Wheaton, IL is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts who also appreciate history and culture. The city boasts a plethora of green spaces that are perfect for hiking, bird watching, or simply enjoying natures beauty. At the same time, these outdoor areas reflect Wheatons rich history as well as its diverse and friendly community.
One of the top outdoor destinations in Wheaton is Cantigny Park (1S151 Winfield Road). This expansive park features beautiful gardens and stunning architecture that showcases military history. Visitors can explore historic tanks from World War II or stroll through more than 500 acres of beautiful landscapes which include over 160 varieties of shrubs and trees. Bird watchers will delight in spotting American Goldfinches or Indigo Buntings among the parks natural habitats.
If you prefer to venture out into untouched wilderness then head to Lincoln Marsh Natural Area (100298 W Union Ave). This nature preserve spans over 150 acres with trails winding through forests, wetlands and meadows overlooking Salt Creek where turtles may be seen sunning themselves on logs while fish jump peacefully behind them in search of food.
To discover any number cultural attractions tied directly to local nature scenes visit Cosley Zoo (1356 N Gary Ave) which represents native Illinois animals only so it offers an educational glimpse at what wildlife used to look like before habitat loss impacted their populations; Illman Island Nature Preserve(265 Canton Rd.) let visitors have upclose encounters with various species including painted turtles basking on rocks along creekside critters living amongst lush forested banks .
For those seeking more spiritual connections pay attention to Danada Forest Preserve(3N741 Winfield Rd.). It includes a herd horses maintained by Deicke Therapeutic Riding Center which helps children learn about animals emotions making this spot one truly special connection between humans and animals.
No matter where you go outside in Wheaton, IL, you can always expect to be surrounded by friendly locals who are happy to share their knowledge of the area. The citys charming community is a source of pride for residents and visitors alike. Whether its chatting with hikers on mutual trails or meeting a friendly horse at Danada Farms Preserve there are plenty of opportunities for making lasting connections while exploring the outdoors in Wheaton.
Scientifically speaking, these parks offer habitats that have been carefully studied by naturalists over time to ensure they reflect what native environments were like before agricultural land conversion wiped out much forested areas throughout Illinois Two examples include Cantigny Park which uses sciencebased ecological restoration techniques, and Butterfield Park (21W730 Butterfield Rd) located near downtown Wheaton has established birdhouses creating habitat essential for breeding purple martins attempting to reintroduce them back from declining populations.
List of websites:
Cantigny Park: https://www.cantigny.org/
Lincoln Marsh Natural Area: https://wheatonparkdistrict.com/facilities/lincolnmarshnaturalarea
Cosley Zoo: https://cosleyzoo.org/
Illman Island Nature Preserve: https://www.dupageforest.org/placestogo/forestpreserves/illmansisland
Danada Forest Preserve: https://www.dupageforest.org/placestogo/forestpreserves/danada
Twitter Handles:
1S151 Winfield Road Il
Wheaton, IL
United States
100298 W Union Ave Il
Wheaton, IL
United States
1356 N Gary Ave Il
Wheaton, IL
United States
265 Canton Rd. Il
Wheaton, IL
United States
3N741 Winfield Rd. Il
Wheaton, IL
United States
21W730 Butterfield Rd Il
Wheaton, IL
United States