5 Ways to Ring in Spring in the Chicago Southland

The season of spring is enthusiastically welcomed after the months of cold and snow. Warmer temperatures and longer spans of daylight usher us into a new season full of possibilities. While consistent shorts and flip flop weather is still ways off, the pockets of sunshine and warmth do their best to lure us out of our cozy nests and outdoors. If you’ve got spring fever and are looking for some outdoor activities to indulge in, here’s some inspiration for your spring outings:

OUTDOOR PICKLEBALL 

Maybe you’re an avid player who has been hitting the indoor courts over the winter months and maybe you are a newbie who has yet to try out this fun sport that has exploded in recent years. Whether you’re picking up a paddle for the first time or an experienced player who is itching to play outside again, you’ll find a number of courts in parks around the Chicago Southland to play, including in Orland Park, Lansing and Frankfort.

BROOKFIELD ZOO CHICAGO

What is better in springtime than a day outside at the zoo watching babies of species of all kinds frolic in their new surroundings? Brookfield Zoo Chicago is a perfect place for a day trip with the family, with friends or even solo. View more than 5,000 animals on this 235-acre site. Watch a dolphin show, see penguins waddling their way around, ride a carousel, experience a rain forest habitat and much more.

Now through May 10^th (Thursdays -Sundays), the Glow Wild lantern festival transforms the night into a glowing celebration of art, culture and conservation. Wander illuminated pathways surrounded by handcrafted lanterns inspired by wildlife global traditions and mythical worlds. For tickets: https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/events/glow-wild.

This breathtaking outdoor experience is perfect for families couples and anyone who loves immersive nighttime events. Every ticket comes with free parking and free rides on the carousel and Ferris wheel.

SET OUT TO DO SOME CYCLING

Sunshine and bicycles just go together. Take advantage of some of that spring sunshine, hop on your bike and hit one of the many miles of trails. Old Plank Road Trail is a great place to start. This 20+ mile trail features paved pathways winds through prairies, wooded areas, parks and shopping and dining districts. Make a day of it and pedal away!

OUTDOOR ART EXCURSION 

If you're an art lover, the Chicago Southland is perfect place to take an afternoon and enjoy the public art that is all around. Combine the pleasant weather with a walk through the theNate (Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park) on the campus of Governors State University where you'll see thought-provoking, large-scale pieces scattered among this natural setting, walk through an art garden in Flossmoor or wander around downtown Homewood taking in the impressive illusion murals by Richard Haas.

RELAX BY THE WATER

There's a place in the Chicago Southland that is an 85-acre refuge where you can wander nature trails, drop a pole in the water, glide along in a kayak or take in the beautiful sights and sounds of a natural waterfall. If being around water is something that is super soothing to you, you'll want to plan a visit to Lake Katherine Nature Center. In 2005, the center was created as a non-profit and it's continuing its mission of connecting people to nature. Spend a sunny, serene day exploring this tranquil location and letting the water take you away.

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