Here are three places in and near Chicago where you can get in a scenic morning workout, then unwind with some good eats.

A monumental anonymous gift of $40 million showcases the growing importance of supporting the zoos and their vital conservation efforts, ensuring a better future for wildlife and visitors alike.

The spotted lanternfly, an invasive species that poses a threat to agricultural industries, has been found in Illinois for the first time.

On October 5th, 2023, a mass bird fatality occurred in Chicago, with nearly 1,000 migrating birds dying after colliding with the windows of the McCormick Place Lakeside Center. The tragic event is a stark reminder of the potential danger of lit windows and the need for bird-friendly measures in urban areas.

As bird migration continues across the United States, millions of birds have traversed Illinois, leading to astonishing numbers during the peak migration season. The annual process has encountered hurdles, as human intervention may cause disturbances to the migratory patterns and overall safety of these creatures.

As Cook County Forest Preserves enters a "new era" with an increased $189 million budget, focus on restoration work, maintenance, and improved community outreach is key to drive future progress within the Forest Preserves.

Deer collision disables Wright-Way Rescue van, disrupting operations. Charity seeks donations for replacement to continue saving endangered animals.

Increased bat sightings in Chicago coincide with migration season they pose minimal risk to residents while contributing to eco balance.

Navy Pier's Crystal Gardens palm trees face demolition threat amidst plans for a new theater, sparking local campaigns for preservation.

Famed giant pandas return to China from DC Zoo highlights international collaboration for wildlife conservation.

Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Illinois gets 4000 grant from IDNR for facility upgrade, aiding rehab of endangered species.

Illinois 2023 firearm deer season IDNR urges tree stand safety amidst rise in hunting-related accidents and fatalities.

Escaped African serval cat in Vernon Hills dies post-recapture, brings up concerns about suburban exotic pet ownership.

Brookfield Zoo welcomes two orphaned brown bear cubs and aims to raise awareness around wildlife conservation through their journey.

Rise in Chicagos dog bite cases calls for revisited city policies and better pet resources in underserved areas.

Illinois' 'Marijuana Moms,' including State Reps. Kelly Cassidy and Jehan Gordon-Booth, are confronting McHenry County State's Attorney Patrick Kenneally's initiative to mandate health warning labels on cannabis products, sparking a heated debate.

Wolf Carbon halts Illinois CO2 pipeline amid pushback.

Illinois biologists and fishers removed 750,000 pounds of silver carp from the Illinois River, using ideal conditions for their highly effective netting technique.

The Geminid meteor shower is set to peak in the U.S., offering viewers a chance to see bright meteors, with the best viewing times between midnight and 6 a.m.

The first annual Illinois state park ornament featuring Starved Rock is available for purchase, supporting park improvements and conservation efforts.

Illinois extends its controlled pheasant hunting season at select sites, offering more opportunities for hunters who can reserve permits online up until the day before the hunt.

New graduates from Greencorps Chicago's green technology job training program, which supports work opportunities for individuals facing employment barriers, are ready to apply their skills in environmental stewardship.

Chicago's tree planting initiative sparks critique from TreeKeepers who say the city's efforts fall short due to insufficient aftercare for the new saplings.

Plans to open a cannabis dispensary at the former Rainforest Cafe in Chicago by Progressive Treatment Solutions and Bio-Pharm have been abandoned due to regulatory issues and legal challenges.

Chicago's recycling program allows residents to drop off Christmas trees for conversion into mulch at 27 locations from Jan. 6-20, with free mulch available at six spots starting Jan. 8.

The IDNR is hiring temporary fishing clinic instructors for summer 2024, suitable for teachers, retirees, and students. These clinics aim to teach fishing and conservation in various Illinois counties. Applications are currently open.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announces a $28 million investment in statewide park improvements as part of the Rebuild Illinois program, aiming to enhance local recreation and infrastructure.

Illinois craft cannabis growers can now expand their plant space to aid financial and market challenges, yet still face obstacles including funding issues and market inequalities.

An unusual pavement etching in Chicago, resembling a rodent and known as the 'rat hole,' goes viral and becomes a local attraction, sparking debate whether it's a rat or squirrel.

The Phillips Park Zoo in Aurora, IL remains closed until January 20 due to extreme cold, prioritizing the safety of visitors and animal welfare during the weather conditions.

The Illinois Supreme Court is reviewing whether the smell of cannabis justifies police car searches, a significant issue since Illinois legalized marijuana in 2020. Previous cases show conflicting lower court rulings on this matter.

The "Chicago Rat Hole," a sidewalk imprint, has become a viral sensation after a comedian's tweet, leading to it being partially filled with concrete and then excavated by locals.

The boil water order in a South Chicago suburb has been lifted after a series of water main breaks, and officials now deem the tap water safe to drink.

Dixmoor, a Chicago suburb, is facing severe water infrastructure issues, with recent water main breaks near an elementary school causing community disruption.

The city of Chicago receives a $160 million federal grant for its Great Lakes ReNEW initiative, which aims to address water pollution and spur economic growth in the region.

Illinois and ATA extend the Grand American trapshooting event at the World Shooting Complex in Sparta through 2036, with significant annual economic benefits for Southern Illinois.

Woodstock Willie, the groundhog, predicted an early spring by not seeing his shadow, aligning with Punxsutawney Phil's forecast. Woodstock's celebrations included themed events and a "Groundhog Day" cast reunion.

Chicago celebrates St. Patrick's Day by dyeing the river green, a 63-year tradition carried out by the Journeymen Plumbers Local 130 using environmentally safe dye.

Efforts are underway to rename a Chicago park to honor the Pollard family, prominent early Black residents with a history of significant achievements.

Four Little Free Libraries in Oak Park were destroyed, prompting police to search for a female suspect behind the vandalism. The community is left disheartened by the attacks on these book-sharing hubs.

Illinois archers harvested 803 wild turkeys in the 2023-2024 season, slightly more than the previous year and above the five-year average, with a preference for crossbows over longbows.

Chuck Martin has been awarded the 2023 IRAP Landowner of the Year for his efforts in conservation and public land access in Christian County, Illinois.

Brookfield Zoo introduces koalas and a new grey seal pup, planning to showcase them alongside other recent animal additions and a 130-foot Ferris wheel for its 90th anniversary. Visitors can follow updates on the seal pup's progress via social media.

Firefighters and Forest Preserves crews battled a significant brush fire at Tinley Park's Bobolink Meadow over the weekend, containing it by Sunday evening.

The Illinois spring trout season begins on April 6, with early catch-and-release starting March 23. Over 80,000 trout will be stocked for anglers who have the required licenses and trout stamps.

The Illinois Commerce Commission announces Fix a Leak Week to encourage residents to repair water leaks, potentially saving 10,000 gallons of water per household annually.

The Naperville Park Board approved a DAR-donated plaque to commemorate America's 250th anniversary after initial confusion and skepticism. The plaque will be placed in Veterans Park.

The Cook County Sheriff's Office is expanding its Tails of Redemption program, where inmates train shelter dogs, preparing more canines for adoption and giving inmates new skills.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson announces the reopening of five city parks used as shelters, with a transition plan for residents starting March 30, 2024, and a refurbishment of the park facilities following.

Bana, a 29-year-old western lowland gorilla at Lincoln Park Zoo, has died of congestive cardiac failure following bronchopneumonia. She was a key figure in the zoo's gorilla troop and cognitive studies.

Chicago Park District opens summer program registration on April 15 for western parks and April 16 for eastern ones, offering diverse activities for all ages from June 10 to August 25.

The Cook County Forest Preserves in Palos are undergoing a $10 million restoration, enhancing 1,000 acres with native plants, improved trails, and new signs to combat climate change and boost outdoor recreation.

Trillions of periodical cicadas are set to emerge across the U.S. in 2024, with residents reporting high noise levels that confuse some into calling the police.

Chicago prepares for an early cicada emergence, with experts at the Morton Arboretum advising on how to protect young trees with netting and other methods, while warning against the ineffectiveness and ecological harm of insecticides.

New regulations from the Department of Treasury could hinder Illinois corn farmers' prospects of using their crops for sustainable jet fuel production, due to stricter conservation practice requirements.

Chicago's Gage Park Fieldhouse is reopening with facility upgrades after serving as an emergency winter shelter, with summer programs resuming June 10.

Four peregrine falcon chicks hatched at UIC during graduation, while pro-Palestinian students at Northwestern University walked out of their ceremony in protest.

Brookfield Zoo in Chicago debuted koalas Brumby and Willum, marking the first time the zoo has hosted these marsupials, now part of an elite group of U.S. zoos with such residents.

The iconic Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park reopened after being vandalized by anti-war protesters, prompting a temporary closure. The fountain was cleaned and is now fully operational. No arrests have been made yet.

Delasol, a 33-year-old Bolivian gray titi monkey, has passed away at the Lincoln Park Zoo, outliving her species' average lifespan by over two decades.

Sunrise Beach increases its non-resident entry fees following a surge in popularity due to a "Top Secret Beaches" article, as the Lake Bluff Park District seeks to cover maintenance costs.

A playground in Streamwood is closed indefinitely after an undisclosed incident damaged its challenge course during the Fourth of July weekend. Other park areas remain open.

The Lake County Forest Preserves District Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the acquisition of 18 acres near the Openlands Lakeshore Preserve to enhance regional conservation efforts.

One of four piping plover chicks at Montrose Beach is missing and presumed dead, with the remaining three in good condition. The community mourns the loss as conservation efforts continue.

Chicago denied permits for an ALS research fundraising swim in the Chicago River due to safety concerns, suggesting an alternative route. The event by A Long Swim was to highlight river cleanliness and support youth swimming.

A sole survivor chick from a clutch of Piping Plovers at Montrose Beach was named Nagamo, reflecting its species' vocal nature and chosen to honor cultural heritage.

Glencoe residents will vote on a $14.7 million bond for park updates in November 2024 without increasing taxes. Community surveys show support for the improvements.

Brookfield Zoo in Chicago has celebrated the birth of an endangered Grevy's zebra foal as part of a Species Survival Plan to maintain a viable zebra population.

Indiana Dunes National Park's Portage Lakefront will close daily at 9 p.m. due to vandalism and illegal fires. New hours are 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., starting August 2.

Lincoln Park Zoo has been accredited as a botanic garden and achieved Level III arboretum accreditation, recognizing its plant conservation efforts and extensive plant collection.

The last piping plover chick at Montrose Beach, Nagamo, began its migration south after its parents left, symbolizing hope for the endangered species.

The Washington Heights community holds the 28th Stop the Violence Picnic at Brainerd Park to unite and engage youth, aiming to reduce violence and build community pride.

The Oak Brook Park District received a $1.4 million federal grant for the Ginger Creek Pedestrian Bridge and Shoreline Improvement project, as part of a broader $6 million enhancement plan for local park facilities.

Brookfield Zoo in Chicago welcomes four baby flamingos with the newest hatching on August 7. Their genders are unknown and their public debut is set for August 19.

An abandoned baby Eastern screech owl rescued and released back into the wild contrasts with three great horned owls in Lincoln Park dying from rodenticide poisoning.

Brookfield Zoo in Chicago euthanized a 24-year-old bison named Judy, following a decline in health. A Native American blessing ceremony honored her before she was put to rest.

Nagamo, a piping plover chick from Chicago’s Montrose Beach, has embarked on its migration south, following the departure of its parents and siblings.

Residents of Wilmette are protesting the erection of a fence and new fees at Gillson Park Beach, arguing that the decision was made without proper public consultation.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is holding public meetings to discuss managing chronic wasting disease in deer, now found in 21 counties.

Ferne Clyffe State Park celebrates its 75th anniversary with outdoor activities including guided hikes, fishing, and rock climbing. The event invites nature enthusiasts to enjoy the park's history and amenities.

Southside Blooms is transforming a vacant lot in Chicago's West Garfield Park into a flower farm that also provides jobs and peace of mind for local youth.

Lincoln Park Zoo's ZooLights returns for its 30th year, featuring over three million lights and a new "Light Lounge," with free admission on select nights.

NBC Chicago reports a massive bird migration over Illinois, with alerts for Chicago to turn off lights to protect the 70 million birds traveling during peak migration nights.

The Clear The Shelters event in 2024 sees a record-breaking 2,819 pets adopted in the Chicago area, contributing to the nationwide total of 168,832 pets finding homes.

PAWS Chicago rescued 16 puppies from Hurricane Helene's impact in North Carolina; the dogs are being cared for in Chicago and will be up for adoption once medically cleared.

Illinois' IDNR has introduced a mentored archery deer hunting program at Kickapoo State Recreation Area for novice hunters, requiring participants to have a mentor and submit an online application by Nov. 29.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has distributed over $1 million in grants for Lake Michigan shoreline conservation and education, emphasizing diversity and sustainability.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources urges vigilance as avian influenza affects waterfowl and requests public reporting of multiple bird deaths.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is collecting used Christmas trees to create aquatic habitats in state lakes, with drop-off locations available post-holidays.

A coyote was found in a Humboldt Park Aldi in Chicago, surprising customers and staff. It was safely removed without injury and is now with Flint Creek Wildlife Rehabilitation.

The IDNR highlights eagle-watching events in Illinois during the winter, with over 3,000 bald eagles inhabiting the state. Locations like Starved Rock State Park offer prime viewing opportunities.

Hundreds of red-breasted mergansers have been affected by a bird flu outbreak on Chicago's Lake Michigan shoreline, raising concerns for wildlife and pets.

Chicago-area penguins Pepe, Stewart, and Pico compete in a global contest to raise penguin conservation awareness, with public voting available online and via social media.

Chicago hosted 'Rescue Together,' an adoption event to place pets in homes, with adoption fees waived by Chicago Animal Care & Control, as reported by ABC7 Chicago and the Chicago Sun-Times.

Brookfield Zoo in Chicago celebrates the birth of endangered species including Humboldt penguin chicks and other animals, highlighting conservation efforts.

The "Wrigley Goose" from the Cubs' game now has a commemorative bobblehead available for purchase from the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture is launching a pheromone-based treatment program against the invasive Spongy Moth, involving aerial dispersals and open houses for public engagement.

A record-breaking 3,000 volunteers participated in the annual Chicago River Cleanup, clearing trash and invasive plants from over 150 miles of riverbanks, marking a historic turnout for the event.

Illinois officials encourage residents near Lake Bluffs Estates to test well water after finding 1,4-Dioxane levels might exceed safe limits, posing health risks.

Du Quoin State Fairgrounds offers a free fishing introduction for kids on July 8. Requires pre-registration; first 25 to sign up will participate. Older participants need a valid license.

Emy, a giraffe at Peoria Zoo, recovers after an eye surgery due to infection, with care from multiple veterinary teams. She adapts well, aided by the zoo's support.

Chicago's Shedd Aquarium has introduced a new sea otter named Jade, chosen by a public vote, who is acclimating well and may become a surrogate mom to other otters.

Lincoln Park Zoo celebrates World Rhino Day, announcing the pregnancy of Kapuki, a 20-year-old eastern black rhinoceros, with the birth expected in early spring 2026. This is part of conservation efforts for the critically endangered species.

A 4,270-year-old human skull fragment was found near the Whitewater River in Indiana, dating back to circa 2300 B.C. and undergoing respectful repatriation and site management.

The Park District says the 1912 Burnham Building will be restored with federal support; work could start next spring pending environmental review.

Lincoln Park Zoo added two brown bears for the first time since 1979 and announced an African penguin chick hatched Oct. 1, a small but meaningful win for conservation in Chicago.

Snowy owls attract crowds in Chicago after being spotted at Montrose Beach, with birdwatchers and locals intrigued by their unusual visitation patterns.

Chicago’s Illinois Medical District broke ground on a one‑acre park at 2023 W. Ogden that will feature playgrounds, fitness zones and a 25‑foot COVID‑19 memorial.

Years of neighborhood organizing paid off this month as John H. Kelly Park in Lakeview broke ground on a long‑planned renovation. The overhaul is funded by state grants, a Cubs contribution and local donors.

A $1.2M overhaul of Antioch’s Centennial Park — including replacing the 1992 wooden playground — has prompted a petition with more than 3,800 signatures.

The Chicago Park District rolled out a 20-year framework for Grant Park that pairs Paris-style movable chairs and more restrooms with megaproject ideas to reconnect the lakefront.

A volunteer rescued a snowy owl along I‑88 near DeKalb and vets at DuPage performed emergency surgery; the bird is recovering but prognosis remains uncertain.

Lurie Garden will close March 2 through early July for repairs to its wooden boardwalk and water feature. Managers say the work is a preservation project focused on safety.

Starved Rock is getting an $18 million trail overhaul. Some canyons and staircases will be closed intermittently while the lodge and visitor services stay open.

Turf-eating grubs have returned to Welles Park and other Chicago parks, stripping fields and forcing reseeding and temporary closures ahead of the spring season.

A federal shoreline plan for the 47th–51st stretch has reignited fights in Hyde Park over Morgan Shoal’s habitat and a visible century-old shipwreck. Neighbors and agencies are at odds over how to protect the lakefront without erasing the shoal.

Windblown sand buried Mount Baldy's parking area, closing the access site while crews move roughly 40,000 cubic yards of sand. The cleanup is expected to run into mid‑June.

Bradford pear blossoms are back across Illinois — but the trees are being phased out under the state’s Exotic Weeds Act, with a sales ban set for Jan. 1, 2028.

An updated timeline now targets 2027 for construction of the Englewood Nature Trail, but early remediation will affect trees and murals along the elevated corridor.

An eaglet hatched in Park No. 597 on April 28 — the Chicago Park District says it’s the first bald eagle born within city limits in more than 100 years. Officials credit habitat restoration and ask residents to keep their distance.

Chicago opened its Native and Pollinator Garden Registry and is accepting applications; a committee also advanced a change to allow registered parkway plants up to 36 inches tall.

A South Side yard turned into a buzzing spectacle on Memorial Day when a massive honeybee swarm settled, drawing neighbors and cameras.

Rapid qPCR testing briefly put 31st Street Beach on a yellow swim advisory over Memorial Day weekend, and advocates say aging infrastructure could mean more advisories this summer.

Wheeling’s village board signed off on site plans for a new roughly $30 million aquatic center at Heritage Park, with construction underway and a spring/summer 2027 target. Funding, renderings and permitting steps are now moving forward.

A wolf at Washington Park Zoo died and a lemur later died from a separate medical event; officials say staff involved in a subsequent wolf-related incident are stable.

Ottawa has endorsed a plan to move 30 belugas and four dolphins from Marineland to aquariums including Georgia Aquarium. Initial permits are in hand but the transfer is complex.

A new study finds heavy metals in soils and eggshells and the fungus Ophidiomyces in snakes across the Chicago region, complicating ongoing headstart and reintroduction work.

Construction has started on a pocket Riverwalk park at 430 S. Washington St. that will link North Central College and downtown Naperville with plazas, an archway and ADA access.