The lush, green gem of Illinois is a gorgeous place to visit, regardless of the season.
Its chilly midwestern winters don’t hold anyone back from adventure; these experiences are designed for year-round enjoyment.
There’s plenty to see outdoors and indoors, in the city or in the woods. So, pick a month, any month of the year. We’ve got your journey planned.
Hiking for the Little Ones
It’s so hard to leave the youngest kiddos at home for a scenic hike, but most trails aren’t designed for tiny folk who need to rest, play, and potty more frequently than us large adults. Luckily, The Ferne Clyffe State Park trails are short and sweet without sacrificing scenic beauty. The central trailhead is always close at hand if the kids get cranky with an empty belly or a full bladder.
All the trails have something unique to offer. For example, Rebman Trail boasts climbable rock formations while the Hawks Cave Trail winds beneath one of the largest rock bluffs (a massive overhanging rock) in the state. Those who need wheelchairs have the opportunity to witness a majestic natural feature: a 100 ft waterfall at the end of The Big Rock Hollow Trail.
Windy City Greenery
Even though we love to emphasize the outdoor experience, we can’t blame you for wanting to dip your toes in the city life of Chicago. Chi-Town is a sprawling metropolis filled with world-renowned museums, quaint restaurants, and next-level shopping. If you’re antsy to get a dose of greenery in the midst of concrete and glass, try the Lurie Garden in the southeast corner of Millennium Park.
Everyone knows Millennium Park is home to the big silver bean sculpture. Sure, take your picture there first. Then, sneak on over to what is known as the ‘secret garden’ of Chicago. Located on top of a parking garage, this carpet of greenery transforms the urban ordinary into the natural extraordinary. It’s an oasis for Illinois’ natural ecosystem. Tended to by careful horticulturalists, this is a place of respite, rest, and education. Visit any season, any day from 6am – 11pm, for free! Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Go Wild for Animals
Just about an hour outside Chicago is the Wildlife Discovery Center. Aptly named, you and the kids will be eye-to-eye with over 200 animals housed in the facility. Reptiles like crocodiles, turtles, snakes, and tortoises are in good company with raptors, a bobcat, and other mammals. The Discovery Center’s main claim to fame: one of North America’s largest exhibits of rattlesnakes. If you want to go beyond observation and into education, the center offers courses on biology, ecology, and conservation. Both the indoor exhibits and outdoor walking trail are open year-round. And woohoo, it’s free admission! But donations are highly encouraged. All the money goes into caring for the marvelous critters at the center, so it would be awesome to contribute to this great cause.
