The 30 Best Nature tourism in Illinois

Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, located at 27064 Dutton Road in Beecher, Illinois, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction covering 891 acres of diverse habitats such as forest, prairie, wetland, and Plum Creek. Acquired between 1938 and 2007, this preserve was previously a Boy Scout camp and now offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing on its 2.27 miles of natural surface trails. Visitors can also enjoy camping at the primitive campsites, sledding on the 40-foot hill in winter, and geocaching with permits. The Plum Creek Nature Center on site provides nature education opportunities for all ages, with a natural playscape for outdoor learning experiences. With state-threatened or endangered plant and animal species, Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve is a protected Illinois Nature Preserve dedicated to conserving its natural resources for future generations.

Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 7402 Lake Katherine Drive in Palos Heights, Illinois, United States. This beautiful institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the surrounding area through its well-maintained gardens and serene lake. With a variety of plant species, walking trails, and educational programs, Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or learn something new about the environment, this institution provides a peaceful and informative experience for all who visit.

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, located at 2430 North Cannon Drive in Chicago, Illinois, is a renowned museum dedicated to exploring and celebrating the natural world. Visitors can immerse themselves in interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and educational programs that showcase the beauty and diversity of nature. From vibrant butterfly gardens to engaging wildlife displays, the museum offers a unique and enriching experience for nature enthusiasts of all ages. Come discover the wonders of the natural world at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.

The Illinois Tourism Info Center is a travel agency located at 149 Interstate 70 in Marshall, Illinois, United States. This center serves as a one-stop destination for all things related to tourism in Illinois. From providing information on local attractions, events, and accommodations to offering travel tips and assistance with booking tours, the Illinois Tourism Info Center is dedicated to helping visitors make the most of their time in the state. Whether you're a local looking for a weekend getaway or a tourist exploring Illinois for the first time, this center is your go-to resource for all your travel needs.

Natural Discovery is a primary school located at 26573 South Ridgeland Avenue in Monee, Illinois. Our institution is dedicated to providing a hands-on learning experience that focuses on exploring the wonders of the natural world. With a curriculum designed to foster curiosity and a love for the environment, students at Natural Discovery engage in activities such as gardening, wildlife observation, and nature walks. Our experienced educators are committed to nurturing each child's individual interests and helping them develop a deep appreciation for the world around them. Join us at Natural Discovery and embark on a journey of discovery and learning unlike any other.

The Natural History Building is a renowned institution located at 1301 West Green Street in Urbana, Illinois, United States. This historic building is dedicated to the study and preservation of the natural world, housing a vast collection of specimens and exhibits that showcase the diversity and beauty of the Earth's flora and fauna. Visitors can explore interactive displays, educational programs, and research facilities that highlight the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship. With its stunning architecture and rich history, the Natural History Building is a must-visit destination for anyone with a passion for the natural sciences.

Heldt Park Natural Playground is a charming outdoor space located at 400 East Butler Avenue in Grant Park, Illinois. This innovative park offers a unique and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. With natural elements such as trees, rocks, and logs incorporated into the playground design, children can explore and play in a safe and stimulating environment. The park also features traditional playground equipment, picnic areas, and walking trails, making it a perfect destination for families looking to enjoy nature and outdoor recreation. Come visit Heldt Park Natural Playground and experience the beauty and fun of this one-of-a-kind outdoor space.

Momence Wetlands Nature Preserve is a serene and picturesque park located in Momence, Illinois. This tourist attraction offers visitors the chance to explore and appreciate the beauty of the wetlands ecosystem. With its diverse plant and animal life, including rare and endangered species, the preserve provides a unique opportunity for nature enthusiasts to observe and learn about the local environment. Whether you enjoy birdwatching, hiking, or simply taking in the peaceful surroundings, Momence Wetlands Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor exploration and appreciation of the natural world.

Plum Creek Nature Center is a beautiful park located at 27064 Dutton Road in Beecher, Illinois, United States. This peaceful sanctuary offers visitors a chance to explore and connect with nature through its winding trails, lush forests, and serene wetlands. The center also features educational exhibits and programs that teach visitors about the local flora and fauna, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll or a hands-on learning experience, Plum Creek Nature Center is the ideal place to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Illinois.

Sand Ridge Nature Center is a tranquil oasis nestled in the heart of South Holland, Illinois. This park and tourist attraction is a haven for nature lovers, offering a variety of hiking trails, educational programs, and interactive exhibits that showcase the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Visitors can explore the lush forests, serene wetlands, and scenic prairies that make up this beautiful natural area. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or embark on an outdoor adventure, Sand Ridge Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts of all ages.

Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve Camping Pod is a campground located in Crete, Illinois, United States. This nature preserve offers a variety of habitats, including forest, prairie, wetland, and Plum Creek. Visitors can enjoy hiking, running, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing on the 2.27 miles of natural surface trails. The campground consists of 9 primitive campsites that can accommodate families, small groups, and large groups. Each campsite includes a fire pit and picnic table, with an accessible latrine and water fountain nearby. The preserve also features a 40-foot hill for sledding in the winter, and offers snowshoes for rental. The Plum Creek Nature Center provides nature education opportunities and a natural playscape for visitors. Permits are available for geocaching at this preserve. Donations to the Nature Foundation of Will County and the Friends of the Forest Preserve Foundation support the conservation and recreation programs of the Forest Preserve District.

Bell Smith Springs Natural Bridge Trailhead is a stunning natural park located in Ozark, Illinois, United States. This park offers visitors the opportunity to explore the beautiful natural surroundings, including the iconic natural bridge. The trailhead serves as the starting point for various hiking trails that wind through the lush forests and rocky terrain of the area. Visitors can enjoy scenic views, wildlife spotting, and a peaceful escape into nature. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Bell Smith Springs Natural Bridge Trailhead has something to offer for nature lovers of all levels.

Severson Dells Nature Center is a beautiful park located at 8786 Montague Road in Rockford, Illinois, United States. This nature center is a perfect destination for nature lovers, offering a peaceful and serene environment to explore and connect with the great outdoors. With its lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and scenic trails, Severson Dells Nature Center provides a wonderful opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Whether you enjoy hiking, bird watching, or simply relaxing in a natural setting, this park has something for everyone. Come visit Severson Dells Nature Center and experience the wonders of the natural world firsthand.

Lakeview Nature Center is a serene park and tourist attraction located at 10050 North 1500th Road in Macomb, Illinois, United States. This nature center offers visitors a peaceful escape into the beauty of the natural world, with stunning views of the surrounding lake and lush greenery. Visitors can explore hiking trails, observe local wildlife, and participate in educational programs to learn more about the diverse ecosystem of the area. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or a fun-filled adventure, Lakeview Nature Center is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Knoch Knolls Nature Center is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 320 Knoch Knolls Road in Naperville, Illinois, United States. This nature center offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the local flora and fauna through interactive exhibits, guided hikes, and educational programs. With its scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and serene surroundings, Knoch Knolls Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts of all ages. Come and discover the natural beauty of Illinois at Knoch Knolls Nature Center!

Crabtree Nature Center is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 3 Stover Road in Barrington, Illinois, United States. This nature center offers visitors a chance to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area, with miles of hiking trails, educational programs, and interactive exhibits showcasing the local flora and fauna. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a family looking for a fun day out, or a tourist wanting to experience the beauty of Illinois, Crabtree Nature Center is the perfect destination for you. Come and immerse yourself in the wonders of the natural world at this serene and picturesque location.

Pilcher Park Nature Center is a serene oasis located at 2501 Highland Park Drive in Joliet, Illinois, United States. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area. The park features lush greenery, winding trails, and a variety of wildlife, making it the perfect place for nature lovers to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an educational experience, Pilcher Park Nature Center has something for everyone.

Bison's Bluff Nature Playground is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1111 East Schaumburg Road in Schaumburg, Illinois, United States. This nature playground offers visitors a unique and immersive experience in the great outdoors, with opportunities to explore and interact with the natural environment. From hiking trails to interactive exhibits, Bison's Bluff is the perfect destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Come and discover the beauty and tranquility of Bison's Bluff Nature Playground today!

The Vera Meineke Nature Center at Spring Valley, located at 1111 East Schaumburg Road in Schaumburg, Illinois, is a museum, park, and tourist attraction all in one. This 135-acre refuge features fields, forests, marshes, and streams, offering over three miles of handicapped-accessible hiking trails for visitors to explore. The Nature Center provides educational displays and information on natural history, while the 1880s living history farm allows visitors to step back in time and experience rural German farm life. Visitors can learn about nature and local history at Spring Valley through various activities such as exploring, discovering, observing, and listening. To preserve the natural resources of Spring Valley, visitors are asked to stay on marked trails and refrain from activities that may harm the environment or disrupt other visitors.

Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center is a travel agency located at 3609 Spring Road in Oak Brook, Illinois, United States. This institution offers a unique and immersive experience for nature enthusiasts, providing guided tours and educational programs in the beautiful Fullersburg Woods Nature Preserve. Visitors can explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area, learn about conservation efforts, and participate in hands-on activities to deepen their understanding of the natural world. Whether you're a seasoned nature lover or just looking to connect with the great outdoors, Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center is the perfect destination for an enriching and memorable adventure.

The Orland Park Nature Center is a serene oasis located at 13951 LaGrange Road in Orland Park, Illinois. This park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of trails, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can explore the lush landscapes, observe native flora and fauna, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll or an educational experience, the Orland Park Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Wildwood Nature Center, located at 531 Forestview Avenue in Park Ridge, Illinois, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers of all ages. This park, tourist attraction, and zoo offers a unique opportunity to connect with wildlife and the environment. During open hours, visitors can meet and learn about the animals at the Nature Center, as well as explore the interactive Nature Nook filled with educational resources and activities. Outside, guests can hike the trails that wind through the woodland, prairie, and pond areas, spotting local wildlife and native flora along the way.

Rock Falls Tourism is a travel agency located at 603 West 10th Street in Rock Falls, Illinois, United States. Offering access to over 100 local attractions, the agency provides visitors with the opportunity to explore unique venues, recreation options, and events in the area. Situated at the Urban Crossroads where city life and nature meet, Rock Falls Tourism invites guests to discover the beauty of the Rock River, parks, and canals in the region. In Rock Falls, Illinois, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy. From history, art, and culture to outdoor recreation, farmers' markets, annual events, tours, family-friendly activities, dining, nightlife, and shopping, the possibilities are endless. The community hosts a variety of annual events that draw in visitors from near and far, making it a destination not to be missed.

The Ruth Edwards Nature Center in Lowell Park, located at 2114 Lowell Park Road in Dixon, Illinois, is a beautiful and educational destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This park and tourist attraction offers a variety of programs and activities for visitors of all ages, including guided nature walks, bird watching, and environmental education workshops. The center is dedicated to preserving and promoting the natural beauty of the area, and provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, the Ruth Edwards Nature Center is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to connect with nature in the heart of the United States.

Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve, located at 1701 Morman Road in Amboy, Illinois, is a park and tourist attraction that was purchased by the Illinois Audubon Society in 2012. This 302-acre wetland complex is a rare and fragile portion of the Green River Lowlands section of the Grand Prairie Division. The preserve features black oak sand savannas, sedge meadows, and dry sand prairie, providing diverse habitats for native flora and fauna. The watery nature of Amboy Marsh makes it a unique and important environment, with springs, seeps, marshes, and wetlands supporting a variety of wildlife, including amphibians that rely on fishless ponds for breeding. Visitors to the preserve can enjoy birdwatching and may spot a variety of bird species, as documented in the Avian Breeding Community report for 2019.

Franklin Creek State Natural Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1872 Twist Road in Franklin Grove, Illinois, United States. This beautiful natural area offers visitors a chance to explore and enjoy the serene beauty of the Illinois landscape. With its lush greenery, flowing creek, and scenic trails, Franklin Creek State Natural Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to go for a hike, have a picnic, or simply unwind in nature, this park is sure to provide a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for all who visit.

The Galesburg Nature Center is a serene park and popular tourist attraction located on Woodblock Road in Galesburg, Illinois, United States. Visitors can explore the beautiful natural surroundings, enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching, and learn about the local flora and fauna through educational programs and exhibits. The center is a perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Illinois landscape.

Forest Park Nature Center is a hidden gem nestled at 5809 North Forest Park Drive in Peoria Heights, Illinois. This institution is a unique blend of a park, store, and tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. With its lush forests, winding trails, and diverse wildlife, Forest Park Nature Center provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can explore the center's interactive exhibits, shop for nature-inspired gifts at the store, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque surroundings. Whether you're a nature lover, outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing day out, Forest Park Nature Center is the perfect destination for all ages.

White Rock Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 6438 Bluff Road in Valmeyer, Illinois, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the chance to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area, with miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. The tranquil setting of White Rock Nature Preserve provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, White Rock Nature Preserve has something for everyone to enjoy.

Piney Creek Ravine Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located on Piney Creek Road in Ava, Illinois, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area, with lush forests, towering bluffs, and a serene creek running through the landscape. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and picnicking in this peaceful and scenic setting. Piney Creek Ravine Nature Preserve is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.