River trail park in Joliet, Illinois

Located on Columbia Street in Joliet, Illinois, the Joliet Iron Works Historic Site is a 52-acre park and tourist attraction that offers a glimpse into the area's industrial past. Acquired by the Des Plaines River preservation system between 1991 and 1997, this site was once home to an iron manufacturing facility in the late 1800s to early 1900s. Visitors can explore the preserved foundations of blast furnaces and other structures from the factory, as well as enjoy a 0.59-mile paved trail that provides a self-guided interpretive tour of the historical significance of the site. The Joliet Iron Works Historic Site also provides access to the 7.57-mile I&M Canal Trail, perfect for hiking and biking.

Hammel Woods Recreation Area, located at 23601 West Black Road in Shorewood, Illinois, is a 445-acre park and tourist attraction that is part of the DuPage River preservation system. The preserve features forest and wetland habitats, and is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species. Visitors can enjoy 1.6 miles of natural surface trails, as well as a 3.77-mile paved segment of the DuPage River Trail for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. Additionally, there are opportunities for shoreline fishing, canoeing, and kayaking on the DuPage River. The park also offers a dog park, primitive campsites, and geocaching permits. With three access areas, Hammel Woods is a great destination for outdoor recreation and nature exploration in the Joliet area.