The Exchange

If you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven is a perfect place to visit. Here, you can get up close and personal with over 40 exotic, free-flying butterflies and several stunning bird species from the Southern Hemisphere. The greenhouse, which spans 2,700 square feet, features serene pools of water, flowers, tropical trees, and over 1,000 butterflies, giving you the feeling of being in summer all year round. If you're interested in witnessing the life cycle of a butterfly from caterpillar to chrysalis to the very first flight, you should take advantage of the First Flight Butterfly Release. Moreover, they offer weekly Butterfly Haven Yoga sessions if you want to spend more time in the Butterfly Haven.

Bad Axe Chicago, the world's largest urban axe-throwing club, aims to bring the traditional Canadian backyard pastime to urban communities. The club's expert axe-throwing coaches have helped hundreds of thousands of people share their passion for throwing axes, and they take pride in delivering exceptional customer service to all clients, whether for walk-ins, leagues, private parties, or team-building events. At Bad Axe Throwing, you can channel your inner logger and throw axes under the guidance of expert coaches. They will teach you the proper technique before letting you hit the bullseye. Whether for a birthday party, a date night, or a corporate event, the urban axe-throwing club provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience. Make sure to book in advance and get ready for a fun workout.

Do you want to escape from the busy city life and immerse yourself in nature's beauty? Look no further than the Forest Preserves of Cook County. The forest offers over 69,000 acres of wildlife, outdoor recreation, and environmental education opportunities. Whether you have just one hour, a full day, or a night to spare, you can explore the stunning natural landscapes spread over 70,000 acres. The Forest Preserves offer something for everyone, regardless of age or interests. You can attend a camping basics workshop, take your children to a concert in the woods, or try activities such as "forest bathing," owl prowling, or nature photography. Additionally, you can go cross-country skiing, horseback riding, mountain biking, boating, and check out the aquatic centers and golf courses. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even spend a night under the stars and fall asleep to the gentle sounds of nature at one of the five campgrounds.