Mayslake Forest Preserve
Compact Mayslake Forest Preserve in Oak Brook, Illinois contains wetlands, lakes, savanna, magnificent Mayslake Hall, the 1920’s Tudor style revival mansion built for coal baron Francis S. Peabody Jr., currently being restored, and the Portiuncula Chapel, a replica of the original chapel in Assisi, Italy. Mayslake Hall preserves the highlife of the Roaring Twenties.
Details
Location
1717 31st Street, Oak Brook, Illinois off Kingery Highway (Route 83). A detailed map may be found here.
Managed By
Distance from Downtown Chicago
20 miles from the center of town
How To Get There
Accessibility
There are accessible parking spaces and portable restrooms and an accessible Off Leash Dog Area
Things To Do
Birdwatching, Fishing, Hiking, Historic/Cultural Interest (Mayslake Hall, Portiuncula Chapel and First Folio Theatre), Jogging, Off Leash Dog Area, Picnicking, Running and Wildflowers.
Fun Facts
Francis S. Peabody, Jr. unfortunately died shortly after Mayslake Hall was constructed. His family sold the then 840 acre estate to the Franciscan Province of the Sacred Heart, order of Friars Minor, in 1926. The property became a retreat house. Land parcels were sold off over time. The remainder of the property was sold to the Dupage County Forest Preserve District in 1993.
Other Information
Restrooms and water fountains are available in the preserve. The First Folio Theatre has a performance venue in the preserve.
Eats
A tasty breakfast may be obtained at Garden Berry Café located at 777 N York Rd in Hinsdale.
Nearby Public Lands Worth Visiting
Best Time To Visit
Spring, Summer, Fall
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