Lilacia Park - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

The Illinois Prairie Path is a scenic 61-mile trail of crushed limestone spanning DuPage County. It was the first rails-to-trails conversion in the nation and has become a local favorite for both visitors and locals. Almost 70% of the path winds through forest preserves, nature centers, parks, and wetlands. It offers spectacular scenery ranging from wildflowers in bloom to colorful autumn foliage, making it a great spot for sightseeing year-round.

Lake Ellyn is a stunning and tranquil escape situated on the western edge of Glen Ellyn. Part of the 160-acre Lake Ellyn Park, the lake offers a picturesque stretch of shoreline with plenty to do for visitors. During warm days, residents flock to take advantage of its plethora of recreational opportunities including fishing, paddle-boating, and savoring their picnic lunches at one of the 13 shaded pavilions that line the water's edge.

Great Western Trail is a tranquil and beautiful trail spanning 24 miles. The path winds past lush fields and forests, wetlands, creeks, and more, providing an abundance of unique sights along the entire journey. Cyclists, hikers, runners and nature lovers alike will all find something to appreciate on the trail - from its vast array of flora and fauna to its charming bridges. It's easy to lose track of time as one soaks in their surroundings amid the peacefulness of this rural area.

The Elmhurst Park District offers a stunning collection of parks and recreational opportunities. Spanning hundreds of acres, visitors enjoy 26 unique community parks, 4 playgrounds and 3 separate dog parks for their four-legged friends. In addition to these attractions, there are also several lakes, athletic fields, tennis courts and an aquatic center all within the park district's boundaries.

Hidden Lake Forest Preserve, is a scenic destination for nature lovers and outdoor activities. The 974-acre preserve was acquired in 1975 and contains forests, wetlands and prairies which provide habitats for numerous species of wildlife. Visitors to the preserve can explore the 7.25 miles of trails on foot or by bicycle, take a paddleboat out onto the 43-acre lake or fly a kite on one of its open expanses. There are several fishing sites available near the lake.

The Mayslake Peabody Estate is a historic building that dates back to the 19th century. Originally built as a private estate for coal-baron Francis Stuyvesant Peabody, it was renovated and opened as a public facility in the 1990s. Today, visitors can explore more than 87 acres of old-growth oak woodland and enjoy plenty of amenities like nature trails and an arboretum. This grand estate also offers exquisite architecture in its main manor house along with other charming buildings.