Trailside Museum of Natural History

738 Thatcher Ave, River Forest, IL 60305, USA

Address:	738 Thatcher Ave, River Forest, IL 60305, USA
Phone:	+1 708-366-6530
Site:	fpdcc.com
Rating:	4.8
Working:	9AM–5PM 9AM–5PM 9AM–5PM 9AM–5PM Closed 9AM–5PM 9AM–5PM

Location

+−

Leaflet

Photos 100

Reviews 9

A Private User

Trailside Museum is a fun stop for parents with children. They have a variety of native animals like a great horned owl and a coyote to see in outside cages, as well as small animals in the building, like fish, turtles and frogs. There are also some educational exhibits about wildlife. The staff is friendly and helpful. We enjoy the free nature programs that are offered for kids and families. There is no admission fee! The trails nearby lead through some pretty woods, to a pond and to the DesPlaines River. Trailside Museum no longer does wildlife rehabilitation, but the staff will advise you if you need help.

benn diss

I was just there with my neighbor and happened to walk into a feeding of the birds and the coyote. It was very cool. Adam was well informed, great with kids but this is awesome for adults as well. I had to cut it short because my neighbor had to go to work, but cant wait to go back. Tomorrow they have a blue grass gig. ;) THIS IS FREE, so instead of taking your kids to play video games on a nice day, take them here. They have a schedule online by the way.

jane val

One of my favorite places to spend an hour or so exploring nature. They have lots of great activities for kids, including hands on exhibits. There are also some rescued wildlife in cages outside the facility. Check for their nature programs, I believe they are free! #CitiExperts @Localguides

Keith Bringe

Really a hidden gem in the treasury of the Cook County Forest Preserves. The wildlife rescue portion - owls, coyotes and turkey vultures in cages - makes me a little sad but great educational programs and trail didactic panels.

Emma Norris

Very nice nature center with lots of hands-on learning opportunities for kids. They also have an assortment of programs for all ages. The walking trails are very well maintained. Plenty of parking.

Bilyan Belchev

Really great place to take kids year-round. In the winter, you can see the reptiles inside, in the summer you can explore the outside garden and animal cages.

Rachel Smith

Lovely dirt path along the river and paved path.

Jennifer Wimmer

Nice calm, contained nature experience

Darrin Jackson

Beautiful exhibit