Montrose Beach Bird Sanctuary

• . Best of all in this bird paradise? The Magic Hedge, a 150-yard strip of bushes and short trees that’s incredibly popular with rare migrating birds. Sparrows, woodpeckers, and owls, along with 300 other species of birds all love this spot. 

Lincoln Park

• This massive 1,200-acre park has attractions for everybody, including playing fields for sports, fieldhouses, recreational facilities, and playgrounds, not to mention popular attractions like the Lincoln Park Zoo and The Lincoln Park Conservancy,.

Lakefront Trail and Belmont harbor

• The Lakefront Trail is an 18.5 mile walking trail running alongside an 18 mile cycling trail, starting at 71st Avenue on the south side to Ardmore Avenue in Edgewater. With  818 slips, mooring cans, and star docks, Belmont Harbor is one of the largest harbors in Chicago.

North Branch Trail--LaBagh Woods

• A lovely spot on the northwest side of the side, this serene 80 acre retreat is perfect for immersing yourself in woods, wetlands, savannas and sedge meadows. Also a terrific spot for bird-watching.

Wooded Island

• Wooded Island was designed as a peaceful rest stop for visitors to the Chicago World's Fair of 1893 .This oasis within an oasis is still a great spot to see 250+ species of birds. 

Gillson Park and Beach

• First opening in 1915, 60-acre Gillson Park in Wilmette was designed to perfectly accent the existing space, letting visitors feel immersed in prairie, beach, and dune ecosystems and forget about the busy outside world. 

Cap Sauers Holding Nature Preserve

• Formed by a melting glacier, It’s relatively remote location in southwest cook county means it’s a remarkably quiet, peaceful spot to enjoy the woods, wetlands, and prairie or explore bluffs and ravines.