Events
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Walk & Talk: Oak Forest Heritage Preserve
Oak Forest Heritage Preserve-East • Oak Forest, IL 60452Walk & Talk Hikes are for the curious mind who wants to know more about the Forest Preserves and natural areas. These walks will be […]
Free -
Canceled Nature Arts for Health
Caldwell Woods Wellness Center • Chicago, IL 60646Experience nature, art and wellness in this fun, interactive class using rocks to create art. Led by University of Illinois Extension.
Free -
Nature Thursdays ‘What is climate change?’ Drop-In
Trailside Museum of Natural History • River Forest, IL 60305Connect to nature through fun themed activities for all ages. Led by University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalists.
Free -
Canceled Fall Open Climb
Camp Sullivan • Oak Forest, IL 60452Scale the indoor climbing wall! Participants must be over 40lbs. Adult supervision and waivers required. Accessible climbing equipment available.
Free -
Be a Better Birder: Get Ready for Urban Birding Festival
Virtual EventLearn about the Urban Birding Festival and how to prepare, what to bring, where to go!
Free • Registration Required -
Fridays in the Field
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480University of Illinois-Extension Master Naturalists will connect visitors with nature through inquiry-based activities when the buildings are closed.
Free -
History of the Lagoons Paddle
Tower Road Boat Launch • Cook County, IL 60093 (near Winnetka)Explore the Skokie Lagoons by water. Equipment provided. Presented with Chicago River Canoe & Kayak.
Free • Registration Closed -
Palos Night Sky Picnic
FeaturedPioneer Woods • Cook County, IL 60480 (near Willow Springs)Join us for the 3rd Annual Palos Night Sky Picnic! Explore the Palos Preserves at night, nestled within the largest Urban Night Sky Place. Bring your […]
Free • Registration Required -
River Trail Nightlife: Night Hike
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Learn about nocturnal animals and more on a guided hike. Cost: $5/person. Ages 6 & up.
$5 • Registration Required -
Birding Across Habitats
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Naturalist-led hike searching for birds in woodlands, prairies and wetlands. All birding levels welcome. Binoculars available for loan.
Free -
Prairie Birding
Orland Grassland South • Cook County, IL 60467 (near Orland Park)Free -
National Clean Up Day
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Care for our natural world by making River Trail and the surrounding preserves cleaner. Self-guided. Pick up supplies onsite.
Free • Registration Required -
Buckthorn Dyeing Workshop
Dan Ryan Woods Visitor Center & Pavilion • Chicago, IL 60620Join Katelyn Patton to learn basics of plant-based dyes while deepening your relationship to local ecology.
Free • Registration Required -
Canceled Fall Nature Wellness Walk
Sand Ridge Nature Center • South Holland, IL 60473Immerse yourself and reconnect with nature and all the beauty it has to offer! Relaxing mindfulness and meditative practices will be led by certified forest […]
Free -
Canceled Hike the Freedom Trail: Bus and Walking Tour
Beaubien Woods Boat Launch • Chicago, IL 60827Follow the tale of Freedom Seekers through the Calumet Region. Presented with Midwest Underground Railroad Network.
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Feeding Time
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Learn about the diets of our ambassador animals, their habitats and observe a feeding demonstration.
Free -
Canceled Solar Day – Drop-in
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Meet our partners from NW Suburban Astronomy as we safely view our nearest star. Scopes will be setup near the parking lot.
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Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Caldwell Woods Wellness Center • Chicago, IL 60646Celebrate diverse, vibrant Hispanic cultures with dance performances, arts and nature education, and local food! Center of Peruvian Arts performance at 12 pm, Xochitl-Quetzal Aztec […]
Free • Registration Required -
Monarchs
Sagawau Environmental Learning Center • Lemont, IL 60439Learn how monarchs make their journey to Mexico during a presentation, followed by a hike.
Free • Registration Required -
Teen Exploration Day: Pond Dipping
Sand Ridge Nature Center • South Holland, IL 60473Drop in at the Redwing Trail pond to observe wetland inhabitants and macroorganisms. Geared towards teens & their families.
Free -
What’s On The Menu?
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Join us at feeding time to learn about our outdoor ambassador animals and their habits.
Free -
“Bone” Appetit
Trailside Museum of Natural History • River Forest, IL 60305Join us during feeding time to learn about Trailside’s ambassador animals.
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Birding by Kayak
Busse Lake Boating Center • Cook County, IL 60007 (near Elk Grove Village)Join a naturalist and kayak as we look for local birds. A limited supply of binoculars available for loan at select events.
$30 • Registration Required -
Bird Banding
Sagawau Environmental Learning Center • Lemont, IL 60439Observe bird banding and talk with banders. Drop-in.
Free -
Restoration Workday
Trailside Museum of Natural History • River Forest, IL 60305Restore habitat and control invasive species. Equipment provided. Ages 8 & up. Ages 15 & under w/ adult.
Free • Registration Required -
Restoration Sunday
Sand Ridge Nature Center • South Holland, IL 60473Help us improve our wildlife habitat by cutting and removing invasive species. Ages 8 & up. Ages 15 & under w/ adult.
Free • Registration Required -
Sukkah Building
Trailside Museum of Natural History • River Forest, IL 60305Join community members to decorate a miniature sukkah from natural materials. All ages are welcome!
Free -
Restoration Workday
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Help us restore healthy habitats. Ages 8 & up. Children under 15 w/ adult. High schoolers may earn service hours.
Free • Registration Required -
Insects of Autumn
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Look for different insects as fall begins.
Free -
What’s On The Menu?
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Join us at feeding time to learn about our outdoor ambassador animals and their habits.
Free -
Yoga and Storytime
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Join the Bridgeview Library for a short nature story followed by kid's yoga activities. Ages 3-6 w/adult.
Free • Registration Required -
Tuesday Mornings are for the Birds!
Sand Ridge Nature Center • South Holland, IL 60473Observe fall migrants visiting Sand Ridge during their journey south for winter.
Free -
Small Serendipity
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Nature stories, crafts, and activities. Children ages 3-6 w/ adult.
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Native American Fall Equinox
Thatcher Woods Pavilion • River Forest, IL 60305A green corn celebration focused on traditional foods and the harvest season. Presented with the American Indian Center of Chicago.
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Wildlife Connections
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Stop by the visitor center to learn about reptiles, mammals and birds from the residents of Misericordia – Heart of Mercy. All ages.
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Fall Equinox Forest Bath
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Welcome fall with a guided forest therapy walk with certified forest therapy guide Gayle Byck.
Free • Registration Required -
Yoga in the Preserves
Caldwell Woods Wellness Center • Chicago, IL 60646Weekly yoga class for all ages and skill levels. Led by Kim Weber of Be Lightfooted.
Free • Registration Required -
Wee Wandering Wednesdays
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Read a story, make a craft and go on an adventure. Ages 2 to 6 with an adult. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served […]
Free -
Conservation@Home: Rain Gardening 101
FeaturedRiver Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Learn about rain gardening and how this water management strategy can benefit your yard. Presented with Master Gardener Sara Strother. Ages 13 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
Monarchs & Milkweed
Caldwell Woods Wellness Center • Chicago, IL 60646Learn about monarch habitat, conservation efforts and milkweed during a guided walk.
Free -
Nature’s Art Box
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Explore the wild side of creativity! Kids ages 3–6 with an adult can enjoy hands-on nature-inspired art and activities. Supplies provided.
Free • Registration Required -
Monarchs & Milkweed
Caldwell Woods Wellness Center • Chicago, IL 60646Learn about monarch habitat, conservation efforts and milkweed during a guided walk.
Free -
Be a Better Birder: Understanding Migration
Virtual EventMany bird species stop-over in Cook County during migration. Learn about why and how birds make this journey.
Free • Registration Required -
Harvest Moon Evening Walk
Trailside Museum of Natural History • River Forest, IL 60305Celebrate the September harvest moon with a peaceful walk through the woods as twilight descends. Ages 18 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
Nature Play Day
Dan Ryan Woods Visitor Center & Pavilion • Chicago, IL 60620Help your children connect with nature through stories, art and exploration.
Free -
Owl Prowl
Sand Ridge Nature Center • South Holland, IL 60473Introduction to owls followed by a relaxing walk to search for owls.
Free • Registration Required -
Moon Festival
FeaturedCrabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Celebrate the season under the glow of the full moon with guided forest‑therapy walks, moon‑viewing and sharing of traditional mooncakes during this Asian cultural festival. […]
Free • Registration Required -
Ecological Restoration Weekend
Sagawau Environmental Learning Center • Lemont, IL 60439Help restore Sagawau’s diverse ecosystems by removing invasive plant species.
Free • Registration Required -
Yoga
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Bring a yoga mat/towel. Ages 18 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
Party for the Preserves
FeaturedRiver Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Celebrate National Public Lands Day at our annual Party for the Preserves. Arrive in the morning and make a toy boat with natural materials and […]
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Party for the Preserves
FeaturedCrabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Celebrate the places that bring us together with a day of outdoor fun for all ages. Enjoy a bilingual prairie walk, family activities, hands-on seed […]
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Salsa Dance: Party for the Preserves
FeaturedThatcher Woods Pavilion • River Forest, IL 60305Dance into National Public Lands Day and Hispanic Heritage Month with an afternoon of live music, salsa dancing and festive outdoor fun. Bring your family and friends […]
Free • Registration Required -
Every Child Matters Powwow
Bunker Hill • Niles, IL 60714Celebrate Native American culture. Enjoy traditional Powwow, native food, and listen to stories. Register: call 773-883-9100. Grove 1.
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Party for the Preserves
FeaturedCamp Bullfrog Lake • Willow Springs, IL 60480Celebrate National Public Lands Day with a day of activities. Paddle in 10-person canoes with Wilderness Inquiry. Funkadesi brings joyful tunes blending music from around the world. View the night sky with telescopes and walks. Noon–3 pm: 4H Kick off, […]
Free • Registration Required -
What’s On The Menu?
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Join us at feeding time to learn about our outdoor ambassador animals and their habits.
Free -
Full Moon Paddle
Tower Road Boat Launch • Cook County, IL 60093 (near Winnetka)Enjoy a sunset and moonlit paddle through Skokie Lagoons.
Free • Registration Closed -
Party for the Preserves: Acoustics Under the Stars
FeaturedCamp Shabbona Woods • South Holland, IL 60473Celebrate the connection between public lands and folk music with performances, a guided walk and hot dog roast. Bring your own instruments and join in […]
Free • Registration Required -
Bird Banding
Sagawau Environmental Learning Center • Lemont, IL 60439Observe bird banding and talk with banders. Drop-in.
Free -
Ritmos Sagrados: Danza y Herencia Azteca
FeaturedTrailside Museum of Natural History • River Forest, IL 60305Un evento cultural sobre la danza tradicional azteca, destacando instrumentos sagrados, ritmos ancestrales, expresión espiritual y la rica herencia indígena mexicana. English Translation Sacred Rhythms: […]
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Party for the Preserves: Canoeing
FeaturedPowderhorn Lake • Burnham, IL 60633Celebrate National Public Lands Day. Paddle in 10-person canoes with Wilderness Inquiry. All equipment provided. Enjoy fun family activities. 10 am–2 pm: Paddling & family […]
Free • Registration Required -
Forest Therapy
Sand Ridge Nature Center • South Holland, IL 60473Join us for a guided, meditative walk to connect back to nature and to ourselves. Led by an Illinois Master Naturalist. Ages 18 & up. […]
Free • Registration Required -
Music in Nature
Sagawau Environmental Learning Center • Lemont, IL 60439Migration is adaptive, exploratory, brave, exhilarating, ancestral. Missing Piece, a Chicago-based violin/cello duo, expresses the beauty and the challenge of migration in this particular time […]
Free • Registration Required -
Forest Therapy Walk
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Reconnect with nature. Relaxing meditative practices and mindfulness led by the University of Illinois Extension.
Free • Registration Required -
What’s On The Menu?
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Join us at feeding time to learn about our outdoor ambassador animals and their habits.
Free -
Monday Morning Mood Booster
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Fight the Monday blues and join us for a walk in the woods. Ages 18 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
Sounds Like Fall
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Take your little one on a playful, music-filled nature walk. Ages 3-6 w/ adult.
Free -
Sounds Like Fall
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Take your little one on a playful, music-filled nature walk. Ages 3-6 w/ adult.
Free -
Tuesday Mornings are for the Birds!
Sand Ridge Nature Center • South Holland, IL 60473Observe fall migrants visiting Sand Ridge during their journey south for winter.
Free -
Wildlife Connections
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Stop by the visitor center to learn about reptiles, mammals and birds from the residents of Misericordia – Heart of Mercy. All ages.
Free -
Beautiful Sounds at Sunset
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Spend time outdoors with the sounds of nature and soothing instruments around a fire with certified instructor Gail. Bring a cushion. Ages 18 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
Yoga in the Preserves
Caldwell Woods Wellness Center • Chicago, IL 60646Weekly yoga class for all ages and skill levels. Led by Kim Weber of Be Lightfooted.
Free • Registration Required -
Golden Prairie Walks
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Join us for an afternoon stroll.
Free -
All About Canines
Miller Meadow-South • Cook County, IL 60130 (near Forest Park)Learn about the diverse family of canines—from wolves to domestic dogs—and their impact through interactive exhibits and activities.
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Meditation & Sound Bath
Caldwell Woods Wellness Center • Chicago, IL 60646Monthly guided meditation and immersive sound bath session led by Vibyana. Yoga mats provided.
Free • Registration Required -
Roving Seed-Collecting Team
Tuma Lake • Cook County, IL 60480 (near Willow Springs)Join the roving seed-collecting team! You’ll explore different preserves, learn to identify native plants and make a direct impact on habitat restoration efforts. No experience […]
Free • Registration Required -
Canceled Fall Open Climb
Camp Sullivan • Oak Forest, IL 60452Scale the indoor climbing wall! Participants must be over 40lbs. Adult supervision and waivers required. Accessible climbing equipment available.
Free -
Sunset Photography Meetup
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Join Crabtree Nature Photographers’ Meetup Group for a guided sunset walk and capture nature in the fading light.
Free • Registration Required -
Fridays in the Field
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Drop-in to discover something new in nature with University of Illinois-Extension volunteers.
Free -
Doggie Date Night
FeaturedDan Ryan Woods Visitor Center & Pavilion • Chicago, IL 60620Calling all dog lovers! Costume dog parade, crafts, photo booth and raffle prizes. Dogs must be friendly and remain on leash.
Free -
Halloween Hoot and Howl
FeaturedKeystone Park • River Forest, IL 60305Spooky family fun featuring live music, pumpkin painting and more. Presented with the River Forest Park District and River Forest Public Library.
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Walk & Talk: Skokie Lagoons
Forest Way Grove • Cook County, IL 60022 (near Glencoe)Walk & Talk Hikes are for the curious mind who wants to know more about the Forest Preserves and natural areas. These walks will be […]
Free • Registration Required -
Fall in Focus
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Bring a camera or phone and join a guided photography hike. Ages 10 & up.
Free -
Fall Photography
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Enjoy a guided walk to view and photograph fall colors. For all levels and camera types. Ages 13 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
Roving Seed-Collecting Team
Schubert’s Woods • Cook County, IL 60475 (near Steger)Join the roving seed-collecting team! You’ll explore different preserves, learn to identify native plants and make a direct impact on habitat restoration efforts. No experience […]
Free • Registration Required -
World Migratory Bird Day Paddle
Linne Woods • Morton Grove, IL 60053Experience the magic of migration with Friends of the Chicago River and Chicago Ornithological Society. Grove 2.
Free • Registration Required -
World Migratory Bird Day Paddle
Kickapoo Woods • Riverdale, IL 60827Celebrate migratory birds through activities, talks and paddling. Presented with Friends of the Chicago River.
Free • Registration Required -
World Animal Day
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Celebrate Filipino American History Month with this year’s theme: See the World Through Their Eyes during this English/Tagalog bilingual program.
Free -
73rd Annual Powwow
Schiller Woods-East • Chicago, IL 60634Celebrate Native American culture and enjoy traditional Powwow, food and more. Presented with American Indian Center of Chicago. Grove 9
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Nuts About Nature
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Explore the grounds to find native nuts and learn how animals use them for food and survival.sq
Free -
Arach-tober: The Return of the Eight-legged Creatures
Sagawau Environmental Learning Center • Lemont, IL 60439Learn about spiders and why they aren’t so scary.
Free • Registration Required -
Listening to Nature
Sagawau Environmental Learning Center • Lemont, IL 60439W. Long will lead us in an exploration of the soundscape via the trails of the Sagawau Environmental Learning Center. Ages 13 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
Pumpkinpalooza
Featured Weekly Wellness ProgrammingCaldwell Woods • Chicago, IL 60646Paint pumpkins and bowl, dye buckthorn, play ring toss, maneuver through a fall-themed obstacle course, and more! Supplies limited.
Free -
Paddle at Beaubien Woods
Beaubien Woods Boat Launch • Chicago, IL 60827Registration for paddling is now closed. Guided fishing will be available on land; RSVPs are appreciated. Contact us at 708-771-9632 or [email protected].
Free • Registration Closed -
Live Healthy, Discover Nature! Walk
Sand Ridge Nature Center • South Holland, IL 60473Venture out on our scenic trails for a guided 3- to 4-mile walk.
Free • Registration Required -
Animal Enrichment Studio
Trailside Museum of Natural History • River Forest, IL 60305Learn about animal behavior while crafting enrichment items ambassador animals! Ages 10 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
What’s On The Menu?
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Join us at feeding time to learn about our outdoor ambassador animals and their habits.
Free -
Red Gate Woods: The Dawning of the Atomic Age
Sagawau Environmental Learning Center • Lemont, IL 60439Learn about the world’s first nuclear reactor from scientist, Dave Dolak. Presentation at Sagawau before strenuous hike at Red Gate Woods. Ages 18 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
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Forest Therapy Walk
Thatcher Woods Pavilion • River Forest, IL 60305Enjoy a mindful meditation and guided forest therapy walk. Led by University of Illinois Extension volunteers.
Free • Registration Required -
Green Lake Gardening
Green Lake Woods • Calumet City, IL 60409Restore the garden and help pollinators. No experience needed. Equipment provided. Ages 12 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
Sugar Shack Time Machine
FeaturedRiver Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Travel through time as we open our sugar shack and learn about the history of maple syrup.
Free • Registration Required -
What’s On The Menu?
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Join us at feeding time to learn about our outdoor ambassador animals and their habits.
Free -
Sounds Like Fall
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Take your little one on a playful, music-filled nature walk. Ages 3-6 w/ adult.
Free -
Sounds Like Fall
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Take your little one on a playful, music-filled nature walk. Ages 3-6 w/ adult.
Free -
Hispanic Heritage Month Nature Art Studio
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Create art inspired by renowned Hispanic artists. All ages. Drop in.
Free -
Tuesday Mornings are for the Birds!
Sand Ridge Nature Center • South Holland, IL 60473Observe fall migrants visiting Sand Ridge during their journey south for winter.
Free -
Small Serendipity
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Nature stories, crafts, and activities. Children ages 3-6 w/ adult.
Free -
Garden Day
Rolling Knolls • Elgin, IL 60120Want to get your hands dirty? Help us grow the Trickster Cultural Center gardens! Call 847-301-2090 for more info.
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Wildlife Connections
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Stop by the visitor center to learn about reptiles, mammals and birds from the residents of Misericordia – Heart of Mercy. All ages.
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Children’s Yoga
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Discovering yoga through story, song and various yoga poses that will engage the use of imagination and all the senses. Program provided by Karen Fotopoulos, […]
Free • Registration Required -
Senior Fitness Walk
Thatcher Woods Pavilion • River Forest, IL 60305Moderately paced, 1-mile fitness walk. Led by University of Illinois Extension volunteer. Ages 55 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
Children’s Storytime
Thatcher Woods Pavilion • River Forest, IL 60305Listen to a nature-themed children’s book read aloud, followed by an activity.
Free -
Yoga in the Preserves
Caldwell Woods Wellness Center • Chicago, IL 60646Weekly yoga class for all ages and skill levels. Led by Kim Weber of Be Lightfooted.
Free • Registration Required -
Wee Wandering Wednesdays
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Read a story, make a craft and go on an adventure. Ages 2 to 6 with an adult. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served […]
Free -
Chair Yoga
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Explore gentle postures, breathwork, meditation and deep relaxation with Karen Fotopoulos, a registered yoga teacher from Discover Yoga with Karen. 18 and up.
Free -
Breast Cancer Awareness
Swallow Cliff Woods-North • Cook County, IL 60464 (near Palos Park)Stop by our resource tables to learn more about breast cancer. Presented with Advocate Health Care.
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Teen Exploration Day: Archery
FeaturedDan Ryan Woods-Central • Chicago, IL 60620Learn from certified staff and try your hand at archery. Ages 10 & up. Junior archery available for children under 10. Grove 5.
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Nature Photography
FeaturedSauk Trail Woods-Central • South Chicago Heights, IL 60411View fall colors and take pictures during a leisurely walk.
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Senior Nature Club
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Discover nature through activities. Ages 55 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
S.E.N.I.O.R.S.
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Seniors Enjoying Nature Inside/Outside Rain or Shine! Seniors can deepen their connection to the outdoors with fresh, engaging nature programs offered each month. Ages 55 […]
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Roving Seed-Collecting Team
Sundown Meadow • Countryside, IL 60525Join the roving seed-collecting team! You’ll explore different preserves, learn to identify native plants and make a direct impact on habitat restoration efforts. No experience […]
Free • Registration Required -
Be a Better Birder: Backyard Bird Feeding
Virtual EventDiscover how to make your home bird friendly. Learn about bird feeders, types of food and more.
Free • Registration Required -
Trickster DaWaag (Fall) Camp
Rolling Knolls • Elgin, IL 60120Two-day camp for all ages featuring cultural teachings, storytelling, games, artmaking and more! Sponsored by Trickster Cultural Center’s Communities for Positive Youth Development. Free registration […]
Free • Registration Required -
Mushroom Walk
Eggers Grove • Chicago, IL 60617Join us for a fun fungal walk as we search for mushrooms and learn about these fascinating organisms. DJ/Danielle is a local naturalist and Survey […]
Free -
Fridays in the Field
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480University of Illinois-Extension Master Naturalists will connect visitors with nature through inquiry-based activities when the buildings are closed.
Free -
Rust at Dusk
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Explore an old farm trail surrounded by tallgrass prairie and relics of the past. Ages 12 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
NEWTS: Stewardship Days for New Volunteers
Native Seed Nursery • Western Springs, IL 60558Learn how to collect seeds of native plants. You’ll experience nature in a whole new way and help conserve biodiversity. Beginners welcome!
Free • Registration Required -
Underground Railroad Tour
John Husar I&M Canal Bicycle Trail Parking Lot • Willow Springs, IL 60480Tour includes info about the historical significance of this corridor. Arrive at I&M Canal for a discussion of the site and then shuttle to Lyonsville […]
Free • Registration Required -
Fall Tree Walk
Deer Grove-West • Cook County, IL 60010 (near Barrington)Enjoy a guided walk and learn how to identify trees in the fall. Grove 5.
Free • Registration Required -
Fall Colors Paddle
Tower Road Boat Launch • Cook County, IL 60093 (near Winnetka)Enjoy fall color while paddling Skokie Lagoons.
Free • Registration Closed -
R.I.P. Stewardship
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Help us restore native habitats - Remove Invasive Plants with bow saws or loppers. Tools, gloves & snack provided. Closed toed shoes & long pants encouraged. […]
Free • Registration Required -
Nature Wellness Walk
Sauk Trail Woods-Central • South Chicago Heights, IL 60411Immerse yourself and reconnect with nature and all the beauty it has to offer! Relaxing mindfulness and meditative practices will be led by certified forest […]
Free • Registration Required -
Hispanic Heritage Paddle
Powderhorn Lake • Burnham, IL 60633Join Friends of the Chicago River for bilingual bird paddling and storytelling on the water.
Free • Registration Required -
Wellness in the Woods: Yoga
Dan Ryan Woods Visitor Center & Pavilion • Chicago, IL 60620Join us for a free 60-minute class focused on building stability, flexibility, and relaxation through the practices of breath-work, mindful movement, and meditation. Liz, from […]
Free -
Tea-time
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Sample a variety of herbal tea blends paired with local honeys. Ages 13 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
![kids inspect an insect in someone's hand]()
Invertebrate Investigation
Sagawau Environmental Learning Center • Lemont, IL 60439Search for insects and arthropods who call tallgrass prairies home.
Free -
Forest Therapy Walk
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Reconnect with nature. Relaxing meditative practices and mindfulness led by the University of Illinois Extension.
Free • Registration Required -
![An adult and child creating art in an outdoor setting.]()
Eco-Print Dyeing Workshop
Evans Field • River Grove, IL 60171Create an eco-print with fall leaves and learn how to make your own mini plant press.
Free • Registration Required -
Fall Fungi
Sand Ridge Nature Center • South Holland, IL 60473Learn basics of mushroom identification during guided walk. Ages 18 & up. Ages 13-17 w/ adult.
Free • Registration Required -
What’s On The Menu?
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Join us at feeding time to learn about our outdoor ambassador animals and their habits.
Free -
“Bone” Appetit
Trailside Museum of Natural History • River Forest, IL 60305Join us during feeding time to learn about Trailside’s ambassador animals.
Free -
![pavilion and nature play area at Camp Shabbona Woods]()
Sounds Natural Creative Retreat
Camp Shabbona Woods • South Holland, IL 60473Enjoy art, wellness workshops, food and music. Limited camping spaces available for optional overnight. Presented with Sounds Natural.
Free • Registration Required -
Owl Prowl
Sand Ridge Nature Center • South Holland, IL 60473Introduction to owls followed by a relaxing walk to search for owls.
Free • Registration Required -
![A group of people standing near a body of water during sunrise along a forested trail.]()
Sunrise Hike
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Step into the quiet stillness of early morning and join us for a before-hours hike to witness the beauty of a new day. Gates and […]
Free -
Sacred Wanderings in Thatcher Woods
Thatcher Woods Pavilion • River Forest, IL 60305Join Unity Temple of Oak Park as we practice connecting with nature. People with physical challenges are easily accommodated. For info, email [email protected].
Free -
Bird Banding
Sagawau Environmental Learning Center • Lemont, IL 60439Observe bird banding and talk with banders. Drop-in.
Free -
Restoration Workday
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Help us restore healthy habitats. Ages 8 & up. Children under 15 w/ adult. High schoolers may earn service hours.
Free • Registration Required -
Fall Color Walk
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062View the spectacular fall colors while enjoying a casual walk in the woods.
Free -
Hispanic Heritage Celebration
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by making decorative sugar skulls. Vibrantly colored sugar skulls represent the circle of life and are ornamental gifts for friends and […]
Free -
Fall Fungi
Sagawau Environmental Learning Center • Lemont, IL 60439Short naturalist-led hike to look for local species of fungi. Ages 18 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
![An adult and child creating art in an outdoor setting.]()
Eco-Print Dyeing Workshop
Palos Park Woods-North • Cook County, IL 60464 (near Palos Park)Create an eco-print with fall leaves and learn how to make your own mini plant press.
Free • Registration Required -
Fall Color Walk
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062View the spectacular fall colors while enjoying a casual walk in the woods.
Free -
Weaving with Weeds: Cattail Mat
Trailside Museum of Natural History • River Forest, IL 60305Learn about the history of basketry/weaving techniques and create a small project with a common invasive plant. Ages 18 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
What’s On The Menu?
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Join us at feeding time to learn about our outdoor ambassador animals and their habits.
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Entre Mundos: Una Celebración del Día de Muertos
FeaturedTrailside Museum of Natural History • River Forest, IL 60305Conmemora el Día de Muertos con danzantes aztecas, explorando el significado de los altares, las tradiciones espirituales y la profunda importancia de honrar a los […]
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Tuesday Mornings are for the Birds!
Sand Ridge Nature Center • South Holland, IL 60473Observe fall migrants visiting Sand Ridge during their journey south for winter.
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Little Sprouts Sound Lab
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Explore nature through sensory activities, outdoor listening and sound‑making. Ages 2-6 w/ adult. Siblings welcome.
Free • Registration Required -
Fall into Sounds & Nature
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Join certified instructor Gail for a peaceful walk, where soothing sounds guide you along the trail. Ages 18 & up.
Free • Registration Required -
Wildlife Connections
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Stop by the visitor center to learn about reptiles, mammals and birds from the residents of Misericordia – Heart of Mercy. All ages.
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Yoga in the Preserves
Caldwell Woods Wellness Center • Chicago, IL 60646Weekly yoga class for all ages and skill levels. Led by Kim Weber of Be Lightfooted.
Free • Registration Required -
Walk & Talk: History of Poplar Creek
Carl R. Hansen Woods • Cook County, IL 60192 (near Schaumburg)Walk & Talk Hikes are for the curious mind who wants to know more about the Forest Preserves and natural areas. These walks will be […]
Free -
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Wee Wonders: Owls
Sand Ridge Nature Center • South Holland, IL 60473Learn about nature through sensory experiences, stories and artmaking. Ages 2-5 w/ adult.
Free • Registration Required -
Everyone in Nature
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Join us for an inclusive sensory-based experience where individuals of all abilities and homeschool learners can explore and connect with nature through hands-on activities. Participants […]
Free • Registration Required -
Fall Color Walks
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Join us for an afternoon stroll.
Free -
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Camping 101
Camp Bullfrog Lake • Willow Springs, IL 60480Learn basic skills like how to set up a tent, build a fire, dress for the weather and more!
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Indigenous Scary Storytelling
Thatcher Woods Pavilion • River Forest, IL 60305Enjoy listening to traditional and contemporary supernatural stories shared by the American Indian Center.
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Owl Prowl
Eggers Grove • Chicago, IL 60617Join a naturalist for an evening walk while searching for owls.
Free • Registration Required -
Canceled Fall Artisan Series: Felting
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Get crafty on select Wednesday evenings. Ages 18 & up.
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Forest Preserves of Cook County Research Symposium
Brookfield Zoo Chicago • Brookfield, IL 60513This event is for everyone interested in research at the Forest Preserves to share knowledge, activities and opportunities for future research to foster relationships and […]
$25 • Registration Required -
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Nature Thursdays ‘Skeletons from Trailside’s Collections’ Drop-In
Trailside Museum of Natural History • River Forest, IL 60305Connect to nature through fun themed activities for all ages. Led by University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalists.
Free -
Canceled Fall Open Climb
Camp Sullivan • Oak Forest, IL 60452Scale the indoor climbing wall! Participants must be over 40lbs. Adult supervision and waivers required. Accessible climbing equipment available.
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![A Forest Preserves staff member showing how to light a fire in front of a small group at a Camping 101 event.]()
Outdoor Skills Workshop
Caldwell Woods Wellness Center • Chicago, IL 60646Develop or master knot tying, tents, fire building and more. Presented with Chicago Voyagers.
Free • Registration Required -
Sunset Photography Meetup
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Join Crabtree Nature Photographers’ Meetup Group for a guided sunset walk and capture nature in the fading light.
Free • Registration Required -
Nature Book Club: “Backyard Bird Chronicles”
Forest Park Public Library • Forest Park, IL 60130Join a lively book discussion about “Backyard Bird Chronicles” by Amy Tan.
Free • Registration Required
