Nestled within the Forest Preserves of Cook County in River Forest, the Trailside Museum of Natural History has been a haven for many nature enthusiasts since it opened more than nine decades ago.
The Trailside Museum of Natural History is the oldest of the district’s six nature centers, having opened in May 1932 during the Great Depression. Originally designed as a place for visitors to learn about local flora and fauna, it offers a small-scale representation of the natural environment in the region, staffed by experts and featuring native plants and animals.
Assistant Director of Trailside Museum Irene Flebbe said the museum’s most frequent visitors come from nearby suburbs, including Oak Park, River Forest, Forest Park, Elmwood Park, Maywood and Melrose Park.
The museum offers a variety of events nearly every weekend. Trailside Museum held its Spring Fest on May 4, where visitors were taken on walks through the springtime woods to learn about the plants and animals
“One of our favorite events is Migrating Monarchs in September, where we explore the needs of monarch butterflies, such as the plants and habitats they rely on, as well as the cultural connections this beautiful migrating species has with people. We’ll have Aztec dancers and other activities celebrating the monarchs’ journey from our area all the way to Mexico for the winter,” Flebbe said.
When asked about opportunities for local residents to get involved — whether through volunteering, attending events, or participating in restoration work days, Flebbe explained that Trailside Museum hosts a restoration workday on the third Sunday of each month and a volunteer-led workday on the first Saturday of the month.
“There are many opportunities for local folks to work on restoration projects in the surrounding woodlands. We also offer year-round programs and classes, including senior walks, a book club, and morning bird walks,” Flebbe said. “We’re hosting a spring nature writing retreat and hold quarterly bluegrass jams where people can drop in and play an instrument, either in the woods or indoors, depending on the weather.”
