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Exploring Allerton Park

Posted by: Meg Thilmony

Monday, April 21, 2008 10:20 AM

I've been working away on my list of things to do this spring.

On a recent (beautiful) day, I got the chance to spend most of the afternoon at the University of Illinois' Allerton Park.

Amazing. Seriously. it's the kind of thing you travel a long distance to visit. And here it is, practically in our own backyard.

It's almost impossible to pick a favorite part of the park (other than the sun that was shining on my back while I was hiking the park's many trails). But I loved the through-the-woods search for sculptures like "Death of the Last Centaur" and then to see "Sun Singer."

The view of the mansion from the highest hill of the meadow is incredible. And it's surprisingly fun to pick out the subtle differences in each of the Fu Dog sculptures.

My trip ended with a stop in Monticello to enjoy a slice of pie at the Brown Bag. I'd recommend eating there if you're in town.

Here are a few pictures from my adventure. It won't be my last.

Tiny details in the woods are often the most beautiful

Comments

Was that your first time there? Allerton truly is a wonderful place. Did you see the sunken garden? It's a great place to throw a frisbee, and its acoustic effects are also quite entertaining.

Nice pictures!

Posted by javajunkee on April 21, 2008 at 12:26 PM

Thanks!

I'd gone as far as the diversified farms, where a friend worked last summer. I'd never actually been around the park's grounds.

But I plan to head back frequently. I can't wait to see the different flowers and plants come into season as spring and summer progress.

Unfortunately, the sunken garden was gated off. Things were really wet, so I'm guessing that had something to do with it. It looked muddy. Just another reason for me to return.

Posted by mthilmony on April 21, 2008 at 1:06 PM

That fish sculpture looks a little suggestive. And does it have a tail?

Posted by algon on April 21, 2008 at 3:04 PM