The 30 Best Outdoor classrooms for kids in Illinois

Just For Kids is a premier institution located at 11024 South Bell Avenue in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Founded by an award-winning former elementary school teacher, our facility offers a safe, fun, and meaningful before-and-after-school program as well as a top Pre-K through 1st Grade School all under one roof. Situated in the peaceful Morgan Park area, Just For Kids features a hardwood basketball court, themed classrooms, a kitchen, and dining room where nutritious meals and snacks are served. Our dedicated staff, including outstanding teachers and volunteers, take daycare to another level every day, ensuring that your child is safe, sound, and having the time of their lives while you're at work.

Kids & Company is a boutique childcare institution located at 1750 North Clark Street in Chicago, Illinois. With less than 50 total spaces, our downtown location offers families a personalized and intimate childcare experience. Situated directly across the street from Lincoln Park Zoo, our center is the perfect spot for nature walks and day trips. Our facility features classrooms with large windows, educational toys, and password-protected webcams for caregivers to check in on their children throughout the day. We are proud to be endorsed by Eco-Healthy Child Care®, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for children and staff.

Kids In Harmony Day School is a licensed institution located at 4332 North Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago, Illinois. Our facility offers four bright and spacious classrooms, as well as an outdoor playground for year-round fun-filled educational activities. As we welcome the arrival of March, our focus shifts to the wonders of springtime. Our little learners will be engaged in hands-on experiences centered around growth, renewal, and the changing seasons. From planting greeneries to exploring the natural world, our students will deepen their understanding of the world around them.

The Place for Children with Autism in Lake in the Hills, Illinois is a health institution specializing in providing ABA therapy for children aged 2-6 who have been diagnosed with autism. Our center offers a comprehensive and inclusive approach to therapy, combining individual sessions with group activities to ensure the best possible outcomes. Our state-of-the-art facility features six classrooms, an indoor sensory gym, a large activities area, and two secure outdoor playgrounds, providing a perfect environment for children to learn, grow, and play. Conveniently located near I-90, our center is easily accessible to families in Lake in the Hills, Algonquin, Crystal Lake, and surrounding areas. We offer family support, training, and translation services, as well as Spanish language services for our Spanish-speaking families. For more information or to enroll, please contact us at (224) 436-0788.

The Kendall County Outdoor Education Center, located at 11285 Fox Road in Yorkville, Illinois, is a local government office that offers quality outdoor learning experiences for students in the Yorkville, Plano, and Sandwich school districts. Since 1970, the center has provided opportunities for experiential learning in a variety of natural environments, including prairies, hardwood forests, streams, and the Fox River. With outdoor teaching stations, a classroom, a challenge course, and a living history area, the KCOEC aims to enhance the standard school curriculum while promoting student decision-making, self-confidence, teamwork, leadership, and environmental stewardship. The center offers one-day programs and multi-day summer trips for over 8,000 participants each year, ranging from pre-kindergarten through high school and adults. Lessons cover environmental science, living history, map and compass skills, and team building, with customized programs developed in collaboration with classroom teachers. For more information, contact Director Danielle Oberbroeckling at 630-273-5467 or visit the Regional Office of Education at 109 West Ridge Street in Yorkville.

Marshall First Step Academy is a reputable school located at 1414 Archer Avenue in Marshall, Illinois, United States. Our institution is dedicated to providing a supportive and stimulating learning environment for students of all ages. With a focus on academic excellence and character development, Marshall First Step Academy is committed to helping students reach their full potential. Our experienced faculty and staff work tirelessly to ensure that each student receives a quality education that prepares them for success in the future. Join us at Marshall First Step Academy and take the first step towards a bright and promising future.

Lyran Park is a beautiful park located at 4781 South Bend Road in Rockford, Illinois, United States. This serene and picturesque park offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. From scenic walking trails and picnic areas to playgrounds and sports facilities, Lyran Park is the perfect destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Whether you're looking to spend a peaceful afternoon in nature or engage in some physical activity, Lyran Park has something for everyone. Come visit this hidden gem in Rockford and experience the beauty and tranquility of Lyran Park for yourself.

Stones Landing is a picturesque park located at 7930 Shore Drive in Machesney Park, Illinois, United States. This tranquil oasis offers a stunning waterfront view and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to relax and enjoy nature. With walking paths, picnic areas, and recreational facilities, Stones Landing is the perfect place for outdoor activities and family outings. Whether you're looking to unwind by the water or explore the scenic surroundings, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Lakeview Park, located at 1917 West Lake Avenue in Peoria, Illinois, is a popular tourist attraction and cultural hub in the heart of the city. This park offers a range of activities and amenities for visitors of all ages, including the Peoria Park District administrative office, the Bonnie W. Noble Center for Park District Administration, Owens Ice Center, and the Lakeview Recreation Center. In addition to these facilities, Lakeview Park also features a playground, picnic tables, and will soon be adding a splash pad in 2024. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or participate in educational programs, Lakeview Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Violet Patch Park is a beautiful park located at 1425 Illinois 25 in Oswego, Illinois, United States. It offers a variety of spring programs for all ages, including T-Ball/Baseball, dance classes, and DIY craft projects for Earth Day. The park also has aquatic amenities and is currently offering a pool pass sale for summer savings. Visitors can enjoy the fresh air and ambiance of the park's historic building, complete with stained glass windows and wood panel floors. Join us for a magical storytime, craft projects, and interactive songs in our engaging classes. Don't miss out on the opportunity to dive into summer fun with the Oswegoland Park District. Register today and find your place to play at Violet Patch Park!

Sycamore Park District, located at 480 Airport Road in Sycamore, Illinois, is a vibrant community park offering a wide range of recreational activities and facilities for all ages. From playgrounds and sports fields to walking trails and picnic areas, this park district has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking to relax in nature, get active with a game of basketball or soccer, or simply spend quality time with family and friends, Sycamore Park District is the perfect destination. Visit us today and experience the beauty and fun of this wonderful park in the heart of Sycamore.

Children's Garden is a charming and interactive park located at 801 North Chicago Street in Elwood, Illinois, United States. This delightful tourist attraction is a haven for young visitors, offering a variety of fun and educational experiences in a beautiful outdoor setting. From colorful flower beds to whimsical sculptures, the Children's Garden is a place where imagination and curiosity can flourish. With plenty of opportunities for play and exploration, this park is the perfect destination for families looking to spend quality time together in nature. Come visit the Children's Garden and create lasting memories with your little ones!

Huntington Ridge Park is a charming park located at 1523 Culpepper Drive in Naperville, Illinois, United States. This peaceful oasis offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages, including walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and open green spaces perfect for relaxing or playing sports. The park's serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it the ideal spot for a leisurely day outdoors with family and friends. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful nature walk or host a fun-filled picnic, Huntington Ridge Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Childerley Park is a charming park located at 506 McHenry Road in Wheeling, Illinois. This tranquil green space offers a peaceful retreat for families and nature enthusiasts to enjoy. With its lush greenery, beautiful walking paths, and serene atmosphere, Childerley Park is the perfect place to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, go for a leisurely stroll, or simply relax and take in the sights and sounds of nature, Childerley Park is a wonderful destination for all ages. Come visit this hidden gem in Wheeling and experience the beauty and tranquility of Childerley Park for yourself.

West Ridge Nature Play Space is a unique institution located at 5821 North Western Avenue in Chicago, Illinois. This innovative outdoor play space offers children the opportunity to connect with nature and engage in hands-on learning experiences. With a focus on environmental education and outdoor exploration, West Ridge Nature Play Space provides a safe and stimulating environment for children to learn and grow. From natural play structures to interactive educational programs, this institution is dedicated to fostering a love of nature and a sense of wonder in children of all ages. Come visit West Ridge Nature Play Space and discover the beauty and excitement of the great outdoors right in the heart of the city.

Horner Park Nature Play Space is a unique outdoor educational facility located in Chicago, Illinois, United States. This institution is dedicated to providing children with hands-on experiences in nature, encouraging them to explore, learn, and play in a natural setting. The play space features various elements such as sand pits, climbing structures, and water features, all designed to promote creativity, physical activity, and environmental awareness. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Horner Park while engaging in educational and interactive activities that promote a deeper connection to the natural world. With its commitment to fostering a love for nature and outdoor play, Horner Park Nature Play Space is a must-visit destination for families and nature enthusiasts in the Chicago area.

Randolph Tot Lot is a charming and inviting playground located at 300 South Grove Avenue in Oak Park, Illinois. This family-friendly institution offers a safe and fun environment for young children to play and explore. With a variety of playground equipment, including swings, slides, and climbing structures, children can enjoy hours of outdoor fun and physical activity. The tot lot is well-maintained and surrounded by lush greenery, providing a picturesque setting for families to gather and socialize. Whether you're looking for a place to take your little ones to burn off some energy or simply enjoy the fresh air, Randolph Tot Lot is the perfect destination for families in the Oak Park area.

Welcome to Children First Learning Center-Lakeview in Waterloo, Illinois! Our day care center offers a nurturing and educational environment for children from infancy to school age. Our dedicated teachers and staff are committed to providing a safe and enriching experience for all children in our care. Located at 409 Lakeview Drive, our Lakeview location is our largest facility, with spacious classrooms and outdoor play areas. Our Program Coordinator, Tessa Springer, leads our team of experienced educators who are passionate about helping children learn and grow.

Children First Learning Center-Columbia, located at 100 Southwoods Drive in Columbia, Illinois, is a school that offers a nurturing and educational environment for children of all ages. The Southwoods location opened in April of 2019 to cater to families in northern Monroe County, making it convenient for parents who commute to St. Louis. The Program Coordinator, Tessa Springer, is dedicated to providing a supportive and enriching experience for all children at the center. With a background in psychology and counseling, Tessa understands the importance of early childhood development and works closely with parents to ensure each child's individual needs are met.

Nature Play Garden is a charming and enchanting park located in Highland Park, Illinois, United States. This unique tourist attraction is a haven for nature lovers of all ages, offering a serene and peaceful environment where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors. With lush greenery, winding paths, and a variety of interactive play areas, Nature Play Garden provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or explore and discover, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the magic of Nature Play Garden today!

Located in Libertyville, Illinois, A Village Green Montessori is a peaceful and joyful school that offers a rich academic curriculum for children aged 3-6. The institution recently opened a new Primary 3-6 year old classroom, with limited spaces available. The Toddler Program provides a gentle introduction to school life, fostering independence, empathy, and a love for learning. Additional programs such as Spanish, Music, Yoga, and Science are offered to broaden children's experiences. The school also provides Early Bird and After School Club programs to accommodate different schedules. The summer program focuses on arts & crafts and outdoor activities. Kindergarten at VGM is the culmination of the Montessori three-year cycle, where children deepen their knowledge and gain leadership skills. Parents have praised the school for its supportive environment, excellent teachers, and focus on individualized learning. The school day begins at 8:30am, with Early Bird program starting at 7:30am. For more information or enrollment inquiries, contact A Village Green Montessori at (847) 281-9911 or vgmschool@icloud.com.

Long Grove Country School is a unique institution located in Long Grove, Illinois, United States. Our school offers a range of programs for preschool age children through Elementary, including Outdoor Elementary Clubhouse Enrichment and After-Care. We believe in the importance of integrating outdoor education into the curriculum, allowing children to connect with nature and learn in a hands-on way. At Long Grove Country School, we strive to create a learning environment that instills a love of learning and creates lasting memories for your child. Our students spend most of their days outside, enjoying our beautiful 5-acre campus. Did you know that the average school only goes outside for 25 minutes per day? On days with good weather, our students have the opportunity to be outside all day long, with each class having both indoor and outdoor classrooms.

Little Newtons Daycare Elmwood Park is a vibrant and engaging school located at 1850 North Harlem Avenue in Elmwood Park, Illinois. Since 2018, we have been dedicated to providing high-quality care and education to children in the Chicago northern suburbs. Our colorful and creative classrooms, along with multiple indoor and outdoor play areas, offer endless opportunities for children to explore and learn. From infants to preschoolers, all children are welcomed to play, grow, and discover at our Elmwood Park location. Conveniently located near the Foss Swim School, our daycare center is the perfect place for children to thrive. We invite you to schedule a tour and experience our early childhood education program firsthand. Come see why families trust Little Newtons Daycare Elmwood Park for their child's learning and development journey!

The Glenview Park District - Park Center is a comprehensive facility located at 2400 Chestnut Avenue in Glenview, Illinois, United States. This institution offers a wide range of services including a gym, health center, and school. With over 44,000 square feet dedicated to health and fitness, the Park Center features state-of-the-art equipment, group exercise classes, and certified personal trainers. Daily fee, annual membership, and corporate membership packages are available for interested individuals. The Park Center also boasts four pools, including lap swimming, zero depth activity pool, warm water therapy, and a whirlpool. They offer an extensive swim lesson program year-round. Additionally, there are six early childhood classrooms providing full-day childcare and preschool programs for 3-4 year olds, as well as parent and tot and preschool enrichment classes.

Out on Faith Learning Center is a school located at 1443 West Devon Avenue in Chicago, Illinois. Our institution is dedicated to providing a nurturing and inclusive learning environment for students of all backgrounds and abilities. With a focus on academic excellence and character development, we strive to empower our students to reach their full potential and become responsible, compassionate members of society. Our dedicated staff and innovative curriculum ensure that each student receives personalized attention and support to help them succeed. Join us at Out on Faith Learning Center and watch your child thrive academically and socially!

Green Beginnings is an innovative institution located at 1376 West Carroll Avenue in Chicago, Illinois. Our mission is to provide a nurturing and eco-friendly environment for children to learn and grow. We offer a range of educational programs that focus on sustainability, nature exploration, and hands-on learning experiences. Our dedicated staff is committed to fostering a love for the environment and instilling a sense of responsibility towards our planet in the next generation. Join us at Green Beginnings and embark on a journey of discovery and environmental stewardship.

The Backyard Learning Center is a unique educational institution located at 715 Remlok Park Drive in Waterloo, Illinois, United States. Our center offers a hands-on learning experience in a natural outdoor setting, allowing students to connect with nature while gaining valuable knowledge and skills. Our curriculum includes a variety of subjects such as environmental science, gardening, wildlife conservation, and sustainability. With a focus on experiential learning, we aim to inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love for the outdoors in all of our students. Join us at The Backyard Learning Center and discover the endless possibilities of learning in nature.

Brown Bear Day Care is a warm and welcoming childcare center located at 21007 McGuire Road in Harvard, Illinois. Our dedicated staff provides a safe and nurturing environment for children to learn, play, and grow. With a focus on early childhood education, we offer age-appropriate activities and curriculum to help children develop important skills and prepare for school. Our facility is equipped with spacious classrooms, a secure outdoor play area, and nutritious meals to ensure the well-being of all our little ones. At Brown Bear Day Care, we strive to create a home away from home for your child, where they can thrive and flourish in a loving and supportive setting.

Nature's Scholars Enrichment Center, Inc. is a unique educational institution located at 4400 Beck Lane in Ringwood, Illinois, United States. Our center is dedicated to providing children with a hands-on learning experience that fosters a deep appreciation for the natural world. Through engaging activities and outdoor exploration, our students become true scholars of nature, gaining valuable knowledge and skills that will last a lifetime. Join us at Nature's Scholars Enrichment Center, where learning and adventure go hand in hand.

One Hope United - Busy Bee Children’s Center, located at 2115 South Ernie Krueger Circle in Waukegan, Illinois, is a longstanding institution in the community with dedicated staff members who have been serving for over 10 years. Many parents of current students also attended Busy Bee as children, showcasing the center's strong ties to the community. At Busy Bee, individualized learning is a priority, with state funding for Preschool for All ensuring that children are equipped with kindergarten readiness and social and emotional skills for school success. Over 90 percent of children attending Busy Bee programs meet developmental outcome goals.