North Park Nature Center

By Christine Escobar

North Park Nature Center is a 46 acre nature preserve managed by the Chicago Park District on the city's northwest side.

A valuable spot for city parents who want to introduce their preschoolers to nature, The Nature Center hosts special events and classes for parents and preschoolers throughout the year.

What Preschoolers Can Discover at North Park Nature Center 

In addition to the winding trails that lead throughout the grounds leading visitors through woods, savannah and prairie, the Nature Center also includes a main building with a children's discovery room stocked with puzzles, puppets, artifacts and other interactive displays. The center's many classes are held in this building as well. 

While visiting the nature center, preschoolers may glimpse the many deer that reside on the grounds. They can also get close to the Nature Center's aquatic life in one of its many ponds. Though individual trail maps are not usually available, trail maps are posted for visitors at the entrance to the trails. There are options for short and long hikes. Wooded hikes are especially nice, since the abundant shade often gives the impression that city noise is far, far away. Shorter hikes may be just the right thing for young children who could tire easily on longer hikes.

Classes and Programs for Preschoolers at North Park Nature Center

Special events and classes include evening hikes for families, Maple Syrup and Harvest festivals, theatre hikes, turtle club meetings, storytime by the fireplace, yoga for kids and parents together, and other interactive nature classes for preschoolers and older kids. Registration and fees are required for some of the programs and classes. A complete listing can be found in the Nature Center newsletter available to visitors at the main building.

Details

Address: 5801 N. Pulaski Road
Phone: 312-744-5472
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Open 7 Days a Week 362 days a year (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day)
Free admission
Map