Wolfe Wildlife Park: Oak Lawn's Natural Oasis
Discover a natural wetlands refuge in Oak Lawn, Illinois, with diverse wildlife, scenic trails, and family-friendly recreation.
Wolfe Wildlife Park, located at 109th Street and Laramie Avenue in Oak Lawn, Illinois, is a vibrant 45-acre natural wetlands area that provides a refreshing escape from the urban environment. This park serves as a haven for both local wildlife and visitors seeking a connection with nature. The park's diverse habitats support over 100 species of birds, including the Black-Crowned Night Heron, Double-Crested Cormorant, and Great White Egret, making it a prime location for birdwatching. In addition to avian residents, the park is home to various animals such as frogs, turtles, raccoons, foxes, and monarch butterflies. Visitors can explore the park's beauty via paved walking and biking paths, as well as a wooden deck offering scenic views. A custom tree-themed playground provides a fun and inclusive space for children, featuring swings and play structures. The park also includes a picnic area with barbecue grills, perfect for family gatherings and outdoor meals. Recent rejuvenation projects have added new amenities, including pickleball courts, exercise equipment, and game tables. These improvements enhance the park's appeal as a recreational destination for the community. Wolfe Wildlife Park hosts various nature programs throughout the year, including the annual Howl-O-Ween event, adding to its appeal as a community hub.
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching, as Wolfe Wildlife Park is home to over 100 bird species.
- Visit during the summer to witness the park abuzz with monarch butterflies.
- Take advantage of the park's picnic areas and barbecue grills for a family outing.
- Check the Oak Lawn Park District's website for information on nature programs and events, such as the annual Howl-O-Ween celebration.
A brief summary to Wolfe Wildlife Park
- W 109th St &, Laramie Ave, Oak Lawn, IL, 60453, US
- +1708-857-2201
Getting There
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Driving
Wolfe Wildlife Park is accessible by car. From downtown Oak Lawn, head south on Central Avenue, then turn east onto 103rd Street. Continue east and then turn north onto Laramie Avenue. The park will be on your left. There is parking available at the venue. Parking is free.
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Public Transport
While there isn't a direct bus route to the park's entrance, you can take a Pace bus to a nearby stop on 95th Street or Southwest Highway and transfer to a connecting route that gets you closer to Laramie Avenue. From there, it's a short walk north to the park. A single-ride fare on Pace is $1.75 [https://www.pacebus.com/how-ride].
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Walking
If you are nearby in Oak Lawn, walking to Wolfe Wildlife Park is a pleasant option. From the Oak Lawn Public Library, head south on 95th Street, then turn south on Laramie Avenue. Continue south on Laramie, and the park will be on your right. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles.
