Explore Prime eBird Hotspots in Chicago in a Friendly Atmosphere

Gather with fellow enthusiastic birders on this group tour to Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary or Jackson Park, two of Illinois’ top 10 eBird hotspots. Grab your binoculars and cameras, as we meander along the lakefront spotting shorebirds and terns. At both hotspots, you can really embrace the beauty of these diverse habitats as you encounter an impressive range of both resident and migratory bird species gliding above the lake, and a lively assortment of songbirds darting amidst forests and grasslands. Whether it’s Brown Creepers and Winter Wrens or Clay-colored Sparrows and Black-throated Blue Warblers, each tour offers its own distinct and enchanting discoveries. So come and join us on this captivating journey to explore Chicago’s thriving birdlife with other enthusiastic birdwatchers.

Tour Highlights

Enjoy Chicago’s prime location near the southern tip of Lake Michigan which concentrates birds along the lakefront during migration

Witness how these vital pit stops serve for rest and nourishment before the birds continue on their incredible journeys

Learn all about the birds you are spotting from an expert guide who will be sharing fascinating insights into their natural history

Meet fellow birders of all levels and enjoy the benefits of knowledge sharing

Discover unique and exciting birding opportunities on any given day in Chicago

Use our Celestron binoculars and Celestron Regal M2 80ED spotting scope to take your birding experience to the next level

Trip Details

Price

$75/person

Meeting point

Choose one: Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary (north side) unless Jackson Park (south side) is requested.

Inquire about the potential of birding at a different location if you have interest.

Seasons

Mid-March through May
Mid-August through November

Duration

Approximately 4 hours

Group size

2 to 4 people

Included

Binoculars if needed
Use of spotting scope

Not included

Snacks and drinks, so be sure to bring what you might need.

What to bring

Water bottle
Appropriate clothing for the season
Jacket
Comfortable walking shoes
Hat
Sunglasses
Your own binoculars or scope
Phone/camera

About your guide

David Rupp, owner of IndiGo Birding, will lead this trip. David has over 25 years of birding experience and loves to share his joy for birding.

What to Expect

We start our public tours just after sunrise to ensure the best birding opportunities. We’ll then spend the majority of the time at the park where we meet for a casual and pleasant birding experience. We’ll be walking nice trails at a slow pace, tracking flocks of birds for great views and photo opportunities. If time allows, we will then drive to other nearby hotspots (like Lincoln Park or Burnham Park) that offer different habitats and potentially new birds.