Now that March has arrived, we Illinoisans are dreaming of the warmer weather coming our way. Our state absolutely transforms when the snow melts and the plants come back to life, and we all begin to visit parks and go on long walks much more often. In celebration of spring's arrival, here are some of the places we are most excited to visit in the coming weeks:

1. Matthiessen State Park (Oglesby)

The lesser-known neighbor of Starved Rock State Park is the perfect place to visit when spring arrives. The many small waterfalls begin to flow once again, and moss-covered rocks begin to glow with a vibrant green color.

2500 Illinois Route 178, Oglesby

2. Morton Arboretum (Lisle)

This 1,700 acre preserve turns into a rainbow of color after the snow melts away. The leaves return to the trees, and fields full of flowers begin to bloom.

4100 IL-53, Lisle

3. Rend Lake (Benton)

Sunsets over the icy winter waters of this gorgeous lake are certainly beautiful! However, Rend Lake is at its very best as the temperature rises and boaters begin enjoying the water again.

Just south of Mt. Vernon, Illinois

4. Downtown Naperville

One of the most lively downtown districts in the Chicago suburbs, Downtown Naperville is always buzzing. The area is beautifully kept, and is full of trees and flowers in the warmer months.

5. Giant City State Park (Makanda)

When the ice melts the falls come alive again, this park feels even more magical. The sound of the rushing water and the smell of new growth just scream spring!

235 Giant City Road, Makanda

6. Chestnut Mountain (Galena)

Though Chestnut Mountain is best known as a skiing resort, it's pretty amazing when the temperature rises above freezing, too. Take a ride on the zip line or enjoy a river cruise, and winter will be the last thing on your mind.

8700 W. Chestnut Mountain Road, Galena

7. Starved Rock State Park (Oglesby)

A favorite among Illinoisans, this state park is beautiful all year long. But, it really shines in the springtime, when there's greenery as far as the eye can see.

2668 East 873 Road, Oglesby

8. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The quad at this university comes alive when spring arrives, a welcome reminder to the students that the school year will be ending soon. There are flowers and trees everywhere you turn!

709 S. Mathews Avenue, Urbana

9. Lincoln Park (Chicago)

The fields of flowers are simply incredible at this iconic Chicago park. Spend time tiptoeing through the tulips, or visit the animals at the Lincoln Park Zoo.

2045 N. Lincoln Park West, Chicago

10. Uptown Normal

Over the past 10 years, this area has been transformed into a beautiful town center. It's particularly pretty when spring comes along and the kids come out to play.

11. Anderson Japanese Gardens (Rockford)

It's no surprise that springtime is the best time to visit this stunning garden. The flowers are in bloom, the birds are chirping, and the waterfalls are flowing!

318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford

Where are you most excited to go this spring? Let us know in the comments.

For even more springtime beauty, here are 12 Charming Illinois River Towns to Visit This Spring.