Summer’s Last Hoorah: 5 Kid-Friendly Adventures in Northern Illinois

One minute you’re grilling brats in the backyard, the next you’re staring at a school supply list longer than I-90 at rush hour. But before you swap swimsuits for sweatshirts, there’s still time for a few warm-weather adventures with the kids.

Go Pick-Your-Own Everything

Before the harvest season ends, take the kids to Edwards Apple Orchard in Poplar Grove (Fall season starts 8/22) or Curran’s Orchard in Rockford (Fall season starts 8/16). The cider donuts are basically a back-to-school survival kit, and the hayrides are a family classic.

Take a Late-Summer Zoo Day

The Summerfield Zoo in Belvidere is still open until October, and Brookfield Zoo near Chicago is always worth the road trip. Bonus: Animals are often more active in cooler mornings, so you’ll get better selfies.

MORE: 6 Reasons Galena is the Perfect Summer Road Trip

Explore Illinois’ Hidden State Parks

From Rock Cut State Park in Loves Park to Starved Rock State Park in Utica, pack a picnic and hit the trails. Just remember, nature snacks back, so bring bug spray.

Squeeze in a Festival or Fair

Catch the Winnebago County Fair in Pecatonica or the DeKalb Corn Fest for classic Illinois funnel cake therapy. It’s scientifically proven* to make summer last longer.
(*Not actually proven, but feels true.)

Why Wait? Go Now.

In a few weeks, we’ll be arguing about raking leaves vs. waiting until the snow covers them. So pack the car, grab the kids, and chase those last golden rays while you can.

MORE: 5 Great Ways to Hijack Feel-Good Fall Hormones in Illinois