Playground offers two-story green tunnel slides, a zipline swing, and a Fragrance Garden with aromatic herbs. Surrounded by trees and bushes, it feels quiet and secluded with wide accessible paths and soft ground. Multiple play sections include interactive panels, musical instruments, and wheelchair-accessible rides.
Sensory Garden Playground offers a universally accessible space with wide paths, ramps, and smooth surfaces. Two handicap porta potties are available for convenience.
Lots of shady spots and picnic tables make it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors. Play areas and benches add space for friends and family to relax and have fun.
"This playground is so cool and great for kids of all ages."
"It's a universally accessible space with fantastic auditory and olfactory experiences."
"This place is awesome for a picnic with tons of activities for kids."
Good to know
The playground has two long slides, a zip line, and a swing seat.
There is no running water or bathrooms at the playground.
There are two handicap porta potties available in Summer 2025.
Open space combines large playground with huge splash pad featuring water cannons and fountains. Play areas include forts, slides, climbing structures, and a music-themed section suitable for all ages. Plenty of covered seating and shaded spots allow adults to watch comfortably while kids play.
Four handicap accessible all-gender restrooms are available. Sidewalks and the splash pad support all abilities. Covered seating and accessible tables provide comfort.
Multiple picnic areas exist, including a covered patio and a picnic shelter with tables that offer shade.
Good to know
The splash pad opens at 10 a.m.
The park is free to enter and closes at 8 p.m.
The bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.
Expansive natural area with well-maintained trails and open lawns invites walking, biking, and picnicking. Calm and serene atmosphere offers a peaceful escape with frequent wildlife sightings. Facilities include boat rentals and an archery range, supporting diverse outdoor activities.
Wheelchair accessible dock and fishing spots provide easy access for anglers. Paved paths lead to clean, accessible bathrooms, but some areas have stairs and lawns that limit access. Parking includes one designated handicap spot plus street options.
Many picnic groves and rentable picnic shelters support both large group gatherings and intimate family picnics. The setting suits outdoor events with options for walks and enjoying natural views.
Good to know
You need a permit to do every activity at Silver Lake.
Ranger Wayne performs his show for the kids on Saturdays around 6:30, weather permitting.
The boat rental stand opens at 10am.
Outdoor venue blends natural landscape with reserved seating and lawn spots. Atmosphere stays relaxing and family friendly with quiet during classical music and lively social gatherings on the lawn. Excellent sound quality and video screens enhance the live music experience across the grounds.
Wheelchair assistance includes free wheelchairs and staff help from the front gate to seats and back to parking. Parking and bathrooms are wheelchair accessible, though handicap parking can be confusing and sometimes closed early.
The lawn offers a spacious area to set up picnics with BYOB, chairs, tables, and snacks. Many bring their own food or use the festival's catering while relaxing and enjoying live music.
Good to know
Parking is very limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.
Lawn tickets only allow you to hear the concert, not see the stage.
Bring your own chairs, food, and drinks for the lawn area.
Expansive grounds showcase beautiful gardens and historic mansion with elegant charm. Visitors find a peaceful atmosphere filled with pleasant scents and twinkling lights illuminating pathways. Family-friendly features include playgrounds, climbable tanks, and interactive musical swings.
Main pathways are paved for easy wheelchair and walker access. The McCormick House meets ADA accessibility standards.
Beautiful grounds offer a great spot for picnics and relaxing. A large playground and picnic area provide space for kids and groups to enjoy.
Good to know
The entrance fee is $5 per car, but free on Veterans Day.
Dogs are not allowed in the park except on designated days.
The park hosts various events, including concerts and reenactments throughout the year.
Spacious forest preserve with well-maintained trails winding through lush woodlands and serene meadows. Atmosphere stays peaceful and quiet except near edges, offering shade and natural scenery for hiking, biking, and picnics. Multiple groves and open fields provide spots for gatherings or solitude.
Most areas offer easy access with smooth paths. The east side works best for wheelchair users. Avoid the zone under construction, as it is not accessible.
Plenty of picnic tables spread across five groves offer spots for meals or rest. Permits allow family picnics, making it easy to enjoy a tranquil setting amid nature.
Good to know
Parking is available at the Camp Alphonse lot, but there are no public restrooms.
Dogs are allowed on leash only, though many visitors ignore this rule.
Expect to see a variety of wildlife, including deer, turtles, and woodpeckers.
Outdoor space offers beautiful grounds with art sculptures and feature gardens including a labyrinth. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, inviting exploration and quiet enjoyment. Family-friendly zones include a fenced children's play area designed for nature interaction and skill development.
Many areas offer wheelchair and stroller access. Trails stay well-lit and easy to navigate for disabled visitors.
Expansive grounds offer plenty of space for picnics by the lake and easy access to onsite eateries. Paths and open areas suit all ages for nature walks and relaxing outdoors.
Good to know
The entry fee is $26 per car for access to the park.
The Morton Arboretum hosts seasonal events like a holiday light show in December.
Check the website for the latest events and exhibitions before visiting.
Nature preserve offers well-marked trails winding through lush greenery with waterfalls and ponds creating a peaceful atmosphere. The area stays calm even when busy, welcoming children and dogs for outdoor enjoyment. Benches and open spaces provide spots to rest and take in the natural beauty.
Main trails stay well maintained with gravel surfaces that hold up even after rain. Most paths are wheelchair accessible, attracting walkers, runners, bikers, and equestrians alike.
Plenty of open areas and picnic spots offer space to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The sound of water adds a soothing backdrop to the picnic experience.
Good to know
There is no entry fee at the preserve.
Bathrooms and parking are available at the preserve.
Parking can be challenging on public holidays.