Such a relaxing spot to hike around. It's very peaceful and scenic, and I love being able to step…read moreaway for a bit and hang out there during the day. Highly recommend if you want a change of scenery while staying in the neighborhood.

Large forest preserve with a bit of everything, including hills, picnic areas, wildlife viewing…read moreareas, trails, and marsh. After heavy rains, the trails can get a bit flooded, otherwise it's a fun place to walk around and enjoy nature. It's important to note that the trails are each around 1 to 1.5 miles, with some that run around Lake Patterson, so plan accordingly and bring enough sunscreen and water. This lake is also one that has motorboat access with a ramp, which is not common for the area. When the trees are filled with leaves, it's quite pleasant to sit around and enjoy nature with some shade as well.

I have mixed emotions about this Kane County forest preserve…read more On the one hand I love it because it's very "birdy" and for those who love to watch and count birds it is special. On the other hand I hate the bikes that go whizzing by and rattle the bridge just as I'm capturing a melodic or mournful bird song. There are some who politely slow down and call out "On your left" but some really seem to get a kick out of almost knocking someone over. If you walk over the two bridges and go down the path to the right along the opposite bank of the river you will be in Tekawitha Woods, a twofer! Bikes cannot go through there.

Decent forest preserve a really nice running trail in the morning. Perhaps not as taken care of as…read moreother preserves. Beware of yellow jackets in late summer-early fall. I've gotten stung in this preserve a couple of times just minding my own business and running.

I had no idea this place even existed. As I was biking the DuPage River Trail with my husband the…read moreother day, we came across it. Hidden in plain sight. As you can see from the pictures we took, it's a beautiful park and memorial dedicated to all veterans. There is a parking lot directly in front of the memorial. From there you can jump on the DuPage River Trail or sit and enjoy the park as there are benches throughout. Very clean and well maintained by the City of Naperville, and very quiet and serene because I'm not sure many people know it's here!

Here's a great historical site to explore in Joliet. It's free, and it's all outdoors. Back in the…read moreday, Joliet was one of the leading iron/steel manufacturers in the United States, as it provided several locals with jobs. Many of those people were immigrants who had trouble speaking English. You'll learn about the history of Joliet Iron and Steel Works by walking the nearly one mile trail. I didn't spend more than 45 minutes here, but I felt like I learned a lot. I also didn't walk that far on the trail, but I was more than impressed with what I saw. There are lots of ghost structures of the old remains. Obviously, it is not recommended for anyone to go near them (or behind the fenced area). But they're great for photography either way. And of course, you can get your exercise on the trail, which connects to others. Make this a must-see if you're in the area.

First time coming here the other day. This place is amazing for urban explorers, people fascinated…read moreby history or something for the average walker to do to get their daily 10,000 steps. Parking is a bit tricky if your not familiar with the area. It's got a picnic table, restrooms and water. The path heads straight to the I&M trail as well but you'll see remants of a former Joliet in its prime. It's one of the few things that are actually fun to do in this boring city. (no offense) definitely check it out. The path is great and unique. Definitely check out the brick path. I only wish they described more of what the buildings and paths were originally used for with pictures provided.

Found this spot after having dinner with my grandma. Great 1 mile walk after a meal. Well…read morefrequented by friendly people in the area.

This park offers a bit of variety for kids who have seen the same old thing at other playgrounds…read more The fact that this park has a walking trail along the lake as well as a playground with swings and spinning equipment is great! This is a nice contrast to school parks which lack variety. The equipment was in good condition, although it could use some fresh wood chips. Here are some of the highlights: -Sheltered gazebo with a few picnic benches. Nice for a picnic or small party, or just to read while your kids play. -Benches around the park with plenty of sun (for those chillier days) -Swings for older and younger kids -Well paved path going around the lake for a nice walk -Doggie pick up bags and trash can to keep the park clean Other things to note: -No drinking fountain -No nearby bathrooms -Because of the location, there didn't seem to be many kids around in the early afternoon. We went on a school holiday as well, so it seemed like there should have been more kids out and about. Overall, this is a great place for kids and deserves more attention and recognition than it gets.

No where does it say it's closed to the public on the website. When we pulled up asking to see the…read morebison the security guard very rudely said "nope. We're closed. Turn around".

The weird building where all these lectures tend to occur needs an update IMO…read more The topics and speakers get me there... adding a 45min trek to the boonies after work... But the chairs in the lecture hall... who knew dwarves and hobbits liked going to Fermi? I mean, if you are over 5' tall its like hell... or economy on Spirit with 12" legroom. Dunno about you, but I am NOT a FAN to have 2" distance between your knees and someone's scalp. And VV for my scalp. BONUS: You get cookies and milk/juice after each lecture. AND there is free WiFi (2x) access!

Shabona Lake is a relaxing place to enjoy nature. It's nice to walk by the lake on the paved side…read morewalks & stop at the different picnic tables & benches for just a little rest or bring a picnic to enjoy ... sunny or shadey options. Also WheelChair friendly!

Tried to make reservations online but because I'm within 72 hours I must do walk in 1st come 1st…read moreserve. I showed up to camp and found out the park has different rules than idnr or the reservation website and do not allow walk in for prime sites. All sites not registered online must sit empty. So my family was turned away, the site along with many other prime sites are going to sit empty all weekend. I even offered to pay double and I spoke to the deputy director of the park. Sad to see the park turning away money over a 72 hour online only policy

Huge property well kept historical landmark buildings. Barn type hall great for large receptions…read more Wonderful place to get married!