Illinois' parks showcase our diversity, creativity, imagination, sense of adventure, and beauty.
Discover urban green spaces, sprawling state parks, Illinois forest parks, and everything in between - including a pirate ship or two. We've got you covered for all your park needs and wants, whether it's hiking, family fun, chances to reflect, opportunities to picnic, or to just relax and enjoy the great outdoors at a slower pace. Let's discover some of Illinois' best parks.
Parks in Chicago
Chicago's parks breathe life into the city and its surrounds. When you need a break from the streets, or just want to pass the time in a pocket of nature, Chicago's parks welcome you with their energy, community, and life. It's where you can get to know a more local side of the city: you might come across an art fair, local musicians, or neighbourhood sports.
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Lincoln Park
Visit here when you want to... enjoy the city's largest park, with walking trails, a zoo, and plenty of green space for relaxation.
Lincoln Park -
Grant Park
Visit here when you want to... enjoy a blend of open green spaces, stunning lakefront views, and iconic landmarks like Buckingham Fountain, all in the heart of downtown Chicago.
Grant Park -
Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park
Visit here when you want to... relax by the waterfront and take in cultural events amidst peaceful surroundings.
Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park -
Bowen Park
Visit here when you want to... enjoy a relaxing afternoon with playgrounds, open green spaces, and picnic spots.
Bowen Park -
Bird Haven Greenhouse and Conservatory
Visit here when you want to... explore lush plant collections and enjoy a quiet retreat in a historic setting.
Bird Haven Greenhouse and Conservatory
Parks in Northern Illinois
Northern Illinois parks slow the pace down. Here, they invite you to explore peaceful riverfronts and lush rural landscapes. You'll find mixes of history and horticulture, birds and beauty, and water features and wildlife. Stop and smell the roses - or whatever else might be in bloom.
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Cantigny Park, Wheaton
Visit here when you want to... wander through beautiful gardens and explore military history in a tranquil setting.
Cantigny Park, Wheaton -
Apple River Canyon
Visit here when you want to... explore rugged trails and experience the natural beauty of a canyon landscape.
Apple River Canyon -
Batavia Riverwalk
Visit here when you want to... take a peaceful riverside stroll with picturesque views and tree-lined paths.
Batavia Riverwalk -
Belvidere Park District
Visit here when you want to... relax by the river, stroll along peaceful trails, and enjoy family-friendly outdoor spaces.
Belvidere Park District -
Boone County Conservation District
Visit here when you want to... find peace and quiet on serene walking paths and observe local wildlife.
Boone County Conservation District
Parks in Central Illinois
Central Illinois parks celebrate prairie heritage. The parks here are often quite spacious, with vast stretches of greenery, serene lakes, and points of historical significance. You'll feel the region's easygoing spirit and deep roots here, and an appreciation for its love of the great outdoors.
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Allerton Park and Retreat Center
Visit here when you want to... explore formal gardens, woodlands, and striking sculptures, all within one of the most unique and scenic parks in Illinois.
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Ballard Nature Center
Visit here when you want to... take a quiet walk through nature trails and observe local wildlife.
Ballard Nature Center -
Buehler Preserve
Visit here when you want to... escape to a hidden gem for hiking or biking in a serene landscape.
Buehler Preserve -
Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve
Visit here when you want to... walk along lakeside trails, go fishing, or enjoy birdwatching in a peaceful setting.
Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve -
Fairview Park
Visit here when you want to... spend time outdoors with walking paths, sports fields, and open green spaces.
Fairview Park
Parks in Western Illinois
Western Illinois parks showcase the Mississippi's grandeur. You'll enjoy river views, bluffs, wetlands, and other dramatic natural features, giving you all kinds of opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and some good old exploration. Get to know the wildlife, get to know the culture, and get to know the unique ecological environments way out west.
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Casper Bluff Land & Water Reserve
Visit here when you want to... explore scenic views of the Mississippi River and discover archaeological treasures.
Casper Bluff Land & Water Reserve -
Cannon Park
Visit here when you want to... relax in shaded picnic spots or take the family to a quiet park with green spaces.
Cannon Park -
Forest Park Nature Preserve
Visit here when you want to... hike diverse trails and enjoy wildlife in a peaceful, natural setting.
Forest Park Nature Preserve -
Emiquon Preserve
Visit here when you want to... explore wetlands teeming with birdlife and wander along scenic nature trails.
Emiquon Preserve -
Black Hawk State Historic Site
Visit here when you want to... hike through woodlands and along river bluffs while enjoying moments of peaceful reflection.
Black Hawk State Historic Site
Parks in Southern Illinois
Southern Illinois parks embody the region's untamed spirit. Here, the rugged, forested landscapes and unique rock formations make for truly spectacular experiences. If you're looking for adventure, you'll find no shortage, but there's plenty to satisfy a more laidback approach, too. Waterfalls, lush forests, and just some peaceful spots to relax in the sun - you'll find it all here. (Not to mention a castle or two.)
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Union County Refuge
Visit here when you want to... enjoy birdwatching or take a quiet walk through a wildlife-rich refuge.
Union County Refuge -
Rock Springs Conservation Area
Visit here when you want to... explore forested trails, go fishing, or join in educational programs in a serene park.
Rock Springs Conservation Area -
Boo Castle Park
Visit here when you want to... explore a unique, Dungeons and Dragons-themed park, where fantasy comes to life with whimsical sculptures and a fun, imaginative atmosphere.
Boo Castle Park -
Fort Massac
Visit here when you want to... step back in time, enjoy river views, and relax in a peaceful historic setting.
Fort Massac -
Ferne Clyffe State Park
Visit here when you want to... hike through stunning rock formations and explore beautiful forests in a quiet escape.
Ferne Clyffe State Park
Illinois State Parks & National Forests
What about all the Illinois State Parks, you ask? There are so many and so much to talk about that they have their own section! Discover what makes them so amazing.
Memorial Parks in Illinois
Illinois honors its past and its heroes in many ways. These parks are places for reflection, and places that remind you of all the beauty and life there is in the world that so many have sacrificed to protect.
10 Great Illinois Parks for Families
Imagination and creativity are at full throttle in these family-friendly parks and playgrounds around Illinois. We're talking pirate ships, fairy tale adventure, and even a park straight out of Dungeons & Dragons. When you've got kids to entertain (and want to keep a little entertained yourself), these spots are worth checking out.
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1. Boo Castle Park (Carbondale, Southern Illinois)
It's Dungeons & Dragons come (almost) fully to life! Kids can let their imaginations run wild here, and it's fair to say adults can, too. The castle-like structures and fantasy-themed play areas add up to one of the most memorable family adventures you're ever likely to have.
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2. Bison’s Bluff Nature Playground (Schaumburg, Chicago Suburbs)
This one is the answer to "too much iPad time." Bison's Bluff is designed to connect kids with nature, through interactive climbing areas, streams, and natural play elements. Your family will get their fill of exploration, adventure, and hands-on play in this creative outdoor environment... with maybe a little mud, too.
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3. Playground for Everyone at Butterfield Park (Elmhurst, Chicago Suburbs)
This is a truly joyous experience. The Playground for Everyone is designed for kids of all abilities, with fun, sensory-rich equipment. The layout and surfacing mean all kids can play side-by-side with whatever mobility support is right for them.
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4. Enchanted Forest (Troy, Southern Illinois)
It's a beautiful celebration of imagination and storytelling. You'll find hand-painted fairytale scenes here, alongside tiny, whimsical houses. Explore, pretend, and stretch your imagination.
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5. Washington Park (Springfield, Central Illinois)
It's just a great park with large open spaces, playgrounds, gardens, and unique sculptures. In the summer there's live music, and it's prime picnic territory.
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6. Holiday Park (Rockford, Northern Illinois)
As the title might suggest, this is a must-visit destination during the holidays, with elaborate light displays galore. But it's worth a visit any time of year, with unique sculptures and playgrounds.
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7. Lake Ellyn Park (Glen Ellyn, Northern Illinois)
Classic family park vibes here. There's a beautiful lake, large playground, picnic areas, and large open spaces perfect for running about and getting into mischief. Plus walking trails and scenic views to keep everyone entertained.
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8. Lions Park (Clarendon Hills, Chicago Suburbs)
Contrary to its name, this one isn't lion-themed, but it does have a pretty great pirate ship playground. There's maximum potential for activity and imagination for all ages.
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9. Adventure Island Playground (Elgin, Northern Illinois)
More high-seas adventure here, with plenty of exciting play structures for kids to explore. Think pirate ships, bridges, sandboxes, and some quieter spots for parents to catch their breath.
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10. Phillips Park (Aurora, Chicago Suburbs)
Variety is the name of the game here, with a free zoo, playgrounds, and a sunken garden. And if the live animals weren't a big enough draw, there are also dinosaur fossil sculptures to enjoy.
Explore more Illinois parks inspiration
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Park Places
State parks throughout Illinois invite guests to stay the night at rustic, woodsy lodges surrounded by natural wonders. Read more about Park Places -
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Hidden Gems at Illinois' State Parks
Go off the beaten track to discover these secrete spots at Illinois' state parks, surrounded by amazing natural features and spectacular scenery. Read more about Hidden Gems at Illinois' State Parks -
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6 Illinois Parks to Explore
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National Treasures
Explore Illinois's diverse historic sites managed by the National Park Service. Read more about National Treasures -
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A Guide to Grant Park: Chicago's Front Yard
Sitting on a prime stretch of land along lake Michigan, Grant Park encompasses other notable parks and attractions. And, thanks to Chicagoans who advocated to protect it in 1835, the... Read more about A Guide to Grant Park: Chicago's Front Yard -
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Illinois Outdoor Bucket List
Sure, you can complain about the cold—but bundling up and reveling in Illinois’ must-experience winter adventures is far more fun. Read more about Illinois Outdoor Bucket List