Chicago may be the ‘second city’ of the USA, but it’s not all about busy urbanism. Illinois is a very biodiverse state, and the area around Chicago is no different. In fact, Chicago – with the wide range of wetlands, prairies, and lakes surrounding the metro area – makes a surprisingly good base for a wildlife-watching break. Here, we’ll go through some of the best wildlife watching locations within a short drive of Chicago, and how to make the most of a Chicago-based nature excursion.
Who knew that you could see beavers in the Chicago area.
Pick your base strategically
When looking for hotel deals in Chicago, think about the kind of wildlife experience you’re looking for (and how you want to unwind after a day of wildlife-watching!) The location you pick for your stay can make a big difference to your experience. For example, if you’re interested in plants and woodland fauna, pick a location in the western portion of the city – closer to Morton Arboretum and Timber Ridge Forest Preserve. If wetlands are your thing, pick a location that will give you easy access to Lake Michigan birdspotting areas, or the Fox River and Chain O Lakes. And, if you’re likely to be spending long hours outside without access to food and home comforts, think about how you’re going to get supplies, and what you’ll want to refuel with when you get back. A slap-up restaurant meal? Fast food grabbed on the go? Whatever you fancy, find a location that suits your needs.
Now, let’s get into some of the best places to watch wildlife near Chicago:
Morton Arboretum
The Morton Arboretum is in Lisle, about twenty five miles west of Chicago. As the name suggests, the Arboretum offers some of the most diverse plant life in the region – and an abundance of wildlife as well. The site has a diverse mix of woodlands, wetlands, and open fields that are home to white tailed deer, red foxes, and chipmunks among others. The arboretum also attracts many bird species throughout the year, including woodpeckers, nuthatches, owls, and hawks. If you visit in spring, you might be lucky enough to catch colorful warblers on their migration route. Best of all, the trails are designed for calm wildlife watching, so you’ll find plenty of clear views and quiet spaces.
Indiana Dunes with snow on the ground and fall colors.
Indiana Dunes National Park
Indiana Dunes National Park stretches along the Lake Michigan shoreline, roughly an hour’s drive north of Chicago. It’s got a diverse range of habitats, including dunes, forests, marshlands, and prairies. As such, Indiana Dunes National Park is one of the richest wildlife areas near Chicago. You can look for turtles, snakes, beavers, and many species of birds from the winding trails of the park. The lakeshore provides a good chance to see gulls and shorebirds, while the inland marshes draw herons and egrets. If you enjoy long hikes, you can explore the inland dunes and look for deer along the tree line.
Busse Woods
Busse Woods, also known as the Ned Brown Preserve, sits in the northwest suburbs. It’s an ideal spot if you’re short on time or lacking transport. Busse Woods contains lakes, wetlands, and woodlands that support an active herd of elk (which live in an enclosed area for protection – visitors can watch them from the fence line). The preserve also supports diverse flocks of waterfowl throughout the year. Many species stay through winter, making this a great spot to check out if you’re visiting in winter. The preserve has wide, paved trails, which make it easy to explore on foot or by bike.
Fox River and Chain O Lakes
The Fox River region and the Chain O Lakes State Park sit north of Chicago. The waterways attract herons, ospreys, eagles, and many smaller bird species. If you’re visiting in the warmer months, you can paddle in the waters and spot turtles sunning themselves on logs and banks. Beavers and muskrats make their homes along the edges of the rivers and lakes, and the trails around the lakes provide clear viewpoints of wildlife activity. Birdwatchers also enjoy the fall season here, when migratory birds take a break in the park on their way south.
Bay-breasted warbler seen in the Chicago area during migration.
Kankakee River State Park
Kankakee River State Park lies about fifty miles south of Chicago. The river cuts through forests and limestone canyons that provide excellent habitat for a wide range of species. The place is popular with anglers, but nature watchers come for the bald eagles, hawks, and owls that frequent the area. You can also spot deer, foxes, and raccoons along the river trails. The clear water makes it easy to spot fish and turtles from the bridges and overlooks.
White-tailed deer are a common sight throughout city and suburban forest preserves.
Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens
Lake Katherine sits in the southwest suburbs. It’s relatively small – but surprisingly rich in wildlife. The center includes managed gardens, woodlands, and wetlands that attract many bird species. You can walk the loop trail around the lake and look for waterfowl and songbirds. Turtles sun themselves near the edge of the lake, and frogs call from the reeds during the warmer months. The nature center also runs programs that help families learn about local wildlife – great if you’re trying to get your kids interested in the natural world. All in all, it’s a great spot for visitors who want a short outing that still delivers diverse wildlife experiences.
Cantigny Park
Cantigny Park in Wheaton offers landscaped gardens and natural areas that provide a home for many small animals and birds. This destination feels more curated than some of the larger preserves, but there’s still plenty to see. The wooded paths and open meadows are home to finches, sparrows, rabbits, and squirrels year round, and attract migratory birds during spring and fall.
I see a coyote, and it definitely sees me – Ryerson Woods in Lake County
Lake County Forest Preserves
Lake County contains more than thirty thousand acres of protected land spread across many preserves, and provides some of the most reliable wildlife watching near Chicago. Independence Grove in Libertyville includes woodlands and a large lake that supports everything from warblers to coyotes. Ryerson Conservation Area offers old growth forest that attracts owls and woodpeckers. Rollins Savanna Preserve gives visitors a chance to see sandhill cranes, herons, and many grassland species. Each preserve has its own set of trails, which means visitors can explore new routes throughout the year. This region works well for people looking for a range of options that go beyond a single day trip.
You can even see arctic visitors like the snowy owl in Chicago.
Chicago – more than an urban jungle
Chicago may attract most visitors for its urban architecture and culture, but the natural world around the city deserves equal attention. Forest preserves, lakeshores, prairies, and rivers have a lot to offer the eager wildlife-watcher. You can watch sandhill cranes in the morning, observe deer in shaded woodlands, or photograph lake views filled with waterfowl – all within a short distance of the city.
Adventure on!
