Best Nature Centers for Kids Around Chicago

Shila said:  Willowbrook Wildlife Center is a native wildlife rehabilitation facility. Windows look into the kitchen and nursery, where staff and volunteers care for a variety of animals. The classroom and indoor discovery area, too, offer up games and puzzles to theme. Outdoor exhibits include a butterfly garden, several nature trails, and native wildlife (with permanent disabilities) like red-shouldered and red-tailed hawks, turkey vultures, owls, red foxes, groundhogs and raccoons.

Kristy Pepping said:  The trails at the Morton Arboretum wind through an amazing display of carefully cultivated trees and provide exceptional play areas that give kids a space to explore nature. The Children’s Garden is a fun outdoor playscape with scavenger hunts, tunnels, mazes and whimsical structures.

Shila said:  Schaumburg Park District's Vera Meineke Nature Center at Spring Valley is an "earth-sheltered, passive-solar" visitor center that includes hands-on exhibits, a small natural history library, and is host to a variety of family friendly events. Enjoy over 3 miles of all accessible hiking trails, birdwatching and relaxing! A trip out this way with kids should also be met with time spent at Bison's Bluff, a well-regarded nature based playground. Spring Valley is also home to Volkening Heritage Farm, where authentically dressed interpreters (1880's) guide visitors and offer wagon rides.

Kristy Pepping said:  My daughter recently had a Girl Scout outing at this Nature Center. They have a large playground right off the parking lot. Then, inside the nature center, you will find several nature-inspired exhibits, restrooms and events like nature play time! There are also tours offered. Outside the center, there are hiking and bike trails to explore. Plus, if you have a nature-loving child, they offer birthday parties!

Shila said:  Crabtree Nature Center sits alongside several miles of self-guiding trails that feature native plants, wildflowers, prairie and woodland. Kids love the expansive nature play area, and interesting family events include birdwatching, art in nature, and Sunday matinees with nature based films.

Shila said:  At the Bartlett Nature Center, you and your family can view displays of bones, pellets, live reptiles, amphibians, and interesting insects. In the summer there is a natural butterfly garden. Outside, families can hike, or use the pavilion, picnic tables, charcoal grills or fire pit (registration required). There are about 4 miles of crushed limestone trails. Hiking, bicycling, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing are permitted. Some must-attend activities include dog sledding demos, nature-based obstacle courses, archery and more!

Shila said:  Within the 130 acres of the park, you can find woodlands, wetlands and prairie all-accessible hiking trails. Kid friendly activities include an outdoor climbing wall, volunteer led nature hikes, a see-through bee hive, an amazing fossil collection, geocaching, and a summer butterfly house.