Courtney Bowman, LCPC

Are you looking for an exhilarating outdoor adventure in Bemis Woods Forest Preserves? Look no further than GoApe Zipline & Treetop Adventures. Their adventure park and ropes course offer a thrilling Treetop Adventure with 40-foot-high tree-to-tree crossings, super long zip lines, and heart-stopping Tarzan swings. This 2-3 hour experience is unlike any other, and the memories will last a lifetime. For a unique and interactive outdoor experience with your family, friends, or co-workers, consider Forest Escape. This activity involves working together to solve problems in an immersive natural environment and conquer all the forest offers. Remember that each session is private, so choose your teammates carefully. Forest Escape is also great for birthday parties, team building, scout groups, and more.

Prepare to kick off America's holiday season in style at The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival. This mile-long festival has attracted over a million visitors daily for more than 32 years now. The festival's nighttime parade on Michigan Avenue is the largest in the United States, featuring Mickey and Minnie Mouse from The Walt Disney World Resort leading the way. The event boasts an impressive lineup of fantastic floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands, celebrities, musical performances, Santa Claus, fireworks, and more. The parade illuminates over a million lights on 200+ trees along The Avenue, creating a truly awe-inspiring sight.