Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens

Tucked away in Palos Hills, Lake Katherine is a charming little park that’s perfect for those seeking a nature filled escape without venturing too far from the city. With its stunning scenery and diverse activities, it’s an ideal spot for families, photographers, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature. Upon arrival, the park greets you with lush greenery and the gentle sound of water cascading from the picturesque waterfall. It’s a serene environment that instantly lifts your spirits. The nature trails wind through the park, offering beautiful spots to pause and soak in the surroundings. One of the highlights is the nature trail, which leads to the enchanting Children’s Forest. This whimsical area feels like stepping into a fairy tale, complete with charming installations that spark the imagination. It’s a perfect spot for kids (and the young at heart) to explore and get lost in imagination. The park also features a lovely lake, where you can rent kayaks for a surprisingly low price, especially if you hunt for discounts on platforms like Groupon. Paddling around the lake is a delightful experience, though be prepared for a few obstacles: the lily pads can clutter the path, occasionally making navigation tricky. Despite this, the beauty of the lake and its surroundings more than make up for it. While Lake Katherine offers a wonderful array of activities and a beautiful setting, I can’t help but wish it were a bit larger. The crowded spots during peak times can detract from the tranquility. Still, it’s a lovely destination for a day out, whether you’re there for a leisurely walk, a family picnic, or a kayaking adventure.

Wonderful walking trail. You can have a relaxing day solo or with the family. Also pet friendly a lot of people walking their dogs. Great location for photography or if you just want to get back to nature. They have a gift shop and places for you to take a break from the walking. There is a waterfall and a stream of water.

A beautiful, peaceful escape with well-maintained trails and nice lake views. Perfect for a relaxing walk with the family. The nature center adds an educational touch to the visit! There are some small animals downstairs in the nature center. Lots of parking available. The walking area is open until sunset.

This place is like stepping into a fairytale. Geese, swans, duck, and all sorts of other fauna abound. It’s a walking trail only no bikes but the Cal-Sag Trail connects right to it. Definitely worth a stopover. Very photogenic.

Took the kids here to see some nature and burn off steam. Lots of paths, water and hidden patches. There were weddings happening that looked beautiful. Some people were enjoying the day renting kayaks. Not a super huge park, but a great size for a fun outing with the kids or a nice walk if you're in the area.