Chicago, one of the Midwest’s most vibrant metropolises, is surrounded by suburbs that each boast their own unique charm and personality. While the city’s downtown buzzes with restaurants, entertainment, and shopping, the suburbs offer a different kind of appeal. Here, you’ll find quaint towns with picturesque landscapes, bustling communities with convenient shopping and amenities, and tranquil villages featuring spacious lots and tree-lined streets. The sheer diversity of Chicago’s suburbs is part of what makes this area so captivating.
Today, we’re shining a spotlight on the suburbs that cater to outdoor enthusiasts. If you’re a nature lover, don’t miss this guide to Chicago suburbs brimming with forests, nature preserves, and scenic outdoor spaces.
Des Plaines, IL (Algonquin Woods)
Des Plaines, a charming suburb in Cook County, is a sought-after community just north of Chicago O’Hare International Airport—a major Midwest hub for domestic and international travel. Home to approximately 60,000 residents, Des Plaines offers a quintessential suburban lifestyle known for its welcoming neighbors and abundance of outdoor activities.
The town boasts well-maintained parks and green spaces, making it a haven for dog owners and nature enthusiasts alike. One of its standout attractions is the Algonquin Woods Nature Preserve, where you can explore scenic trails, enjoy fishing, relax in picnic areas, or marvel at vibrant wildflower fields. The Des Plaines River winds through the preserve, accompanied by walking and cycling paths that follow its tranquil banks, offering an idyllic escape into the natural beauty of the Midwest.
For those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, Des Plaines provides the perfect balance of quiet charm and modern convenience. With a median home listing price of approximately $340,000, this suburb might just be your dream hometown.
Glenview, IL (Harms Woods + Camp Pine Woods)
Just 15 miles northwest of Chicago’s bustling Loop business district lies the desirable suburb of Glenview. Home to around 48,000 residents, this charming village is often ranked among the best Chicago suburbs for commuters and families seeking excellent school districts and beautiful homes.
Glenview offers a little something for everyone. From its seasonal farmers market to local orchards, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy. Outdoor enthusiasts, in particular, will be captivated by Harms Woods, a beloved nature preserve that cuts through the Chicago River. This picturesque spot is perfect for admiring vibrant fall foliage, strolling along both paved and unpaved trails, and spotting unique birds and butterflies.
Another natural gem in Glenview is Camp Pine Woods. This remarkable park boasts diverse landscapes, including wildflower meadows and serene sedge plains, offering endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
With a median home listing price of just under $700K, Glenview combines the appeal of suburban tranquility with plenty to see and do. From its natural beauty to its strong sense of community, it’s easy to see why so many choose to call Glenview home.
Glencoe, IL (Turnbull Woods)
Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, the picturesque village of Glencoe, is home to just under 9,000 residents. This charming community offers an inviting escape for those seeking a serene lifestyle outside the bustling city of Chicago. Renowned as one of the wealthiest communities in the United States, Glencoe boasts stately homes, expansive lots, and an air of sophistication. Towering mature trees and lush green spaces create a suburban oasis, perfectly complemented by its stunning lakefront location.
For a change of pace from Glencoe’s beautiful beaches, head to Turnbull Woods, a hidden gem where you can explore scenic wooded trails. It’s an ideal spot for jogging, leisurely walks, or enjoying an outdoor adventure with your four-legged friends—dogs are always welcome! During certain times of the year, this protected forest even offers camping opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
If Glencoe feels like the perfect place to call home, be prepared for the prestige that comes with it—median home listing prices hover around $2.8 million, reflecting the exclusivity of this coveted lakeside haven.
Riverwoods, IL (Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area)
Nestled along the banks of the Des Plaines River, the village of Riverwoods lives up to its name. Home to about 4,000 residents, this charming community offers a unique blend of waterfront beauty and lush, forested landscapes. With its spacious properties, tranquil atmosphere, and suburban charm, Riverwoods is a haven for those seeking privacy and a close connection to nature.
The village boasts an abundance of green spaces, quaint boutiques, cozy coffee shops, and other small-town staples that create a welcoming, homey vibe. A standout feature of Riverwoods is the Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area, a local gem that hugs the Des Plaines River. This scenic sanctuary offers over 6.5 miles of meticulously maintained trails, perfect for hiking, biking, or running. Once a weekend retreat for a prominent Chicago businessman, the conservation area has since transformed into one of Riverwoods’ most beloved attractions—a serene spot to enjoy sunny afternoons and shaded forest trails.
For those looking to call this idyllic village home, the average price of a house in Riverwoods is just over $1 million, reflecting the area’s peaceful charm and natural beauty.
Lake Forest, IL (County Forest Preserve)
Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Lake Forest is a gem of Chicago’s North Shore. Its name perfectly captures its essence—a harmonious blend of natural beauty and serene landscapes. On the city’s eastern edge, residents can enjoy sun-soaked days on lakeside beaches, gazing out at the vibrant blue waters. For a change of scenery, the Lake County Forest Preserve offers 31,400 acres of protected land, providing endless opportunities for recreation, conservation, and learning.
Home to just under 20,000 residents, Lake Forest is renowned for its stunning natural surroundings and spacious properties, making it a sought-after suburb. Consistently ranked among the best places to live—and retire—in the United States, it’s no surprise that the median real estate price here hovers around $1.3 million.
Long Grove, IL (Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve)
Long Grove, a northwest suburb of Chicago, sits approximately 35 miles from the city’s bustling downtown. This distance lends the town a serene, tranquil atmosphere that sets it apart from many other suburbs. Home to around 9,000 residents, Long Grove offers a wealth of attractions, including wineries, delightful restaurants, cozy coffee shops, and more. It’s also home to Illinois’ oldest historic district, nestled along its charming main street.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve, a highlight of Long Grove. Spanning 408 acres, this picturesque preserve features both paved and unpaved trails, ideal for hiking, biking, and even cross-country skiing during the winter. Located on what was once the Popp family farm, the preserve symbolizes Long Grove’s dedication to preserving its natural beauty.
With its unique blend of history, charm, and outdoor recreation, it’s no surprise that Long Grove is a sought-after place to live. The average home price in this highly desirable community is approximately $1 million.
Related Chicagoland Content
Read more about Chicago’s suburbs.