Your Backyard Is Officially an Arboretum: Palmer Square Park's Historic Tree Designation Is Making This Summer Extra Special

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Palmer Square · June 30, 2026

Palmer Square neighbors, you've been strolling through something extraordinary — and now it's officially recognized. Palmer Square Park earned Level I arboretum accreditation through the ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program last September, making it the first Chicago Park District location ever to receive the designation. Administered by The Morton Arboretum, ArbNet is the only accreditation program in the world specific to arboreta — and your neighborhood park made the cut.

The honor recognizes the park's extraordinary tree canopy, which features over 28 varieties of trees and a beloved historic elm grove right here along the boulevard. That means the 7.69-acre green space at 3200 W. Palmer Blvd. that you use for morning runs, dog walks, and weekend picnics isn't just a pretty park — it's a certified living collection of trees, on par with dedicated arboreta across the country. As summer hits its stride, there's never been a better time to slow down and actually look up at what's overhead.

And if you want to pair your arboretum stroll with some shopping, mark your calendar: the Renegade Craft Fair sets up right on Kedzie Blvd. between Fullerton Ave. and Palmer Square, bringing independent makers, artists, and small businesses to your doorstep. Head to chicagoparkdistrict.com to learn more about the park's arboretum status, and follow @renegadecraft for fair dates this summer.

Sources:
1. https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/palmer-john-mcauley-square-park
2. https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/palmer-square-park-logan-square-arboretum/
3. https://www.renegadecraft.com/event/chicago-summer/