This was my first visit to Klehm and I was pleasantly surprised with what I discovered.  I wasn’t sure what to expect.  The grounds are beautiful.  The paths are well marked.  You have a choice of walking the paved paths which stretch for one and a half miles.  There are numerous wood-chipped and mowed paths for you to explore.  You are given a well done detailed packet that includes a map of the grounds and descriptions of each numbered area on the map to let you tour the grounds at your leisure.

There are numerous benches located throughout the grounds where you can sit and relax during your visit. 

One special feature is the Children’s Garden which is home to a hedge maze.  There is a tower overlooking the maze so you can help out if someone get confused trying to navigate the maze. 

Klehm hosts various events throughout the year such as classes, workshops and their Wood Song Concert Series.

Klehm Arboretum sits on the ground of the former Rockford Nurseries which was established in 1923 by William Taylor.  In 1968, Carl Klehm bought the nursery which he used to supply his stores in Chicago with plants.  Mr. Klehm donated the land to the Winnebago County Forest Preserver in 1985 with the condition that the land be kept as an arboretum.  Klehm Arboretum was established that same year.

Klehm Information:

Location:  2715 South Main Street, Rockford
Phone:  815-965-8146
Web Site:  www.klehm.org.

Hours:
November 1 to March 31
Monday through Saturday – 9am to 4 pm
Closed on Sunday

April 1 to October 31
Sunday through Thursday – 9am to 4pm
Friday and Saturday – 9am to 6pm

Admission:
Adults single day - $6.00
Senior (65+) single day - $3.00
Student single day (18 or older with valid ID) - $3.00
Child 3 to 18 single day - $3.00
Child 2 and under single day – Free

Every Monday is Donation Day.  Entry is free to the public with donations welcome.