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Merrick Park: Evanston's Rose Garden Oasis

Escape to Evanston's enchanting Merrick Park: a serene rose garden oasis with a historic fountain, perfect for relaxation and natural beauty.

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Merrick Park, nestled in the heart of Evanston, Illinois, offers a serene escape with its vibrant rose garden and historic fountain. This charming park is a local favorite for relaxation, photography, and enjoying nature's beauty.

A brief summary to Merrick Park

  • Oak Ave, Evanston, Illinois, 60201, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or summer for the best views of the blooming roses.
  • Bring a picnic blanket to enjoy a relaxing meal surrounded by nature.
  • Take advantage of the early morning hours for a quieter, more peaceful experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Merrick Park is located at the corner of Lake Street and Oak Avenue in Evanston. From the Evanston Central Library, walk north on Chicago Avenue for about 5 blocks until you reach Davis Street. Turn left onto Davis Street and continue walking until you reach Oak Avenue. Turn right onto Oak Avenue, and Merrick Park will be on your right. There is no fee to enter the park.

  • Public Transport

    Evanston is served by the CTA Purple Line and Metra. The CTA Purple Line has stops at Central, Noyes, Foster, Davis, Dempster, Main, and South Boulevard. The Metra Union Pacific North Line has stops at Main, Davis, and Central in Evanston. From any of these stops, you can walk to Merrick Park. The cost for a one-way ride on the CTA is $2.50. The cost for a one-way ride on Metra varies depending on the distance. Check the CTA or Metra website for schedules and fares.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Evanston. A short taxi or ride-share trip from downtown Evanston to Merrick Park will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. Confirm the fare with the driver or app before starting your trip.

Unlock the Best of Merrick Park

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Discover more about Merrick Park

Merrick Park is a tranquil urban park located in Evanston, Illinois. The park's centerpiece is the Merrick Rose Garden, featuring hundreds of roses with over 200 varieties. The roses bloom from May to October, offering a vibrant display of colors and fragrances. The park also features the Centennial Fountain, which was originally located in Fountain Square in downtown Evanston. The fountain was moved to Merrick Park in 1951 and rededicated. Benches are placed throughout the park, providing visitors the opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenery. The park is open year-round, with each season offering its own unique charm. Merrick Park is named in honor of Clinton Merrick, a prominent attorney and second ward alderman for 23 years. Merrick loved roses and wanted a rose garden in place of a tennis court that was originally in the space. The park is a popular spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and photography.

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