Enjoy the Last Weeks of Summer in the Chicago Southland

Once we turn the calendar to September, we dive head first into the fall vibes, but technically, summer isn’t over until the 3rd week of the month. There’s still plenty of sunshine to come and some prime summer days ahead to enjoy the final days of the season around the Chicago Southland. The pools may be closed for the season, but you can still take advantage of some fun outdoor entertainment, some outdoor markets, some trails and more to seize summer before it’s gone.

Shop the Flea Market

Spend some time shopping from the vendors at the indoor/outdoor Swap-O-Rama Flea Market, a Chicagoland tradition for more than 55 years. You can find up to 800 individual booths at bargain prices when you attend the market on Saturdays and Sundays. They also offer a Wednesday outdoor market.

Nature Play Days

These nature-themed pre-school programs for ages 3-5 are a great way to introduce young ones to the outdoors at Plum Creek Nature Preserve as they build tiny fairy homes and make wands and walking sticks.

Play at the Badlandz Paintball Field

Ready for some outdoor action? Get a group together and get out on the field for some paintball play in this wooded setting. Open on weekends and also by appointment for groups on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Ride at Big Marsh Bike Park

Get off road and try out one of the six unique trails that offer varying degrees of difficulties so that all riders can enjoy the routes. The park includes jump lines, a single-track trail and a 32,000-square foot pump  track. 

Rent a boat

Head out to the Monee Reservoir and rent a boat for a leisurely ride or to fish from. The Forest Preserve District of Will County offers rental of canoes, kayaks, rowboats and pedalboats.

Explore Nature at Sand Ridge Nature Center

Take a little walk around the grounds at Sand Ridge where you can view demonstration gardens, take in the wildlife, visit animal ambassadors, check out the log cabins and make your way through four miles of woodland and wetland trails.

Have adventure at The Forge

Experience a wide range of outdoor activities and events in this 300-acre park at Lemont Quarries. You'll find an adventure suitable for all ages, energy levels, abilities or interests - from a zipline to mini golf to paddle sports and more. It's been named one of the Best Aerial Adventure Parks in the country by USA Today.

Visit the Animals at The Center 

Get an up-close look at the farm animals that reside at The Center. The children's farm is open on weekends in September and the grand opening of the Pumpkin Playland will take place on September 20.

Go Fishing After Dark

Grab a pole and head out to drop a line at the fun Midnight Madness event on September 6 when Monee Reservoir stays open until midnight to give anglers an opportunity to catch when the fish are more active.

Related Articles