 4star because they have not gotten far enough I think in providing for the butterflies and I would appreciate more signage. However, I relished walking the quiet natural paths in the middle of our urban sprawl. I saw many birds and heard them. The views of the city and lake from the edges are indeed a plus and quite photographic. Lots of plants. Saw a different looking rabbit and some squirrels. The Dock restaurant is very close making this a great little outing. Totally peaceful. No place to just sit and enjoy however unless you sit on the ground.

Gr
Review №73

Went for the first time. Needed A little escape from the city feel after driving downtown. Beautiful and did the trick.

Di
Review №74

Ooh that is the favorite nature place in Chicago. I love spend time there with my friends or just by myself. There are so quiet, calm and nice. You can forget about your problems there, you can feel like you are in forest. If you walk a few minutes, you can rewch perfect view for Downtown Chicaho. There are also perfect place for bringing your girlfriend or boyfriend. And btw that nice place to show childrens some kinds birds.

Jo
Review №75

Perfect views of the city with the awesome serenity of Lake Michigan!!

Ma
Review №76

Amazing chicago sky view and unbelievable births home.

Ro
Review №77

Gorgeous view of the city

An
Review №78

Very nice view!

Ma
Review №79

Enjoy visiting this nature area/trail. Makes you feel like you are not in a city.

JB
Review №80

Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary is a very nice little forest to visit, however, I did not see any birds.

fo
Review №81

Fabulous big sky of nature, city views, birds, butterflies and beach just south. One of the best places in the city!

Ca
Review №82

A very relaxing place

ja
Review №83

A bird lover and nature lovers Paradise.Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary can be found by following Montrose Avenue east until crossing Lake Shore Drive and into Lincoln Park.  From there, take a right at Montrose Harbor Drive, the street next to the gray-painted bait shop.  Follow the curve and Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary will be on your left. If you drive, park on the street.Visit the magic hedge, on the west side of the sanctuary, but stay on the trails as much as possible in order to not disturb the nesting and resting Birds. Make sure you take the path in One Direction and return in the opposite direction in order to navigate the whole area.Dont forget to walk down to the pier where you will see rare ducks, loons, and possibly peregrine falcons.

Y
Review №84

Hella mosquitos but what can you do??? Its nature and I love it

Ra
Review №85

Surprisingly awesome views of the skyline. Great place among the lake for parties, gatherings, celebrations etc. But Park closes at 11pm (in summer), so beware ;-)

Ol
Review №86

A beautiful park, a fresh smells will give nice vibes and make a day!

Ga
Review №87

Beautiful place to visit and take in the beauty of migratory birds in Chicago. And of course the harbour and the Chicago skyline. One of the few places in Chicago where you can photograph both of the tallest buildings in Chicago in a single frame -- 360 Chicago and Sears Tower (no self respecting Chicago-an will call it Willis tower).

Ra
Review №88

A wonderfully quiet oasis amid the bustle of a busy city - and a great place for both avid and novice birdwatchers. I went there with my son for a school project and we (decidedly on the novice side of the spectrum) identified 21 different species in and hour.

Jo
Review №89

One of my favorite go to spots when I want to be away from everything. I guess you can say, this is man cave

An
Review №90

Birding Paradise. Plenty of birds even during mid day!

Al
Review №91

Nature park set at the lake. Easily accessible and convenient to the park and a good beach front restaurant.

Mu
Review №92

Nice calm atmosphere

Ro
Review №93

Just great, go and visit, even during the winter

Di
Review №94

Beautiful island of wild life just in the center of the city, peaceful and full of birds songs, smells of flowers, grass and fesh wind from the lake. Love it!

He
Review №95

Really a fantastic place to bird! I spent hours covering the trails and visiting the magic hedge. Its obvious why this place is a hot spot for fall migration birding on the lake. The beach is worth checking out in early morning for shorebirds before the crowds arrive

Va
Review №96

The weather is just right to enjoy this wonderful experience and time out doors. Bring you bug spray no matter what time you visit as it helps to be prepared to be and comfortable.

El
Review №97

Amazing that this space exists in City of Chicago.Very peaceful, w/ birders who are usually happy to share info & recommendations.

Mo
Review №98

Beautiful! The city has done a lot to keep this area very natural. There are always lots of birds, butterflies, and other critters around.

Ma
Review №99

Love this place! Took some nice pictures there.

Jo
Review №100

Cool spot to do a little off trail exploring. Watch out though because its easy to get lost. There are lots of entrances and exits as well. Cops patrol the area like crazy though. Its a cool spot when you arent trailed by the cops.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:Chicago, IL 60640, United States
Categories
  • Tourist attraction
  • Bird watching area
Working hours
  • Monday:6am–11pm
  • Tuesday:6am–11pm
  • Wednesday:6am–11pm
  • Thursday:6am–11pm
  • Friday:6am–11pm
  • Saturday:6am–11pm
  • Sunday:6am–11pm
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
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