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Al Fresco Botanical Garden

PEORIA, ILLINOIS

Al Fresco Botanical Garden is located on the west bank of the Illinois River a few miles north of downtown Peoria. The botanical garden highlights the rich ecological and cultural history of the site while embracing the dynamic rise and fall of the Illinois River. The site of Al Fresco was a burgeoning Amusement Park starting in 1905 and attracting 10,000 visitors a day from around the Midwest during its heyday in the Roaring ‘20s before closing near the end of World War II. It had a 65-foot-high Ferris wheel, a figure-8 roller coaster, and various attractions along a grand promenade. World renowned touring acts such Harry Houdini, and Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show made appearances at Al Fresco. People traveled to Al Fresco from as far away as Chicago and St. Louis by steamship as well as having a dedicated trolly line from downtown Peoria, Illinois. In the 1920’s, because of the Chicago Drainage canal project, portions of Al Fresco become permanently flooded that ultimately led to its demise in 1944 when it was finally closed.

Al Fresco’s natural history as a riparian zone, defined by the transition between land and water, is equally impressive as one of the most ecologically diverse and species rich landscapes found in North America. This riverfront landscape is notable for its various habitats starting from the upland forest and transitioning into floodplain forest, mesic prairie, wet meadow, and marsh. The botanical garden is designed to allow for visitors to experience these various ecological zones while creating an infinitely changing series of experiences for visitors based on the rise and fall of the water level of the Illinois River. This takes the very element that destroyed the amusement park and turns it into the main attraction for Al Fresco Botanical Garden.

Taken together this offers visitors an experience of “Ecological Amusement” weaving together the rich natural and cultural history found on the site while showcasing plants from the riparian zone. “Ecological Amusement” also merges the Illinois River’s flooding dynamics with the history of the site as an amusement park. Ecological art installations inspired by plant species of the Illinois River floodplain are interspersed throughout Al Fresco Botanical Gardens that perform as habitat for fish, birds, and other wildlife. The botanical garden also provides active recreational opportunities such as kayaking, birdwatching, fishing, and ice skating. Flexible lawn spaces allows for an array of programming, including concerts, festivals, weddings, and picnicking. The River Walk, Floodplain Walk, and Forest Walk are pathways designed specifically for educating the public about the diverse native plant and animal species of this unique riverfront landscape.

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