How to Enjoy Nature When You Live in a City

Yes, You Can Enjoy Nature in the City—Here’s How!

Living in a city doesn’t mean missing out on nature—it just means you have to look for it in different ways. I gave birth to my two oldest kids in Chicago and we lived on the North Side of the city during those years; I actually think there are plenty of ways to enjoy nature when you live in the city, but it may mean shifting your mindset a bit. 

I get it though, when you don’t have acres of backyard space or endless hiking trails outside your door, it can feel hard to get your kids outside in meaningful ways.

But here’s the thing—nature is everywhere, even in the city. You just have to know where to find it. Whether you live in an apartment, a townhouse, or a high-rise, there are plenty of ways to connect your kids with the outdoors—no massive backyard required.

And, I speak from experience: We started our family in Chicago before moving to Michigan and we had a backyard the size of a postage stamp BUT we lived a couple blocks away from our neighborhood park and elementary school so we took full advantage of the public playgrounds!

Here they are - six simple ways to embrace nature even in an urban setting:

Maggie Daley Park Play Garden, Chicago

Seek Out the Green Spaces

Even in the most bustling cities, there are pockets of green to be found. Look for:

City parks and playgrounds
Community gardens
Riverwalks and nature preserves
Botanical gardens or arboretums

Make a list of the green spaces near you and rotate your visits so every outing feels like a new adventure.

My kids discovered this splash pad tucked away in the Maggie Daley Park Play Garden in heart of downtown Chicago!

Make the Most of Water Features

Water is a natural magnet for kids, and many cities have accessible water sources like:
Lakes and rivers
Duck ponds
Public fountains
Even rain puddles after a storm!

Take a few minutes to watch ripples in a pond, toss pebbles, or observe ducks paddling by. These little moments create big memories!

Taking a walk outside of the Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago

Get Creative With Micro-Adventures

You don’t need a full-blown hiking trail to explore nature—you just need a sense of curiosity!

Look for different types of leaves or rocks on your walk
Watch for birds, squirrels, or bugs in urban parks
Walk a different route home and notice new details

Even city sidewalks offer opportunities to explore—tree roots breaking through the pavement, tiny flowers growing in cracks, and squirrels darting across telephone wires all tell a story.

Some of my most memorable moments of having little ones in the city are when they’d stop to pluck a lone dandelion growing in the crack of the sidewalk outside our house.

Use What You Have—Balconies, Rooftops & Windowsills

No backyard? No problem. Create your own little nature space:

Grow herbs in a windowsill or small planters
Hang a bird feeder outside a window
Read outside on the stoop, balcony, or rooftop

The key? Make outdoor moments part of your everyday rhythm.

Explore at Different Times of Day

Nature changes throughout the day—and so does the city.

Mornings bring the first chirps of birds and quiet streets.
Afternoons bring warm sun on your face and busy city life.
Evenings bring glowing city lights and maybe even a star or two.

Switch up your outings to see how the same neighborhood park or street looks and feels at different times!

The Harbor at Maggie Daley Park Play Garden, Chicago

Join a Nature-Based Program or Group

Many cities have incredible resources for outdoor-loving families. Check for:
Forest school or nature-based preschools
Outdoor playgroups and meetups
Guided city nature walks

Getting outside is always easier when you have a supportive community.

Crown Fountain at Millennium Park, Chicago

Nature in the city is possible…and it’s worth it!

Even if you don’t have wide-open spaces outside your door, you can still give your kids a love of the outdoors. Nature is in the wind blowing through the trees, the cracks in the sidewalk, and the birds perched on city buildings.

If you’re looking for simple, low-prep ways to get your kids outside, I’ve got you! My Outdoorsy Little Explorers monthly guide gives you fun, screen-free nature activities - no matter where you live!

Planning a trip to Chicago? Be sure to read my full recap of our trip to Chicago!