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 cream.

Independence Grove is open to the public and plays hosts to tons of fun activities: swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, and so much more. The park is centered around a 115-acre lake, making the preserve a favorite summer hangout spot for all outdoor recreation and nature education.

Consider Independence Grove’s many amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy:

Amenities:

  • Picnic Tables
  • Fireplace
  • Flush Toilets
  • Playground
  • Sand Volleyball Court
  • Fishing Pier
  • Public Parking
  • Trails

Activities:

  • Biking
  • Boating
  • Swimming
  • Exhibits
  • Dog Park
  • Hiking
  • Canoeing/Kayaking

But that’s not all….

Days Activities at Independence Grove

Now that we get to enjoy longer days and warmer nights, there’s plenty of time to pack in all of your favorite activities.

With roughly 6 miles of trails that circle the lake, you can take a leisurely stroll or pick up the pace for a run, if that’s more your speed.

Trails range in surface conditions from gravel to paved road—perfect to assist in training for different conditions:

  • Gravel: 2.3-mile Lakeside Trail and a short section of the Des Plaines River Trail, which connects to trails on the north side of the preserve.
  • Paved: 2.5-mile Overlook Trail and the 0.7-mile South Bay Trail Loop.
  • Combination paved and gravel: 0.75-mile North Bay Trail Loop.

Are you looking for a sunny spot to lay down? Head on down to the beach where you will find over 400 feet of sand along the lake’s South Bay. If you’d like to take a dip in the water, you can wash off at the beach house, which offers washrooms, showers, and lockers.

The cafe is located at the Visitors Center, just a short walk from the beach. At the cafe, you can purchase snacks, light entrees, beverages, and ice cream from a convenient walk-up window.

After a light bite to eat, swing by the marina and rent fishing boats, canoes, kayaks, stand up paddle board, or pedal boats.

Evenings In The Plaza: Summer Concert Series

It wouldn’t be summer without the Plaza outdoor concert series.

The series is hosted in The Millennia Plaza, every Tuesday evening from mid-June to early August. You are invited to lay back and relax or boogie out all night long. Rain or shine, the show starts at 7:30 pm.

Pack a picnic or stop by the cafe and pick up dinner and beverages before the show.

Visiting Indépendance Grove This Summer

With a little something for everyone, there is no wrong way to spend a day at Independence Grove. Whether you’re planning a family outing or gathering the friends together for a day outdoors, we can’t wait to see you here!