Exploring the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie: A Nature Lover's Haven
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, a serene nature preserve in Wilmington, Illinois.
Nestled in Wilmington, Illinois, Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is a stunning nature preserve that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the natural beauty of the Midwest. With its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity, it’s a perfect destination for hiking, wildlife watching, and reconnecting with nature.
A brief summary to Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie
- IL-53, Wilmington, Illinois, 60481, US
- +1815-423-6370
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited amenities on-site.
- Consider downloading a trail map from the website before your visit to plan your hiking route.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can fluctuate greatly throughout the day.
- Check the visitor center hours before heading out, as they have educational programs and resources.
Getting There
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Car
To reach Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie by car, start your journey on Interstate 55 (I-55) if you are coming from the south or north. From I-55, take exit 241 for IL-53 towards Wilmington. Follow IL-53 north for approximately 7 miles. You will see the entrance to Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie on your left, just past the small town of Wilmington. Be aware that there might be parking fees depending on the area you choose to access within the prairie.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, take a Metra train from Chicago to the Wilmington station. From the Wilmington train station, you may need to arrange for a taxi or ride-sharing service, as there is no direct public transit to Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. The distance from the station to the prairie is approximately 5 miles, and the taxi fare may range from $10 to $15. Ensure to check the train schedules in advance to plan your visit effectively.
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Bicycle
For the adventurous, consider biking to Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. If you are in Wilmington, you can take local roads to reach IL-53. Biking along IL-53 is feasible, but be cautious of traffic. It’s about a 5-mile ride from the Wilmington town center to the prairie entrance. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow all traffic rules.
Discover more about Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic Landmark Edwin Ruthven Willard Home and Office
3.9 km
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Des Plaines Dolomite Prairies Land And Water Reserve
7.5 km
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Briscoe Mounds Historic Site
11.3 km
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The Haley Mansion
20.3 km
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Joliet Historical Preservation
20.6 km
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Potawatomi Village Historic Site
20.7 km
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The Grand Ballroom
20.7 km
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McKee's Mill Historic Site
20.7 km
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Joilet,IL Metra-Amtrak Union Station
20.7 km
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Joliet's First Sidewalks Historic Site
20.7 km
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Hiram B. Scutt Mansion
20.8 km
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Prison City Vintage
20.8 km
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Cathedral Area Preservation
20.8 km
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Rialto Square Theatre
20.8 km
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The Strange & Unusual Gallery
20.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Gemini Giant
4.3 km
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Braidwood Zoo
10.9 km
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Channahon State Park
12.1 km
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Blues Brothers Copmobile
15.9 km
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Kankakee River State Park
18.0 km
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Nowell Park
18.5 km
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Mayor Art Schultz Park
20.3 km
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Jacob Henry Mansion
20.6 km
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Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park
20.8 km
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Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66
21.0 km
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Joliet Area Historical Museum
21.0 km
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Joliet Iron Works Park
22.0 km
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Joliet Kicks on Route 66
22.3 km
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Joliet Iron Works Historic Site
22.4 km
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Paul E. Briese Park
22.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Final Cut Steakhouse
15.2 km
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Heroes West Sports Grill
17.0 km
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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
17.1 km
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Louisiana Barbeque
18.4 km
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Whiskey River Bar & Grill Joliet
19.1 km
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Louie's Waffle House
19.1 km
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Ta Canijo
19.6 km
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Al's Steak House Restaurant
19.9 km
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Old Fashioned Pancake House
20.0 km
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McBride's on 52
20.1 km
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Silver Spoon
20.1 km
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La Mex
20.2 km
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Maurie's Table
20.7 km
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Chicago Street Pub
20.8 km
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Richardson's Downtown Sports Bar and Grill
20.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Love It Again
19.7 km
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ILLNOIZ ENTERTAINMENT
19.9 km
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MorningStar's Treasure Chest
20.0 km
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SEE Me Apparel
20.1 km
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Card Pop USA
20.1 km
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Uncle Joe's Candy
20.1 km
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Artisan Florist
20.2 km
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Clothingus
20.3 km
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Greg Spiess Antiques
20.7 km
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The Juncture
20.8 km
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It Is Amazing
20.8 km
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ARTESANO STORE LLC
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Western Grocery Store
20.9 km
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Amalove Boutique
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Dstylz n things
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Eden Bar and Grill
18.7 km
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Sidelines Sports Bar
19.9 km
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Longshots
20.1 km
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Industry Tap House
20.2 km
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Mid Town Tap
20.7 km
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Judge's Bar - Joliet
21.0 km
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Saloon 2
21.6 km
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Crybabies Tap
21.6 km
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Thirty-Buck
21.9 km
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Double J Sports Bar
22.1 km
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Bobby's Tap
22.3 km
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Johnny's On Hickory
22.5 km
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Steel City Saloon
22.6 km
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On The Rocks Joliet
23.1 km
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Crow's Nest Tavern
23.2 km
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