Northerly Island, Natural area and park in Museum Campus, Chicago, US
Northerly Island is a peninsula park of about 119 acres featuring prairie landscapes, a 5-acre lagoon, and walking trails along Lake Michigan's shore. The site includes wetlands and designated habitats that support birds and other wildlife throughout the year.
The peninsula was created in 1925 and served as the site of a world's fair in 1933, followed by decades of use as an airport. In 2003, the airport closed and the land was restored to support wildlife and natural habitats.
The site transitioned from a working airfield to a space where people reconnect with nature and learn about local ecosystems. Education programs encourage visitors to observe birds, plants, and seasonal changes throughout the year.
The park is open daily and features paved walking paths that are accessible for most visitors. Good walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially during cooler months when wind off the lake is noticeable.
The park deliberately avoids artificial lighting along its trails to preserve darkness for migrating birds and nocturnal wildlife. This choice makes it a valuable rest stop for birds traveling during their seasonal migrations.
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