Until recently, Taltree Arboretum & Gardens has been one of northwest Indianas best kept secrets but now it's one that we want to share with the rest of Chicagoland! Taltree Arboretum & Gardens is on a mission to improve the quality of life for the south Lake Michigan region by preserving green space through the establishment and maintenance of woody plant collections, landscaped presentation gardens, prairie restoration and wetland conservation.
Since its inception by the Gabis Family in 1998, Taltree Arboretum & Gardens has grown to become a wonderland natural fascination. Originally our mission led us in simply restoring natural areas, but by creating the Native Plant Garden with a certified Monarch Waystation, developing the scentual Hitz Rose Garden, building the Joseph E. Meyer Memorial Pavilion for events, and construction of a new Railway Garden historical attraction slated to open in the spring of 2011, were looking forward to the dynamic development of the Arboretum so that it will remain for future generations as an important resource for all to enjoy.
Today, our natural areas and display gardens also fulfill a research and education need in northwest Indiana unmatched by any other local non-profit natural area outside of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and regional universities. Residents of the south Lake Michigan region may engage nature at Taltree through artistic, cultural, educational and historical events so that they may participate in and gain appreciation for preserving our natural heritage. Come on in!