Outdoor Places to Go

Enjoy a beautiful day outside with your kids! Check out all of these outdoor activities in your area and see what peaks your interest, then click on the category heading and you will be taken to a full list of local options. We have all the details about locations! Many have photographs and more information to help you decide where to go and what your kids will be interested in depending on their age and interests.

All of these lists were made by local moms for local parents, grandparents, and caregivers. Do you have an idea for a topic that hasn’t been covered or a spot that you’ve been enjoying? Comment below and let us know!

If you are looking for other resources, visit our Resources for Families page, buy half-price tickets to great local attractions and shows on our Half-Price Ticket page, and peruse our Indoor Activities page.

Outdoor Places to Go in Chicago’s Western Suburbs

Big Run Wolf Ranch in Lockport

Big Run Wolf Ranch in Lockport is a non-profit facility that offers a wonderful opportunity to educate your children about North American wildlife. They are open to the general public…

Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Bolingbrook

The Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Bolingbrook is a great spot for kids to learn about nature, indoors and out. There is a lot to explore here during the summer…

Summer Nights at Brookfield Zoo

From 4:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays now through August 12, guests of all ages can enjoy a variety of live music and roaming kids’ entertainment, as well…

A Visit to Lake Katherine

We love exploring new places in the summertime and are thrilled that we discovered beautiful Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens in Palos Heights. We found the layout simple…

Day Trip to Glencoe Beach

Summer isn’t complete without a trip to the beach! Glencoe Beach is located on the beautiful north shore of Lake Michigan in Glencoe, IL and is a very family-friendly beach…
Bringing kids to the ball game - our family standing outside of Wrigley Field last summer for our son's first game!

Tips for Taking Kids to a Baseball Game

Baseball season is here, and a family trip to the old ballgame makes for a memorable day out. We just got back from taking our 18-month-old to his second Cubs…
Things to Do in Downers Grove banner

Things to Do in Downers Grove

Looking for things to do in Downers Grove? You won’t be disappointed. During the three years I lived downtown in this western Chicago suburb, I loved walking to the farmers market,…
Bringing kids to Starved Rock

5 Tips for Hiking Starved Rock with Kids

A couple of weeks ago, my husband and I loaded up our 9-month-old baby and made the hour-and-a-half drive out to Starved Rock State Park. I’d hiked there pre-baby and loved the…
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