Despite being a big city, Chicago is a great base for exploring the great outdoors. Within a relatively short drive of the city, you can be exploring the landscapes of Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin, and be back in time for good city food and a comfortable hotel bed. If you and your family are seeking some outdoor adventures within striking distance of Chicago, here are some ideas:
Find the right base
Before you start planning outdoor itineraries, think about where you’re going to be staying. If you’re not a Chicago native and are using the city as a base to explore areas like the Lakes, it’s a good idea to be clever about the hotel you pick. For example, if you’re planning an overnight camping trip, check Chicago hotel prices beforehand so you can be sure you won’t be going over budget for a night when you won’t be using the booked rooms.
Similarly, think about the location of your hotel. Depending on which areas you’re planning to see, it’s a good idea to pick a hotel that gives easy access to the relevant highways and roads. Otherwise you’ll spend a significant amount of your Chicago outdoor adventure stuck in traffic.
Now, with that out of the way, let’s dive into the best outdoor-focused adventure venues within an easy drive of Chicago:
Indiana Dunes National Park
Indiana Dunes National Park on Lake Michigan is one of the best outdoor escapes in Indiana - great for a day out with family and/or friends. The wide beaches give children room to play, and the lake water is blessedly cool on hot days. You can enjoy short walks on the shoreline and spot wildlife from the shaded trails near West Beach and Cowles Bog. There are plenty of picnic areas, so make sure to bring a cooler with all your favorite family snacks. This trip works well for families who want water, sand, and space to spread out.
Illinois Beach State Park
Illinois Beach State Park in Zion is quieter than many of the locations on this list, with calm trails and gorgeous scenery stretching along the shoreline. The water is clean, the lakefront breezes are lovely and fresh, and the trails include boardwalks and shady paths which are ideal for buggies and wheelchairs. All in all Illinois Beach suits families who want a relaxed outing without large crowds.
Geneva Lake, Wisconsin
Geneva Lake is a resort town within easy distance of Chicago. You’ll find a range of activities on the lake, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and lots of safe swimming spots. The Shore Path offers long stretches for walking, with shaded sections that help families stay comfortable on hot days. The town itself is full of ice cream shops, cafes, restaurants, and quirky stores for souvenirs. It’s a great location for families who want easy variety within a relatively compact area.
Cantigny Park
Cantigny Park in Wheaton is a more manicured outdoor experience, perfect for the horticulturally-inclined family group. You’ll find landscaped gardens, lawns, and walking paths that suit families with children of all ages. The open areas allow space for games and picnics, while the gardens offer quiet corners for gentle strolls. Kids enjoy the fountain plaza and the small trails that wind through the grounds. The First Division Museum adds an indoor break if it’s too hot or too cold.
Morton Arboretum
The Morton Arboretum in Lisle has wide trails winding through woodlands and past ponds. It’s also very family-focused, with a dedicated Children’s Garden where children can play on playground equipment and splash in the fountains. The wooded trails give families plenty of opportunities to spot native wildlife, including hawks and turtles. Ultimately, it’s a great day out for families who want gentle hikes, child-focused outdoor play, and a peaceful nature experience.
Starved Rock State Park
Starved Rock is roughly two hours from Chicago, but more than worth the drive. Here, you’ll find canyons, waterfalls, and plenty of accessible trails to suit all ages and fitness levels. Stroll through the canyons or take in the impressive scenery from the overlooks, before heading to the lodge for a meal. Observant families can spot deer and birds along the river.
Kettle Moraine State Forest Southern Unit
Kettle Moraine’s Southern Unit includes rolling hills, forested areas, and tranquil lakes. The Ice Age Trail is great for a short stroll with young kids or a longer adventure for older kids. You can also rent canoes and head down the river as a family, perhaps stopping along the way for a picnic at one of the many picnic sites in the forest. The varied landscape keeps children interested, and the shaded trails help everyone stay comfortable.
Rock Cut State Park
Rock Cut State Park near Rockford provides a combination of lake access, forest trails, and open fields. You can kayak, swim, and fish at Pierce Lake and Olson Lake, or simply wander the trails. You’ll find lots of wildlife near the water, making this a great option for the animal lovers among your party.
Lincoln Marsh Natural Area
Lincoln Marsh in Wheaton is a wetland area with accessible boardwalks and short trails that suit younger children and parents with buggies. Eagle-eyed families will spot turtles, frogs, and birds along the water. This is also a great spot for nature-loving kids who aren’t great with busy environments. All in all, Lincoln Marsh suits families who want a simple nature outing with calm scenery.
Tips for a smooth family outing
Planning and packing is everything when planning an outdoor outing with kids. Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and clothing that you can layer if the temperature drops. Start early to avoid mid day heat and crowded parking lots. Choose short trails if you travel with young children, and think about how long you’re going to be walking for when packing backpacks. Keep a flexible schedule so that you don’t get stressed out trying to hit difficult timings.
A full day of fun within reach
Chicago is a great base for exploring many outdoor destinations in the North East. Beaches, forests, parks, and lakes are all easily accessible, and all offer activities that keep children engaged and give adults a comfortable way to enjoy nature. Whether your family wants hiking, swimming, picnicking, or simple exploring, you can easily find the right setting within two hours of Chicago.
