I first visited Allerton in 2007 with my architecture class. My (now)-husband and I met at Allerton in 2010, when we both attended a week-long LeaderShape retreat through the University of Illinois. It's a very special place for us. We have enjoyed exploring Allerton in all seasons, from snow-filled walks to trail runs in the fall to the peony gardens in the spring for graduation with our family. Our most cherished memory, however, was when we celebrated our wedding at Allerton in the mansion in … [Read more...] about Caroline C.: Since 2007
Summer Blooms 2021
Summer blooms at the Park captured by the talented Allerton Park Photography Group! Follow them on Facebook for more stunning pictures of Allerton all year round! … [Read more...] about Summer Blooms 2021
Donations fund McCraw Family Visitor Center
The Visitor Center at Allerton Park and Retreat Center is being renovated, thanks to support from the McCraw family. Originally Robert Allerton’s garden shed, the building located across from the Greenhouse Café was renovated to office space in 2005, and will once again be updated to serve as the Visitor Center, located at 515 Old Timber Road, Monticello. The space provides just under 1,000 square feet, which will be dedicated to informative and interactive elements to enhance visitors’ … [Read more...] about Donations fund McCraw Family Visitor Center
Creek Cam 6
Check out all the visitors the creek has been getting this summer. The fawns are plentiful this year! Keep an eye out for the newborn taking some of its first steps and the ninja raccoon! https://youtu.be/0nZZjTCoAAc … [Read more...] about Creek Cam 6
Bobcat Sighting!
Never know what you’re going to see on the Allerton CreekCam! Thanks to our Natural Areas Managers for managing this amazing wildlife footage, and to the donors who made this trail cam possible. … [Read more...] about Bobcat Sighting!
Spotlight Interview: Greenhouse Café operator, Leah Bodine
The Greenhouse Café has reopened and is under new management. Leah Bodine of Blue Dragonfly Catering joined the Park with an upbeat attitude, over 30 years of experience in the restaurant industry, and an assortment of ideas to add her personal touch to the visitor-favorite eatery. We spoke with Leah about her experience with Allerton, plans to engage the community with the Café, and more! Check out the interview below. When did you start your business and why? I started my business 12 years … [Read more...] about Spotlight Interview: Greenhouse Café operator, Leah Bodine
National Pollinator Week 2021
It's National Pollinator Week 2021! Why are pollinators worth celebrating? Bees, bats, birds and butterflies do us an important service! As they visit flowers to feed on nectar, they carry pollen from plant to plant - moving pollen from a flower’s male stamen to its female stigma - or that of the next flower - fertilizes plants and produces fruits and seeds. When you walk into a garden to enjoy the flowers or bite into your favorite fruit or vegetable, you can thank a pollinator! They are … [Read more...] about National Pollinator Week 2021
Interview with Lauren + Jeffrey Brokish of Central Illinois Bakehouse
Thank you to Central Illinois Bakehouse for sponsoring our Picnic with the Peonies fundraiser! Founded by Lauren and Jeffrey Brokish, Central Illinois Bakehouse offers hand-crafted artisan breads, croissants, bagels, and pretzels baked fresh daily by a team of passionate bakers. Read our interview below to learn more about Central Illinois Bakehouse. Can you tell us about your company including your services, mission, and goals? We are an artisan baking company that celebrates community and … [Read more...] about Interview with Lauren + Jeffrey Brokish of Central Illinois Bakehouse