20 Attractions to Explore Near Mallard Lake

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, is an impressive and stunning Hindu temple that serves members of the Swaminarayan faith. The temple is designed based on time-honored Indian architectural styles, featuring hand-carved stone and marble artworks throughout its towers, domes, and columns. Its design incorporates elements from both traditional Hinduism such as its detailed Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) and Raj Bhawna (Royal Pavilion).

Cosley Zoo offers a great opportunity for visitors to get up close to and learn about some incredible animals. At Cosley Zoo, you’ll see a variety of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians native to the area. The zoo also features a petting zoo, allowing guests to pet and get to know goats, sheep and other domesticated animals. For more adventurous visitors, there are programs available that allow guests to observe animal care staff as they feed the animals and help out with other daily tasks.

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.

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.

Cantigny Park is a lovely destination for those looking for a great outdoor experience. Located on 500 acres of land donated by the McCormick family, Cantigny features hiking trails, picnic spots and gorgeous gardens to explore. The main attraction of the park is its formal gardens and 30-acre lake, as well as the First Division Museum which commemorates WWI America's first major battle overseas. Visitors can also enjoy free concerts in summer and other sporting events throughout the year.

The First Division Museum at Cantigny, in DuPage County, Illinois, is an interactive and engaging museum. Visitors can learn all about the history of the U.S. Army's 1st Infantry Division on site by exploring galleries with multimedia presentations and life-size dioramas, a research library filled with historic documents, artifacts, photographs and newspapers, or outdoors while exploring tanks and other military vehicles in their own special displays.

Lilacia Park is a beautiful public park nestled in the center of town. It covers an area of 4.3 acres, and offers a variety of activities such as strolling paths, gardens, sculpture exhibits and more. It's well-known for its blooming lilacs which bloom twice per year: once in April and again in June. Visitors can stroll through the formal gardens or admire the statuary scattered throughout the grounds. In addition to lilac displays, visitors enjoying a walk can find plenty of other flower beds.

The Chicago Golf Club is a prestigious golf club established in 1892, it has been a leader in the Midwestern golf community for over 120 years. With a challenging yet beautiful championship course designed by the legendary C.B Macdonald and Seth Raynor, this club is perfect for all levels of play. In addition to its stellar main course, the Chicago Golf Club offers a number of additional amenities including practice areas on teaching greens, bunkers for practicing sand play shots.

The Elgin Fire Barn No. 5 Museum, is a museum dedicated to the history of firefighting and its associated culture. The museum was established in 1996, when the Elgin Fire Barn building was donated to the city by the Home Insurance Company. Visitors can explore a variety of interactive exhibits and artifacts that teach about fire safety, early 19th century tools used by firefighters, historic equipment used throughout different decades and much more.

Busse Woods is a fantastic outdoor space and forest preserve, which encompasses over 3,700 acres of natural habitat, is a great spot for outdoor activities including cycling, fishing, and hiking. There are also plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities -we've been lucky enough to spot hawks, coyotes, foxes and other animals! In addition to the wildlife viewing area there's also multiple camping spots spread throughout, so you can relax while listening to the peaceful chirping of wildlife.

The Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve is a beautiful and diverse area that makes up part of the Fox River Nature Preserve. Visitors can explore 465 acres of land, full of trails, wetlands, forests and fields that provide different opportunities for wildlife watching and recreation. There are many activities to take part in including archery, fishing, birdwatching, hiking and biking on 11 miles of trails which are suitable for all fitness levels.

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.

The Blackwell Forest Preserve is a natural oasis amidst the everyday hustle and bustle of suburbia. It's the perfect escape for outdoor lovers searching for large expanses of greenery and rolling hills. The preserve comprises 500 acres of forest landscapes which include small streams, winding trails, wetlands, prairies and two recreational lakes. Visitors can indulge in various activities such as biking, birdwatching, fishing and even horseback riding on the 20-mile stretch of trails.

The Elgin History Museum, boasts a wide variety of exhibits about the city's past. From interactive displays about Elgin's railroad industry to daily life living around Fox River during 19th century, visitors can get an up-close look at the heritage of Elgin. The museum holds artifacts from Elgin and its surrounding areas that were collected for decades by staff members, such as pieces from a 1916 streetcar and antique postcards.

Herrick Lake Forest Preserve is a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience. Centered around the scenic Herrick Lake, the preserve offers many opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Visitors can take advantage of bird watching, kayaking, fishing, nature trails, and other outdoor activities. Additionally, several playgrounds make it perfect for families looking to spend quality time together in the great outdoors.

The Arcada Theatre, is a historic venue that has been entertaining audiences since the 1920’s. This iconic theatre features a vast array of shows and performances, from classic films to live music and comedy acts. Showcasing both local and well-known artists across a broad range of genres, the Arcada Theatre boasts an eclectic mix of artistry sure to entertain everyone! The theatre also offers many other events including receptions and corporate gatherings.

The Beith House Museum offers visitors a unique glimpse into the history and culture of this region. Built in 1844 by Reverend John Corron Kirk, this structure is an excellent example of a Federal-style stone house and has been meticulously restored over the years. Inside, guests can enjoy viewing an impressive collection of artifacts from the early settlers that lived in the area including period furniture, literature, photographs and artifacts pertaining to local Native American tribes.

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.

Lake Marmo, is a stunningly beautiful and peaceful sight. Fed by multiple streams and creeks. It has become a favorite recreation spot for many in the local area. Boaters, anglers, and swimmers all take delight in the tranquil setting of the lake. Ample hiking trails circle around the crystal-clear waters of Lake Marmo. Bird watchers also find something special here with dozens of species of migratory birds often observed on their journeys across the lake.

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.