Things To Do in Forest Park

The sharp crack of a wooden bat, the soft thumb of a catcher’s mitt, and the dusty smell of an umpire brushing off his seersucker suit; you’ll find the first two at Bash Sports Academy. The 12,000-square-foot revamped industrial space allows baseball and softball players to train year-round regardless of the weather. Though visitors can make use of Iron Mike pitching machines, Atec softball pitching machines, five batting cages, and a host of tees, bases, balls, and netted L-screens for batting practice, annual memberships grant unlimited access to the facility. Those seeking more personalized instruction can tap into the sporting wisdom and gum-chewing prowess of the seasoned staff, which includes a former head instructor at the Chicago White Sox training academy and one who manages both a minor league team and for Team USA.

Elmhurst Park District's Courts Plus gathers exercisers of all ages to its facility that boasts 60 fitness classes per week, an indoor climbing wall, and experienced personal trainers. From aquatics to martial arts, Courts Plus's troupe of trainers help their members and guests hone lean physiques, and a large gym boasts 70 pieces of cardio equipment, 38 strength-training machines, and impressively accurate mirrors. Youth programs abound as well, including summer camps, junior tennis lessons, and a strength-training program customized for ages 6–15.

• For $25, you get a Skyscraper Canyon Trip for one person in a single kayak (a $50 value). • For $35, you get a Skyscraper Canyon Trip for two people in a tandem kayak (a $70 value).

The instructors at Law Weapons & Supply believe intelligence is as vital to responsible firearms handling as attitude and technical knowhow. That's why each of their classes, from basic pistol training to the Glock Operators and personal protection in the home courses, teaches beginner through advanced marksmen with a combination of classroom lecture, live-fire instruction, and approving head nods. Beyond the training facilities, Law Weapons & Supply extends to a pro shop and gunsmith, whose customization services include bluing and detailed cleanings.

The Ernest Hemingway Foundation of Oak Park fosters understanding of the life and work of Ernest Hemingway, with emphasis on his Oak Park origins and his impact on world literature.

We run the Hemingway Birthplace Home and the Hemingway Museum, plus offering scholarly and popular programming and entertainment year-round.

Dance Classes, Belly Dance, Hip Hop, West African, Dance Fitness ZUMBA fitness, Piloxing, private classes and parties!

Celebrities and residents run a 5K or kids' dash in an effort to end homelessness, poverty, and violence. Run Home Chicago, hosted by The Primo Center for Women and Children, raises awareness and funds for homeless services by sending runners sprinting down the same city streets that many call home. While testing their endurance and speed, runners also champion the cause of groups across the city that provide medical, emotional support, and shelter upkeep services to the city’s homeless population—almost 40,000 people, according to the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless. In addition to the main events, race day activities include a kid's dash and guest speakers regaling listeners with inspirational speeches.