Dec 10, 2021
nature trail

Just outside of Chicago is the wonderful town of Glenview, IL. Thanks to the local nature conservation efforts, Glenview boasts over 290 acres of parks and plenty of gorgeous, wooded spaces to explore. Read on to learn more about the wide variety of outdoor activities to enjoy in the area.

Gallery Park

This 142-acre park is the largest public park in Glenview. In the late 90s, intensive landscaping and planting took place to turn the previously occupied Naval Air Station’s airfield into the hills and flowering green areas we see today. There’s an amphitheater, fountain plaza, playgrounds, and trails that wind around the shimmering lake.

River Trail Nature Center

If you head through the forest of Camp Pine Woods, you’ll end up at the River Trail Nature Center, which is a free attraction devoted to educating its patrons about the wildlife and habitats along the Des Plains River. There are indoor and outdoor play areas and live animal displays to enjoy; it’s very popular with the little ones.

Historic Wagner Farm

Run by the Glenview Park District, this farm is an opportunity to experience life from the early 20th century. You can tour the brick farmhouse, check out the fun exhibits at the Heritage Center, and meet the friendly farm animals. During the summer, Historic Wagner Farm hosts the Glenview Farmers’ Market every Saturday morning as well.

Wildwood Nature Center

Popular with fishing enthusiasts, this nature center has ponds teeming with fish, ducks, frogs, and turtles. It’s a popular place for birthday parties and educational events for younger children. The park area has a self-guided woodland walk, reservable campfire pit, rain garden, and human sundial. This place is a must-visit if you’re seeking some refuge from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Flick Park

This park has major year-round appeal. During the warmer months, families head to Flick Outdoor Aquatic Center to make full use of the diving pool, water slides, lap pool, and splash pads. In the winter, you can be sure to enjoy the outdoor ice skating and sledding opportunities. Other recreational facilities are also available like picnic areas, a large variety of fields and courts, and playgrounds.

Chicago Botanic Garden

Northeast of Glenview is one of Chicago’s major tourist attractions. This living plant museum has 25 different display gardens from all over the world. You can also find exotic species from rainforests and deserts in the various greenhouses. During the summer, the world’s finest collection of bonsai can be found in the courtyard of the Regenstein Center.

The Grove

This 123-acre prairie reserve is located at the home of famed horticulturist, Dr. John Kennecott. You can visit the house be built in 1856, or visit the Redfield Estate, which was built by one of his descendants in 1929. Visit popular attractions on the property like the Grove Interpretive Center, a Wetlands Greenhouse, and a Native American Village.  

With so many recreational activities available, Glenview is a destination for nature enthusiasts. You can be sure to find a way to get outdoors no matter what season it is. To find a vehicle that can support your zest for adventure, visit us at Jennings Chevrolet and look at our inventory today!