As spring breathes new life into DuPage County, there's an abundance of enriching experiences awaiting exploration. Whether you're seeking tranquility in nature or cultural immersion, DuPage County welcomes you to indulge in the joys of spring without spending a dime. Take a look at the list below!
DuPage County Forest Preserves
DuPage is a recreational playground, and at its core are the forest preserves. Beautiful in all seasons, trek across the trails and take in the views of blooming trees and plants, sunrises, or pastel-colored sunsets. Popular DuPage forest preserves include:
- Blackwell, Warrenville
- Danada Equestrian Center, Wheaton
- Hidden Lake, Downers Grove
- Meacham Grove, Bloomingdale
- Pratt's Wayne Woods, West Chicago
- Waterfall Glen, Lemont
Illinois Prairie Path
Let's be honest — Chicagoland weather can be unpredictable in the spring. Regardless of the weather or your fitness level, the Illinois Prairie Path helps residents and visitors stay active year-round. The path is the first successful rail-to-trail conversion in the United States, spans over 40 miles in DuPage, and is a main artery connecting communities, quaint downtowns, forest preserves, and recreational trails.
Free Museums
Let your curiosity reign at one of many free DuPage museums, rich with history, extraordinary attention to detail, and compelling backstories.
- Addison Historical Museum (open Wednesday through Friday)
- Billy Graham Center Museum (open Tuesday through Saturday)
- DuPage County Historical Museum (open Tuesday through Saturday)
- Elmhurst History Museum (open Tuesday through Sunday)
- Gallery 200 (open Thursday through Saturday)
- Lombard Historical Society (Carriage House open Tuesday through Friday, Sheldon Peck Homestead open Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday)
- Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art (free on Wednesdays)
- Mexican Cultural Center DuPage
- National Shrine and Museum of St. Therese (open Monday through Saturday)
- Oakbrook Terrace Historical Society (open on Wednesdays)
- The Museums at Lisle Station Park (tours available by appointment only)
- Warrenville Historical Society (open Sunday)
- West Chicago City Museum (open Thursday-Saturday)
- William L. Gregg Museum (open Sunday and Wednesday)
Play at the Park
DuPage is home to several award-winning park districts with plentiful indoor and outdoor options. As the weather gets nicer, find an opportunity to visit one of them and create memories with loved ones in your local community. Make sure you also check out the numerous sensory gardens throughout DuPage.
FREE ART EVENTS & EXHIBITS
All Spring Victory at Home: 1941-1945, Elmhurst History Museum
All Spring Leapin' Lizards: 100 Years of Little Orphan Annie, Lombard Historical Society
5/4-5/5 Art in Wilder Park, Elmhurst Art Museum
5/18 Sidewalk Art Contest, William L. Gregg House
FREE FESTIVALS & FUN
4/13 Character Trail, Downtown Wheaton
4/18 Earth Day Celebration, Wheaton
4/27 Roselle Bockfest, Roselle
4/28 Sheep Shearing, Kline Creek Farm
5/4 Country in the Park, Downers Grove
5/4-5/19 Lilac Time Festival, Lombard Park District
Check our Calendar of Events, as new events are added weekly!