When the architectural firm of TVS designed the McCormick Place West Building in 2007, they planned a green roof to minimize the environmental impact of the building, and combined it with a charming terrace event space with skyline views. In 2013, the Chicago Botanic Garden's Windy City Harvest program transformed the massive 20,000-square-foot roof into the largest farm-to-fork rooftop garden in the Midwest. More than four tons of produce are grown on the roof each year for OVG Hospitality...Chicago, the convention center's food service provider and Windy City Harvest program partner.
In late Summer, the show really begins. All the plants will finally be in full bloom. The tomatoes will be blushing, the peppers will be ripened, the flowers will stand tall with their sweet fragrances, and soon harvesting fall crops such as corn, winter squash, and hops will begin. You’ll see Native plants (Joe-Pye-Weed, Carex, and Wild Quinine) in their full glory. You’ll be able to taste herbs and edible flowers such as Citrus Basil, Borage, and Nasturtium. You’ll also see a lot of interesting beneficial insects such as honeybees, bumble bees, beneficial wasps, and butterflies.
The tour will be followed by a reception on the terrace.
$20 per person / $16 for members
All ticket sales are final; no refunds or exchanges.