If you're looking for an incredible family holiday experience, look no further! This week, my family and I visited The Morton Arboretum to see Illumination: Tree Lights. This was our first time going and I can honestly say it was stunning.
You begin your journey with lighted trees around Meadow Lake, on an island in Meadow Lake and lights in the water. From there is only gets better. Some trees are lit with traditional Christmas lights and others with colored spot lights and even projectors. There are special effects from disco balls to chandeliers. Some lights are timed to music and some lights have push buttons where you can change the color of the light. This definitely isn't your typical Christmas lights display. We even found one of the giant troll sculptures among the lights displays. This was truly a magical experience for the whole family.
Check out some highlights from our amazing experience!
Things to know before you go:
- The path is a one mile completely paved path. There are some inclines and declines but all of the paths are completely paved, making it easier for strollers and wheelchairs. And I love that it's a path--just follow it and you won't miss anything!
- There are two snack/warming tents along the way. There are warm beverages for both kids and adults along with snacks and supplies for s'mores.
- There are also three fire pit areas to roast marshmallows and make s'mores or just warm up along the way.
- If it's cold, dress in layers. You will want to stay and watch light displays in different areas for a little while and may be just standing at times.
- Illumination is open from now until January 5th, but will be closed Dec 16, 24 & 25. Entry times are every half hour starting at 4:30 pm until 8:30 pm, with the exhibit closing at 9:30 pm.
- Santa will be visiting on Tuesday, December 17th to meet your children and take photos (bring your own camera) from 5:30 - 7:30 pm in the Visitor Center Ginkgo Room.
- Ticket prices range from $7 - $23 depending on the day and whether or not you are a member. Tickets can be purchased online here.
- The Morton Arboretum website recommends 90 minutes to see Illumination. We spent about two hours. We stopped in both refreshment tents to warm up (because it was super cold that night!), but we may have spent more time outside watching the displays if it wasn't as cold.
Now is the time to bundle up and make some wonderful holiday memories with your family at The Morton Arboretum.
*I was provided with complementary tickets in exchange for this review, but the opinions expressed are my own.*
