Who says you need plane tickets, hotel reservations or a long drive to enjoy a summer getaway? Some of the best adventures are right in your own backyard. Make the Forest Preserves of Cook County the starting point for a staycation packed with outdoor recreation, family fun and memorable experiences across the south suburbs.
Start your weekend outdoors on the Forest Preserves’ Tinley Creek Trail System, where more than 25 miles of paved trails weave through prairies and forests, and alongside wetlands and ravines. Bring your bike, lace up your hiking shoes or simply slow down for a scenic picnic beneath the trees. Recommended hikes run from a three-mile loop to creating a 16-mile adventure by connecting several trails.
Looking to add a little friendly competition? Stay outdoors and tee off at the 18-hole George W. Dunne National Golf Course, one of the region’s premier public courses. Prefer a guided adventure? Check the upcoming program calendar at nearby Sagawau Environmental Learning Center, Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center or Sand Ridge Nature Center. From family nature walks and wildlife programs to birding hikes and hands-on activities, these destinations offer new ways to explore the outdoors while learning about the plants, animals and natural history that make Cook County unique. The nature centers and nearly all the programs are free.
When the afternoon heat arrives, trade the trail for the water. Rent a canoe, kayak or rowboat at nearby Tampier Lake in Orland Park and experience the Forest Preserves from a different perspective. Cast a fishing line, paddle along the shoreline or simply enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the water.
If you are looking to stretch your staycation into an overnight adventure, reserve a cabin or a campsite for a tent or RV at Camp Sullivan in Oak Forest. Roast marshmallows around the campfire, conquer the climbing wall and wake up surrounded by nature without ever leaving Cook County. Want to make it a bigger party? Bunkhouses on site can sleep 16 to 36 campers.
When it is time to refuel, explore one of the south suburbs’ vibrant downtown districts. Grab mouthwatering tacos and an ice-cold agua fresca in downtown Tinley Park, enjoy a juicy cooked-to-perfection burger in Orland Park or discover one of the many other locally owned restaurants that make the area a destination.
Or build your whole weekend adventure around seeing a favorite band playing at Credit Union 1 Amphitheater, one of the largest music venues in the region. For much more on events, sights, dining and other ideas in the area, go to Visit Chicago Southland.
It’s easy to put together a local trip that is all outdoors or a hybrid that is as fun, educational, relaxing or exciting as you want. Come out to the south suburbs for a summer weekend far from the everyday routine but close to home.