Now with the harsh winter weather and freezing temperatures behind us, springtime has never felt better, which makes us appreciate the beauty of warmer weather that much more. We have at least the next 6 months to get outside and explore the outdoors; there’s so much to see and do in Illinois during the spring, but there’s simply not enough time to do it all.
Ultimately, if you live in Illinois or are just visiting, the spring and summer time is the best time to do things. You can explore local festivals, farmer’s markets, camping sites, parks, hiking trails and so much more.
Check out the top 10 things to do in the spring in Illinois.
- Starved Rock State Park
One of the most popular hiking spots in Illinois, Starved Rock State Park has paths that wind through tall trees, 18 rock canyons, most of which have a waterfall, and wildflower meadows. You can also get some great views of the Illinois River and you may see a bald Eagle or two!
Just be sure to bring some good hiking shoes, bug spray, suntan lotion and comfy clothes since these trails are long and will take up your full day!
- Chicago River Walk
The Chicago Riverwalk located in Downtown, Chicago
One of the most architectural walks in the county, you’ll pass by dozens of restaurants, shops, buildings and might even catch an event or two. There’s always something going on in the Windy City!
The River Walk was opened in 2016 as an early phase of Chicago’s multi-decade river revitalization with the hopes of making it swimmable by 2040. There’s about one and a quarter mile of path along the river from Lake Michigan west to Lake Street. You won’ t need to climb any staircases or busy streets to follow the strong flow of the river.
- Chicago Architecture Tour and River Cruise
One of the best cruises in the Windy City, you’ll get an up-close tour of the buildings while floating down a river aboard Chicago’s First Lady, a riverboat with a full-service bar, snacks and restrooms. During the tour, you can enjoy one and a half hours of cruise time while getting a history lesson about Chicago, it’s buildings, and even some current events.
If this is your first time in the city, this is something you won’t want to miss! Just make sure to visit on a sunny day as it wouldn’t be fun to cruise in the rain!
- Go Camping
Even close to the city, you’ll have a number of options when looking for camping areas in Illinois. The state is filled with small, private beaches next to Lake Michigan and the river as well as camping sites with complete hiking trails. Whether you prefer to stay in an RV, cabin, or tent, you can find it in Illinois.
- Shop at a Farmer’s Market
Illinois is best known for its large corn fields that you’ll be sure to see in the fall. But even in the spring, farmer’s markets are full of berries, honey, vegetables, flowers, and other surprises. There’s always something unique and delicious to find from these local growers!
Enjoy your day, save money, get some shopping done, and support your local farmers with this fun activity!
- Visit a Winery
One might not think to find wineries in Illinois, being that it’s the Midwest, but you’d be surprised! There are numerous families in Illinois who love to grow grapes and other berries in the springtime, some of whom make wines that have won awards! Some popular wineries include The Bluffs Vineyard and Winery in Ava, Wild Blossom Meadery in Chicago, Winery and Brewery in Chicago, and Fergedaboutit Vineyard and Winery in Hanover.
Abraham Lincoln Memorial Bridge and LaSalle Rail Bridge over the Illinois River
Visit an Illinois River Town
One of the best day trips to make during the spring is to an Illinois River or Mississippi River town; they’re simply rich with history, culture and character! Some of the top river towns include Ottawa with its fabulous river views and the Buffalo Rock State Park, Galena with a trolley and places to take out a boat or kayak, and Alton which is home to the tallest man as well as many ghosts and paranormal activities!
- Go Hiking
Illinois may not have mountains or an ocean, but it is home to some of the most gorgeous, natural landscapes. These include the Lowden-Miller River Loop, Garden of the Gods, Des Plaines River Trail, and Rim Rock Recreational Trail. There’s simply too much you can’t miss!
- Take a Back Road
Living in a congested area like Chicago does have its perks, but if you’re looking to get out and enjoy some of the more natural sites, you don’t have to drive too far. Illinois is full of some amazing views including the Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway, Knox County Scenic Drive, and Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway. You’ll find with these destinations; Illinois offers more than just the nation’s third largest city.
- Try the Local Ice Cream
Illinoisans love their ice cream in the spring. There are some great ice cream shops to check out if you have a sweet tooth. Much of these shops offer ice cream that is homemade with a ton of toppings to choose from. A few popular shops include Original Rainbow Cone in Evergreen Park, Bobtail in Wilmette, Oberweis, Black Dog Gelato in Chicago, and The Spotted Cow in Peoria.
What Else to Consider in the Springtime in Illinois
Spring in Chicago, Illinois
While the springtime in Illinois presents many opportunities to get out and explore, it also brings with it many of its own issues. Problems like excess rain and flooding can lead to uncontrollable water damage in your home. It’s this time of year when water damage and mold growth are at their peak due to melting snow, excess rain, and roof leaks.
Should you find any kind of water damage in your home or building, don’t hesitate to contact a local restoration company. For residents in the Aurora, IL area, ServiceMaster S&R Systems is available to provide emergency water damage restoration services to help families and businesses recover from the harsh effects of spring water damage.
We are also available to help with specialty cleaning services to really get that spring clean going. Our technicians are proud to provide carpet and upholstery cleaning, using the hot water extraction method to remove deeply embedded dirt and debris. As our powerful cleaning equipment deposits a warm water solution through a cleaning wand, it loosens the dirt and debris within the fibers and extracts it from the carpet and furnishing along with the water.
Give us a call for a free quote for your carpet and furniture!
Get a Free Estimate
For more information about our water damage restoration services or to schedule a free estimate for our carpet cleaning services in the Aurora, IL area, give us a call at 630-896-0030.
