2023 U-Pick Flower Farms Near Chicagoland


Fall doesn’t mean enjoying a beautiful flower field has to come to an end.

Many sunflower fields are just now blooming!

Enjoy the great outdoors, and bring home a vase a full of flowers to adorn your home!

 

 

 

 

Thompson Strawberry Farm

  • 14000 75th Street, Bristol WI
  • Open through mid October
  • Roughly 40 min drive from Chicagoland (15 min north of Six Flags)
  • Visit the sunflower fields everyday, 10 AM – 7 PM
  • $15.00/Adult; $10.00/Child (3-12 Years Old)
  • “Each adult admission fee includes a Thompson Strawberry Farm souvenir cup that you can fill with flowers from our fields. We have sunflower mazes that are cut out of the field for you to walk through the flowers. There are also large grass areas to enjoy the summer sun, or take a leisurely walk around the field. Our goal is to have everyone enjoy a nice summer day in the country and bring home some beautiful flowers.  We have other flower varieties as well including: Zinnias and wildflowers (expecting bloom mid-August). You are welcome to mix & match these flowers with your sunflowers to fill up your souvenir cup!”

  • Each child admission fee includes a Thompson Shaved Ice! We have several flavors for you to choose from.

  • Be sure to bring something to cut your flowers with. They do have scissors available for purchase just in case!

 

 

 

Keller’s Farmstand

  • Oswego
  • Tickets grant you access to the Sunflower Field with bonus of two grassy labyrinths to explore, Keller’s Summer Playground, PLUS one free sunflower bloom that you may pick yourself! (You may also purchase extra sunflowers for an additional fee.) We strongly recommend you purchase your tickets online to guarantee your entry – you may visit KellersFlowerFields.com to reserve!

 

Von Bergen’s Country Market

  • 9805 IL Route 173, Hebron IL
  • The Sunflower Festival has already kicked off and the sunflower maze will be available daily (10 am – 6 pm) during peak bloom! Follow their social media to be updated on the fields
  • There are also U-Pick zinnia’s and snapdragons!
  •  Farm animals, and a giant play area for the kids!
  • Wagon rides to the maze are available on the weekend
  • “Our LAST field is ready for you. Once this field is gone ⏳ you will have to wait until next summer to enjoy them again. ⏰
    Don’t forget we have many family friendly activities like a large playground , bubble station , little tyke bike races , a petting zoo , and a barrel train on the weekends. Play with your kids after the craziness of back to school!
    This field will be open for the next 10-14 days so time is limited! Who’s joining us this weekend?!”

 

Stade’s Farm & Market

  • 3709 Miller Road, McHenry, IL
  • Check their Facebook page for U-pick hours and sunflower field status
  • “Sunflower picking on the farm begins in mid-July and will last through late September. We have 2+ acres and 18 different varieties of sunflowers planted for 2021. We also grow other cut flowers such as snapdragons, zinnias, cosmos, marigolds, and amaranthus.”
  • Sunflower Pricing
    • $2 each
    • $5 for 3 flowers
    • $25 per vase all you can fit inside (Zinnias may be picked for vases at the same price)

 

 

Harvest Time Farm Park

  • 17904 Grant St., Lowell IN
  • “Come out and explore our acres of flower fields and fresh air! We have a variety of gorgeous blooms including sunflowers, zinnias, cosmos, wildflowers, and more!”
  • Acres of sunflowers and other wildflowers and gorgeous blooms, a brand new butterfly enclosure, tasty treats and scheduled fun for the kids depending on the weekend!
  • Follow their Facebook to stay updated!

 

M&D Farms

  • Sunflower field is closed.
  • 14946 S Bell Rd Homer Glen
  • Hours of operation: Mon-Fri 9-6, Sat 9-5, Sun 9-3.
  • Entry Fees are $7ea, 3 and under are free.
  • 3 new BUTTERFLY Gardens this year!!!

 

Heap’s Pumpkin Farm

  • Minooka
  • Enjoy over 9 acres of sunflowers, zinnias and other flowers to take photos, cut your own flowers to take home and enjoy the other activities on the farm!
  • Please join us for our 5th Annual Heap’s Sunflower Harvest! Enjoy over 9 acres of sunflowers, zinnias and other flowers to take photos, cut your own flowers to take home and enjoy the other activities on the farm! This is a limited-time event. Since this event is based on when the sunflower patch blooms opening day may vary. 

 

Richardson Farm

  • Spring Grove, IL
  • “Snap pictures as you wander the trails through acres of brightly colored sunflowers. It’s a sight like no other!”
    • 13 acres of sunflowers planted in a whimsical design with 3.2 miles of flowing trail to stroll through
    • Many different varieties of sunflowers
    • Flowers of many different colors including orange, yellow, gold, red, and peach

 

Goebbert’s Farm: Pingree Grove

  • 10 AM – 6 PM daily
  • Admission is $5/pp

 

County Line Orchard

  • 200 S. County Line Rd, Hobart IN
  • Best pick of sunflowers is mid to late September
  • They also have U-Pick apples and U-Pick pumpkins, corn maze, and kids farm

 

Kuipers Family Farm

  • Guest will be able to enjoy over 7 acres of 20+ different sunflower varieties and colorful zinnias in the fields.
    Come stroll through the flowers, take photos and enjoy the beautiful scenery of a late-summer farm day!
    Many adorable photo ops will be available so you can capture the perfect selfie or family photo.
    The experience goes ‘full bloom’ on weekends with live music and food trucks inside the gated festival area.
  • Make sure to come back in the spring for Tulip Fest!

 

Eckerts Family Farm

  • Belleville Farm, IL
  • “Our Sunflower Trail uses the same concept as a corn maze, but with sunflowers instead. That means you can get up close, personal and even tickled by the beautiful flowers that can’t help but make most people smile. Make sure to set aside adequate time to fully enjoy the experience, as our Sunflower Experience spans and sprawls for a full 2 acres of fun.”

 

Little Ducky Flower Farm

  • Barrington
  • We offer two types of U-Picks throughout the year.

    • ​Spring: U-Pick Tulips (Coming 2024)

    • Summer/Fall: U-Pick Cut Flowers​ (Picking till first frost 2023)

  • “We are two people, a flock of ducks, geese, and sheep, and hundreds of plants living together on just under 7 acres in Barrington, IL. Our adventures in farming started with growing our own food, which then expanded to include flowers.”

 

The Wildflower Farm

  • Monee, IL
  • Bring your own scissors!
  • “Have fun! There are over 12 types of flowers and foliage to choose from. Fill your jar with as many flowers as you can. Once you are done, feel free to enjoy the sites, relax and sip on a fresh squeezed lemonade or iced coffee. Cool off with an ice cream. Kids’ admission includes the Barrel Cart ride, slides and Jumpy Pillow. Pssst…adults can ride the Barrel Carts too!”
  • “We have 6 different u-pick containers to choose from: $18 jar (refill $12), $25 jar (refill $20), $40 sunflower mug (refill $30), $45 Wildflower Farm logo mug (refill $30), $60 Sunflower pitcher (refill $40), and $65 Wildflower Farm logo pitcher (refill $40). With the purchase of one of these containers you are able to fill it with any flowers you can fit INSIDE that jar. A purchase of a single jar/pottery waives the admission fee for that single person. We do not allow outside jars/vases/containers to be brought into our u-pick field.”

 

Proclamation Flowers

  • 33891 S Rivals Rd, Wilmington, IL
  • Book your private cutting session through their website!

 

 

Peony Hill Farm

  • 1015 Zola Road, Harrisburg, IL
  •  A Peony Farm with 12 acres of fresh cut flowers. They sell the cut flowers in the spring and root divisions in the fall.
  • 2022 blooms and roots are closed for the season

 

Shawnee Hills Lavender Farm

  • 480 Brown Section Rd, Cobden, IL
  •  U-Pick lavender farm
  • Closed for the 2023 season, lavender blooming season usually the first weeks in June

2023 Fall Raspberry Picking


Did you miss berry picking this summer? Don’t fret!

There are still quite a few farms in & near Illinois to pick raspberries!

With lots of other U-Pick options as well!

 

Garwood Orchard & Farm Market

  • LaPorte, IN
  • Red & Black raspberries and blackberries in season
  • Check their Facebook page or call ahead to verify availability

 

Heider’s Berry Farm

  • Woodstock
  • U-Pick red raspberries are $5 / pint. Cash or check only.
  • UPick STRAWBERRIES are available at $20/4 quart basket
  • Season continues until Mid-October but check their Facebook page for announcements before driving over. There are days where they are temporarily picked out.

 

Johnson’s Farm Produce

  • Hobart, IN
  • U-Pick raspberries, watermelon, cantaloupe, and sunflowers!
  • The fun farm is open on weekends!
  • Always check their Facebook page before driving down.

 

Stade’s Farm & Market

  • McHenry
  • Lots of raspberries and vegetables ripe for picking!  Check their Facebook page for availability.
  • They do have apples, sunflowers, and zinnias as well!

 

Thompson Strawberry Farm

  • Bristol, WI
  • Beautiful sunflowers, yummy raspberries, and pumpkins soon as well!

 

Valley Orchard

  • Cherry Valley, IL
  • Fall raspberries, check ahead for availability

Chicagoland Water Fun 2023


School is out and temperatures are on the rise! I think we are all curious about

what our water fun prospects are this summer. This guide contains an

updated list of resources to various types of family – friendly water fun!

 

 



Splash Pads

 

 

*Chicago Park District:

  • Water spray features are in the process of being turned on and should all be turned on by Friday, June 23rd!

 

Aurora (Fox Valley Park District) Splash Pads

  • Eola Community Center
  • Stuart Sports Complex
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Park
  • Blackhawk Park
  • McCarty Park
    • The splash pad is operational daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and runs from 11 am to 6 pm (times are adjusted seasonally)

 

Berens Park – Elmhurst: 

  • “The Hub features a 6,000-square-foot spray ground with nine exciting water features. The spray ground will close if the temperature is below 65 degrees, lightning is spotted or there are other threatening weather conditions.”
  • Resident Youth (ages 2-16) $4
    Resident Adult (ages 16+) $6
    Non-Resident Youth (ages 2-16) $6
    Non-Resident Adult (ages 16+) $8
  • There are also miniature golf and batting cages!

 

Bisons Bluff – Schaumburg: 

  • This unique playground does not have a splash pad but a flowing stream and water feature. Plan on bringing a change of clothes for your child or water shoes if they will be playing in this area!
  • New admission fee of $2 for residents and $3 for non-residents for a one-hour play session. Admission fee applies to all children between the ages of 2 and 12, adults may enter at no cost.
    • Online reservations are not required but recommended and available for both residents and non-residents up to a half-hour before the start of any play session. Click here to make a reservation. You must have an active account established with Schaumburg Park District in order to make a reservation.

 

Buffalo Grove Spray’N’Play

  • 951 McHenry Rd.
  • “Buffalo Grove Park District Spray ‘N Play, one of the largest facilities of its kind, features over 20 water toys, sprays and fountains, plus a picnic area. It’s completely interactive and there is no limit to the fun that can be had at the Spray ‘N Play. It’s a great place for birthday parties, corporate parties, family reunions and special events. It’s located in Mike Rylko Community Park near the Golf and Sports Center on Route 83.”
  • Mon – Fri 10 -7
  • Sat & Sun 12:30 – 7
  • 12 Months & under Free
    Children and Adults $4
    Seniors (62 & Up) $2
    Twilight Time (5:30 – 7 pm) $2

 

 Dee Park Splash Pad: 

  • Tuesday – Sunday 10 AM – 2 PM (FREE)
    • Dump Buckets

    • Water cannons to spray your friends

    • A Tot-Mister and Aqua Dome

    • Several ground geysers and water jets

    • 2 Shade structures and benches

Des Plaines Prairie Lakes Aquatic Center

  • Indoors, open daily. Beautifully designed, big & bright, the Splash Pad is full of fun slides, sprays, and touch activated water activities.
  • * Splash Pad Closed on Tuesdays and Thursdays thru August 10, 10:30a–12:00p for DPPD Summer Camp
    * Splash Pad and 4 Lap Pool Closed on Fridays July 7, July 21, and August 11, 1:00p–3:00p for DPPD Summer Camp
    * Splash Pad Closed on Fridays June 30, July 14, and July 28, 10:00a–11:00a and 12:30p–2:30p for DPPD Summer Camp

Dragonfly Landing – Lisle:

  • Garfield Ave and Route 53
  • Splash pad is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day daily 11 AM – 7 PM
  • “Dragonfly Landing features a shelter with a living “green” roof and a free, fun splash pad with interactive water jets and giant, colorful flowers that mist water. Nature-themed play structures such as a tree house, leaping lily pads, and cat tail swingers inspire creativity, encourage exploration, provide conservation education opportunities, and are just plain fun!”

Festival Park 

  • 132 S Grove Ave, Elgin
  • “Beautiful riverside setting with unique playground and spray park – if it’s summer, wear your swim suit.”
  • “Splash pad fountain operates from 10 am to 8 pm most days, depending on the weather, during open season. Splash pad and washrooms are open for the season.”

 

 

Fountain Square Park – Elk Grove:

  • Sprayground open June 1st through Labor Day
  • Mon – Fri: 12:30 pm – 7:00 pm
  • Sat – Sun: 10:30 am – 7:00 pm

 

Glenview Splash Pad at Little Bear Garden: 

  • NE corner of Patriot Blvd & Chestnut, Glenview

 

Lake Zurich Spray ground Paulus Park Beach:

  • Open 10 AM – 7 PM
  • Bath house open daily
  • Breezewald Beach is open to Lake Zurich residents ONLY. Paulus Park Beach is available for non-residents.
  • Children utilizing the Sprayground ONLY (no beach), may gain entrance with one paying adult per family.
  • Resident Non-Resident
    3 & under Free Free
    Age 4 – 17 $6 $8
    Age 18 & over $9 $11
    Twilight Rate 5:30 pm and later $3 $5

 

Maryknoll Park: 

  • “The Splash Park features 12 spray pieces including: water tower, team spray, water tunnel, aqua dome, and zero-depth pad. The 2022 season will run from May 28th to Labor Day.”
  • Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
  • Sunday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Child Admission (ages 12 months to 14 years): $3
    Children must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Adult Admission (ages 15+): $1

 

Millenium Park Crown Fountain: 

  • 201 E. Randolph St., between Michigan Ave. and Columbus Ave.
  • “The fountain by Jaume Plensa consists of two 50-foot glass block towers at each end of a shallow reflecting pool. The towers project video images from a broad social spectrum of Chicago citizens, a reference to the traditional use of gargoyles in fountains, where faces of mythological beings were sculpted with open mouths to allow water, a symbol of life, to flow out.”

 

Moore Park Spray Ground – Geneva:

  • The Sprayground is open June 4th – September 3rd
    Monday – Thursday from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
    Friday – Sunday from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

 

Mundelein Spray Park

  • 1401 N Midlothian Rd
  • Residents: Free
    Non-residents: $5
  • Daily: 10 am – 5 pm (Two 30 min shutdowns at noon & 2:30)

 

Oak Brook Splash Island:

  • Hours: Mon-Fri: 10am-8pm    I   Sat/Sun: 10am-3:30pm
  • Members: Free
    Residents: $10
    Non-Residents: $12

 

Otter Cove Splash Park:

  • 3615 Campton Hills Rd, St. Charles
  • Daily admission: 11AM – 7:30 PM.
    • Res: $11; NR: $16
  • Twilight Swim starts at 5:30 PM for $7 pp admission, walk ups only
  • Splash Park – RES $3/NR $5 (only applicable Aug 10-Sep 5 during non-Open Swim hours)

 

Prospect Park Splash Pad:

  • 733 N Prospect Ave, Park Ridge
  • The Splash Pad features a large, pirate-themed water play area surrounded by beautiful Prospect Park.
  • Daily Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM
  • All Ages: $5 Resident / $8 Non-Resident

 

Prairie Point Splash Pad (Oswego):

  • 4120 Plainfield Rd, Oswego
  • “With 17 spray and play features, this park is sure to be a busy place all summer long, offering a refreshing reprieve on hot days. The Splash Pad is free to use. Be sure to bring your towel!”
  • 11:00 AM-7:30 PM

 

Rosemont Splash Pad:

  • Margaret J. Lange Splash Pad: The Splash Pad is a zero-depth aquatic playground with a variety of water jets. A fun and wet way to cool off during the hot summer days!  Visitors must visit the front desk at Margaret J. Lange Park to obtain a wristband
  • Hours:
    • Monday-Friday: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
    • Saturday: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
    • Sunday: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
  • Fee:
    • Residents: Free
    • Non-residents: $7
    • Parents and non walking infants are free

 

Skokie Water Playground: 

  • 4701 Oakton St, Skokie
  • “Take a leisurely dip in our 14,000 square foot main pool with beach entry, play in our fully accessible splash pad, take a ride down one of our three big slides or take the challenge and stand beneath the big red bucket and get drenched when 300 gallons of water come crashing down!”
  • Weekdays                          12:30–7 p.m.
  • Weekends                11 a.m.– 6  p.m.
Skokie Resident Evanston Resident Non-Resident
Public Swim* $8 $10 $16
Lap Swim $4 $7 $7

 

South Ridge Park – Hoffman Estates

  • 1450 Freeman Road
  • 10 AM – 8 PM
  • FREE
  • An amazing splash pad & playground combo!
  • Newly built in 2018 so very clean and modern!
  • The playground also features a ninja warrior course!
  • There are bathrooms and some covered picnic tables.
  • Astro Turf instead of grass so be cautious as it can be very hot on the feet!
  • The splash pad and playground are right next to each other so children are able to run back and forth.

 

Ty Warner Park – Westmont

 

  • General Admission Rates
    Resident Child: $4
    Non Resident Child: $6
    Adults  Free
  • Hours: 9:30am – 6:00pm on weekdays & 9:30am – 4:00pm on weekends

 

 

 

Water Parks

 

Barefoot Bay Aquatic Center (Mundelein):

  • “Barefoot Bay is a six acre, family water retreat. The aquatic center offers amenities for swimmers of all ages. Please view Barefoot Bay’s amenities below or follow the links to read more about the park.”
  • Open: June 3rd–Aug 13th
  • Barefoot Bay hours
    • General public: 11 am – 7 pm
  • Youth: $13 resident/$19 nonresident
    Adult: 
    $13 resident/$19 nonresident
    Senior (Ages 55+): 
    $11 resident/$17 nonresident
  • No outside food or coolers are allowed.

 

Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad

  • 1100 West Wood Street
  • Water Park Hours: Tue-Su 12:00-7:00P
Rate Youth (ages 3-17) Adult (Ages 18+)
Weekdays, Noon – 5 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday $11 $14
Weekdays, After 5 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday $7 $7
Weekends, Noon – 5 p.m. Friday-Sunday $13 $16
Weekends, After 5 p.m. Friday-Sunday $8 $8
  • Under 2 Free

 

Centennial Park Aquatic Center (Orland Park):

  • 15600 West Avenue, Orland Park
  • 11 am – 7 pm M-Fri; 12 pm – 8 pm Sat/Sun
  • “Centennial Water Park is a fun and exciting family water park offering a zero-depth pool surrounded by plenty of deck and lawn for lounging and a water play feature for little ones. You’ll enjoy using two body speed slides, 328-foot tube slide, 200-foot flume slide, platform cliff jump, and drop slide surrounded by the lazy river, which offers a relaxing ride around bends and under waterfalls.”
  • Resident $12 |  $9 (after 4 pm)
    Non-residents $25, $26 Fr-Sun / holidays

 

Great Wolf Lodge (Gurnee):

  • There are full day and half day passes!
  • A full day is open to close and a half day pass is 4 pm – close
  • Weekday pricing is cheaper than weekend pricing.
  • Check Groupon for deals

 

Mystic Waters in Des Plaines:

  • “Featuring two exciting 37 foot slides – some of the highest in the area, and a variety of fun spaces, Mystic Waters is filled with activities for all ages. After braving the big slides of Otter’s Run, enjoy the daring drop slides and cliff dives in Sea Lion Falls. Need to relax? Mystic Waters offers the Crocodile Cove lazy river, with 550 feet of inner tube floating fun, and the expansive Dolphin Bay: a zero depth leisure pool where you can enjoy fountains, jet sprays and a child-size dolphin slide. For the youngest (and the young at heart), Beluga Beach is just right. It features water-spray stands on a non-slip surface with no free-standing water, making it an enjoyable introduction to water park fun for tots and other non-swimmers. Beluga Beach includes all kinds of splashtacular fun, with multiple water sprays and a very cool jungle gym.”
  • Regular Season: June 3rd–August 13th:
    Sunday–Thursday: 11:00a–8:00p
    Friday and Saturday: 11:00a–9:00p
  • Daily Admission General Admission Resident Admission
    Adult $19.00 $15.00
  • 6$ cooler fee

 

Phillips Park Aquatic Center:  

  • 828 Montgomery Road, Aurora
  • Admission:
    • Mon – Thurs: 10:30 – 5 PM
    • Fri – Sun: 12:30 – 6 PM
    • Weekday: $8(R) / $12(N); Weekend: $9(R) / $13(N); Children Under 2: Free
  • Outside food and beverage allowed

 

Splash Country Water Park

  • 195 S. Barnes Rd., Aurora
    • Six-lane zero-depth pool with children’s play features
    • Second-largest lazy river in Illinois, with 1,100 feet winding through dumping buckets, sprayers, jets and a bubbling rapids
    • One winding, enclosed tube/flume slide
    • One winding, open tube/flume slide
    • Enclosed kid-friendly area with spray guns, waterfall and other
      interactive features for kids under 48 inches tall
  • Hours:
    • Mon – Thurs 12:30 – 7
    • Fri – Sun 10:30 – 5
    • Parent Tot Swim: 9:30 – 11:30 AM
  • Weekday: $8(R) / $12(N)
    Weekend: $9(R) / $13(N)
  • Outside food & beverage allowed

 

Raging Rivers (Grafton):

  • “Come relax with a great view of the Mississippi River while enjoying fast-paced rides or relaxing and soaking up the sun. Featuring a wave pool, body flumes, tube rides, Itty Bitty Surf City for the little ones, and a wide variety of menu choices, Raging Rivers is the perfect place to spend your summer days!”
  • Hours: Mon – Fri 10 AM – 5 PM, Sat & Sun 10 AM – 6 PM

 

Raging Waves (Yorkville):

  • Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM
  • “With 32 waterslides, a 1/4 mile lazy river, a HUGE wave pool, and 3 gigantic kiddie areas, Illinois’ Largest waterpark sits on 58 acres just 45 minutes away from Chicago.”

 

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor:

  • “Hurricane Harbor Chicago, the 20-acre water park on Six Flags Great America property, is located between Chicago and Milwaukee and offers fun in the summer sun for the entire family with 25 splash-filled attractions, including the world’s tallest water coaster, thrilling water slides and kids’ splash pads. If your family is looking for things to do in or around Chicago, IL you’ve come to the right place. With towering exciting water slides, relaxing lazy river and wave pool, and splash parks for the kids, Hurricane Harbor Chicago has something for everyone!”
  • Hours: 11 AM – 6 PM

 

The Water Works (Schaumburg):

  • 505 N. Springinsguth Rd
  • This indoor water park is located inside the Community Recreation Center
  • Hours
    • Mon.-Fri.: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    • Sat. & Sun.: 12 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • Residents: $8 per person
  • Non-Residents: $12 per person
  • Children 2 and younger are free

 

White Water Canyon Water Park (Tinley Park):

  • 8221 W 171st St,Tinley Park
  • June 3rd – August  13th:  12:00 pm to 8:00 pm / Members only may enter at 11:30 am
  • Residents of the Tinley Park-Park District: $10 ($5 after 5:00 p.m.) – ($5 after 4:00 p.m. starting August 16th)
    Non-resident: $20 all day
  • “White Water Canyon Water Park is 5 acres of swimming, splashing, sliding, water fun for the whole family!  The main pool features a zero-depth entry with an interactive children’s play area, a 1-meter diving board, and a 3-meter drop slide. Our continuously flowing lazy river is your place to relax in a single or double inner tube as you gently float around the 600-foot river. It will be your choice to take the adventure channel with splash buckets or main on the relaxing path of this winding waterway.The Spray Ground is full of interactive fountains, water cannons, arches that spray, flowers that squirt, and buckets that dump.”

 

 

 

Beaches / Rec. Lakes

 

 

Batavia Park District Quarry Park

  • May 27th – August 13th
  • Operating Hours:
    • Daily: Opens for season pass holders at 11:30 am
    • Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays: 12:00-7:00 pm
    • Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays: 12:00-6:00 pm
    • Twilight hours on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: 5:00-7:00 pm
  • Daily Admission:
    • Resident: $10; Nonresident: $15
    • Twilight resident: $5; Twilight nonresident: $7
  • Check Groupon for deals!

 

Centennial Beach (Naperville):

  • Memberships are available for purchase by both residents and nonresidents.
  • “Centennial Beach is an historic quarry that holds 6.2 million gallons of water that starts with zero depth and goes as deep as 15 feet. Amenities include a historic bathhouse, Centennial Grill, picnic areas, sand play area, water features, slide, diving boards, sand volleyball, bag toss, and grass areas with adirondack chairs.”
  • Hours: Mon – Fri 11:30 AM – 8 PM; Sat: 11 AM – 8 PM; Sun: 11 AM – 6 PM

 

 

 

 

 

Diamond Lake Beach

  • Mundelein
  • 1016 Diamond Lake Rd.
  • Hours:
    Daily 12-5 pm
  • Daily Admission:
     $5 resident/$10 nonresident
  • “Diamond Lake Recreation Beach is located on 100 acres. It includes a natural lake, sand beach, grassy areas, and a shaded picnic grove.  Diamond Lake Beach is a recreational destination for swimming, boating, boat and shelter rentals, special events, and more. Enjoy Diamond Lake Beach’s sandy shoreline, great swimming, kids’ playground on the sand, shaded picnic areas, and more. Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available for rent for an enjoyable excursion on the water.”

 

Evanston Beaches:

  • 5 of Evanston’s beaches are open for public swimming
  • Beaches will be free to Evanston residents and discounted for Skokie residents.
  • Physical daily passes are not available at recreation centers.
  • Daily passes can be purchased in person at the following facilities during office hours during the beach season.
    • Dempster Street Beach Office, 1251 Lake Shore Bld.
    • Clark Street Beach Office, 1811 Sheridan Rd.
  • Non-Resident (Digital) Daily Beach Passes can be purchased on the Viply app

 

Glencoe Beach:

  • 55 Hazel Ave, Glencoe
  • “Right in your own backyard is Lake Michigan’s most beautiful spot on the North Shore, Glencoe Beach. The beach is ideal for group and family outings, work picnics, or summer camp groups! Lifeguards are on duty daily during beach season.”
  • Regular Season June 10th – September 4th: 10 AM – 7 PM
  • Daily admission may be purchased after 12 PM on weekdays at the beach.
  • The Paul & Ada Safran Sprayground water is on 10 AM-6 PM
  • 2023 Daily Admission Fees Fee
    Under Age 2 Free
    Resident $10
    Non-resident $20

 

The Beach at Hi-Tide Campground (Leland)

  • Leland, IL
  • Younger kids will enjoy the smooth sandy beach and shallow area of the lake, while the older kids enjoy large water toys that will keep them entertained all day long!
  • Purchase a daily pass or book a camping spot for the night / weekend!

 

Illinois Beach State Park (Zion)

  • Illinois Beach State Park is located along the shores of Lake Michigan from Waukegan to the Wisconsin state line. The park offers a campground, full service resort, camp store, picnic areas, hiking and biking trails and a visitors center open intermittently throughout the year. There is swimming along the six miles of beaches.
  • The newly renovated Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center is back open for your lodging and beach stay!

 

Lake Zurich: Paulus Park and Breezewald Park Beach

  • Paulus Park Beach: Noon – 7 PM
    Paulus Park Sprayground: 10 AM – 7 PM
    Paulus Park Wibits: Not available this season
    Breezewald Park Beach: Noon – 7
  • Admission Rates:
Resident Non-Resident
3 & under Free Free
Age 4+ $9 $11
Senior 62+ $6 $8
Twilight Rate 5:30 pm and later $4 $6

 

Oval Beach (Saugatuck, MI)

  • “Celebrated around the world for its beautiful sweep of shoreline and backdrop of rolling dunes, this is the main beach (out of 6!) in town and the most happening place to soak in the sun.”
  • Parking: $10/day, $50/season. (9 AM – 8 PM)
    Or ride the chain ferry or Interurban bus for $1.
    Free from Labor Day to Memorial Day.
  • A short 2.5 hr drive from Chicago!

 

Riviera Beach (Lake Geneva, WI)

  • The City of Lake Geneva is offering three ways to purchase beach passes. Cash using $10 bills only or Debit/Credit Card at the 3 beach Kiosks. Avoid long lines by downloading the VIPLY app to your smartphone.

 

Rosewood Beach Highland Park

  • “Rosewood features a nature cove for ecological and nature programs, guarded swimming beach, and a recreation beach. Nestled against Rosewood’s wooded bluffs is a one-of-a-kind beachfront Interpretive Center and amenity buildings including concessions, restrooms, and guard buildings connected by a boardwalk that runs the length of Rosewood Beach.”
  • Hours: 10am-6pm Daily
  • Non-resident Season Pass –  $100 (head of household) $25 (each additional household member)
    Non-resident Daily Pass – $10 per person

 

Silver Lake Beach (Kenosha, WI)

  • Clear water and just a hop over the border!
  • Resident $10.00 per vehicle
    Non-resident $20.00 per vehicle
  • The beach will be open through Labor Day, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

 

Three Oaks Recreation Area (Crystal Lake)

  • The beach, splash pad and playground will be open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
  • Located in the Lake House complex, the splash pad is a special treat for toddlers and younger children, with ground-based water jets that spray into the open air while buckets of water are poured overhead
  • The use of flotation devices such as rafts, noodles, lounges, water wings, etc. are not permitted. Only life jackets approved by the Coast Guard are allowed. Life jackets are available for use at the Lake House Complex for no additional charge.
  •  Non-Resident Admission  Non-Resident Admission After 4:00 PM
     Adults (16 and Older)  $10.00  Adults (16 and Older)  $5.00
     Seniors (62 and Older)  $6.00  Seniors (62 and Older)  $3.00
     Youth (4-15 Years)  $6.00  Youth (4-15 Years)  $3.00
     Ages 3 and Under  Free  Ages 3 and Under  Free
  • Make sure to check out the wakeboard park as well!

 

Washington Park Beach (Michigan City, IN)

  • “This 140-acre park has 2 miles of pristine beach, the Washington Park Zoo, the Michigan City Senior Center, a restaurant, concessions, the Oasis Splash Park, public art, amphitheater, a marina, public fishing, and more!
  • Open daily, 5 AM – 10 PM
  • Admission is $15 per vehicle per day

 

Happy Swimming!


Juneteenth Chicago 2023


June 19th is the REAL freedom day when the word that slavery had ended finally reached the enslaved people of Galveston, TX.

A holiday just as important as the 4th of July, and with Chicago being a major destination

of freed African Americans fleeing the Jim Crow south in the Great Migration,

this is the perfect city to celebrate in!

 

Here are some fantastic ways to celebrate this weekend!

 

 

 

Juneteenth Story Time

  • Remember our virtual story time from 2020? If you can’t make it out to any of the below events, watch our Colors of Chicago story time of Juneteenth For Maisie!

 

 

 

Juneteenth Jubilee at Bronzeville Children’s Museum

  • Saturday, June 17th from 1 -3 PM
  • 9301 S. Stony Island Ave
  • $5 per person, members free
  • Interactive fun activities!

 

Juneteenth & Father’s Day Celebration

  • Harold Washington Cultural Center Parking Lot: 4701 S. King Dr.
  • Sunday, 6-18-23 from 1 -3 PM
  • “M.A.D.D. Rhythms returns on SundayJune 18th at 1 p.m. with the arts partners of the Harold Washington Cultural Center and Bronzeville businesses, for its annual Juneteenth celebration. This afternoon celebration includes live dance, DJ and music, complimentary food, workshops, raffles, art and children’s activities.”
  • Performances by M.A.D.D Rhythms, Sammy Dyer School of the Theatre, Blu Rhythms Cru, Broadway In Bronzeville, The Happiness Club, & Chicago Tap Theatre
  • Free admission

 

Juneteenth Freedom Ride on the Major Taylor Trail

  • Monday, June 19th 9 AM – 12 PM
  • Dan Ryan Woods Visitor Center: S Western Ave & W 87th St, Chicago
  • “Come out and celebrate Juneteenth with the Forest Preserves of Cook County on the Major Taylor Trail! This will be a 16-mile round trip ride on paved trails from Dan Ryan Woods to Whistler Woods. There will be an option to turn around early and shorten the ride to 8 miles. Check-in will begin at 8 am at Dan Ryan Woods Visitor Center and the ride will start at 9 am. Youth must be accompanied by an adult and helmets must be worn by all participants. A limited supply of helmets will be available to riders who need one.”

 

Beverly / Morgan Park Juneteenth Family Festival

  • Saturday, June 17th 2023
  • Beverly / Morgan Park: 110th & Longwood Dr.
  • 11 AM – 7 PM
    • Dancers, drummers, singers, and dancers will be gracing the stage!
    • Activities for all age groups, from sports, storytelling, and games for children to dance, drumming, and healing circles for adults.
    • Vendors selling interesting items, including Afrocentric retail, clothing, art, hand-made gifts, toys, jewelry, accessories, and more!
    • Attendees will have access to health education, vaccinations, dental exams, mental health resources, health screenings, health and fitness workshops, and more!
    • Attendees can purchase delicious food and sweet treats from some of Chicago’s best restaurant vendors and popular food trucks!

 

1865 Fest

  • Friday – Sunday, June 16th – 18th 2023
  • GARFIELD PARK’S MUSIC COURT DRIVE (THE CIRCLE) MADISON & MONROE/HAMLIN & CENTRAL PARK, CHICAGO, IL
  • Friday:
    • -Honoring Black Veterans & Current Military Service Members
    • Flag Raising Ceremony
  • Saturday & Sunday:
    • Cultural family activities, educational workshops, live music & food
  • Sunday
    • Fathers Day Grill off
    • Arts and Entertainment
    • Music & food

 

Juneteenth “Community Recommitment” Celebration

  • Monday, June 19th 10 AM – 7 PM
  • “Paint The Hood Orange In Pullman” The color orange represents the national anti-gun violence movement and the event’s mission of violence prevention.
  • The day of festivities begins at 10 a.m. with a parade that leads into the block party and basketball tournament.

 

 

Dusable Museum Juneteenth Community BBQ

  • Monday, June 19th: 10 am – 8 pm
    • Special tribute celebrations for the 50th anniversary of hip hop
    • Petting zoo, horseback riding, drum village, inflatables, games, music, food, and more!
  • Emmett Till & Mamie Till-Mobley: Let the World See is a touring exhibit created in collaboration with the Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley Institute, the Emmett Till Interpretive Center, the Till family, and The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. It tells the story of Emmett Till and his mother, Mamie Till-Mobley, challenging visitors to make a ripple for justice in their own communities. This exhibit will be at The Dusable Museum until July 16th.

 

Civil War to Civil Rights at Oak Woods Cemetery

  • Free on Monday June 19th
  • Advance reservations required
  • 1035 E. 67th St., by the S. Greenwood Ave. gate
  • “Hear the stories behind the people buried at the beautiful and tranquil Oak Woods Cemetery on Chicago’s South Side, from important local African Americans who fought for Civil Rights to Confederate prisoners of war.”

 

2023 Juneteenth Village Fest

  • FREE family-fun with rides, games, food, and more to celebrate Juneteenth! Hosted by Chicago’s It Takes A Village Family of Schools.
  • Sunday, June 18th 12 – 8
  • Anna & Frederick Douglass Park 1401 S. Sacramento Dr Chicago, IL 60623

 

Chicago Mahogany Tours

  • Come explore Chicago’s historic Bronzeville neighborhood w/ Dilla!
  • Book online to reserve a time slot for Sunday June 18th
  • “Visit sites like the birth place of Black History Month, the Eighth Infantry Armory, and the Supreme Liberty Life Insurance Building. Gain a better perspective of the historic south side and learn how it changed the world. From the 1st open heart surgery, to Ida B. Wells-Barnett mansion there is a ton of history to be seen. And we can’t forget Pilgrim Baptist Church, which is consider the birth place of gospel music.”

 

The Woodlawn’s Juneteenth Block Party

  • Monday, June 19th from 12 PM – 8 PM
  • The Woodlawn 1200: 1200 East 79th Street Chicago
  • Mark your calendars for the incredible Juneteenth block party! Our talented DJs will spin infectious tunes that will keep you grooving all afternoon. Treat your taste buds to a delectable array of culinary delights from a variety of food vendors. Join us from 12-8 and immerse yourself in the celebration of freedom, accompanied by fantastic music, mouthwatering food, and unforgettable family fun. Don’t miss this vibrant Juneteenth experience!

 

Liberated: A Juneteenth Celebration

  • Forest Park Public Library: 7555 Jackson Boulevard Forest Park
  • Saturday, June 17 · 11am – 2pm
  • “Together we are honoring this beloved holiday through art, music and community! We’ll have a writing circle,children’s books, arts and crafts and even a reflection/open mic segment towards the end of the program. So yes, there will be something for the whole family! Also, did we mention that food will be sponsored by Chicago Chicken and Waffles in Oak Park? Yes, our community partners are adding a delicious meal to add to the celebration. Can’t wait to see you there and check out our Juneteenth collection to rock your Black Art gear at the event.”

 

Evanston’s Juneteenth Parade and Celebration

  • Saturday, June 17th, 2023
  • Parade start time: 10:30 AM Robert Crown Community Center
  • Celebration: Noon – 6 PM Ingraham Park (back of Civic Center)
  • “Juneteenth (6/19) is a historic day that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. It is a day of celebration, remembrance, and reflection and is now a federal holiday! In honor of this day, we are organizing the 4th annual Juneteenth Parade to celebrate the Black community’s resilience and contributions to our society.
    The parade will provide an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the progress that has been made since Juneteenth, but also recognize the work that still needs to be done to achieve true equality while bringing more awareness by parading in the streets.”

 

Naperville’s Juneteenth Celebration

  • Rotary Hill 440 Aurora Avenue Naperville
  • Saturday, June 17 · 12 – 3pm
  • “Join Naperville Neighbors United as we celebrate Juneteenth with the community. Bring your friends and family to enjoy the music of Harmony & Soul as well as the Divine Sound Gospel Choir. Feel free to bring your lawn chairs and blankets! We will have soul food tastings available!”

 

Oak Park’s Juneteenth Celebration

  • June 18th
  • Parade starts at 11 AM followed by Community cookout until 5 PM
  • “The parade steps off at 11 a.m. from Longfellow Park near Jackson Boulevard and will march north on Ridgeland Avenue to Augusta Street. Community groups and organizations are invited to participate in the parade, which is being organized by members of the community. Following the parade, a community cookout sponsored by the Village and the Park District of Oak Park will be held at Taylor Park, 400 Division St. The cookout will feature food (barbecued meat, vegan options, dessert), drinks, a DJ, live entertainment, games and more. Ahimsa Yoga Studio will also be providing free yoga classes at Taylor Park during the cookout at 2 p.m.”

 

 Juneteenth Joy Fest

  • June 24th, 2023 from 2-5 PM
  • Berwyn: Proksa Park, 3001 Wisconsin Ave
  • “Happy Juneteenth! Our goal is to infuse Black Lives Matter & Black Liberation content with Black Music Month into a celebration of life and manifestation of freedom while showcasing unity.Please join us in advocating and in celebrating!”
  • Food, music, games, double dutch contest

 

Eat at a Black owned restaurant. The full list of restaurants is available at the Black People Eats Instagram account: 

 

Don’t forget about our Bronzeville Scavenger Hunt!

  • Thousands of African Americans fled the Jim Crow south and created a Black metropolis in the Bronzeville area of Chicago.
  • Juneteenth is the perfect day to explore this historical area and our scavenger hunt from Black History Month is a wonderful way to explore!

 

A Black History Scavenger Hunt Through Bronzeville


Explore all Bronzeville has to offer with this compilation of historical sites. Including a free coloring printable for the kids!



2022 Chicagoland Apple Orchards


Nothing says fall like apple picking in Chicagoland!


2022 U-Pick Flower Farms Near Chicagoland


There is still time to score that cute sunflower pic for the gram! Check out what flower farms are in the Chicagoland area!


Juneteenth in Chicago 2022


Juneteenth is a holiday just as important as the 4th of July, and with Chicago being a major destination of freed African Americans fleeing the Jim Crow south in the Great Migration, this is the perfect city to celebrate in! Enjoy all of these family friendly events this weekend! How will you choose just one?


A 2022 Locally Sourced Easter in Chicago


Support local this spring and support local businesses for your Easter Basket stuffers and desserts! Plus fun activities to enjoy!


St. Patricks Day in Chicagoland 2022


The parades are back and the river will run green! Happy St. Patrick’s Day Chicago!


Valentine’s Day in Chicagoland 2022


Let’s show the love this Valentine’s Day to the Chicagoland businesses that need our support the most! Enjoy this list of local businesses as well as awesome events going on this month!