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Local picks in Illinois

Parks

The grass is the only place to clear your head and watch the day pass by.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Pottawatomie Park image 1
Pottawatomie Park image 2
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Riverfront park shines with large shade trees and a special needs playground for inclusive fun. Families enjoy paddle boats and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for outdoor gatherings and barbecues. Mini golf and fishing add to the active, friendly vibe.

Lush greenery and large shade trees surround two playgrounds, one designed for special needs. Activities include boat rides, fishing, camping, and barbecues with plenty of space for walks and games.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful, especially by the river."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with plenty of playgrounds."

"You can enjoy sand volleyball and mini golf with outdoor seating."

Good to know

1

The park hosts events like concerts, art festivals, and farmers' markets throughout the year.

2

Reservations are recommended for renting the large wooden pavilion for events.

3

Expect limited parking due to ongoing construction around the park.

02
Burr Ridge Community Center image 1

Park blends Route 66-themed playgrounds with varied play structures like trampolines and zip lines, perfect for kids of all ages. Spacious grounds offer exercise and sports areas, creating a safe, fun spot for families to relax and stay active.

Playground offers thoughtful design for a wide range of ages and features that appeal to all kids. Free access and a variety of activities make it a fun spot for families and children of all ages.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly with a zip line and water play!"

"The bathrooms here are really clean."

"The parks here have awesome playgrounds with fun themes and lots to do."

Good to know

1

The park has a variety of play options suitable for all ages.

2

The community center features clean bathrooms for visitors.

3

Some areas of the park are not accessible for children with disabilities.

03
Lilacia Park image 1

Meandering brick paths wind through lush gardens with over 700 lilac varieties and vibrant tulips. Peaceful benches and picnic spots invite relaxation amid seasonal light displays and occasional live music. Events like Mother's Day picnics add a festive yet calm charm.

A small park filled with lilacs in every color and many varieties of tulips offers a beautiful, well maintained garden space. It hosts events like Mother's Day picnics and features Christmas lights displays.

People are saying

"These parks are beautiful and filled with flowers."

"It's so kid friendly with the beautiful holiday lights and Santa."

"I found this place to be a lovely hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Lilacia Park is open daily from dawn to dusk and has no admission fee.

2

Dogs are not allowed in Lilacia Park.

3

Visit between April 15 and May 15 for the best bloom time.

04
Rock Springs Park image 1

Maze of walking trails winds through woods with beautiful scenery and a creek. Large, well-maintained dog park offers space and obstacles for dogs. Shaded pavilions and a very tall playground provide spots for families to gather and relax.

Large park with many walking trails, both paved and unpaved, plus a huge dog park area. It has a very tall playground and clean, well-maintained spaces suitable for families and dogs.

People are saying

"It's a great Dog Friendly spot with two large fenced areas."

"The playground here is large and offers plenty of space."

"It's a nice-sized dog park with two fenced areas."

Good to know

1

The park has a large dog park with two separate fenced areas.

2

There is ample parking available near the park entrance.

3

The park features a paved trail that loops around, ideal for walking and biking.

05
Hudson Crossing Park image 1

Park offers large oak trees and scenic river views for nature lovers. Families enjoy the playground with misters and picnic areas with grills. Walking trails and a veterans' dedication with a mini waterfall add peaceful spots for all visitors.

Large playground with misters for hot days and several picnic areas with grills create a kid-friendly spot. The park offers beautiful river views, shaded walking paths, and a dedication area featuring a mini waterfall and eternal flame for veterans.

People are saying

"I found the parks great for the kids and family."

"You can see the river from the nice paths and benches."

"It's a beautiful and peaceful Meditation Spot right by the river."

Good to know

1

Parking is ample and very close to the water.

2

The park offers great views and a dedication area for war veterans.

3

The playground is clean and has misters for hot days.

06
Cantigny Park image 1

Expansive grounds offer beautiful gardens and a historic mansion with elegant charm. Visitors enjoy a peaceful atmosphere with twinkling lights and a free military museum focused on World Wars. Family fun includes playgrounds and interactive musical swings.

Beautiful grounds feature gorgeous landscaping and well-maintained gardens. The park offers a peaceful atmosphere with a historic vibe and a free military museum focused on World War I and II.

People are saying

"The Christmas lights at this park create a magical winter wonderland."

"It's a beautiful place with wide open spaces perfect for relaxing."

"The museum's exhibits on war history, especially the tanks, are really interesting."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $5 per car, but free on Veterans Day.

2

Dogs are not allowed in the park except on designated days.

3

The park hosts various events, including concerts and reenactments throughout the year.

07
Sensory Garden Playground image 1

Playground features two-story green tunnel slides and a zipline swing for fun. It offers wheelchair-accessible rides and wide paths for easy access. Quiet and safe, it includes a Fragrance Garden with aromatic herbs for a calming experience.

Playground offers a universally accessible and therapeutic outdoor environment designed for kids of all ages, including those with special needs. Features include a swing Zipline loom, various play sections, and ADA access, all in a clean and safe setting.

People are saying

"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 playground is great for kids of all ages and abilities."

Good to know

1

The playground has two long slides, a zip line, and a swing seat.

2

There is no running water or bathrooms at the playground.

3

There are two handicap porta potties available in Summer 2025.

08
Frontier Park image 1

Playgrounds split by age offer safe fun while a splash pad adds wet excitement. Sports fields and courts provide active play options. Benches and a large pavilion create a relaxing spot for adults and gatherings.

Quiet and peaceful with elaborate playgrounds for all ages and a splash pad that keeps kids entertained for hours. Open fields and courts support activities like pickleball and basketball, plus a pavilion for gatherings.

People are saying

"It's a really fun, kid-friendly place with a great splash pad."

"The parks here have amazing playgrounds for kids of all ages."

"The bathrooms here were pretty clean."

Good to know

1

The park hosts events like kite fest and 4th of July fireworks annually.

2

Kids' lunchtime music shows occur on weekdays during the summer.

3

Restrooms are conveniently located near the pavilion.

09
Leclaire Park image 1

Park offers a quiet, family-friendly space with playground equipment and picnic pavilions. A beautiful lake with a fountain invites fishing and relaxing. Well-kept grounds provide safe spots for walking, running, and biking.

A quiet, family-friendly park with well-kept grounds, picnic pavilions, swings, and play structures. It features a beautiful lake with a fountain and offers safe spaces for picnics, fishing, running, and biking.

People are saying

"I found the park beautiful, especially the pond."

"It's a nice place for a picnic with plenty of tables."

"It's a great kid-friendly park with lots of playground equipment."

Good to know

1

Fishing is allowed in the lake with a valid fishing license.

2

The park has clean restrooms, but they lack soap.

3

There is usually vacant parking available, but it can be limited during festivals.

10
Marshall Park image 1

Open space offers a huge splash pad with water cannons and fountains alongside a playground featuring unique play structures for all ages. Plenty of shaded seating and four handicap accessible restrooms ensure comfort for families. Music-themed play areas add extra fun for kids.

A large splash pad sits next to a playground with unique play structures for kids of all ages. Four handicap accessible all-gender restrooms and shaded areas make it comfortable for families.

People are saying

"It's a kid-friendly place with a huge splash pad and playground."

"It's a cool place with areas for kids of all ages."

"The splash pad at the parks is huge and fun for kids."

Good to know

1

The splash pad opens at 10 a.m.

2

The park is free to enter and closes at 8 p.m.

3

The bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.

11
Rehm Park image 1

Large playground features zip line and climbing structures for kids of all ages. Grass areas with ample shade and benches create perfect picnic spots. Clean, welcoming space lets adults relax while children enjoy sandbox and hand crank cars.

Many activities for all ages fill the park, including a sandbox, zip line, and hand crank cars. Shaded areas and full grass make it comfortable for picnics and relaxing with family and friends.

People are saying

"This park has unique play equipment and activities for all ages."

"This park's playground is huge with lots of unique equipment for all ages."

"It's a fun place with lots of different activities for the little ones."

Good to know

1

Rehm Park offers accessible options for all abilities, including a zip line.

2

The kiddie train operates with very limited hours during the summer.

3

Parking in the area is very congested and not easy to find.

12
Northside Park image 1

Large park offers spacious playground with soft turf and a zip line for kids. Walking paths circle a big lake for peaceful strolls and fishing. Outdoor gym equipment and a sledding hill add fun and variety for all ages.

Spacious grounds feature a huge lake with walking trails and fishing spots. The playground has soft, clean turf and a zip line that kids enjoy.

People are saying

"It's a terrific playground with a fun zip line."

"It's a really fun place for kids with a terrific playground."

Good to know

1

The park is open daily from 6am to 11pm, ensuring ample access for visitors.

2

Parking is available near the tennis courts, making it convenient for visitors.

3

The playground features soft turf, providing a safe environment for children.

13
Mount Saint Mary Park image 1

Park blends beautiful gardens and sculptures with a playground and skate park for all ages. Quiet paths near the river invite peaceful walks and picnics. Trails and a half-mile loop offer great spots for runners and family fun.

Sprawling with various amenities, this park offers a self-contained half-mile loop and connecting trails ideal for runners. It features a playground, skate park, sculptures, and a gazebo, making it great for picnics, walks, and family visits.

People are saying

"I found the park to be beautiful and scenic."

"I loved strolling around and looking at the many cool sculptures."

"The playground is beautiful and well-kept."

Good to know

1

Parking can get difficult at times, especially during events.

2

Dog walkers need to keep their dogs leashed at all times.

3

The park connects to the Dupage River path for extended walking or biking.

14
Lincoln Park image 1
City park

Large urban park offers free zoo admission and lush greenery along Lake Michigan. Visitors enjoy spacious green areas for walking and biking plus breathtaking city views. Calm paths and recreational spots create a peaceful city escape.

A large, waterfront park with spacious green areas offers great spots for walking, running, and biking. It features formal and informal gardens, statues, a free zoo, and a cool merry-go-round, all with nice skyline views.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with great green space and lovely views."

"You get a nice view of the city skyline."

"I found the fun activities here to be free and enjoyable."

Good to know

1

The farmers market operates on Wednesdays and Saturdays with diverse vendors.

2

Zoo Lights is a family-friendly Christmas event at Lincoln Park Zoo.

3

Fullmoonfirejam occurs every full moon from June to September at 7 PM.

15
Grant Park image 1
City park

Urban park features panoramic city views and a huge central fountain. It blends peaceful lakeshore spots with lively areas like a skatepark and playground. Frequent music festivals create a vibrant yet calm atmosphere for all visitors.

A beautiful public park with well-maintained grounds and a welcoming atmosphere. It hosts music festivals and events, offers peaceful spots for families and friends, and provides clean, safe spaces to walk and relax.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, spacious park with great walking trails."

"I loved the nice view of the skyline and lake."

"I found the festivals and concerts here to be a ton of fun."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $30 per day near Grant Park.

2

Public restrooms are not available in Grant Park.

3

Consider using Uber or bus transportation when visiting Grant Park.

16
Ty Warner Park image 1

Spacious grounds offer multiple playgrounds and a splash pad for kids. Walking trails and picnic areas provide peaceful spots for families. Unique equipment and well-maintained greenery make it a versatile outdoor space for all ages.

Spacious grounds with multiple activity areas make it great for families. Features include a splash pad, picnic pavilions, walking paths, and playgrounds with unique equipment. The park is well-maintained with plenty of greenery and accessible parking.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful and has tons of space with lots to do."

"It's a really kid-friendly place with great park equipment and a splash pad."

"It's a great place to walk your dog; they're welcome here."

Good to know

1

Food truck festivals occur regularly throughout the warm season.

2

Summer music and movie events are held under the stars at the park.

3

The 4th of July display at the park is a must-see event.

17
Ping Tom Memorial Park image 1

Park offers stunning skyline views and a peaceful riverside escape with a well-maintained playground and kayak rentals. Families enjoy the quiet open spaces while outdoor enthusiasts launch kayaks or take water taxis to downtown.

Offers stunning skyline views and a peaceful riverside escape with plenty of benches and shade. Features a Chinese-style pagoda, a playground for kids, and kayak rentals for outdoor activities.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful spot with a nice view of the city skyline."

"It's a peaceful, scenic riverfront spot that feels like a hidden retreat."

"This park is a peaceful, scenic escape with striking skyline views."

Good to know

1

Ping Tom Memorial Park hosts concerts under the bridge on weekends.

2

The park features an annual dragon boat race along the river.

3

Free rave events occur regularly in the park.

18
Settlers' Park image 1

Paved paths and spacious trails invite walking, jogging, and cycling through serene open spaces. Family-friendly features include a playground and picnic areas near a stocked pond. Well-maintained grounds with clean restrooms support picnics and outdoor events.

Spacious trails connect to Mathers Woods, offering great spots for walking, jogging, and cycling. Clean restrooms and well-maintained grounds support activities like picnics, concerts, and photoshoots.

People are saying

"It's a great place for walking and cycling."

"It's great for a picnic with covered areas at each end."

"I found it interesting to walk and read stories about the area."

Good to know

1

The park hosts family-friendly movie nights on Fridays during summer.

2

Free music concerts take place on Sunday afternoons in summer.

3

There is a public restroom available at the park.

19
Kimball Hill Park image 1

Spacious city park offers multiple playgrounds and a pond with waterfall for serene walks. Designated barbecue areas and open fields support lively events and community gatherings. Quiet, clean space suits families and group activities alike.

Open fields, a beautiful pond, and a waterfall create a serene setting with walking paths. Multiple playgrounds designed for different ages, a baseball field, and a large fire pit support family fun and group activities like picnics and parties.

People are saying

"It's a great spot with a well-maintained playground for kids."

"It's a great place for a picnic with lots of open space."

"I found the parks beautiful, with stunning scenery and walking paths."

Good to know

1

Food trucks and an alcohol vendor are available during events.

2

Many community events are held here throughout the year.

3

The park has designated areas for barbecues and parties, which require permits.

20
Betty Russell Community Park image 1

Spacious park offers playground options and sports courts for all ages. Clean, safe, and family-friendly with a half-mile walking trail perfect for exercise and leisure. Well-maintained grounds make it ideal for families and dog owners.

Plenty of playground options make it fun and safe for kids and adults alike. The park stays clean and well maintained with activities like sand volleyball, tennis, and basketball courts, plus walking and biking paths.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, well-maintained park that's great for kids."

"I found the parks here to be beautiful and well maintained."

"The bathrooms here were nice and clean."

Good to know

1

The park has plenty of seating and shade for visitors.

2

Restrooms are available on-site for convenience.

3

The park is well-maintained and clean throughout.

21
Wolf's Crossing Community Park image 1

City park shines with spacious pickleball courts and a large ninja warrior course for active fun. Kids love the fenced splash pad and playground, ensuring safety and excitement. Plenty of seating and picnic spots create a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere for all ages.

A vast park with a large playground and a fenced splash pad keeps kids busy and safe. Facilities include restrooms and areas for pickleball and volleyball, making it well maintained and fun for all ages.

People are saying

"This park is so Kid Friendly with its splash pad and playgrounds."

"These parks have spacious, well-maintained courts for tennis and pickleball."

"It's a big park, great for a picnic with family."

Good to know

1

The park is completely free to access.

2

There is ample parking available.

3

The park has restrooms and a vending machine on site.

22
Belk Park image 1

Park features well-maintained trails perfect for walking and fishing by a stocked lake. Multiple playgrounds and picnic pavilions offer family-friendly spots with lake views. Quiet surroundings and diverse trees create a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation.

Multiple playgrounds and picnic pavilions with lake views create a family-friendly setting. The park offers a quiet, well maintained space with walking paths and spots for fishing and dog walks.

People are saying

"It's a great place for kids to burn off energy and enjoy the playgrounds."

"I found it so peaceful and serene here."

"I found the park to be quiet and beautiful."

Good to know

1

The park has multiple playgrounds for children to enjoy.

2

Enjoy the paved walking trail surrounding the stocked lake.

3

The park has multiple picnic pavilions with a view of the lake.

23
Oakbrook Terrace Park District Terrace View Park image 1

Park features a floating stage on a pond and a steep hill for seating, perfect for concerts. Sports lovers enjoy soccer fields and tennis courts. Families appreciate the renovated playground with soft surfaces and plenty of parking nearby.

Clean and recently renovated playground offers a soft surface and new equipment for kids to burn off energy. Plenty of parking spots sit next to the outdoor playground, with lots of room to walk and play in a peaceful, cozy setting featuring a pond and floating stage.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly stop to let the kids play."

"Parking at the parks here is plentiful and easy."

"The live shows here are unique with a floating stage and a steep hill for seating."

Good to know

1

The City of Oakbrook Terrace hosts concerts on Friday nights during the summer.

2

Parking is plentiful and free at the park.

3

Food and drinks are sold at reasonable prices during events.

24
Central Park image 1

Large green space offers soccer fields and a playground for kids. Families enjoy the water spray park and shaded picnic areas under black walnut trees. Community building near the library adds a peaceful, family-friendly vibe.

Abundant green space offers both sunny and shady spots for relaxing or playing. The park features great soccer fields, a playground for kids, and a water spray park that adds fun for families.

People are saying

"The parks have great playgrounds and splash pads for kids."

"It's great for a picnic with covered tables and a playground."

"It's a decent park with good soccer fields."

Good to know

1

The park offers plenty of parking for visitors.

2

Central Park is handicapped accessible for all guests.

3

The splash pad is fenced in with a gate for safety.

25
Maggie Daley Park Play Garden image 1

Huge playground features multiple sections with huge slides and a splash pad for varied play. Bright and inviting, it offers shaded spots for rest and stays clean and secure with fencing and staff. Kids under 5 feet tall enjoy safe, active fun here.

Huge playground offers many options for climbing, sliding, and playing across various themed 'rooms'. It stays clean, safe, and secure with fencing and security personnel, making it great for kids of all ages under 5 feet tall.

People are saying

"The playground has so many fun things to do for all ages."

"This place has so many fun activities, you'll wish you were a kid again."

"The playground here is amazing with so many fun things to do."

Good to know

1

The park is totally free to enter.

2

Bring water as it can get hot during the day.

3

Expect mosquitoes in the afternoon; bug spray is recommended.

26
BURNING BUSH TRAILS PARK image 1

Tall climbing towers with high bridges and slides offer adventure for older kids. Multiple sports courts like basketball and tennis provide active fun. Shaded benches and green spaces create calm spots for parents to relax.

A very tall climbing tower with a high bridge and tunnel slide stands out for older kids seeking adventure. The playground offers wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round and swings, plus shaded benches and green spaces for parents to relax.

People are saying

"This park has amazing climbing structures for all ages."

"This playground is one of the most unique climbing parks I've seen."

"The climbing activities here are amazing, with a 30-foot tower and slides."

Good to know

1

The park has many wheelchair accessible activities like the merry-go-round and the swing.

2

The soccer goals are not safe for kids due to broken parts and rusted net.

3

During summer, the number of covered tables is insufficient for visitors.

27
Meadow Glens Park image 1

Open fields offer baseball and soccer spaces, while courts invite basketball games. Walkways are wide and dog-friendly, perfect for family strolls. A playground suits young children, making it a calm, clean spot for all ages.

Open fields support baseball and soccer, while courts allow for shooting hoops. A playground suits babies and young kids, though lacks equipment for older children. Ample walkways and a dog friendly environment make it good for walking and family outings.

People are saying

"It's a nice place for kids to play in the parks."

"It's a nice place for kids and family."

Good to know

1

The park is clean and well-maintained for visitors.

2

Parking is easy and available near the entrance.

3

The restrooms are clean and accessible for visitors.

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