Skokie Lagoons — Attraction in New Trier Township

The lagoons experience was quite nice. I've been here a couple of times, once when the sun was scorching hot and walking on the trails. The other time was recently biking on the trails while the weather was much cooler and slightly cloudy. A much more pleasant experience.

The walking and biking trails are the same divided by a line. There is a 10 mile total trail path to follow which circles around the Chicago Arboretum. The scenery is beautiful in some spots while the rest is open roads or secluded trees overhanging the path.

There were moments where we saw some Bald Eagles flying around which was amazing. The only downside I experienced was dealing with the "professional" cyclists on the paths. Very rude and never slow down which is dangerous especially with children around. The crosswalks to go over the roads are a little hectic at times due to cross traffic but other than that it was an enjoyable experience.

I would recommend visiting the Lagoons if you have a chance. There is kayaking, fishing, canoes, and lots of...

I parked along Forestway Dr. near Lagoon No. 5. It's not the greatest parking as it's gravel and you kind of have to back into the road to get out, but it's virtually empty in the morning. I walked the northern loop (about 4 miles total to do that loop) and it's a well-maintained, paved trail. I really enjoyed the east side of the preserve as there are lots of good, wide views of the lagoons. The west side offers only a few views and there is significant noise pollution from the 94. Personally I would skip walking the west side (unless you're going for mileage) and stick to the east if you prefer a quieter walk like I do. Lots of deer and birds who also seemed to prefer...

The Chicago Botanic Garden is an incredible place to visit just outside of Chicago. It features multiple types of traditional English walled gardens, a Japanese garden, greenhouses with tropical and arid plants, an extremely rare corpse flower, vegetable and herb gardens, and dwarf conifers - all of which are well labeled with educational information as well as suggestions for how to implement some of the design features in your own garden. The cost to park was 20 dollars per vehicle, but the entry is free. My wife and I spent a good 4 hours exploring and didn't come close to seeing everything....