We live in an awesome area. Chicago’s western suburbs are filled with culture, history, beautiful architecture, breathtaking greenspaces, close-knit communities…and it’s all within a short drive or train ride to everything downtown Chicago has to offer.
As the weather warms, we are all looking for ways to get outside to enjoy it. Here’s my guide to spring activities in our corner of Chicago’s Western Suburbs:
Easter Egg Hunts: Various dates & locations
Many communities in the area—including Clarendon Hills, Hinsdale, and La Grange…just to name a few—host a family-friendly Easter Egg hunt in mid-to-late April. Check with your local park district, community center, village association, or chamber of commerce to learn more about what’s available in your community.
12th Annual Walk the Walk: April 28th at 8:30 am in Hinsdale
For over a decade, members of the Hinsdale community and surrounding areas have come together to walk 3 miles in support of Autism awareness. This year, the walk hosted by The Community House is broadening its reach: “While we will still continue to walk for Autism, we will also incorporate our behavioral health services and creative solutions: our ABCs of mental health.” All proceeds from registrations for the annual walk will benefit the meaningful work being done at The Counseling Center at The Community House.
Active Adult Programs: Various dates & locations
Adults over the age of 50 looking for ways in which they can remain active and connected to their community have a variety of opportunities available to them at the local level! For example, Burr Ridge and Willowbrook residents have access to daily activities through the Burr Ridge Park District, including gathering for games of Pinochle or Bridge. Check with your local park district, community center, village association, or chamber of commerce to learn more about special programs and offerings available for active adults in your community.
Give Back: Various dates & locations
The land on which we live gives us plenty…give back every once in a while! It feels good, I promise. Most local parks and recreation organizations or forest preserve districts will host volunteer events where residents can gather at a local park or public green space to help collect trash, restore trails, plant native seeds, or remove invasive plants. April 22nd is Earth Day this year—consider participating in one of these volunteer workdays in celebration!
- Great Western Prairie Work Day (Elmhurst), 4/20
- Lyman Woods and Belmont Prairie Work Day (Downers Grove), 4/27
- DuPage County Forest Preserve, various dates & locations
Speaking of Earth Day, the Glen Ellyn Park District will host a free Earth Day Fair on April 28th from 1-4 pm.
Remember: these suggestions are only just the tip of the iceberg…the opportunities are endless! Get out and enjoy everything your community has to offer this spring.
Looking for more? Here are some great local resources:
- Clarendon Hills Park District
- Clarendon Hills Chamber of Commerce
- Village of Hinsdale Parks & Recreation
- Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce
- The Community House – Hinsdale
- Park District of La Grange
- DuPage County Forest Preserve
- Burr Ridge Park District
- Downers Grove Park District
- Elmhurst Park District
- Oak Brook Park District
- Western Springs Park District
- Westmont Park District
- Willowbrook Parks & Recreation
- The Morton Arboretum