The Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Lake County wasn’t always the beautiful 1100-acre botanical garden and recreation space that you may know it as today. In fact, when Catering by Michaels was first given an opportunity to partner with I...

June 21st officially marked the first day of summer, and we want to kick off the week by sharing all the fun-filled happenings at Independence Grove. It’s that time of year for picnics in the park, lazy boat rides on the lake, and soft serve ice cr...

Summer really is the best time to enjoy all that Independence Grove Forest Preserve has to offer.   Opening May 25: Independence Grove Cafe Overlooking a 115-acre lake, it’s the perfect backdrop for family picnics, a romantic date, or a relaxing d...

Welcome summer by enjoying a fun-filled day at Independence Grove, a 1,100-acre nature preserve and recreation area located in Lake County. The pristine and secluded forest preserve is situated on a 115-acre lake and features hiking trails, an out...