TOP 10 Outdoor space for animals in Illinois

The Regenstein Center for African Apes, located in Chicago, Illinois, is a must-visit tourist attraction within the Lincoln Park Zoo. This award-winning facility provides a state-of-the-art naturalistic indoor and outdoor living space for endangered chimpanzees and western lowland gorillas. The habitats are designed based on intensive behavioral research on chimpanzee and gorilla environmental preferences, featuring fallen logs, water features, trees, and artificial vines for climbing and hanging. Additionally, the center includes behind-the-scenes areas where staff care for a group of chimpanzees as part of the zoo's Project ChimpCARE. The Lester E. Fisher Center for the Study and Conservation of Apes, headquartered within the building, conducts great ape cognition research.

Willowhaven Park is a charming park and tourist attraction located in Kankakee, Illinois. Situated at 1451 North 4000 East Road, this park offers a picturesque setting for visitors to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. With lush greenery, walking trails, and picnic areas, Willowhaven Park is the perfect spot for a day out with family and friends. In addition to its natural beauty, Willowhaven Park is also home to a small zoo, where visitors can see a variety of animals up close. From playful monkeys to majestic birds, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this unique attraction.

The Giant Kangaroo Statue in Brookfield, Illinois, United States is a popular tourist attraction that stands tall and proud. This impressive statue of a kangaroo captures the attention of visitors and passersby, showcasing the unique wildlife of Australia. Standing as a symbol of strength and grace, the Giant Kangaroo Statue is a must-see for anyone exploring the area. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details of this magnificent sculpture and snap photos to remember their visit. Don't miss the chance to experience this iconic landmark in person and add it to your list of must-see attractions in Brookfield.

Alsip Home & Nursery is a premier independent garden center located at 20601 South La Grange Road, Frankfort, Illinois, United States. This institution offers a wide range of products and services including food, furniture, general contracting, home goods, and more. With a focus on gardening, Alsip Home & Nursery provides a vast selection of seeds for avid gardeners to grow their own flowers and vegetables. They also offer a variety of Wild Bird supplies for bird enthusiasts, as well as Garden Décor items to beautify outdoor spaces. In addition to their gardening offerings, Alsip Home & Nursery has a Home Center that features top-quality patio furniture, Weber Grills, pool accessories, stylish home décor, gift items, women's fashion, and a Christmas Decor department. The institution also houses Cache Creek Animal Rescue locations, where dogs, cats, and other animals are available for adoption. Pet supplies and services such as grooming and nail trims are also offered.

Tractor Supply Co. is a one-stop shop for all your needs, conveniently located at 2110 North Main Street in Princeton, Illinois. This institution offers a wide range of products including food, hardware, home goods, and pet supplies. Whether you're looking for tools for your next DIY project, pet food for your furry friends, or home decor to spruce up your living space, Tractor Supply Co. has you covered. With friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere, this store is the perfect place to find everything you need for your home and pets.

Rainforest Cafe is a unique dining experience located at 6170 West Grand Avenue in Gurnee, Illinois. This restaurant is designed to transport guests into a tropical rainforest setting, complete with lush vegetation, animatronic wildlife, and thunderstorms. The menu features a variety of delicious dishes inspired by tropical cuisine, making it a perfect destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike. With its immersive atmosphere and tasty food, Rainforest Cafe offers a dining experience like no other.

Big Daddy’s Dog House is a lively bar located in the heart of Winchester, Illinois on South Main Street. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, this institution is a favorite hangout spot for locals and visitors alike. Step inside and enjoy a cold drink, delicious food, and great company. Whether you're looking to catch the game on TV, relax with friends, or simply unwind after a long day, Big Daddy’s Dog House has got you covered. Come on down and experience the charm of this beloved neighborhood bar.

Tractor Supply Co. is a one-stop shop for all your needs, conveniently located at 3000 West Main Street in St. Charles, Illinois, United States. This versatile institution offers a wide range of products including food, hardware, home goods, and pet supplies. Whether you're looking to stock up on groceries, find the perfect tool for your next DIY project, spruce up your living space, or pamper your furry friends, Tractor Supply Co. has you covered. With a reputation for quality products and excellent customer service, this store is a go-to destination for all your shopping needs.

The Lee County 4H Center is a vibrant community hub located at 1196 Franklin Road in Amboy, Illinois, United States. This institution offers a wide range of educational programs, activities, and events for youth and families in the area. From agriculture and animal science to leadership development and healthy living, the Lee County 4H Center provides opportunities for personal growth and skill-building. The facility features modern amenities, spacious outdoor areas, and dedicated staff who are passionate about empowering youth to reach their full potential. Whether you're interested in joining a club, attending a workshop, or simply exploring the beautiful surroundings, the Lee County 4H Center is a welcoming and inclusive space for all. Come visit us and discover the endless possibilities for learning and fun!

Summerfield Zoo, located at 3088 Flora Road in Belvidere, Illinois, is a popular tourist attraction that offers a fun and educational experience for the whole family. Gift certificates are available for purchase, making them a great option for special occasions or just as a thoughtful gift. Visitors can enjoy private encounters with zoo animals, including the opportunity to meet a sloth. For those looking for a more immersive experience, the zoo offers a unique program where guests can be a zookeeper for a week and care for the animals. Summerfield Zoo is conveniently located near Rockford and is easily accessible from I-90. As a non-profit organization, the zoo relies on donations to support the animals and provide essential care, including veterinary services. Visitors are encouraged to support the zoo by donating to help ensure the well-being of the animals.

Willoughby Heritage Farm is a charming museum and park located at 631 Willoughby Lane in Collinsville, Illinois, United States. This historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the agricultural and rural life of the past, with beautifully preserved buildings and exhibits showcasing the area's rich heritage. The farm is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors of all ages who are interested in history, nature, and outdoor recreation. With its scenic surroundings and educational opportunities, Willoughby Heritage Farm is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the cultural roots of Collinsville.

Hickory Knolls Discovery Center is a charming park and tourist attraction located at 3795 Campton Hills Drive in St. Charles, Illinois, United States. This nature center offers visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the local flora and fauna through interactive exhibits, guided nature walks, and educational programs. With its scenic trails, wildlife viewing areas, and hands-on activities, Hickory Knolls Discovery Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come discover the beauty and wonder of the great outdoors at this hidden gem in the heart of Illinois.

Phillips Park Zoo is a charming tourist attraction located at 1000 Ray Moses Drive in Aurora, Illinois, United States. This family-friendly zoo offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of exotic and native animals. Visitors can observe playful monkeys, majestic big cats, colorful birds, and many other fascinating creatures in their natural habitats. The zoo also features educational exhibits, interactive programs, and special events for all ages to enjoy. With its picturesque setting and diverse collection of wildlife, Phillips Park Zoo is a must-visit destination for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Richardson Adventure Farm is a premier destination for outdoor fun and excitement in Spring Grove, Illinois. Located at 909 English Prairie Road, this family-owned farm offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. From navigating the world's largest corn maze to picking pumpkins in the pumpkin patch, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Richardson Adventure Farm. Guests can also take a scenic wagon ride, visit the petting zoo, or try their hand at gem mining. With its picturesque surroundings and friendly atmosphere, Richardson Adventure Farm is the perfect place to create lasting memories with family and friends.

Lords Park is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 100 Oakwood Boulevard in Elgin, Illinois, United States. This sprawling park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages, including walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a beautiful lake. The park is also home to the Lords Park Zoo, which features a variety of animals and educational exhibits. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or explore the local wildlife, Lords Park is a must-visit destination in Elgin.

Montgomery Park, located at 301 North River Street in Montgomery, Illinois, is part of the Fox Valley Park District which maintains 171 parks with a variety of amenities. The park features trails, neighborhood and community parks that are open from sunrise to one hour past sunset. With 25 lakes, 63 park shelters, and over 2,500 acres of open space, Montgomery Park offers a range of recreational opportunities for visitors. Park amenities include playgrounds, basketball courts, tennis courts, ball fields, and soccer fields. Visitors can enjoy fishing in the park, but must abide by state game laws and possess a valid Illinois Fishing License. Dogs must be leashed, and alcoholic beverages are prohibited in the park system. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on nature trails, and certain activities such as hunting and mistreatment of animals are strictly prohibited. For more information, visitors can contact the Fox Valley Park District at 630-897-0516.

Lippold Park, located within the Fox Valley Park District in Batavia, Illinois, is a popular tourist attraction with a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. The park is part of a larger network of 171 parks, 25 lakes, and 63 park shelters, covering over 2,500 acres of open space. Visitors can take advantage of the park's numerous playgrounds, basketball courts, tennis courts, ball fields, and soccer fields. Trails wind through the park, providing opportunities for walking, jogging, and biking. Neighborhood and community parks offer a peaceful retreat for families and individuals looking to relax and enjoy nature. The park is open from sunrise to one hour past sunset, and visitors are reminded to keep their dogs on a leash no longer than six feet.

Springbrook Prairie is a sprawling natural oasis located in Naperville, Illinois, United States. This park is a popular tourist attraction known for its picturesque landscapes and abundance of wildlife. Visitors can explore miles of hiking and biking trails, observe various species of birds and animals, and enjoy the serene beauty of the prairie ecosystem. With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery, Springbrook Prairie is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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.

Oakdale Nature Preserve, located at 4433 South Cranes Grove Road in Freeport, Illinois, is a beautiful 133-acre park that offers a variety of natural attractions. Just three miles south of Freeport on Baileyville Road, this park features forests, streams, and restored prairies for visitors to explore. New amenities at Oakdale Nature Preserve include a spacious picnic shelter, a nature-based playground, trail enhancements, and wayfinding signage. With over four miles of trails that wind through forests, tall grass prairies, and streams, there is plenty to do at Oakdale year-round. Visitors can hike, bike, jog, cross-country ski, snowshoe, picnic, photograph, bird watch, track animals, and identify plants.

Fair Grounds Park is a beautiful and spacious park located in Rockford, Illinois, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy, including walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields. The park is also home to various events and festivals throughout the year, making it a vibrant and lively destination for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind in nature or participate in some outdoor fun, Fair Grounds Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

The Farm & Nature Discovery School, located at 12700 Southwest Highway in Palos Park, Illinois, is a unique institution that offers children ages 3 through 6 the opportunity to learn in a natural environment on a 60-acre farm. Our school, which was founded in 2003, is based on the belief that children thrive when surrounded by nature. Our dedicated and highly qualified teachers guide students in exploring their natural surroundings while also meeting the developmental milestones outlined in The Illinois Early Learning Standards. At the Farm & Nature Discovery School, we are committed to the holistic development of each child, incorporating environmental education and Christian values into our curriculum. Our campus, located in close proximity to a working farm and barn, provides students with hands-on learning experiences with farm animals and the natural world.

Wildlife Prairie Park, located at 3826 N Taylor Road, Hanna City, Illinois, is a campground, lodging, park, and zoo all in one. This 1,800-acre zoological park is home to 60 different species and over 180 animals native to the area, including wolves, bison, black bears, elk, otters, and more. Visitors can enjoy natural landscapes, wildlife viewing, and various activities throughout the year. The park also offers event spaces for weddings, parties, corporate events, and retreats. Annual membership options are available, including the new VIA (Very Important Angler) Membership. Volunteer opportunities are also offered for those who want to help care for the animals and clean up the park. Wildlife Prairie Park is a top destination in Illinois and a must-visit for all ages.

Lodge of the Four Paws is a premier pet boarding facility located at 2942 Fairground Road in Pinckneyville, Illinois, United States. Our institution offers top-notch care and accommodations for your furry friends while you are away. With spacious indoor and outdoor play areas, comfortable sleeping quarters, and experienced staff members, we ensure that your pets receive the love and attention they deserve. Whether you need short-term boarding or extended stays, Lodge of the Four Paws provides a safe and welcoming environment for all animals. Book your pet's stay with us today and rest assured they will be in good hands.

Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo is a stunning oasis located within the bustling city of Chicago, Illinois. This unique institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore a pristine park, complete with a beautiful boardwalk that winds its way through lush greenery and serene waterways. As part of the renowned Lincoln Park Zoo, guests can also enjoy up-close encounters with a variety of wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Whether you're looking to relax in a peaceful setting or learn more about the local flora and fauna, Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo is a must-visit tourist attraction in the heart of the city.

The City of Aurora- Phillips Park Zoo is a charming park and zoo located on Ray Moses Drive in Aurora, Illinois, United States. This family-friendly institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore a variety of animal exhibits, including lions, tigers, bears, and more. The park surrounding the zoo also features beautiful gardens, walking paths, and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to learn about wildlife or simply relax in a peaceful outdoor setting, the City of Aurora- Phillips Park Zoo is the perfect destination for a day of fun and adventure.

Olesen Farm Park is a charming tourist attraction located at 1307 Green Trails Drive in Naperville, Illinois, United States. This park offers visitors a glimpse into the rich agricultural history of the region, with beautifully preserved farm buildings and lush greenery. Visitors can explore the grounds, learn about traditional farming practices, and even interact with friendly farm animals. Olesen Farm Park is the perfect destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to experience the beauty of rural life in Illinois.

The Cosley Zoo Expanded Parking Lot in Wheaton, Illinois, United States, offers convenient and ample parking for visitors to this charming zoo. With the recent expansion, guests can now easily find a spot to park their vehicles before enjoying a day of exploring the diverse and fascinating animal exhibits. Whether you're visiting with family or friends, the Cosley Zoo Expanded Parking Lot ensures a stress-free and enjoyable experience from the moment you arrive. Plan your visit today and discover the wonders of wildlife at this beloved zoo.

The Pritzker Family Children's Zoo, located at 2197 North Stockton Drive in Chicago, Illinois, is a popular tourist attraction that offers a unique and interactive experience for visitors of all ages. This zoo focuses on teaching about the interdependency of living things through expert animal care, hands-on learning elements, and tactile experiences. Visitors can get up close and personal with a variety of North American animals, including red wolves, black bears, North American river otters, and American beavers. Please note that animals may not be visible at all times, as they are given the choice to spend time in areas that are out of public view to promote positive animal welfare.

Fitness at Lincoln Park Zoo offers a unique opportunity to work out surrounded by the beauty of nature and wildlife. Located at 2001 North Clark Street in Chicago, Illinois, this zoo-based fitness center provides a one-of-a-kind setting for exercise enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy a variety of fitness classes, personal training sessions, and wellness programs while being inspired by the animals and lush greenery of the zoo. Whether you're looking to break a sweat or simply unwind in a peaceful environment, Fitness at Lincoln Park Zoo is the perfect place to achieve your health and wellness goals.