Most reviewed National Parks in Illinois

  1. 5.0 Chicago Portage National Historic Site (7 reviews)
    - Hidden Historic Gem
    Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour National Parks
    Chicago Portage National Historic Site image
    While exploring Cook County Forest Preserves and Trails in 2020, I came upon this hidden gem worth centuries of history. A little history - The Chicago Portage National Historic Site marks the western end of the historic portage linking the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River and to the Gulf of Mexico. The Portage is the reason why this location became an economic and transportation hub for this country. The National Park Service officially designates this as a historic place of importance. But, the site could be developed more comprehensively to bring out its historical significance. Though there are display boards at the site, a 3-D relief map would be a great help to quickly get to the crux of this place. An attractive feature at the site is a metal sculpture depicting a boat being ported. Visitors can engage in hiking, biking and canoeing. There is a shelter for picnicking. The Salt Creek trail runs through this park. This is a hidden historic gem well worth a visit. See more..
  2. 5.0 Gateway Geyser (1 review)
    - East Side Counter to the Arch
    National Parks
    Gateway Geyser image
    The Gateway National Park on the west bank of the Mississippi River in Saint Louis was intended to have a eastern counter park which is Malcom Martin Park today. As the Arch is the principal attraction to the west park, the Gateway Geyser is the attraction to the east park, shooting water as high as 630 feet, the height of the Gateway Arch. On our visit to Saint Louis we had the opportunity to see it. Around Noon, the Geyser shoots water high into the air on a designated schedule, which is daily in the summer. In addition, the fountain has 4 other smaller fountains around it representing the 4 major rivers in the Saint Louis area. The day we visited water levels were at an historic low and the side fountains were not operating. Still it was fun to see on our visit. Of note, as a worker told us, the closer you are the more impressive the geyser is. With that said, if you are on the west bank or in the Arch at Noon, you can see as well. Again a fun side attraction if you have the time. See more..

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