Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve, Illinois, United States
4.5 (33 reviews) Spent Ranking #3 in Lake County Nature & Wildlife Areas • Forests
A good place to spend an afternoon.
The Fort Sheridan Preserve was a great find. We visited on a windy day so maybe not as many people as usual. Enjoyed wandering on the trails, looking at the rocks on the shore and learning history of the area. We visited the cemetery and were surprised at the time span military personnel have been interred there. It's a small cemetery but with history spanning from cavalry to present day. This was very interesting place and well worth spending g an afternoon. With paved sidewalks as well as grass trails, there is something for everyone.
Address
117 N Sheridan Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045-2426
Mobile
Website
https://www.lcfpd.org/fort-sheridan/
Current local date and time now
Friday, May 10, 2024, 1:40
User Ratings
4.5 based on (33 reviews)
Reviews
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5illinois travelere 5:00 PM Sep 9, 2020
a four-season destination
See my earlier reviews (June 2, 2015; October 1, 2019; and April 13, 2020) for more details. Today I hiked the birding loop which really showcases everything the preserve has to offer --spectacular views of Lake Michigan, prairies, ravines, bluffs, a military cemetery, the Hawk Watch volunteer station (August to November), bridges, historical signage, trails, woodland, pebble beach, etc. It sounds like a lot, but it's very doable. It can all be seen in a two-mile hike. Don't leave the area without admiring the attractive 19th-century limestone buildings (officers' quarters, etc.) in the nearby "historic district". They have been repurposed into modern residences. Sixty four of those handsome buildings were designed by eminent architecture firm Holabird & Roche. They designed some of the world's first skyscrapers. By 1920 they were one of the largest architecture firms in the country. Their work on the Palmer House is world-renown. There is also a 54-acre parade ground. Before the fort was decommissioned in 1993, we would come for the inspiring and patriotic July 4th fireworks display.
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4xcsk 5:00 PM Apr 24, 2016
Lake Michigan and history too.
A short walk to a beautiful view of Lake Michigan and then to the lake itself. Along the way several reminders of Ft. Sheridan's role training our soldiers. Longer trails take you through prairies and savannas.
