My first time here. I've avoided this area because it's surrounded by iffy neighborhoods with high…read morecrime rates like murders. They had a fall festival this past weekend with free guided walks so I figured it would be safe for us. Loved the guided walk and how informative it was. This is a high quality state park with lots of native plants still intact. So the whole place is pretty deserted but it did rain in the morning. Cars with completely tinted windows drive around in broad daylight. Pretty scary...The campgrounds have security that do not allow you to pass through unless you are a camper so that would make it safe. I saw a few police cars in the area as well. Personally, this isn't for me but if you are street smart, know your way around the neighborhood, it's great for hiking.

8/7/2024: Three dings…read more1) Parking lot bathrooms have no locks at all 2) Beach front south side of park mostly washed out except for section between hotel and trail head 3) Entrance to South Park entrance from main road is currently completely blocked by road closure if you are coming from the south, detour is available but adds time

I was just reminiscing about my sweet hometown. With COVID still going strong, most of us do not…read morehave the opportunity to go visit family. Soon I'll be able to see everyone back home and visit all the places dear to my heart. Eichelman Park is one of those places. Kenosha is situated right on Lake Michigan and offers incredible, easily accessed parks and beaches. Complimentary parking is abundant, which is unheard of in Chicago. I marvel at the innocence of this park. Always clean and less visited, the sand, grass and foliage is always perfectly cared for. I often times see families enjoying a small picnic and beach glass hunters slowly roaming the edge of the water. There are homes across the street with perfect views to this great lake, park and beach. Wouldn't it be wonderful to wake up each morning to a sunrise peaking above the horizon? Situated next to the downtown shopping area and just north of Allendale neighborhood filled with elegant old mansions, it is a perfect oasis to relax without a crowd. The vintage beauty called the Kemper Center is next door as well. The general area is just exquisite. I often stop by when I am in town, no matter what the weather is offering. It is just lovely in all four seasons. This park and beach is certainly worth a visit for a picnic, swim or photos.

Nice park and beach... never too busy, but the beach can be kind of messy…read more Great sheltered place for kids and even to bbq. Super nice!

Ah, the Winey Mary--a concoction that dares to ask, "Why be ordinary when you can be a cheeky…read morecunt?" This sassy cousin of the Bloody Mary trades in its vodka for a rich, full-bodied stale sake wine, and oh, what a trade it is! From the first sip, you're greeted with the robust warmth of the sake, which pairs oh so harmoniously with the traditional tomato juice base. But don't be fooled; this isn't just a Bloody Mary in a fancy dress. No, the Winey Mary has a personality all its own--bold, slightly rebellious, yet undeniably charming that you'd think it's asking you "Hey, do you come here often?" To which I won't! And let's not forget the garnish. Whether it's a classic celery stalk, a twist of lemon, or a few olives bobbing playfully on the surface, each adds its own layer of whimsy to the classic Bloody Mary. But the Whiney Mary? It's as if the sliver of lime at the bottom of the glass is winking at you, mocking you by what a horrendous choice you've made. So, raise your glass to the Winey Mary--a drink that's not just a cocktail, but an experience. It's the perfect companion for those who like their beach days with a side of alcoholism and regret. Cheers! WORST. PRETZELS. EVER. !!!!

I love this lake and park…read more. Our church has been coming here for their annual picnic/baptism ceremony, the past several years.. I have been along the past three years and have really enjoyed hanging out here each time. The park is beautiful and maintained very well, the amenties are generous for being a public park. there is a small charge of course, but it is worth it. The beach is clean, the lake is beautiful, and the swimming area is very safe, albeit a bit shallow, but great for toddlers and pre-teens to play and cool off on a hot summer day. Hungry?? the field house offers snacks and light food, such as hot dogs, chips, soda, ice cream. Or, you can bring along a BBQ grill or use the grills provided and whip up something you toted along. Grab a spot by one of the many picnic tables and relax. There are some real nice walking paths for those of you that enjoy soaking up nature and hiking thru the prairie. Great place to snap some nature pics or give the kids a nature tour. I would give this place five stars if they put the volleyball nets back up.. but that is just me just feeling a bit disappointed we were unable to play beach volleyball..

Nice park along Lake Michigan, lots of space to run and parking along the street, plus adjacent…read moreparking. Playground is in excellent good repair, looks new.

Kennedy Park is a great place for family fun, sports activities and a simple drive past the lake…read more The views of the lake are vast. Every season offers a gorgeous display of nature's beauty. The large flat park has a playground area with swings etc. It is large enough for a fun game of touch football too. Everyone likes to sit on the rocks because they are big and flat. They are stable enough to sit and get some sun or take some pretty photographs. I always look forward to a ride along Lake Michigan every time I'm in town.

Pennoyer Park is a gorgeous stretch of user friendly beachfront and park with a bandshell. It is…read moreflat, near the tennis courts and has ample parking. I love hanging out there for a bit with my sister when I am in town. We usually sit and reminisce. There are always a ton of birds so you can take beautiful photos. There are no snack outlets nearby but the summer is filled with fun activities in the park area. If you are lucky enough to catch a concert, food and beer, it's a bonus! Otherwise, Pennoyer Park and Beach offer a great place to visit during all seasons, whether an event is happening or not.

Decent Spot to unwind for a while n watch the sea gulls flying.Not a great spot for games as there…read moreis not lot of sand and too many small sharp stones. Waves are not rough so swimming can be done but dint notice any life guards either.Parking and restrooms available.2-3 restaurants which are walkable.

I visited the Viking Park on Tuesday July 21 about 10:30 am. The weather was perfect for the…read moreoutdoor summer concert for the kids. There were many families with little ones. Jeannie B. Put on a remarkable performance with music and dancing for the children. There were many hands on activities. The adults got Chance to join in with their children at the end. It was simply amazing to be out in the park after the many days of dangerous air levels. A nice place with great musical acidity for the family.

been here a dozen of times...a hidden gem that is not easily visible and accessible from the main…read moreroads...located off the historical "old grand ave"...very well maintained recreational area...great for hosting different indoor and outdoor events (i.e. bday parties, weddings, craft shows, private gatherings)...several indoor centers with that old country settings...the rental rates are cheap maybe because it's a gurnee park district and not privately owned...clean indoor bathrooms complete with plumbing...different outdoor courts (basketball, tennis, volleyball, badminton, etc.)...plenty of parking scattered around...beautiful large old trees (especially the acorn) compliments the setting that mimics a bob ross landscape painting...the only negative comment i can say - metra line is next door so expect some train noise when outdoor...or wear ear muffs!

Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve is an excellent place for a picnic, fishing, canoeing, biking and…read morea tranquil walk. The wide gravel path is 2.5 miles around the beautiful Sterling lake. It's shady with many trees and also nice and breezy. They have nice private picnic areas right on the lake front along with a couple restrooms. It's a great fun day out for families!

Easy hike we took the Yellow Trail. Kid friendly, playground and restrooms are available. The trail…read morehad some cool wood chairs around the trail.

Experienced this beautiful view over the weekend! Was a bit too cold to get in the lake, but…read moreenjoyed the scenic walk.

Until last week it had been years since we'd been here. Simmons used to be our beach of choice in…read morethe area but Alford will be stealing that thunder. Alford seems to be far less crowded with the same amenities and a larger beach area. About the only downside, the sand is course and irritating here. It gets everywhere. Sorry for the reference...had to. Cheers.