Best Nature and Parks (RV, National, Dog, etc) in Oak Brook

"Named for a former first lady of the city who passed away in 2011, Maggie Daley Park is one of Grant Park’s newest treasures. Laid out by landscape architect Michael Van Valkenburgh, the park opened in the northeast corner of Grant Park 2014 and shines for its recreation and family facilities. The whimsical Play Garden, for kids up to 12, is a playground like you’ve never seen, with six different zones like the Watering Hole which has a giant breaching whale, and the Enchanted Forest where you’ll walk under upside down trees ."

"Another scenic spot to spend some time is the magnificent Maggie Daley Park which lies within the Loop and is connected to Millennium Park by a pedestrian bridge. Packed with playgrounds, picnic areas, and lush green spaces, it is a very family-friendly place to visit with even climbing walls and a mini-golf course on offer. Named for Maggie Daley, the former first lady of the city, the park was re-imagined, redesigned and reopened in 2015."

"Set in the heart of downtown Chicago, Maggie Daley Park is newly-renovated and full of adventure. From climbing facilities to a massive skating ribbon, there’s no shortage of things to try. The park is beautifully landscaped, too."

"The Wooden Pavilion at the Lincoln Park Zoo’s South Pond is a fantastic way to frame Chicago’s skyline around the John Hancock Center. Additionally the structure itself is fun to photograph and a fun spot for portraits. South Pond on Google Maps"

"Located at the north end of Lincoln Park Zoo, the Lincoln Park Conservatory features four serene greenhouses (Orchid House, Fern Room, Palm House and Show House) all displaying fantastic arrays of flora. During summer, venture outdoors to find a lush, French garden filled with a large variety of plants and flowers, and a beautiful fountain. Many Chicago residents utilize this space to sit and read, toss a football around, let their kids run freely or just take in the beauty of nature."

"The Lincoln Park Zoo and Lincoln Park Conservatory are both fun to wander through, but I love Lincoln Park for its cafes, boutiques, and adorable homes. Armitage Avenue is a perfect spot to boutique-hop for the afternoon. I love Art Effect for cute gifts (and travel accessories!), and Interior Define is fun to check out for home decor. If it’s one of those hot, sticky midwestern summer days and you’re not up for shopping, check out one of the nearby beaches along Lake Michigan."

"Visitors to this hidden gem will enjoy oak savanna, a forest, wetland and prairie all in one area. There are three trails from which to choose and explore: main loop, wetland and woodland and while you can take as long as you'd like, it's possible to do them all within an hour if you're in a hurry (although hopefully you're not because you want to stop at the lily pond, gaze at the free roaming deer and catch a turtle or finches as you take in the fresh air and scenery). Early Spring, locals from all over the city come by for the annual Maple Tree Tapping Festival where kids can enjoy free activities and see demonstrations on the Maple syrup process."

"North ParkYou could do worse than strolling through this 46-acre nature preserve with trails that wind through woodland, wetland, prairie, and savannah. You could also do worse than just chilling at the birding area and spotting rare specimens with your well-practiced/made-up bird calls."

"Poke is making some serious waves in Chicago, and much of it started with this seafood-centric company that has opened four locations in just one year. Credit that success to crazy fresh fish, affordable price points and as many toppings as you can fit into the "little" or "big" bowls, priced at just $7.50 and $9.50, respectively. Ahi tuna poke bowl | Photo: Aloha Pokē Co."

"The final restaurant on the list of the best places to get Seafood in Chicago is Truluck’s Chicago. Truluck’s Chicago specializes in seafood and prime steaks. The seafood is always fresh as well."

"Inspired by the nostalgia of trekking across the States and stopping into roadside diners full of charm along the way, Eleven City has that classic, old-school atmosphere you want to go with your burger and milkshake. Here, breakfast is served all day, including a make-your-own omelet bar, but don’t you dare sleep on their loaded mac-and-cheese either. Needless to say, Eleven City Diner has it all and more."

"Restaurants Diners Loop. Owner Brad Rubin scoured the country to research this Jewish deli/diner. His pastrami is tender, fatty and full of flavor; the milkshakes are thick and oversized; matzo balls are enormous; and the brisket is good enough that any grandmother would want to claim it, Jewish or not."

"Mercadito has some of the best Mahi tacos you’ll ever taste, topped with chipotle aioli and Mexican coleslaw. Get ready for tacos to be your next favorite and go-to seafood dish. At UrbanMatter, U Matter."