Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary

This bird sanctuary has been on our radar for a long time and when we heard that 2 migrating Snowy Owls were hanging out,we had to make a visit. This Sanctuary is located in the Lincoln Park area of Chicago and is one of the top spots in Illinois for migratory birds. Over 15 acres ,there is a paved path that loops through the natural prairie and woodlands. There is parking at the main entrance of Montrose Harbor. Some of the street parking is free or you pay a small fee. No entrance fee tho for the bird sanctuary. If you walk out onto the concrete breaker,you will see many different bird species as well as a great view of Chicago. And yes,we did see the Snowy Owls..a "Lifer" bird for us any many other bird enthusiasts. Can't wait to go back in the spring to hopefully see the Piping Plovers!

good birds. lovely area to meet fellow bird enthusiasts. fantastic views of the lake and downtown. great paths for those with strollers or wheelchairs along with some side branches for those looking for more quiet.

A hidden gem of natural prairie along the lakeshore. From vibrant bee balm and other native plants to buzzing bees and fluttering monarchs, this spot is alive with wildlife. It also serves as a seasonal home for piping plovers and a variety of native and migratory bird species. While birding experts will feel right at home, even beginners can explore with the help of the Merlin app. Scenic views all around, with convenient paid street parking available.

My number one spot for bird observation and long walks along the shore. It is an oasis for migratory birds. Lots of nature in such a small area. It is well-taken care of. People there are nice and really cool. Everyone respects others space. Great place to get away from the city noises.

There's a reason this is the top place to see some birds in the state! With a mix of forest and protected dunes this place is an oasis for local and migrating birds. Parking can be a little difficult during the busy season, but still worth a visit!

Good place for bird watching in the spring. Not so much in the winter, but good views of downtown.

What a truly wonderful hidden jam in Chicago. Lovely beach, a place to eat, called the dock and a bird sanctuary. We walked through the woods and so many birds, bunnies, and squirrels. The real showstopper is out on the pier where you can see the piping clover pair, and their three cute little fuzzy chicks There was also a leurkestic swallow, which I’ve never seen before yesterday. It’s beautiful sand beach and if you keep going, there’s a beautiful paved trail and fantastic views of the city.

Beautiful place to see birds and other animals of all kinds. We saw lots of red wing blackbirds, robins, chipmunks, grackles, and even a sleeping bat. The views of the city skyline were also beautiful.

This bird sanctuary has been on our radar for a long time and when we heard that 2 migrating Snowy Owls were hanging out,we had to make a visit. This Sanctuary is located in the Lincoln Park area of Chicago and is one of the top spots in Illinois for migratory birds. Over 15 acres ,there is a paved path that loops through the natural prairie and woodlands. There is parking at the main entrance of Montrose Harbor. Some of the street parking is free or you pay a small fee. No entrance fee tho for the bird sanctuary. If you walk out onto the concrete breaker,you will see many different bird species as well as a great view of Chicago. And yes,we did see the Snowy Owls..a "Lifer" bird for us any many other bird enthusiasts. Can't wait to go back in the spring to hopefully see the Piping Plovers!

There is something to enjoy here during every season. A true sanctuary in the city right next to Montrose Beach. If you are into birds you can see over 350 species here over the year. We came to see two Snowy Owls hanging out on Fishhook Pier near the sanctuary. They are seldom found in Chicagoland and migrate from the Arctic Tundra. This is the also the beach that the Piping Plovers are seen nesting on in summertime.

For those going to this area just north of Lincoln Park, there's more than just a beach. It has a place that's for the birds, literally. Montrose Point offers many opportunities to see our feathered friends, whether flying around, or taking a break from all that. Even the natural beauty is a good reason to come. This is a good reason to come when the weather gets colder and there's no more swimming. As many people come here just for the beach, this part of it doesn't get enough attention. It's a pretty large bird sanctuary. There's been said to be over 300 bird species, though not likely at the same time. A particularly good place is a collection of a few low lying bushes. This is called "The Magic Hedge." It seems many rare birds have shown up here, so birders like this location especially. There's other areas of this to check out. Go to the dunes to find some more migrant birds. The pier is good for finding waterfowl. Migrating is hard. The birds can be tired, so be careful approaching them. Constant flushing can cause stress or death. In summer it's not as happening because that's not when migration is. This gives you a reason to come back later. Best to go here when birds are migrating, which is in the spring and in autumn. It's either where they're going or it's a stopover. The sanctuary is located on Montrose Harbor Drive to the east of the beach where there's a few paths and walkways.

This place was great solely for the bird sanctuary part before you hit the concrete beach part of the journey and it's just littered with tons of people sunbathing or day drinking. The bird sanctuary is definitely a place you can get lost in the beauty of nature and totally forget that you're in the city. Plenty of parking too though it could be challenging. Trails are fairly taken of and there's plenty of paths and directions to go. There were plenty of birds we saw throughout our walk. Mostly a flat path as well, parts of it are narrow. Overall, definitely worth checking out.

I'm so glad they did something creative and sustainable with this area along the waterfront. The bird sanctuary has so many beautiful flowering plants for birds, butterflies and bees alike to forage and thrive. There is a little path that goes through the sanctuary and doesn't disturb the plants or habitat. I was able to catch sight of many species along with a brown furry caterpillar too! If you walk a little farther along the waterfront there is also the Montrose dunes.

Was confused why would be any bad reviews, they said because they put in concrete paths, but honestly I like it so people with strollers can enjoy it too. This place is so beautiful, makes you forget you are in the city, it's quiet and the birds singing take over the sound. Also close to the lake so you can continue your walk along the lake front! Love this place

Birds, chipmunks, bunnies, etc. and so much nature right in the heart of the city! It doesn't get much better than that. Plus it's located close to the Dock at the Montrose beach which has drinks and food at decent prices.

A nice little escape but not to far from everything. It does feel substantially more isolated. It's quiet because the golf course gives ample buffer from the highway. I honestly can't name all the birds but there are a wide range. Song birds, plovers, pelicans, ducks, geese, crows, etc. There's colonies of bird in sand dunes, sea faring bird more towards the beacon and waterfront promenade. Inside the sanctuary there's more song birds in the shade but you'll often see woodland animals such as woodchucks, bunnies, and squirrels. It has pretty good forest coverage for those hot summer days. But right about now it seems pretty good for birding.

12/17/20 - Even though I've lived in Chicago my entire live (except 4 years) it's really amazing how much of Chicago I was completely unaware of. Thanks in part to Sarah S (Yelp Elite). I found out about this Bird Sanctuary that is located in the area within Montrose Harbor. As Covid continues I have taken the time to explore Chicago and by walking almost 14,000 miles as of this date 12/17/20 since 06/04 I have found so many cool places that I would have never seen by being in a car whizzing by. Unfortunately for me this time of year really didn't yield much at the bird sanctuary as all the trees are barren of foliage and the grasses and bushes are all brown and dormant. I did see one bright red male cardinal but not much else, still walking through this area I could see the low hanging canopies on bushes and trees when in full bloom covered w/leaves and grasses would yield a perfect place for birds to nest and find shelter. As you walk out towards the lake there is a lot of natural grass lands where birds would nest during the warmer months. Along the grass line and beach there are also mud walls where birds make their nests. I plan on coming back in the spring or summer as I'm sure there will be many more birds then this time of year. It was an interesting day of discovery. I saw photos by Howard L another Yelp Elite w/the lush green areas full of life.

This spit of land holds several trails amongst a variety of trees, and I had no trouble hearing and seeing the birds one comes for. A concrete waterfront surrounds the peninsula, offering little opportunity to interact with water (arguably for the better, given the cold and the wind), but an excellent view of the city skyline. It's hardly the largest or most impressive piece of nature, but the fact that this space is carved out for birds is definitely worthwhile, and the birds seem to appreciate it.

I had been meaning to check out Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary for ages. When I finally got out there, I liked it so much, I went two mornings in a row! It's just beautiful, a nice respite from the hustle & bustle of the city with wood-chipped paths and lovely views of the Chicago skyline & lake. I was a bit worried I wouldn't be able to find it, but you just head towards Montrose Harbor and you'll see the bird people & signs along the bend. Now I'm no hardcore bird enthusiast but I love animals of all shapes, sizes and types. I'm a crazy chick that takes spiders outside instead of smooshing them. A sanctuary for birds seemed like a fun place to walk around and get my nature on while checking out some fun flying feathered friends. There are a ton of very well versed bird watchers at Montrose Bird Sanctuary. I'm talking wearing bird watching safari style gear, binoculars hanging around the neck, professional cameras, discussing bird shop. Don't let that intimidate you though as everyone I briefly chatted with was kind and humored my bird ignorance teaching me things here and there. One guy explained how birds love blond hair so I needed to remove my sunglasses from my head because they would be long gone. Thanks guy! Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary is a spot birdwatchers from near & far gather to see the over 340 species of birds that have been spotted here. That's a heck~of~a~lot~! I heard people mentioning coming from out of state to view the wildlife, so really as Chicagoans we're lucky to have this spot in our backyard. You'll find most visitors are here during peak migration times as that is mostly what the sanctuary is known for - a migration stopping point. The center of the bird sanctuary is called "The Magic Hedge" known for it's magical properties luring in the most rare of the rare. You'll always find the most bird people on the Magic Hedge. There's also a pretty stellar dune habitat with interesting inhabitants and on the pier that sticks out (Montrose Harbor), you can not only find a bunch of fishermen but waterfowl. The area has been recognized by the city of Chicago since 2001 with improvements to the area constantly being made. Honestly, I think they need people on a more regimented trash duty because I was sad to see more than there should be at a natural habitat. All that said, this sure is a tranquil place to spend a morning. You can walk along Montrose Harbor, the beach or spend time in the wooded area of the bird sanctuary. Word on my street is to get there really early - like right at sunrise - if you want to catch the good bird action. Be sure to stay on the trails, don't litter and respect the nature.

Yikes, except for 4 year job-related stay in Houston, I've been a lifelong resident of Chicago for 63 years. Yet, it took a friend, actually a friend of my daughter's, to alert me to this Chicago hidden gem: https://news.wttw.com/2018/04/11/chicago-bird-sanctuary-best-place-state-see-spring-migration There's no doubt it's a gem, at least for bird watchers and nature lovers, but whether it's hidden or not depends on how much you know about Chicago. Apparently, I don't know that much in this regards! She knew I was an amateur bird watcher of sorts and might be interested, and she was dead right. This is a nice, peaceful, and relatively obscure enclave, right at the Montrose Street exit of LSD, and as you loop over onto West Montrose Harbor Drive, you will find tons of free street parking, and the sanctuary bordering the lake. I've never been back here, and I may also check this spot out for watching the annual Chicago Air Show. There are (or can be) lots of birds, peaceful paths through the sanctuary as well as along the lake, and it's also a most pleasant venue for getting your fitness steps in. To boot, you can also treat yourself to a great view of our beautiful skyline. You definitely get a nice retreat from the hustle and bustle of Chicago, but you also know you're not anywhere else either. We did not go at morning or evening bird-watching prime time (it was about 2pm), but had ourselves a most pleasant outing for a stroll. The most exotic birds we saw today were red-winged blackbirds, crows, and small white sea gulls of some sort. Will be back for sure!

Now with more chipmunks! Seriously, so many munks. I used to come here to admire the birds of prey. But now enjoy reliable joyful red winged blackbirds, robins, squirrels, and munks. RIP Monty. We miss you, Rose. The prairie growth has become quite dense. It is impressive. Unrecognizable from years past.

Cute little place off of the Chicago Lakewalk near Montrose Beach. It is a small nature area with many trail dissecting the area. There are many birds and the lake is beautiful. We came here because we were in town for work and Covid was high, we were looking for something not so popular, we chose this place. It wasn't too crowded and many people even wore their mask outdoors. We are glad we stopped.

A bird lover and nature lovers Paradise. Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary can be found by following Montrose Avenue east until crossing Lake Shore Drive and into Lincoln Park.  From there, take a right at Montrose Harbor Drive, the street next to the gray-painted bait shop.  Follow the curve and Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary will be on your left. If you drive, park on the street. Visit the magic hedge, on the west side of the sanctuary, but stay on the trails as much as possible in order to not disturb the nesting and resting Birds. Make sure you take the path in One Direction and return in the opposite direction in order to navigate the whole area. Don't forget to walk down to the pier where you will see rare ducks, loons, and possibly peregrine falcons.

What a great hidden spot for birds, trees, and nature! Started by a group of residents in 2001, a decade really does a lot for building a nature preserve, with many different kinds of birds, and did I spot a natural spring? Of course, there was garbage, too. Is there still a committed effort (ie. City of Chicago budget item) to keeping this place clean from garbage (and also clean of humans doing private acts in public, from what I've read here)? I would love to see more trees planted, such as oak, willow, and other oak savannah natives! There certainly is room! But winding paths among trees, prairie grasses, all the way to the sandy Montrose Point is the perfect summer activity. Add to it, some picnicking, with stellar views of the City, and your soul will be renewed.

A beautiful escape to nature without leaving the city, but still with a view of the city skyline! I love running through the winding paths here. Just make sure to heed the "No pets allowed" signs - they're hidden behind the overgrown bushes at most entrances, and we got yelled at by some aggressive bird watchers for walking our (very well-behaved) dog through once. Oops.

Birding in Chicago sounds like an oxymoron, but I promise you that Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary meets even the most serious birders' needs. It's amazing that this little patch of nature (which has a kickass skyline view, I might add), can attract so many different species of birds. It's a bird-watcher and nature-lover paradise, just a short hop and skip away from Montrose Beach. Yes, the sanctuary is small, but you don't need to move around a lot to see some wildlife. The paths wind throughout the sanctuary, and take you into the sand dunes of Montrose beach. There is an AMAZING group of volunteers that work every weekend on sustaining the natural habitat of the sanctuary. Every time I visit, I'm in awe of how wrapped up in nature I feel while still in the city of Chicago. Next time you are in this area, take some time to slowly walk around the Montrose Bird Sanctuary and admire the wildlife. The best hours are in the early morning, when the birds (and birders) are most active.

I'm from california and glad I went here. It's a beautiful place for nature, birds, and a beautiful view of the city. Check the pictures

It was one of the most beautiful jewels in the city (WAS definitely 5+stars!). It was a magical bird sanctuary. Recently somebody came up with the idea to pour concrete all over, and now looks like a stupid parking lot. Who would do that? It killed the spirit of the place. So depressed. So sad. Beyond comprehension!

During my exploratory hike of the Lake Michigan shoreline of Chicago's North Side, I was surprised I could have a beer at a waterside restaurant. Just a few steps south of there, I was *astounded* to discover the awesome urban oasis that is the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary (MPBS), a.k.a The "Magic Hedge"! I first saw upon entering a large flock of endangered birds called piping plovers flitting in and out of hole nests that they dig out of the cliffs of sand dunes. There were many bird watchers taking in this sight behind a protective rope barrier. As I went on I discovered a vast meadow and small forest with trails brimming with an array of colorful wildflowers and several species of vivid songbirds. As you come over a rise walking south you are met with an awe inspiring postcard worthy view of the majestic Chicago skyline. The sea wall surrounding MPBS is great for relaxing, fishing, and there are built-in steps in case you'd want to take a dip in the lake. Following the sea wall around you'll come to view Montrose Harbor and it's boats. Adjacent to the harbor were some food concessions and even a bait store. It really amazed me to see this beautiful parcel of land ensconced so closely to the urban hustle of the nation's 3rd largest city! Kudos to the City of Chicago. So unlike the crass commercialism and paving over of Waterfront property that exists in other cities. If you're visiting Chicago, MPBS is a place you may not have heard of, but should definitely visit!

This is a great little nature escape which is located along the lakefront between Montrose and Wilson Aves. You can only hike in the sanctuary. No bikes or dogs are allowed. When you are in there, its like a major escape from the city, very wooded, with a tangle of little trails, and yet the view from the south end of the downtown skyline is spectacular. Inside, it is prairie-like terrain. I am no bird expert, but I've seen at least 10 different kinds in there, along with lots of butterflies. I think I saw a sleeping, yellow-vested, large-chested City worker in there, too! See, lot's of species to enjoy in a quiet little wooded retreat. Hey, doesn't my cheap little cell phone take Impressionist painting sort of pics?

Once you're inside surrounded by all of the tall flowers and trees, it truly feels like there's no way you're in the city. I love this spot because it can be a peaceful escape into nature, but you can also get some great views of the Chicago skyline along the lake. I've only come here in the summer and would like to see the difference in early spring or late autumn. As others have said, I do come across some trash and really wish people wouldn't litter.

My chef who grew up in NYC on Jamaica Avenue which runs like a seam between the burroughs of Queens and the other one asked if I wanted to go shooting. Chef had styled food for the restaurant photo shoots and had often brought his own camera to take some alternates, and also brought his camera on a recent staff trip to Mexico. Chef takes some badass photos. Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary is top notch photography spot in the city. I call it the "Magic Hedge," because I imagine that's truer to the real name of the place in the many strange languages of birds. The Magic Hedge is the expanse of wild nature, emphasis wild nature, in an otherwise rolling sea of concrete industry. The birds see it, and the human photographers flock to it as well. My favorite time to visit is in the fall, after daylight savings time ends, when its still possible to catch an odd ray of sunlight or reaching sprout, amidst the browning ruins of warmer seasons. These too will be snuffed out, except inside the camera where there is the potential, perhaps, for some sort of immortality.

A truly lovely little corner of Uptown. Ecologists, Instagrammers, and lovebirds will find themselves at home here as this place is just as scenic as it is science-y. The paths wander a bit, but you should be careful not to miss the beautiful grove just north of the dunes and west of the tall grasses.

This is a great place to go for a walk. You don't always see birds, but you do get excellent views of the skyline. Check out the beach while you're here. Parking is plentiful and free.

Love this place! I've been coming here for some time now and its great for seeing birds, rabbits, and flowers. Probably the best time to go would be in the mornings if you want to get parking in the summer. Otherwise after work durning the week there is usually ample parking as well. I wouldn't count on finding any parking here on the weekend during the day in the summer. You're better off walking, riding you bike, or taking the CTA if your coming during the summer weekends. I came here, just after sunrise, a couple weeks ago and everywhere I turned there were rabbits. Even caught one laying down basking in the warmth of the sun. I saw quite a bit of red-winged blackbirds here and spotted a cardinal too. Besides the sanctuary itself there are nice views of the city skyline just outside of the sanctuary from the pier. If you're into birding this is definitely a nice place to go in the city.

An amazing place to see birds, especially during migration. The birds fly all night, and drop down into this small wild area to rest and feed. Best time to visit is in the early morning hours in spring and fall. You'll meet lots of other birders there, so you will not feel alone. Please respect the pathways, don't drop litter (maybe bring a bag with you to help clean up after rude folk, if necessary) and enjoy this little sanctuary of native prairie plants, bushes and trees along our otherwise groomed lakeshore. Nearer the lake, a beautiful sand dune area is forming (yes - sand dunes in Chicago!). This area is a great place to see shorebirds. Again - stay on the marked paths to avoid eroding the fragile soil, or stepping on the rare plants. After I visit this area, I feel refreshed and happy - a bit of wilderness within the city! If you are interested, there are several volunteer groups that meet out in the sanctuary and the dunes, who do clean up and especially ecosystem restoration on weekend mornings. You can find info about them at the Chicago Park District web site - or you can ask any person who seems to be doing planting-type work out there, especially on weekends. Nice people - good exercise - and the result is a more beautiful, healthy park!

This nature retreat just gets better and better. I have the luxury of being able to visit it on weekdays, and there's rarely more than a few other people there. Restoration of the prairie and the bird habitat are ongoing, and a number of areas are fenced off to protect the fragile ecosystem. Even so, there are dirt trails that wind through woods, savanna, and near the lake shore, which provides a welcome break from the craziness of the world that encircles it. There are even a few places where I sit down on the ground and gaze at the natural world, with no interruption of skyline, wires, buildings, or anything man-made. Those few places and moments are precious. I'm not a birder, but I do appreciate watching the various species and other small wildlife that populate the area. It really is an oasis for me. Of course, it is adjacent to the lakefront, so you have easy access to the beach. Parking has never been a problem during the week. I feel pretty safe to say, though, that it is probably a madhouse on a warm summer weekend. If you're going to go, go very early on a Saturday or Sunday. The only problem, as some other reviewers have noticed, is the human wildlife that takes place. I didn't see too much trash today, but I was still a little unnerved. Yes, you will find the occasional condom. Apparently this is a meeting place for gay sex. Now, when I see a solitary man walking the paths, and he is not carrying a binocular like the bird watchers do, I am wondering if he is interested in exploring nature, like me, or interested in something to do with human nature. I sure don't want to stumble onto an assignation when I am looking around for the red-winged blackbirds. And finding a used condom, or two, or many, is gross and disgusting. Pick up after yourselves, people! The animal wildlife here is wonderful. The human wildlife . . . not so much.

It's such a beautiful spot, I'm just really bummed and annoyed by the condom wrappers everywhere, its like..have you never heard of "leave no trace" Like...sure go have your little public sex moment, IDGAF, but at least clean up after yourselves, ughhh...so annoying.

this goes out to jen, who is smarter than i am. Montrose Bird Sanctuary is located at Montrose Point. Everything about it is great except some of the people who go there. The periphery is littered with, well, litter. There is what seems to be temporary fencing around the sanctuary with signs asking humans to respect the boundaries. In many places the fence has been broken to bits and little human-generated trails are forming. I'm unclear. If a human goes to a sanctuary such as this one, is it to enjoy its beauty and tranquility and to appreciate its significance? If so, then how is it possible to simultaneously throw down one's Starbucks cup in the same spot, especially when there are garbage cans roughly every 12 feet? Or are there people who go to such places who have no interest in them but simply want to sully them for others? Either way, it's sickening, and our species deserves the royal drumming we are beginning to get even though we're too arrogant to recognize it yet. (Sorry, Jen, if that was less a review of the sanctuary and more a review of the species, but I'm guessing you'll let me slide.)

Beautiful little spot, totally free. Loved the opportunity to get my walk on the beach and then immediately get my walk through a nice forest preserve right after. Unique and beautiful spot.

In the wintertime, the Montrose Sanctuary is swarming with birds. Cardinals flock in like petting zoo animals requesting snacks. The entire Montrose Point area is a tranquil spot for a dog walk or a jog, and there's something really relaxing about its bleakness on January and February mornings. The waterfront freezes up into a glacial heap, there's a howling wind off shore, and Lake Michigan undulates with ice cubes. There's also a dog park just down the beach, but keep an eye on your little compadre because some of the dogs can get rowdy.

This was such a pleasant respite in the middle of the busy city. The wildflowers and foliage are beautiful and it's such a peaceful little nature preserve. You do get great sweeping skyline views and it's adjacent to the lakefront and montrose beach if you feel like visiting either after your walk. That all to say, we really didn't see too many birds in the bird sanctuary, but who knows what conditions may have affected that (time of year? time of day? it was a very windy day?). We did see a handful of birds, a squirrel, a rabbit and a chipmunk though, so we were pleased with our share of wildlife sightings for the day. There were seemingly quite a few trails weaving and winding throughout the sanctuary, so I think you could spend as little or as much time there visiting different trails as you like. I will go back for a serene walk when I need some peace from the city in the future, and will consider more bird sightings a plus!

Very nice! Got to see the Orange Fringed Orchid (Platanthera ciliaris). With only 2 known extant populations, this species is listed as state endangered. Wasn't there during migration time, so I didn't see any new to me birds. Great view of The Lake and Chicago. Free parking.

Amazing little discovery off busy Montrose Beach. Easy to get lost in the beauty!