Project New Leaf, our six-year revitalization plan, is making excellent progress. Our vision is clear: to make this special place even better for all Cantigny visitors.
We completed the first phase of Project New Leaf in early 2019. Phase II finished on time in September 2020. Now we are on to the third and final phase: a comprehensive renovation of McCormick House, Colonel McCormick’s formal home. Phase III begins in November 2020, with the mansion expected to reopen to the public in the spring of 2022.
Here’s a partial list of all that’s been achieved so far:
• Renovated and remodeled First Division Museum and adjoining Tank Park
• Remodeled Visitors Center, including an expanded information kiosk, Bertie’s Bistro and a covered entrance for Le Jardin
• Redesigned and replanted display gardens and Gold Pond area
• Red Oaks Farm playground and adjacent picnic pavilion
• 350 new parking spaces in the south lot
• Lighted walkways connecting our main attractions and easy-to-navigate path surfaces
• Oak Colonnade stretching north-south from the Visitors Center to the First Division Museum
• Expanded gathering plaza around the Lion of Cantigny statue, with seating
• New restroom and visitor information building just south of the Visitors Center
• Oak Colonnade stretching north-south from the Visitors Center to the First Division Museum
• Expanded gathering plaza around the Lion of Cantigny statue, with seating
• Added bench seating throughout the park
• Butterfly Hill overlook with panoramic views of the park and golf course
• Fountain Garden, featuring changing water displays and all-new plantings
• Le Jardin patio, on the east side of the Visitors Center. Open for lunch and private events
• Restored McCormick Allee
• All-new Rock Garden, including gravel and crevice plantings
• Prairie View Pavilion and landscape
• Restored Octagon Garden and Green Garden
More enhancements are on the way, including an expanded Idea Garden, opening in 2021.
To stay informed, visit this web page often and subscribe to NEW LEAF, our e-newsletter. To receive NEW LEAF, click here.
Thanks for your patience and support as we make Cantigny the best it can be.
Have a question or comment? Please send it to newleaf@cantigny.org.