Illinois , USA

Discover Aurora Illinois Hiking Getaway

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About this experience

Expand your appreciation for nature. Enjoy a leisurely hike while learning how to identify at least 20 edible and medicinal native plants. Each hike is unique as new plants emerge from week to week and season to season. All participants will receive a digital copy of a recipe featuring a wild plant identified on the hike.

All hikes take place at local parks or forests. Hikes will be 5k (3.1 miles) in length. Participants are encouraged to bring comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, sun block, sunglasses, and water to ensure their experience is as enjoyable as possible

Available options

Discover Aurora Illinois Hiking Getaway

What's included

Restroom on site and fountain to fill water bottle

Detailed itinerary

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Meet at picnic shelter #1 of Oakhurst Forest Preserve

About Illinois

Illinois is a state in the Midwestern United States known for its vibrant cities, rich history, and diverse landscapes. From the bustling streets of Chicago to the serene landscapes of Shawnee National Forest, Illinois offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Cloud Gate (The Bean)

Cloud Gate, also known as 'The Bean,' is a iconic public sculpture located in Millennium Park in Chicago. The reflective surface of the bean-shaped sculpture creates a distorted reflection of the city skyline and visitors.

Architecture 30 minutes Free

Wrigley Field

Wrigley Field is a historic baseball park located on the North Side of Chicago. It is the home of the Chicago Cubs and offers a unique atmosphere and experience for baseball fans.

Sports 2-4 hours (depending on the game) Ticket prices vary

Shawnee National Forest

Shawnee National Forest is a beautiful natural area in southern Illinois, offering hiking, camping, and scenic drives. The forest is known for its diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, forests, and unique rock formations.

Nature Multiple days for a full experience Free or low-cost

Must-Try Local Dishes

Deep-Dish Pizza

A thick, buttery crust filled with layers of cheese, toppings, and tomato sauce. It's a Chicago staple and a must-try for any visitor.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Chicago-Style Hot Dog

A steamed all-beef hot dog topped with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices or wedges, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt, served on a poppy seed bun.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available

Italian Beef Sandwich

Thinly sliced beef cooked in its own juices and served on an Italian roll. It can be dipped in the juices for extra flavor.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in Shawnee National Forest Rock climbing at Starved Rock State Park Kayaking on the Chicago River Spa treatments in downtown Chicago Picnicking in Millennium Park Yoga classes in Lincoln Park Visiting the Art Institute of Chicago Exploring the Museum of Science and Industry

Best Time to Visit

May to October

This period offers warm weather and is ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. The summer months are particularly popular for beach visits and city events.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Polish, Chinese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Illinois is generally safe for travelers, with most visits being trouble-free. However, like any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Some areas, particularly in Chicago, can be more dangerous, especially at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure
• Avoid walking alone at night

Getting there

By air

O'Hare International Airport • 26 km from downtown Chicago
Midway International Airport • 13 km from downtown Chicago

By train

Chicago Union Station

By bus

Chicago Bus Terminal, Peoria Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The 'L' is a convenient and affordable way to get around Chicago, with eight color-coded lines serving the city and its suburbs.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Loop Wicker Park Lincoln Park

Day trips

Naperville

45 km from Chicago • Half day to full day

Naperville is a charming suburban town located just outside of Chicago. It offers a mix of historic architecture, beautiful parks, and a vibrant downtown area with shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Starved Rock State Park

130 km from Chicago • Full day

Starved Rock State Park is a beautiful natural area located in northern Illinois. The park is known for its stunning sandstone canyons, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Galena

260 km from Chicago • Full day to overnight

Galena is a charming historic town located in northern Illinois. It's known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, wineries, and scenic views of the Mississippi River. Galena is a popular destination for those interested in history, wine, and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Lollapalooza • Early August Chicago Jazz Festival • Late August to early September Chicago Marathon • Early October

Pro tips

Visit the Skydeck at Willis Tower for a breathtaking view of the city, especially at sunset
Take an architecture boat tour to learn about Chicago's iconic buildings and their history
Explore the diverse neighborhoods of Chicago, each with its own unique character and attractions
Try deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and other local specialties at iconic eateries
Visit the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States