23 Safari In ILLINOIS (Exciting, Exotic & Adventurous)

The beautiful city of Illinois bubbles with many fun activities that are bound to imprint its indelible mark of bliss in the hearts of its people, and it is home to some of the most exciting safari to visit.

If you love the great outdoors, Illinois has some of the most fantastic safari destinations that offer lovely, eye-opening experiences for free-spirited and adventure-seeking people of all age brackets.

And if you still need convincing, this article is custom-built to feed your mind’s eye with all the necessary information to make the best decisions.

Read through to catch a glimpse of what awaits you, and remember that Illinois safari is a wildlife destination and not the natural Africa safari.

And by the way, you may also want to check out the best zoos in Illinois.

Safari In Aurora, Illinois.

1. Phillips Park Zoo (Free Wildlife Adventure)

As an individual, especially if you’re a parent, there are few things more reassuring than a safe space where you’re confident of getting the best up-close views of the wonders of nature.

And there is still much room for your kids to run around and have the best time.

The Phillips Park Zoo is a free zoo set in a gorgeous environment with incredible scenery and various exotic wildlife within a land area spanning 325 acres.

It has many picnic tables, a nice playground for kids, and a little lake which draws visitors’ attention for a swim, especially on sunny days.

Every day of the week and all year round, the gates of the Phillips Park Zoo are open for all who come to seek delight in its bedazzling aura and spectacular sights.

It is simply a great safari destination.

Address: 1000 Ray Moses Dr, Aurora, IL 60505, United States.

2. The Blackberry Farm (Scenic & Family-Fun Park)

Embedded in the beautiful scenery of vast land covered with luscious green grass, eye-popping views, and magnificent terrain, the Blackberry farm is one of Aurora’s most sought-after places.

While it may not have the most ultra-modern attractions you’d typically expect to find in a big city park, it still offers many fun activities, such as paddling, picnics, and boatloads of space for kids to run around.

The visitors will tour its beautiful lake and barnyard animals, all giving a safari vibe.

Its open plains have a romantic, soul-stirring setting that makes it precisely where you would bring your family and loved ones to create memorable moments or relive beautiful experiences.

So in case you might be planning a flower-themed wedding proposal or a farewell ceremony for a retiring colleague, there are a few places perfect for such events as the Blackberry Farm.

Address: 100 Barnes Rd, Aurora, IL 60506, United States.

3. Dino Safari (Virtual Dinosaur Adventure)

Winning over people’s hearts requires uniqueness, ingenuity, and a vision beyond the scope of the ordinary.

And at the Dino Safari, a new and exciting definition of entertainment awaits you.

Dino Safari is a virtual safari field built to explore the Dinosaurs’ days.

After a visitor acquires Jurassic Park, they can experience a real-life exhibition and a human-size virtual tour of dinosaurs and common animals at that age.

The center is both educative and entertaining as it combines many great activities you wouldn’t usually find in the great outdoors.

You can also engage in the weekend simulation of the dinosaurs, which is done with much more modern and amusing widgets to create a new and thrilling experience without taking out the element of adventure.

It has many unique attractions, making it a one-of-a-kind location for a fun time.

And yes, the entire room glows in the dark.

Address: 301 Illinois Rte 59, Aurora, IL 60504, United States.

Also see our article on picnic spots in Illinois.

Safari In Chicago, Illinois.

1. Regenstein African Journey (African Safari in Chicago)

Suppose you’ve ever wanted to tour Africa’s vast landscape and observe its unique wildlife, fauna, and tundra without visiting the continent.

In that case, you are in a considerable amount of luck.

The Regenstein African journey in Chicago aims at giving visitors the best African safari experience ever.

Regenstein is a fantastic place to spend the day with family as it offers a beautiful and creatively inspiring avenue to take its visitors on an expedition to catch a glimpse of its unique wildlife and learn a ton of information about them.

The primary animal attractions found here include Rhinos, the pygmy hippopotamus, birds, an ape greenhouse, and its famous giraffes, to mention a few.

From the lush rainforest to the wetlands and dry savanna, each animal’s habitat is properly imitated to perfection for visitors to represent how these magnificent creatures live in the wild.

Address: 2400 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614, United States.

2. Kovler Lion House and Pepper Family Wildlife Center (Architectural Wildlife Sanctuary)

If you are a fan of big cats, you will be stunned by the sheer, awe-inspiring aura exuded by the Kovler Lion House.

The feeling comes to reality as you experience the majestic nature of these mighty creatures in the flesh by observing and walking side by side with them.

Through a thick, reinforced glass, of course.

Established in 1912 as a first-of-its-kind, extensive cat exhibit, it is a sanctuary to African lions, snow leopards, red pandas, and the elusive Canadian lynx. 

Its unique architectural design and intricate artistry imbued within the walls of its interior combine to present its visitors with a captivating, state-of-the-art Wildlife center with a lovely ambiance.

The Kovler is also a beautiful place to enjoy a lovely, warm afternoon safari with friends and family as a new and exciting world of learning and adventure awaits you.

Address: 2101 N Lincoln Park W, Chicago, IL 60614, United States.

3. Farm in the Zoo (Beautiful Natural Backdrop)

There is no doubt that wildlife can be very satisfying to watch.

But all those who visit the Chicago-based Farm in the Zoo will admit that there is just as much fun and excitement in probing into the beautiful world of farm animals.

Integrated into a spectacular natural backdrop, the vast greenery, in fusion with the serenity of its environment, creates a beautiful ambiance that is particularly pleasing to its visitors.

The setting is perfect if you fancy taking a stroll through its beautiful terraces.

As a free zoo with zero admission charges, it is the perfect location for learning just about everything you need to know about farm animals.

The Farm in the Zoo offers the best family experience, which cuts across all ages.

There is a wide range of adorable farm animals here, such as goats, rabbits, ponies, and rescued animals.

Address: 1911 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614, United States.

Also see our article on Beaches in Illinois.

Safari In Lombard, Illinois.

1. East Branch Forest Reserve (Picturesque Wetland Reserve)

Nature creates some of the best attractions in the world.

For a place with so much quality in terms of the best panoramic views and genuinely spectacular sights, the East Branch Reserve is one-of-a-kind.

The East Branch is a 521-acre wetland east of the DuPage River.

And that makes it a vast wetland with its lakes, marshes, and wildlife habitat that ensures it teems with abundant fauna.

The area acts as floodwater control and improves water quality in the environment.

Whether you’re taking your dog on a walk or want to observe beautiful bird species such as grassland birds, shorebirds, and waterfowl and fascinating wetland animals in their natural habitats, the East Branch Forest Reserve is the best place.

There are also guarantees of a great experience that is bound to leave a long-lasting impression.

Address: 1901 Glen Ellyn Rd, Lombard, IL 60148, United States.

2. Lilacia Park (Globally Recognized Floriculture)

For nature enthusiasts, the feeling of walking on beautiful trails while immersed in a world full of beautiful and different varieties of plants and flowers is genuinely priceless.

The management of Lilacia knows this for a fact and, therefore, strives to maintain the high standard attributed to its establishment.

Lilacia Park is a distinguished, globally recognized floricultural exhibit that features over 700 lilacs and 35,000 tulips at the end of each year.

That automatically translates to a significant attraction for people within and outside Lombard who want to witness flower blooms in all their beauty.

Being endowed with a peaceful, romantic ambiance and a gorgeous setting makes Lilacia Park a hub of many events, such as weddings, anniversaries, and special celebrations.

Its picturesque representation of nature is a wonder to behold, and if you fancy having a picnic or taking an evening stroll, you know where to go.

Address: 150 S Park Ave, Lombard, IL 60148, United States.

Also see our article on Apple Picking in Illinois.

Safari in Rockford, Illinois.

1. Blackhawk Springs Forest Preserve (Extensive Forest Preserve)

Perhaps you’ve always desired to adventure in the great outdoors; walking the trails of Blackhawk Springs will lead you to a magical world of vast savanna brought to life by blooming flowers.

The cool shady woodlands and the glassy waters of the Kishwaukee River give a lovely little bubbling spring.

All in place to give you the exciting experience you crave.

Spanning across a 629.9-acre perimeter, the Blackhawk is easily one of the most extensive forest preserves in Winnebago County.

Due to its diverse tundra and the shape-shifting of its topography, there are many interesting sights to behold and activities to explore depending on your location in the preserve.

Go fishing in the waters of the Kishwaukee or bird-watching and hiking in the woodlands.

Whether you want to enjoy the beautiful scenes of rippling waters as you take a walk or jog along the trails, rest assured that you will get the most relaxing connection with nature.

Address: 5360 Mulford Road & 5801 Perryville Rd, Rockford, IL 61109, United States.

2. Anderson Japanese Garden (Tranquil Japanese Landscape)

Suppose you want a taste of a completely relaxing atmosphere with a divine aura to awaken your inner energy.

In that case, the Anderson Japanese Gardens is just the outdoor space that your mind needs to be inspired.

The garden has many plant species and animals, often culminating in colorful, blooming flowers.

As a nature center with a well-shaped landscape, buildings are in perfect Feng Shui to the terrain.

Water features, such as little lakes full of koi fishes and waterfalls, make people love this place.

It also provides a lot of beautiful little moments with this beauty of nature.

The buildings of the Anderson Japanese Garden have a unique architectural design that dates back to medieval Japan.

And should in case you grow hungry from being immersed in the wonders of its 12-acre perimeter, you can enjoy sumptuous meals while enjoying the stunning views of the park in its Fresco in the Gardens diner.

Address: 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, IL 61107, United States.

3. Lockwood Park and Trailside Equestrian Centre (Equine Magic & Farm Animals)

Who doesn’t love horses?

There is hardly anyone you might ask this that won’t tell you of the love and fantasies they have for these magnificent creatures, and should you desire to explore a world full of equine magic, Lockwood Park has all you need to make your dreams come true.

Lockwood Park has many farm animals, including goats, sheep, llamas, ducks, donkeys, horses, and ponies.

The animals look strong and healthy, often seen playfully running around.

It is a great place to learn a ton of things about the curious nature of the animals.

Go on a breathtaking journey through the 146 acres of cascading hills, lush meadows, woodlands, picnic areas, and a 15-mile numbered trail system excellent for hiking, biking, and horseback rides.

All staged to give you the experience of a lifetime.

Address: 5201 Safford Road, Rockford, IL 61101, United States.

Also see our article on Amusement Parks in Illinois.

Safari In Pretoria, Illinois.

1. Glen Oak Park (Family-Favorite & Serene Terrain)

Despite being established in the 19th century, Glen Oak Park has retained its appeal and charming aura for being a family-favorite destination that consistently offers visitors the opportunity to revel in its joyous atmosphere.

Glen Oak Park is on a peaceful and serene terrain with a lot of greenery and a beautiful backdrop that creates a welcoming ambiance.

That makes even the most conserved of minds open up to the fantastic sights of nature.

Go on a fishing expedition in its lagoon with friends or tour the famous Pretoria Zoo to catch a glimpse of its exotic wildlife.

Within the sturdy walls of this historical park lies a whole world of adventure, and you can be sure that every precious minute you spend here will be supreme.

Address: 2218 N Prospect Rd, Peoria, IL 61603, United States.

2. Fon Du Lac Park District (1600-Acre Outdoor Haven)

You may have visited many recreational parks and toured a lot of safaris, but you still feel like there’s still so much more to see.

Then prepare to be amazed by a world of spectacular sights and wonders residing only at the Fon Du Lac.

At the Fon du Lac, you get to experience what a 1600-acre perimeter with many lakes, parks, natural areas, and trails holds in store for all lucky to visit its hallowed grounds.

Whatever fun outdoor activities you want to try can come to life in this beautiful place.

The picturesque setting makes it an inviting and relaxing place to visit.

It also has a ton of major attractions, such as its nice playground area for kids, lots of exciting exhibits, and its famous neon holiday lights, which light up the night sky.

For a fun-packed experience of a lifetime, a visit to the Fon du Lac park is highly recommended.

Address: 201 Veterans Dr, East Peoria, IL 61611, United States.

3. Laura Bradley Park (Ideal for Picnics & Walks)

Notable historical monuments, beautiful flowering plants, ornamental trees, and shrubs in fusion with a great climate and unique natural features endues Laura Bradley Park.

Now, you have a spot with a powerful yet appealing aura to enjoy nature’s beauty.

There’s a lot of history behind the iconic scenery attributed to Bradley Park.

It has undergone decades of morphing from a nature center with flower gardens and only a few wading pools for children to one with ultra-modern playgrounds and facilities for all age brackets.

Its major attractions include a beautiful Japanese bridge over Dry Run Creek, a disc golf course, walking and biking trails, and a performing arts theatre.

Whether you want to go on a picnic or a walk through its beautiful trails, Bradley Park is about as ideal as an ideal can get.

Address: 1314 N Park Rd, West Peoria, IL 61604, United States.

Also see our article on Ice Skating in Illinois.

Safari in Waukegan, Illinois.

1. Illinois Beach Nature Preserve (Expansive Shoreline & Recreation)

A full range of recreation opportunities complements the expansive shoreline of Illinois Beach State Park.

Are you interested in jogging and cycling?

Or do you want a drastic improvement in your fitness levels?

The legendary trails of this iconic shoreline beckon to you that safari feeling you desire.

Whether you’re an active outdoor enthusiast or want to take a peaceful walk along some of its most beautiful beaches, this is just the place for you.

Illinois Beach is a unique and captivating natural resource for all nature lovers.

The 4160-acre park has a lot of geographic features in its area that create different kinds of habitats.

These other areas create ample opportunity for many activities such as rowing, swimming, bird-watching, hiking, and all the beautiful things you would do in the great outdoors.

And if you plan on spending a few nights at the park, it makes provisions for some of the finest accommodation services in the area.

As a place full of history and a culture for preserving the wonders of nature, Illinois Beach Park is highly recommended as one of the best places to soak up the warmth and goodness of mother nature.

Address: N Sheridan Rd, Waukegan, IL 60087, United States.

2. Bowen Park (Unique Playgrounds & Mushrooms)

Deeply inspired by the vision to create an environment where you can learn and still have twice as much as proven to be the driver, the founders of Bowen Park needed to have made such a homely yet fun-filled haven for visitors to enjoy.

Bowen Park is a 60-acre recreational area which is located in an area along Sheridan Road.

The old-growth forests and winding ravines surrounding the park present some of the most stunning views nature has to give.

A priceless gift that makes it one of the most magnificent parks in terms of aesthetic quality. 

Indeed not your regular park, Bowen Park offers a taste of dark-themed creativity in its spooky spider-web playgrounds and giant mushroom forests.

The unique and not-from-this-realm features of Bowen Park make it a popular attraction in the beautiful city of Waukegan, as many people come in troves to explore.

Address: 1800 N Sheridan Rd, Waukegan, IL 60085, United States.

3. Waukegan Savanna Dog Park (Dog-Friendly & Off-Leash Area)

The famous saying that a dog is man’s best friend is deeply inspired by the loyalty and symbiotic nature of a relationship that has lasted through millennia of lifetimes.

This concept sparks the creation of this perfect recreational center where dogs and their owners can strengthen their bond and have a fun experience.

Sited on an area spanning about 11+ acres, the Savanna Dog Park allows dogs to embrace their playful natures without being held back by restraints, as sights of them running about happily are common.

The only exception is for hikers who are required to use a leash.

For lovers of nature, the park offers an opportunity to view its fantastic topography full of captivating natural scenery and various plant and animal life.

The spot is also an excellent place for bird-watching.  

Address: 3800 York House Rd, Waukegan, IL 60087, United States.

Also see our article on Scenic Drives in Illinois.

Safari in Springfield, Illinois.

1. Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center (100-Acre Nature Site)

Nature has always found a way to inspire men who have shaped history and driven them to leave their mark in the sands of time.

As a nature lover, walking around the beautiful is one way to bond with the lovely environment and alluring landscape.

The 100-acre site has many picturesque, natural features that endear it to its visitants.

There are a lot of trails that make it a perfect destination for hiking and taking evening strolls.

You have some spectacular sights to see here, such as the Abraham Lincoln statue built in honor of the former president of the United States.

Depending on the time of the year you visit, the woodland area of the park is always teeming with a wide variety of wildlife as we get to see some of the most elusive animals and bird species in their natural habitat. 

Address: 2301 E Lake Shore Dr, Springfield, IL 62712, United States.

2. Adams Wildlife Sanctuary (40-Acre Nature Preserve)

Prepare to be dazzled by the lovely scenery and beautiful ambiance, the essential building blocks that make up the majestic terrain of such an iconic nature center.

Also known as the Margery Adams Wildlife Sanctuary, the Adams Wildlife Sanctuary is a state-sponsored, 40-acre stretch of trails, plains, and woodlands home to myriads of flowering plant species and wildlife native to the area.

Whether you are going on a nature-inspired walk or taking a hike, there are surely bound to be moments when you have to stop and appreciate the beauty of its natural setting.

If you want to go on a tour of its historical background, there are a lot of monuments from which one can learn of the park’s antecedence and origins.

The ponds in its marsh areas make ideal fishing spots.

And if you know where to look, the place is also suitable for bird watching.

Address: 2315 E Clear Lake Ave, Springfield, IL 62703, United States.

3. Henson Robinson Zoo (80+ Species & Exotic Animals)

Talk about a nature exhibit in Springfield that understands the need to be dynamic and embrace variety.

You will find the name Henson Robinson Zoo on the lips of almost everyone.

The Henson Robinson Zoo is a private nonprofit zoo home to over 80 species of native and exotic animals from every continent.

There is so much to learn about the large variety of animals in the Zoo.

To ensure that its visitants have all of the information they require, the zoo employ the most well-informed guides with charming personalities and excellent communication skills.

Away from walking back and forth from touring the animal enclosures, there are a lot of fun activities to do in the Henson Robinson Zoo.

It is an excellent site for picnics and family-type excursions.

Address: 1100 E Lake Shore Dr, Springfield, IL 62712, United States.

Also see our article on Alpaca farms in Illinois.

Safari in Naperville, Illinois.

1. Knoch Knolls Nature Center (Towering Hills & Bike Trails)

Very few simple things are as important as spending quality time immersing oneself in nature or sharing those beautiful moments with the people you love and care for the most.

The picturesque scenes of the towering hills, winding pathways, and bike trails merge seamlessly with the greenery of the trees to generate lovely scenes that can only be termed an actual work of art by nature.

Fancy a picnic, walk, or swim in a beautiful, serene, and relaxing location?

Then the best place to enjoy all that is at the Knoch Knolls nature center.

The presence of large ponds and streams makes it a perfect spot for fishing and kayaking.

In the winter, the rivers become some of the best skiing grounds, attracting many people.

Think of it as a must-visit recreational center for a truly fantastic time.

Address: 320 Knoch Knolls Rd, Naperville, IL 60565, United States.

2. Whalon Lake Preserve (Home to Rare Species)

The Whalan Lake Preserve is a 249-acre nature park with many natural habitats, including prairie, wetland, and marshes.

It is a great recreational spot redeemed from an old quarry to turn into a true masterpiece.

The large, beautiful lake is surrounded by wide asphalt-coated trails, making it a great place to jog, run or exercise.

One thing that is particularly pleasing about the Whalan preserve is the easy accessibility of its natural features.

The super clean and crystal-clear lake is a fantastic kayaking location.

It is also a great place to fish for freshwater fish, such as bass and eels.

Also, it makes a decent spot for a picnic too.

The preserve is home to many plant and animal species, and some of the rarest types are here.

Address: Royce Road, Naperville, IL 60565, United States.

3. Greene Valley (Ecologically Diverse & Sunsets)

Whether you are a first-time visitor or have come to share this beautiful place with people, the wonderful memories created here will surely last a lifetime.

They will leave you craving the same beautiful experience again.

A 1338-acre land area translates into it being a very spacious nature center.

Therefore, it can house over 540 native plant and animal species, making it one of the most ecologically diverse sites.

The preserve features woodlands, lush forest areas, marshes, lakes, and a portion of the DuPage River.

It has spacious and well-maintained trails frequently used by people to jog, hike or take a leisurely walk to enjoy the beautiful atmosphere.

Some of the most captivating scenes you should look out for is its ethereal sunsets, as they are truly stunning.

An astonishing number of migrating birds are in this preserve, making it the perfect place for bird watching.

Address: Naperville, IL 60565, United States.

If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Alpaca farms, zoos, and date ideas in Illinois.

Looking beyond Illinois? Check out our article on the best safari in New York and Florida.