QUICK LINKS: Explore Nature Spaces | Get Involved | Events | Programs
Throughout Chicago, our park system is filled with nature. Chicago parks contain nearly 2,000 acres of critical native habitat for local and migratory wildlife, accounting for more than 20% of the Park District’s total parkland. These unique places provide opportunities to explore, learn, and connect, while supporting physical and mental well-being. With so much to offer the nature enthusiast, it's no wonder that Chicago is dubbed the "City in a Garden."
Help keep wildlife wild, safe, and healthy by following posted signage and Natural Areas Rules and Regulations. For questions about nature in Chicago parks, email nature@chicagoparkdistrict.com.
Natural Areas
Discover local nature in over 100 natural areas across the city
Nature Centers
Explore three centers for family-friendly learning and fun
Nature Gardens
Visit designed native gardens showcasing Chicago’s natural beauty
Nature Play Spaces
Spark imaginative play in the great outdoors in these spaces for young adventurers
Get Involved
Discover nature in the city by joining a program, attending an event with family or friends, or taking a peaceful walk through a natural area. Volunteer in a natural area by participating in a community stewardship workday or check out one of the many community science projects happening throughout the parks year-round.
Events
RiverLab: Family Paddle at River
RiverLab: Family Paddle at River
RiverLab: Summer Float Paddle at River
RiverLab: Summer Float Paddle at River
Summer Soundwalks in the Park at Ping Tom
Looking at Leaves at NPV
Looking at Leaves at NPV
Community Roots: Drop-In Toddler Garden Hour at Skinner
Toddlers, Tunes, & Turtles at Wrightwood
Chicago Astronomer at Harrison
Goin' Fishing with Riot Fest at Douglass
RiverLab: Father's Day Paddle at River
RiverLab: Father's Day Paddle at River
Summer Soundwalks in the Park at Julia de Burgos
RiverLab: Father's Day Paddle at River
RiverLab: Father's Day Paddle at River
Astronomy in the Parks at Smith
Chicago Astronomer at Smith
Fungi Exploration at NPV
Fungi Exploration at NPV
Community Roots: Drop-In Toddler Garden Hour at Skinner
Toddlers, Tunes, & Turtles at Franklin
RiverLab: River Exploration Paddle at River
RiverLab: River Exploration Paddle at River
Toddlers, Tunes, & Turtles at Welles
RiverLab: Thursday Evening Paddle Club at River
RiverLab: Thursday Evening Paddle Club at River
Toddlers, Tunes, & Turtles at Kelvyn
Youth Learn to Climb at Steelworkers
Learn to Climb at Steelworkers
RiverLab: Early Morning Birding Paddle at River
RiverLab: Early Morning Birding Paddle at River
Family Fishing at Humboldt
Family Fishing at Montrose Harbor
Climbing Club at Steelworkers
Community Roots: Drop-In Toddler Garden Hour at Skinner
Learn to Lead Climb at Steelworkers
Toddlers, Tunes, & Turtles at Donovan
Toddlers, Tunes, & Turtles at Donovan
RiverLab: River Exploration Paddle at River
RiverLab: River Exploration Paddle at River
Toddlers, Tunes, & Turtles at Margate
RiverLab: Thursday Evening Paddle Club at River
RiverLab: Thursday Evening Paddle Club at River
Toddlers, Tunes, & Turtles at La Villita
Community Roots: Drop-In Toddler Garden Hour at Skinner
Hide and Seek: Nature’s Hidden Gems at Lawler
Toddlers, Tunes, & Turtles at Harrison
RiverLab: Canoe on the Lagoon at Marquette
RiverLab: Canoe on the Lagoon at Marquette
RiverLab: Early Morning Birding Paddle at Marquette
Family Fishing at Canal Origins
Native Plant Walk and Pollinator Exploration at Byrnes
RiverLab: Bird Walk at Marquette
Summer Soundwalks in the Park at Columbus Refectory
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Summer Soundwalks in the Park at Columbus Refectory
This event takes place at the Columbus Park Refectory, 5701 W. Jackson Blvd.
Community Roots: Drop-In Toddler Garden Hour at Skinner
Hide and Seek: Nature’s Hidden Gems at Mann
Toddlers, Tunes, & Turtles at Kilbourn
RiverLab: Canoe on the Lagoon at Garfield
RiverLab: Canoe on the Lagoon at Garfield
Family Fishing at Marquette
Family Fishing at Marquette
Family Fishing at Northerly Island
RiverLab: Fish Frenzy Paddle at Garfield
Summer Soundwalks in the Park at Jackson
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Summer Soundwalks in the Park at Jackson
This event takes place at Wooded Island in Jackson Park.