Published May 27, 2018

The 8 Most Unique Summer Adventures You Can Only Have In Illinois

Discover eight unique summer adventures in Illinois, from thrilling outdoor parks to peaceful gardens.

Published May 27, 2018

Written by

Elizabeth Crozier

Experiences|Activities

Published Sep 13, 2024

The Completely Free Garden Hiding in an Illinois College Campus Is a Must-Visit

Explore a hidden gem garden in Illinois—free, tranquil, and featuring beautiful Japanese design and seasonal blooms.

Published Sep 13, 2024

Written by

Jasmine Vieau

Discover a hidden gem on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus. Nestled within the University of Illinois Arboretum, this tranquil retreat invites you to explore beautifully designed Japanese gardens, including a tea garden, a dry rock garden, and a stunning cherry tree allée.

Best of all, it is completely free to visit. So, the next time you need a break from the hustle and bustle, head to UIUC's Japanese gardens to immerse yourself in its serene ambiance.

A serene park scene featuring bare trees along a path and a vibrant yellow willow tree by a calm pond. — Philip Brewer/Flickr

The Japanese gardens feature the Dry Garden, a minimalist space with carefully raked gravel and large stones that replicate natural landscapes like islands and mountains. Rooted in traditional Japanese design, this restful garden encourages quiet contemplation and offers a meditative atmosphere from every angle.

Two rocks sit on a raked gravel surface, creating gentle, swirling patterns around them. — masahiro Makino/Moment via Getty Images

The Tea Garden provides a similarly soothing experience, with stepping stones, bamboo fences, and water basins guiding you along gentle, winding paths. Reflecting Zen principles, this garden symbolizes a journey from the structured world to a natural, serene environment.

A person walks along a path surrounded by vibrant autumn leaves in shades of red and orange. — july7th/iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images

As the seasons change, so does the landscape. In spring, the garden bursts into life with delicate pink and white cherry blossoms, or sakura, signaling the arrival of spring. Japan House’s "Sakura Watch" on its website and social media helps visitors time their visit to catch the blossoms at their peak. This fleeting display, known as hanami, celebrates the spring season in Japan and offers a moment of tranquility right on campus.

A close-up of cherry blossom branches filled with delicate white flowers and green leaves. — Palette Vetra/iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images

Beyond the gardens, Japan House also offers enriching experiences such as traditional tea ceremonies and guided tours. Advance registration is required for tea ceremonies, and there is a cost associated, but they provide a deeper dive into Japanese culture.

A decorative bowl with a bamboo whisk inside, placed on a tatami mat. — Francesco Riccardo Iacomino/Moment via Getty Images

Whether you’re exploring the gardens or participating in cultural events, this spot is a relaxing escape in the heart of Illinois. Open from spring to fall, and from dawn until dusk, the gardens are entirely free. For up-to-date information on hours, parking, and tips, visit the Japan House Facebook page.

Ready to experience the beauty and serenity for yourself? Plan your visit today by checking out the Japan House website. Don’t miss this chance to discover one of the best Japanese gardens in Illinois!

Remember: Japan House is a university teaching facility. It's open to the public only for special events listed on the Japan House website. During business hours, it's used for university courses and isn't a museum or public space. The Japanese gardens are free to visit, but it's important to note that they are not meant for private events or photoshoots that can disrupt the educational focus.

If you’re looking for more free attractions in Illinois, check out these 13 awesome things you can do without spending a dime.

Experiences|Activities

Published Jul 17, 2024

The Quarter-Mile Long Lazy River In Illinois Where You’ll Find Us All Summer Long

Published Jul 17, 2024

Written by

Daisy Dow

My happy place is just about anywhere I can be on the water. Whether that's on a natural river or a man-made one, the difference is lost on me when I can lean back on an inner tube, close my eyes and feel the sun on my skin. Illinois' largest waterpark, Raging Waves Waterpark in Yorkville, Illinois, has a lazy river running through it. Thrill-seekers are drawn to the park to try waterslides such as Cyclone or The Boomerang, but Kookaburra Kreek is a winding lazy river for all.

Raging Waves opened in 2008, redefining the waterpark scene in Illinois.

Colorful sign reading "Welcome to Raging Waves Waterpark" surrounded by greenery and a clear blue sky. — Adan Flores/Google Reviews

The park began with just 17 waterslides, but now there are 32 slides of all shapes, heights and colors dotted all over the 58-acre park.

Kookaburra Kreek has been around since the early days of the park.

Aerial view of a water park featuring winding pools, colorful shade structures, and green lawns with visitors. — Raging Waves Waterpark

Stretching a quarter of a mile, Kookaburra Kreek is a lazy river that runs right through the middle of the park.

Situated just a 45-minute drive from Chicago, Raging Waves is a go-to destination for many families when the weather is warm.

A sunny water park scene with people floating in a lazy river, surrounded by greenery and colorful umbrellas. — Liliana Martínez/Google Reviews

An added bonus for city-dwellers is getting a wider view of the sky from the lazy river than would ever be possible closer to downtown.

If you float along Kookaburra Kreek, you will need to grab an inner tube first.

A blue inflatable tube floats in a clear swimming pool surrounded by green trees and a sunny sky. — Alejandra Partida/Google Reviews

I would make a beeline from the parking lot to the lazy river line, but keep in mind that UV radiation increases when you are on the water-- so lather up with sunscreen first.

There are three entrances to the lazy river.

A sunny water park scene with a lazy river, children playing, and water slides in the background. Green grass and blue sky. — Lola Jefferson/Google Reviews

You can enter Kookaburra Kreek by the Three Sisters waterslide, Brock's Sandbox and the Cyclone.

Once you enter the Kookaburra Kreek, be prepared to be in direct sunlight most of the time.

Colorful water slides above a clear pool, with trees and people in the background on a sunny day. — Alejandra Partida/Google Reviews

The lazy rivers winds beneath some of the park's other slides and attractions. There might be some shade when you are right beneath a slide, and you'll probably hear some screams above you as well.

I suggest starting your journey at the entrance closest to Cyclone.

A water park featuring colorful slides and a clear blue pool, with a person swimming nearby. — Robby Chiramel/Google Reviews

That way you can end your lap around the park right by the exit of the Three Sisters waterslide.

Taking a leisurely ride on the lazy river is a nice way to start a morning at the waterpark.

Aerial view of a vibrant water park featuring colorful slides, pools, and lush green areas with visitors enjoying the attractions. — Raging Waves Waterpark

But capping off your visit to the park by going down a slide that you just floated beneath will be a blast!

Kookaburra Kreek is one of the longest lazy rivers in Illinois, and it's an adventure ideal for families, friend groups, and solo visitors looking for a laid-back activity. If you would prefer to stick to Illinois' naturally flowing rivers, check out these 6 river activities you might enjoy instead. If you have any young readers who can't wait for their next trip to Raging Waves, let their imaginations run wild with books like this one. Have you tried out this lazy river? We'd love to hear about your experience.

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The 8 Most Unique Summer Adventures You Can Only Have In Illinois

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The Completely Free Garden Hiding in an Illinois College Campus Is a Must-Visit

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The Quarter-Mile Long Lazy River In Illinois Where You’ll Find Us All Summer Long

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