Enjoy the outdoors this Valentine's Season

Valentine’s Day is around the corner! As you’re planning reservations and activities, choosing the right one can sometimes be difficult. The classic dinner on Valentine’s Day is always a good choice, but don’t just limit yourself to one activity. There are many things that you and your Valentine can enjoy even before the big day. Here is a list of outdoor activities that you and your valentine can enjoy. There is also an event for singles as well. 

Lantern-Lit for Lovers: 

Where: Four Rivers Environmental Education Center

When: Feb. 10, 2023, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Reconnect in the still quiet evening under the stars. Take time just for the two of you and enjoy the warm glow of lanterns along the trail. After a quiet journey, enjoy a nice cup of hot chocolate and a gourmet s’mores station. Stay cozy in the Grand Hall or join other couples for a quick round of games. 

The program will have an ongoing schedule of events to keep you entertained all evening, so join anytime between 6 and 9 p.m. BYOB (Beer and wine only) is allowed for adults only. Registration is required by Feb 9^th. Please contact (815) 722-9470. 

Sweetheart Night Hike:

Where: Messenger Woods Nature Preserve

When: Feb. 11, 2023, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Snuggle up and stroll along a lantern-lit trail with your Valentine. Enjoy the beauty of Messenger Woods and the company of your companion. BYOB is accepted (Beer and wine only). After your hike, cozy up by the campfire and make s'mores. 

Registration is required by Wednesday, Feb 8^th. Please contact (815) 722-4121. Meet at Hawthorn Grove Shelter and be sure to dress for the weather and trail conditions. The hike will be approximately 1 mile on natural, uneven terrain. 

Galantine’s Day Mocktails at the Museum:

Where: Isle a la Cache Museum

When: Feb. 9, 2023, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Grab your sisters, girlfriends, or best gal pals and join a naturalist as you embark on a journey of making botanical-inspired mocktails. During this event, guests will make different mocktails, learn alternate botanical substitutions and explore the museum after-hours. Light snacks will be provided. Registration is required by Sunday, Feb 5. Please contact (815) 886-1467. 

Galantine’s Day Campfire:

Where: Hammel Woods - DuPage River Access

When: Feb. 10, 2023, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Ladies, enjoy an evening by the campfire under the stars while sipping your favorite beverage. Hot cocoa and s’mores will be provided. Feel free to bring your favorite seasonal wine or beer to keep you warm. Attendees will have the option to play group games, make a keepsake craft or just relax around the fire. Whichever you prefer, you won’t regret it. Registration is required by Wednesday, Feb 8. Please contact (815) 727-8700.

The program will be held at Hammel Woods campground, which can be accesses from the Hammel Woods – DuPage River Access parking lot. The group will gather at Campsite No. 1, which is less than a quarter mile from the parking lot, accessible via a path along uneven natural terrain. Bring a bag chair and please dress for the weather. The program will be held entirely outdoors. 

Single and Ready to Mingle Night Hike:

Where: Messenger Woods Nature Preserve

When: Feb. 10, 2023, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Calling all singles! Step out your comfort this Valentine’s season and join a naturalist for a singles Valentine’s night hike. The hike will be held at one of the oldest preserves – Messenger Woods. Bring your own beverage to sip and enjoy while mingling after the hike (Beer and wine only). After walking through this enchanted lantern-lit trail, enjoy the fire while making s’mores! Love is in the air! 

Registration is required by Thursday, Feb 9. Please contact (815) 722-4121. Meet at Hawthorn Grove Shelter and be sure to dress for the weather and trail conditions.