Things to Do at the Forest Preserves of Cook County During Thanksgiving Break

Thanksgiving week brings a welcome pause in the rush of everyday life. The kids are out of school, families are preparing for the holiday, and everyone is looking for something healthy, peaceful, and low-cost to do together. Luckily, we live just minutes away from one of the greatest natural treasures in the region: the Forest Preserves of Cook County.

Even though the visitor centers will be closed Wednesday through Friday, the preserves themselves are wide open—and late November is a beautiful time to explore them. The air is crisp, the trails are quiet, and the leaves are still holding onto those last flashes of gold, rust, and deep red. For families who want to get outside, stretch their legs, and enjoy some fresh air before Thanksgiving dinner, the preserves offer a perfect escape.

And staying warm outdoors is easier than people think. Dress in layers, tuck hand warmers into your gloves, bring a thermos of cocoa or tea, and keep moving—walking, biking, or exploring helps everyone stay warm while enjoying the crisp fall air.

1. Take a Family Hike on Scenic Trails

Nothing clears the mind like a good walk in the woods. FPCC has miles and miles of hiking trails where families can stroll at their own pace. Try the Dan Ryan Woods for wide, easy trails perfect for younger children, or head to the North Branch Trail if your crew prefers longer, more scenic walks. Let kids collect interesting leaves, hunt for animal tracks, or see how many types of birds they can spot. Teens may roll their eyes at first—but once they’re moving, most of them relax into the rhythm of the trail.

2. Visit an FPCC Dog Park

If you’ve got a four-legged family member, Thanksgiving week is the perfect time to let them burn off some energy too. FPCC has several off-leash dog areas where pets can run, play, and socialize. It’s a great way for kids to get outside and for your pup to enjoy the holiday break too. Just remember to bring your FPCC dog-park permit.

3. Enjoy a Family Bike Ride

The preserves have several paved and unpaved trails that are ideal for biking. Bring the whole family out for a gentle ride through the woods, or tackle a longer route if you’ve got older kids or athletes at home. A cool-weather bike ride is one of the best ways to get moving without feeling overheated—and the scenery makes the miles glide by.

4. Explore Nature Near the Water

Many preserves feature lakes, ponds, and rivers that stay beautiful even in late fall. Bring the kids to look for ducks, geese, or the occasional heron resting along the shoreline. If you’re near Skokie Lagoons, Maple Lake, or Busse Woods, you can walk along the water’s edge and teach children how to spot beaver dams, fallen logs, or wintering birds.

5. Take a Mini-Adventure With Little Kids

For younger children, the preserves feel magical. Create a small scavenger hunt—find a heart-shaped leaf, a smooth rock, a fallen tree branch, or a squirrel gathering food. Let them crunch through the leaves or make up stories about the animals they spot. These simple activities can keep them busy for hours, and it costs absolutely nothing.

6. Capture Beautiful Family Photos

The preserves are one of the most underrated places to take fall family photos. The hills, trees, open meadows, and last bursts of color make the perfect backdrop. Bundle up, bring your phone or camera, and capture some pre-Thanksgiving moments you’ll want to frame later.

7. Plan a Simple Outdoor Picnic

Even in cooler weather, a short outdoor picnic can be fun—especially if it’s just hot chocolate, snacks, and a warm blanket. Find a picnic table or a quiet open space and enjoy a cozy break together between walks or activities. Being outside, even briefly, resets everyone’s mood.

8. Let the Kids Run Free

After being cooped up inside for school, homework, and screens, kids need space. The preserves offer room to run, jump, explore, and just be kids. You don’t need a formal activity—nature itself is enough.

Why It Matters

With all the holiday preparation, family gatherings, and end-of-year responsibilities, this season can get overwhelming. Stepping into the Forest Preserves gives families a chance to slow down, reconnect, and simply breathe. It’s free, peaceful, healthy, and right here in our backyard.

From sunrise to sunset, every preserve in Cook County is open throughout Thanksgiving week—giving you and your family a beautiful place to unwind, explore, and create new memories.