River Trail Nature Center - Northbrook, Illinois

River Trail Nature Center

The River Trail Nature Center, located at 3120 Milwaukee Ave, Northbrook, IL 60062, is a renowned nature preserve and tourist attraction, offering visitors a wealth of opportunities to explore and learn about the natural world. With its extensive facilities and engaging programs, the center has become a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts, families, and those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Specialties and Features

Visitors to the River Trail Nature Center can enjoy a variety of activities and amenities, including:

• Park: A beautiful outdoor space to relax and enjoy nature
• Bird watching area: Observe and appreciate a wide range of avian species
• Hiking area: Explore well-maintained trails through diverse ecosystems
• Learning center: Engage in educational programs and workshops
• Nature preserve: Discover the wonders of the natural world
• Tourist attraction: A must-visit destination for visitors of all ages

Additional Amenities

In addition to its specialized offerings, the River Trail Nature Center provides several convenient and accessible features for visitors, such as:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance: Easy access for all visitors
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot: Convenient parking for those with disabilities
• Hiking: Enjoy scenic trails for outdoor exercise and exploration
• Picnic tables: Ideal for family outings and group gatherings
• Public restroom: Clean and well-maintained facilities for visitors
• Good for kids: A safe and engaging environment for children
• Kid-friendly hikes: Age-appropriate trails and activities for young explorers

Reviews and Opinions

The River Trail Nature Center has garnered a stellar reputation among its visitors, with an impressive 4.6/5 average rating based on 239 reviews on Google My Business. Many visitors praise the center's diverse offerings, knowledgeable staff, and well-maintained facilities. One particularly notable review highlights the center's successful rehabilitation of a coyote, born in 2018 from Tennessee, which is now imprinted and accustomed to human interaction. This unique feature adds to the center's appeal and educational value.

With its commitment to conservation, education, and providing a welcoming atmosphere for all, the River Trail Nature Center has become a cherished resource for the local community and beyond.

Final Recommendation

For those seeking a unique and enriching experience in nature, the River Trail Nature Center is an outstanding choice. Whether you're a bird watcher, hiker, or simply looking to connect with the natural world, this center offers something for everyone. To learn more about the center's programs, events, and visitor information, be sure to visit their official website. Don't hesitate to reach out to the center directly via phone at 78248360 for any inquiries or to plan your visit.

👍 Reviews of River Trail Nature Center

M L.

5/5

Wonderful nature center with a coyote born in 2018 from Tennessee. It’s imprinted and used to human. The trial is very nice, and they are also preparing for maple syrup. Very cool!

Kelly

2/5

We were there on a Friday so the indoor exhibits were closed for cleaning.
Several honey bee hives and pollenation areas. very cool.
This Center connects with several great trails so a good stop if you're looking for a place to park while you hike the trails.
They do have a few outdoor caged animals and this is where I struggle with my review. I do understand that each of these is a rescue and wouldn't survive in the wild (or so we are told) but all of the cages were small and it broke our hearts to watch them pace in circles in the cage.

Diana

3/5

We were staying at a hotel nearby in Northbrook and wanted to enjoy the day with a nature walk. Found this cute park and nature trail. Also discovered they had caged animals in captivity. At first it was cute but after seeing how the animals were acting pacing and squawking about I’m sure they would rather be free. Sad really! A caretaker was there cleaning and caring for them and appeared like a nice handler. The area was pleasant and loved the forestry lined trail. The only reason for my low review is my dislike for caged animals in captivity. Definitely worth the stop and the opportunity to enjoy nature!

R J.

5/5

Nice place to visit and enjoy the nature, it s free and opens from 9 am to 5 pm , the gates are closed at 5 pm , no dogs allowed.
Open all days of the week
I really enjoyed seeing different animals and birds, it s recommended to children to see animals and know more about their habitat and different species.
Restrooms are available

Stephanie P.

5/5

A must stop visit if looking for a nature fix! They have a great nature center with a lot of interesting reads and animal exhibits. There are also live animals to see: the resident coyote, hawks, owls, turtles and so many snakes! Staff is very friendly and lots of parking. From the nature center you can connect to a couple nearby trails. The unpaved Des Plaines River trail is across the street off Milwaukee Ave- across from Allison woods. It can be confusing but there’s lots of maps and helpful people there. The color change in the forest preserve late October is breathtaking!

Rachel C.

3/5

I love it here but this morning I got my kids ready, we got here at 8 am and walked the trails until 9 am. Only to walk in the door and be told they’re closed for cleaning. Why not clean before 9am? Why not put up a sign that you’re closed for cleaning?

Joel

5/5

Excellent indoor Nature center, lots of taxidermy Live Turtles fish and lots of fun activities to do , clean indoor bathrooms and lots of parking, great waling trails , but be carefully they do have poison ivy

Out S. I. A. F.

5/5

A wonderful trail and nature center. Long and short trails to meet all needs.