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Picnic spots in parks in Illinois

A blanket on the grass and a meal in the open air is the only way to spend the afternoon.

Based on 838 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Bicentennial Park Soccer Park image 1
Bicentennial Park Soccer Park image 2
Bicentennial Park Soccer Park image 3
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Open grounds include oversized sheltered area with multiple large picnic tables and a big bouncy house for kids. Soccer fields and playground offer active options while the space suits large family gatherings. Clean environment supports relaxed, extended visits from noon to dusk.

Large open spaces fit multiple tents and a big sheltered area with 6 large picnic tables. Beautiful grounds include soccer fields and a playground for varied activities.

Big sheltered area with 6 large picnic tables offers plenty of space for group meals. Additional picnic tables on the lawn provide more spots for food and gathering.

People are saying

"This park is perfect for large family get-togethers with plenty of space."

"It's a perfect area for a large family picnic with sheltered tables."

Good to know

1

The park is open from noon to dusk, typically until 8:30 pm.

2

Bicentennial Park features well-maintained soccer fields suitable for games.

3

The playground is family-friendly and enjoyable for children.

02
Half Day Forest Preserve image 1

Nature preserve offers well-marked trails for hiking and biking, with connecting ponds and views along a river. The atmosphere stays calm and peaceful, attracting families and individuals for picnics and outdoor activities. Plenty of free parking supports easy access to shelters and open spaces.

Trails offer hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing opportunities. A large, well-maintained playground suits kids and families. The park stays clean and well-kept for walking and picnicking.

Beautiful picnic area offers a great spot for gatherings. The setting supports walks and biking alongside picnics.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful place for a picnic."

"I found the parking available was plentiful and conveniently located."

"I found the park beautiful and peaceful, with well-tended trails."

Good to know

1

Pets are allowed at the preserve.

2

Parking is plentiful and conveniently located off Milwaukee Avenue.

3

There are four big shelters available for rent for events.

03
Sensory Garden Playground image 1

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.

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.

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.

People are saying

"This playground is so cool and great for kids of all ages."

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

"This place is awesome for a picnic with tons of activities for kids."

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.

04
Pottawatomie Park image 1

Riverfront park offers beautiful views and large shade trees with multiple playgrounds and mini golf. Atmosphere stays peaceful and friendly, ideal for families and outdoor gatherings. Facilities include paddle boats, a pool with slides, and a pavilion overlooking the river.

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.

Multiple picnic benches sit under beautiful trees and shelters, creating comfortable spots for gatherings. Grills and nearby trails for walking and cycling add to the picnic experience.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a beautiful place for a picnic with great scenery."

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.

05
Drost Park image 1

Park offers paved walking and biking trails winding around a fishing pond and playground areas. Atmosphere stays peaceful and well-maintained, suitable for families and casual outdoor activities. Amenities include pickleball courts, picnic spots, and a shaded pavilion for gatherings.

Over a mile of paved walking path circles the park, offering a peaceful spot for walking, running, or biking. Picnic areas with grills, pickleball courts, a fishing pond, and a well-sized playground provide activities for all ages.

Many picnic areas come with grills and a spacious pavilion that offers shelter for meals. Walking paths, a lake, and playgrounds surround these spots, creating a relaxed setting for picnics.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful, clean, and relaxing."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with a nice-sized play area."

"It's a cozy local gem, perfect for a relaxing picnic with family."

Good to know

1

Drost Park has a nice-sized play area for kids.

2

The park features a walking trail around the perimeter.

3

There is a boat ramp for kayaking and small fishing boats.

06
Panton Mill Park image 1

Concrete surfaces and a bandstand define the park's layout, creating an open space with splash pad and covered picnic areas. The atmosphere stays quiet and relaxed, with people fishing, walking trails, and enjoying river views. Wildlife sightings and a nearby police station add to a sense of safety and natural charm.

Beautiful trails and a scenic river walk offer a relaxing spot with plenty of space for picnics and concerts. The park stays clean and well maintained with easy parking and friendly staff.

Large shaded picnic areas include covered tables that stay clean. Community events often use the space, with local police joining in.

People are saying

"I found the park beautiful with its scenic river walk."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with a large, shaded area."

"I loved going to the concerts here during the summer."

Good to know

1

Live music events occur every Wednesday night during summer from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

2

Parking at Panton Mill Park is somewhat limited, so arrive early.

3

The park features a large shaded picnic area, perfect for gatherings.

07
Hummer Park image 1

Large park offers quiet, peaceful atmosphere with plenty of open grassy areas and well-maintained playground equipment for kids. Covered pavilion with built-in grills supports gatherings and barbecues regardless of weather. Ample parking and friendly surroundings make it suitable for family events and parties.

Lots of space and a covered shelter with picnic benches make it great for gatherings. The playground equipment suits all ages and the park stays clean and quiet for relaxing walks.

Lots of parking and a covered shelter make it easy to set up. The picnic area features brick walls spaced apart for airflow and natural light, plus benches and a playground nearby.

People are saying

"It's a great place for parties and gatherings at the park."

"It's a great spot for kids with lots of fun playground equipment."

"It's a nice place to have a picnic and walk in nature."

Good to know

1

Hummer Park has a large pavilion suitable for gatherings and parties.

2

The park features well-maintained playground equipment for various age groups.

3

There is plenty of parking available close to the park.

08
Willow Stream Park image 1

Huge open fields and well-maintained playgrounds create a family-friendly environment. Walking trails wind through a wooded area with old trees, offering a peaceful escape. Sports courts and picnic pavilions add to the active, community-focused vibe, though weekends bring noticeable crowds.

Facilities stay very clean and well maintained with many play areas suitable for all ages. The park offers sports fields, trails, and a disc golf course, plus picnic spots and a swimming pool. Family events and concerts happen regularly, creating a lively atmosphere.

Huge open fields offer plenty of space for spreading out. A pavilion with picnic tables provides covered seating. The picnic facilities are well maintained and inviting.

People are saying

"It's a really nice place with many play areas for kids."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with open fields and play areas."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby but fills up quickly during peak hours.

2

The park features a 1-2+ mile trail suitable for walking, biking, or roller skating.

3

The park has two playgrounds located at the north and south ends.

09
Clark Square Park image 1

Small lakefront park offers serene atmosphere with quiet, intimate spaces and excellent views of Lake Michigan and distant skyline. Visitors find it suitable for walking, jogging, picnics, and relaxing without crowds. Limited picnic tables and benches encourage bringing blankets for seating.

A large open space by the lake offers great views of the water and city skyline. A handful of picnic tables and benches are scattered around, but bringing a blanket helps for more seating options.

Small park by the lake offers a few picnic tables and benches but mostly grass for spreading a blanket. Paths run along the lakefront, making it easy to combine a picnic with a walk or frisbee.

People are saying

"You get a nice view of the lake and skyline."

"It's a nice, quiet place for relaxing without the crowds."

"It's a beautiful park with great lakefront views."

Good to know

1

Parking is available but not always free; it's paid by 10-minute increments.

2

There are no restrooms at the park, so plan accordingly.

3

Bring a picnic blanket as seating is limited to a few tables and benches.

10
Butterfield Park image 1

City park offers extensive playgrounds with unique features like zip lines and a giant saucer swing. Soft, springy ground surfaces and well-maintained fields create a safe and accessible environment for all ages. Green spaces and paved trails provide room for relaxation and outdoor activities.

A paved trail loops around the park, offering space for walking and relaxing. The playground features unique elements and a water pad, with soft, cushy ground and swings that appeal to kids of all ages.

Picnic spots include picnic benches and canopy seating. Children have plenty of space to play nearby.

People are saying

"This park has fun and unique playground elements for kids."

"It's a great place for a picnic and for kids to play."

"It's super nice for kids and fun for anyone."

Good to know

1

Bathrooms are located below the preschool building and are open and heated for at least three seasons.

2

The playground is safe and has plenty of activities for various ages.

3

The softball fields are well maintained and available for use.

11
Bowen Park image 1

Spacious park with huge playgrounds and varied playstations including a splash pad and skate park. Peaceful ravine features picturesque walkways and large old trees. Popular spot for kids and dogs, offering picnic areas and smooth bike paths.

Large and well maintained, this park offers playgrounds for all ages, a splash pad, and a massive spider web climbing structure. It also features sports fields, a skating section, and scenic areas for walking, biking, and picnics.

Many picnic tables come with small grills for cookouts. The park offers beautiful scenery ideal for group picnics and enjoying the sun.

People are saying

"This place is so kid friendly, my children loved the playground."

"It's a gorgeous spot with plenty of picnic tables and grills."

"I found the parks here to be beautiful."

Good to know

1

Bowen Park hosts cultural events like Dia De Muertos annually.

2

The park features a free water park area for young children.

3

There are outdoor and indoor shelters available for picnics.

12
Burr Ridge Community Center image 1

Park offers Route 66-themed playgrounds with a miniature Willis Tower and varied play structures like trampolines, zip lines, and water features. Atmosphere stays tranquil and safe, attracting families and kids of all ages. Spacious grounds include exercise and sports areas, blending fun with fitness.

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.

Picnic tables at the community center offer convenient outdoor seating for gatherings. The pavilion lacks tables, which matters on hot, sunny days.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a beautiful park with many play options for a picnic."

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.

13
Eaton Preserve image 1

Historic farm setting offers scenic viewpoints of a river and old barns alongside a paved trail loop about one mile long. Open trails provide peaceful, clean surroundings with picnic pavilions and space for gatherings. Nearby busy road affects dog-friendliness but parking and access remain convenient.

Clean grounds and well-maintained areas stand out here. Eaton Preserve offers a nice park experience with good upkeep by the parks department.

Open spaces offer a great setting for picnics and family gatherings. The area supports holiday celebrations like the 4th of July with ease.

People are saying

"It's a great place for a picnic."

"I found the parks to be clean and well-maintained."

Good to know

1

The paved trail loop is about 1 mile long.

2

There are scenic viewpoints of the DuPage River.

3

Eaton Preserve is dog friendly.

14
Palmer Square Park image 1

Two-block-long city park offers sunny and shady spots with Montessori-esque play structures for children. The atmosphere stays peaceful and family friendly, filled with joggers, dog walkers, and people enjoying nature. Surrounding timeless architecture adds to the park's inviting and clean environment.

A large, two-block-long park offers both sunny spots and shady areas for relaxing. It features clean, well-maintained grounds with play equipment and plenty of space for picnics, biking, and family activities.

Open green spaces invite picnics with small groups and families. Paths and areas suit peaceful strolls and bring along young children or pets comfortably.

People are saying

"It's a lovely, peaceful park perfect for a relaxing stroll."

"It's a great place for dog walks and picnics."

"It's a great place for a peaceful picnic."

Good to know

1

Jazz sessions occur every Sunday at Palmer Square Park.

2

Live on Logan music series takes place on Sundays.

3

There are no accessible bathrooms in Palmer Square Park.

15
Randall Oaks Park image 1

Spacious park with huge playground and 10-hole frisbee golf course offers well-maintained trails and a petting zoo. Atmosphere stays peaceful and welcoming, suitable for all ages and family activities. Plenty of green space and parking support picnics and outdoor gatherings.

Wide open spaces and a huge playground with varied equipment make it great for kids and families. Trails suit little kids and the 10-hole frisbee golf course adds a fun challenge amid beautiful wooded areas.

Plenty of benches and open space make it easy to set up a picnic. The park offers a nice atmosphere for picnics, with room to relax after visiting the petting zoo or just walking around.

People are saying

"The playground here is huge and has so much green space for the kids."

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with plenty for the children to do."

"It's a great place for a picnic with tons of benches."

Good to know

1

The event features face painting, tractor hay rides, and homemade food vendors.

2

There are 13,000 eggs available for the Easter egg hunt.

3

The park has a large playground suitable for all ages.

16
Deerpath Park image 1

Expansive park with large playgrounds designed for different age groups and padded ground for safety. The atmosphere is peaceful and family-friendly, with plenty of space for kids to run and play. Multiple sports courts and a zip line add variety, while accessible paths and parking support easy visits.

A large playground with a castle theme offers separate areas for big and little kids, plus an obstacle course and a splash park. The park is clean, well maintained, accessible, and has padded ground throughout.

Plenty of space and an outdoor playground make it easy to spread out for a picnic. Shaded picnic tables and a covered area provide shelter, with public restrooms nearby and parking for about 10 cars.

People are saying

"This place is really kid friendly with an awesome playground."

"The parks here have awesome playgrounds and splash parks for kids."

"It's a clean, well-maintained park with restrooms and open fields for picnics."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging at Deerpath Park, especially during busy times.

2

The park features multiple play areas for different age groups, ensuring safety for younger kids.

3

Deerpath Park is well-maintained and offers clean facilities, including restrooms.

17
Leclaire Park image 1

Park offers quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with playground equipment and picnic pavilions. Grounds include a century-old bandstand and a fountain, creating a peaceful, picturesque setting. Visitors enjoy fishing, walking, and relaxing in a well-maintained, safe environment.

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.

Many pavilions with picnic tables offer plenty of spots to sit and eat. Watching people fish while enjoying a meal adds a relaxing touch to the picnic experience.

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.

18
Kimball Hill Park image 1

Spacious city park with multiple playgrounds and a pond featuring a waterfall and fountain creates a scenic, family-friendly environment. Quiet and clean, it offers designated barbecue areas and open fields for varied activities. The atmosphere shifts from serene nature walks to lively events with live music and community gatherings.

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.

Plenty of grassy areas with picnic benches and grills make it easy to set up a picnic. A covered patio and a clean facility near a pond add to the outdoor experience.

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.

19
James Pate Philip State Park image 1

Prairie restoration area with crushed limestone trails and minimal shade offers a quiet, natural atmosphere. Trails wind through wetland plants and insect life, with a visitor center featuring live reptiles and local fauna exhibits. The park spans three counties, marked by a monument where their borders meet.

Crushed limestone trails run through a very large, well maintained park with lots of wildlife. A monument marks where three counties meet, and the park serves as a district office for natural resources.

Open spaces handle large groups well, supporting picnics for around 200 people. The area suits small parties and casual gatherings on weekend afternoons.

People are saying

"I found this park to be a beautiful, well-kept gem."

"The bathroom here was clean and nice."

"It's a beautiful place, really good for picnics."

Good to know

1

The nature center is free and features live reptiles and educational exhibits.

2

Expect little sun cover; bring sun protection for outdoor activities.

3

The park has an indoor bathroom available for visitors.

20
Schranz Memorial Park image 1

Wooden castle-themed playground anchors a quiet, clean park with separate toddler area and splash pad. Families gather around shaded benches and use electric grills in a friendly, open space. The park offers a trail loop and plenty of room for kids of all ages to play.

A big, clean park with a creative playground and a Waterpad for kids. Plenty of space for family picnics and events, plus updated equipment and a clubhouse.

Open green spaces offer a family-friendly setting for picnics. The park serves as a favorite spot for gathering and enjoying meals outdoors.

People are saying

"The playground here is amazing, with great spaces for all ages."

"This place is really kid friendly with a cool castle-themed playground."

"The park's playground and splash pad are great for kids."

Good to know

1

The park has a designated spot for children aged 2 to 5 years old.

2

The playground had been upgraded or replaced since our last visit.

3

The park is dog friendly.

21
Wolf's Crossing Community Park image 1

City park offers spacious pickleball and tennis courts, a large ninja warrior course, and a splash pad for kids. Atmosphere is vibrant yet relaxed, with plenty of seating and picnic areas. Crowds gather especially around the splash pad, creating lively energy 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.

Shaded picnic areas and a huge pavilion with picnic tables offer plenty of space. The park combines picnic spots with fun activities like a splash pad and kids' playground.

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
Seager Park image 1

Park offers secluded setting with four distinct ecosystems including forest and swampy areas. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, ideal for picnics and family activities. Facilities include basketball and volleyball courts plus a fire pit with built-in seating.

Secluded and well maintained, this park offers wheelchair accessible picnic tables and clean bathrooms. Walking paths wind through wooded areas, making it a quiet spot for dog walking and family activities.

Several wheelchair accessible picnic tables are available. The park suits family picnics and group gatherings like church events. It also works well for picnics with pets.

People are saying

"I found the park to be really nice and well maintained."

"I found several wheelchair accessible picnic tables here."

"The bathrooms here are really clean and well-maintained."

Good to know

1

Parking at Seager Park is easy and accessible.

2

The park has clean restrooms available for visitors.

3

The shelter has electrical outlets and is well-maintained.

23
Ty Warner Park image 1

Park offers spacious grounds with multiple playgrounds, a zip line, and a splash pad for kids. Atmosphere stays peaceful and clean, with walking trails, picnic areas, and water features. Families gather for varied activities including volleyball, fishing, and sledding, making it a versatile outdoor spot.

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.

Beautiful, well-maintained grounds with landscaped areas and picnic pavilions create a great setting for outdoor meals. Walking trails and clean, stocked facilities support a comfortable picnic experience.

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 beautiful, well-maintained park perfect for a picnic."

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.

24
Hudson Crossing Park image 1

Park by the river features large oak trees and scenic water views. It offers walking and biking trails, a children's playground, and areas for fishing and picnics. The atmosphere is peaceful and clean, attracting families and dog walkers.

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.

A large playground and picnic area offer plenty of space for gatherings. Grills near picnic tables and a cute park for children make it easy to enjoy meals outdoors.

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 cute park for picnics with grills and a playground."

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.

25
O'Fallon Family Sports Park image 1

Large sports complex with multiple fields and spacious open areas offers a peaceful, inviting atmosphere. Families enjoy splash pads and playgrounds designed for children of all ages. Plenty of shade and picnic pavilions provide comfortable spots for relaxation and gatherings.

The park offers well maintained asphalt pathways perfect for walking and jogging, along with modern amenities for baseball and soccer. It features fun playgrounds and splash pads for kids, plus clean, shady areas and multiple sports fields.

Well-maintained picnic areas include a covered pavilion with many tables and benches scattered around the park. A splash pad nearby has covered picnic tables and a storm shelter with bathrooms.

People are saying

"The soccer and baseball fields here are really great."

"The soccer and baseball fields here are great and well maintained."

"The splash pad and playgrounds are great for a picnic."

Good to know

1

Parking is ample, but can be troublesome during tournaments.

2

The park has clean restrooms, but only three stalls available.

3

Dogs are not allowed in the park.

26
James Park image 1

Huge park with wide open spaces and multiple sports fields creates a lively outdoor setting. Vibrant atmosphere filled with reggae and dancehall music, families, and active kids gives a welcoming, family-friendly vibe. Shaded picnic areas and paved walkways add comfort and ease for visitors.

A large park with a playground featuring a fun slide, sturdy swings, and monkey bars keeps kids active. A hill called Mount Trashmore offers a good spot for running, and leash rules make it dog-friendly and safe for everyone.

Shaded picnic areas with plenty of tables create a relaxing spot for gatherings. Events often feel like a big family picnic where everyone is welcome.

People are saying

"James Park is a beautiful place for outdoor activities and walks."

"This park is really kid friendly with a soft playground surface."

"The playground surface is soft, easing my nerves when the little ones run around."

Good to know

1

Every year, Jamaica Fest is held at James Park to celebrate Jamaica's Independence Day.

2

Parking is easy in the nearby lot, making events stress-free to attend.

3

The park is dog-friendly, but dogs must be on a leash.

27
Paulus Park image 1

Park offers lake views and a sandy beach with playground and splash pad for young children. Families gather for picnics and outdoor activities like volleyball, bocce ball, and paddle boarding. Atmosphere is family-friendly with a mix of peaceful spots and lively play areas.

A large park with playground accessories, a splash pad for young kids, and a beach area by the lake. Plenty of walking paths, benches, and clean facilities make it family friendly and good for gatherings.

Plenty of newer picnic tables sit in both sun and shade, with lots of room for groups. Benches and open spaces add to the picnic-friendly vibe near the beach and playground.

People are saying

"It's a great place with a nice playground and splash pad for kids."

"Paulus Park is a beautiful park with a nice beach and playground."

"I had picnics in this nice, big park area."

Good to know

1

The Jack O'Lantern Festival features activities for both kids and adults.

2

Expect a $11 daily fee per visitor to access the beach.

3

Restrooms are currently closed for upgrades, so plan accordingly.

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