Discover the Serenity of Sugar Grove Nature Center
Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of Sugar Grove Nature Center, a lush park perfect for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife observation.
Nestled in the heart of McLean, Illinois, Sugar Grove Nature Center is a tranquil escape for nature lovers and tourists alike. This expansive park offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking, providing an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the local flora and fauna. With its well-maintained trails and educational programs, this nature preserve is perfect for families, individuals, and groups looking to connect with nature and enjoy a peaceful day outdoors.
A brief summary to Sugar Grove Nature Center
- 4532 N 725 East Rd, McLean, Illinois, 61754, US
- +1309-459-0818
- Monday 8 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
- Thursday 8 am-7 pm
- Friday 8 am-7 pm
- Saturday 8 am-7 pm
- Sunday 8 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and the best chance to see wildlife.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the area is known for its diverse bird species.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots within the park.
- Check the schedule for educational programs and guided walks to enhance your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking, as some trails can be uneven.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Chicago, take I-55 S. Merge onto I-74 W and continue for about 100 miles. Take exit 104 for IL-51 N toward Decatur. Continue on IL-51 N for about 30 miles, then take the exit for US-136 W toward Lincoln. After about 10 miles, turn onto IL-121 N. After about 5 miles, turn left onto N 725 East Rd. Sugar Grove Nature Center will be on your right at 4532 N 725 East Rd, McLean, IL 61754.
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Public Transportation
To reach Sugar Grove Nature Center using public transportation, start by taking a train from Chicago Union Station to Bloomington-Normal Amtrak Station. From there, you can take a taxi or rideshare service to get to Sugar Grove Nature Center. The distance from Bloomington-Normal Amtrak Station to the nature center is approximately 25 miles, and taxi fares may range from $40 to $60 depending on traffic.
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Car
If you are coming from Peoria, take I-74 E toward Bloomington. Merge onto I-155 N and take exit 4 for US-51 N toward Decatur. Continue on US-51 N for about 20 miles, then take exit for IL-121 N. After about 5 miles, turn left onto N 725 East Rd. The nature center will be on your right at 4532 N 725 East Rd, McLean, IL 61754.
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Car
If you're traveling from Rockford, take I-90 E toward Chicago. Merge onto I-39 S and continue for about 60 miles. Take exit 11B to merge onto I-74 E toward Bloomington. Merge onto I-155 N and take exit for US-51 N toward Decatur. Continue on US-51 N for about 20 miles, then take exit for IL-121 N. After about 5 miles, turn left onto N 725 East Rd. Sugar Grove Nature Center will be on your right at 4532 N 725 East Rd, McLean, IL 61754.
Discover more about Sugar Grove Nature Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historical Marker
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Vrooman Mansion
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White Building (Bloomington, Illinois)
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Steel And Bedrock House
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Franklin Square
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Cedar Crest Addition Historic District
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Corn Belt Energy Corporation
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Union, Illinois, Illinois Traction Depot
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C.H. Moore Homestead DeWitt County Museum
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Hoblit House
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Duncan Manor
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Lincoln Watermelon Monument
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Niebuhr Family of Theologians Historical Marker
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Deskins Tavern State Historic Site
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Postville Park State Historic Site
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Route 66 Original Alignment- Driveable!
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American Giants Museum
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Paul Bunyan Statue
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Atlanta Museum
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Atlanta Route 66 Park
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J. H. Hawes Elevator
12.9 km
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Smiley Face Water Tower
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House of Games
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Miller Park Zoo
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Grady's Family Fun Park
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Cruisin with Lincoln on 66 Visitors Center and Gift Shop
18.8 km
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McLean County Museum of History
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White Oak Park
19.0 km
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David Davis Mansion
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Creve Coeur Club of Peoria
54.0 km
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The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern
54.0 km
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Rhythm Kitchen Music Cafe
54.1 km
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Kelleher's Irish Pub & Eatery
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Saffron Social
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Thyme Kitchen and Craft Beer
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Alexander's Steakhouse Peoria
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Richard's under Main
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Sugar Wood-Fired Bistro
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The Bar at BLACK BAND
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Jim's Steak House
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Table 19
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Craft309 Kitchen + Bar
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Hoops Pub & Pizza
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Relics
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Rambler
54.4 km
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Voodoo, Peoria
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Church Mouse Thrift Shop
55.7 km
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Urban Artifacts
55.7 km
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Moon Dancer Boutique
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Ribbon Records
55.8 km
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Primitiques Market on Main
56.3 km
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Janet's Just For You
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Heritage Square Shopping Center
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Ten Thousand Villages
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A Perfect Pear Boutique
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The Nook Gift Shop-Peoria Heights
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So Chic Boutique
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Sweet Caroline's Possibilities
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The X Bar at Gone Social
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Kenny's Westside Pub
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Reba's Mutual Tap
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The9 - Peoria's Premier Lounge, Food & Bar
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The Twelve Bar Lounge
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The 33 Room
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Jimmy's Bar
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Friendly Valley Tavern
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Junction City Pub
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Saddle Up Dance Club
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Club Envy
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Club Diesel
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Boondocks
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Keeley's Place
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Northern Lights Lounge
72.4 km
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Mac's Lounge
75.0 km
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Shelby's Cigar & Daiquiri Lounge
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