Des Plaines offers accessible outdoor fun with hiking and biking trails, paddling on the Des Plaines River, and fishing spots. Popular for bird watching and winter cross-country skiing, it’s a convenient nature escape near Chicago.
Des Plaines offers accessible outdoor fun with hiking and biking trails, paddling on the Des Plaines River, and fishing spots. Popular for bird watching and winter cross-country skiing, it’s a convenient nature escape near Chicago.
Outdoor Recreation in Des Plaines, Illinois
Des Plaines, Illinois, provides easy access to a variety of outdoor activities suited for travelers seeking nature close to the city. Whether interested in river paddling or forest trails, visitors find something enjoyable year-round.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Des Plaines, Illinois special.
★ 7.5⌖ 23.13 milesExplore over 5.5 miles of scenic trails at Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve in Grayslake, IL. Ideal for hiking and birdwatching, it's a serene spot for viewing wildlife. Best visited in spring and fall for vibrant scenery.
★ 7.8⌖ 24.86 milesExplore Lyons Woods Forest Preserve, perfect for hiking and birdwatching near Waukegan, IL. Enjoy serene trails through lush forests and spot local wildlife. Ideal for nature walks in spring and fall.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Des Plaines, Illinois, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Des Plaines, Illinois.
⌖ 6.2 miA private, 35‑minute aerial tour operated out of Wheeling that flies a small plane over Chicago’s signature skyline and lakefront icons—this guide distills what to expect and how to prepare.
⌖ 7.8 miAn evening outing that pairs a 1.5-hour twilight canoe paddle (departing at 6pm) with a catered dinner, live music and a bonfire — this guide lays out what to expect and how to plan.
⌖ 10.1 miA 30-minute helicopter tour from Heli Chicago that flies past Woodfield Mall, Barrington Hills, the Grand Victoria Casino and along the Fox River — this guide explains what to expect and the essential logistics.
⌖ 11.6 miA 40‑minute, luxury twin‑engine helicopter flight out of Schaumburg Regional Airport that passes Chicago landmarks — this guide distills the practical details for families and small private groups.
⌖ 11.6 miA 45-minute helicopter tour launched from Schaumburg Regional Airport that carries you east to sweep past Chicago’s stadiums and skyline; this guide lays out what you’ll see and the logistics to get aboard.
⌖ 11.6 miA 45‑minute Warbird helicopter tour launching from Schaumburg Regional Airport that carries up to three people over Chicago’s signature landmarks; this guide covers the route, limits, and what to bring.
⌖ 11.6 miA focused, 105‑minute guided exploration of Uptown’s entertainment heyday and architectural evolution—this guide orients you to the tour’s route, meeting point, and what to bring.
⌖ 12.3 miA 1.5-hour immersive walking tour from the Historic Farnsworth House that examines paranormal encounters, Victorian death rituals, and culminates in a visit to the Farnsworth House cellar.
⌖ 13.3 miA one-hour, beginner-friendly pour-paint session in Aurora where participants pour vibrant paints onto figurines—useful for planning family outings, parties, or a solo creative hour.
⌖ 13.9 miA guided, 3-hour walking tour that samples New Haven, Chicago deep-dish and New York–style slices while visiting storied and contemporary pizzerias in Wicker Park and Bucktown.
⌖ 13.9 miA concise guide to a short, customizable downtown Chicago bike tour that covers Millennium Park, Navy Pier, the Museum Campus and other top sights.
⌖ 13.9 miA short, customizable bike transfer through downtown Chicago that covers up to two miles and the city’s signature landmarks—useful for travelers who need a fast, scenic orientation or a quick point‑to‑point ride.
⌖ 13.9 miRent a premium Yamaha jet ski on Lake Michigan with USCG‑approved life jackets provided; this guide explains rates, check‑in rules, and safety basics for Chicago Water Sport Rentals.
⌖ 13.9 miA full-day, 24-hour tandem kayak rental delivered to your location and outfitted with a leash, paddle, and one life jacket — essential details for planning a self-guided outing.
A three-hour private sailboat charter with a licensed captain that delivers skyline views, real sailing (not a motor cruise), and clear guidance on what to bring.
Make the most of your visit to Des Plaines, Illinois with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Des Plaines, Illinois hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Des Plaines, Illinois during the iconic Des Plaines River Canoe and Kayak Race. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Des Plaines, Illinois during the iconic Lake Park Fishing Derby. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Des Plaines, Illinois during the iconic Des Plaines Summer Concert Series. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Des Plaines, Illinois is surrounded by incredible protected natural lands offering pristine trails, wildlife habitats, and wilderness conservation.
Indiana Dunes National Park, located along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, offers a diverse landscape of dunes, wetlands, prairies, and forests and is renowned for its recreational opportunities and vibrant biodiversity.
Starved Rock State Park in Illinois is renowned for its stunning canyons and waterfalls, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the natural beauty of the Midwest.
Matthiessen State Park, located in central Illinois, offers striking sandstone canyons and abundant outdoor opportunities in a landscape shaped by historic geological forces.
Kettle Moraine State Forest is a diverse natural area in southeastern Wisconsin known for its unique glacial landforms, rich ecosystems, and extensive recreational opportunities including hiking, mountain biking, and skiing.
Check weather before paddling, as river levels can vary seasonally.
Some hiking and biking paths link to larger Cook County forest preserves.
Winter skiing conditions depend on snowfall; verify groomed trail status.
Watch for ticks and mosquitoes during warmer months when exploring wooded areas.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Des Plaines, Illinois. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.