Sustainable
Travel
"Do your part, change will start"
What is sustainable tourism?
Sustainable Tourism is the act of making travel more eco-friendly and encouraging local conservation efforts. As a Destination Marketing Organization, it is our responsibility to create minimal impact travel opportunities for our visitors. To help reduce the impact of tourism on the environment, we have compiled several resources for you to reference as you plan your trip to St. Charles, Illinois.
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Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
An easy way to reduce your carbon footprint is to adjust your means of transportation. You can do this locally by riding your bike, using public transportation, and walking more frequently.
Bike Around Town
Public Transportation
Ogilvie Transportation Center to Geneva Metra Station
Union Pacific West - approx. 1hr 07mins
Did you know that you can bike the Prairie Path from Chicago to St. Charles? This 40 mile trail is the perfect way to incorporate activity into your trip! Many people will bike the Prairie Path one way, and then take one of the Metra train on the other way.
Walking Trails
Otter Creek:
Corron Park, 2.9 mi
Great Western Trail: Western Section, 17 mi
Horlock Hill
Prairie Trail, 1 mi
Delnor Woods
Park Trail, 1 mi
Fox River Bluff Forest Preserve, 3.8 mi
Hoscheit Woods
Loop 2.4 mi
Local Eco-Friendly Alternatives & Activities
Whether it is supporting local eco-friendly establishments or taking part in a minimal impact activity, St. Charles has many options for you to enjoy!
01
Use Shampoo & Conditioner Bars
You can purchase these low-impact, plastic free bars locally from Magnolia Soap and Bath Co.
02
Plant Veggies & Herbs
Head to Heinz Brothers Greenhouse Garden Center to browse through a wide variety of seed options.
03
Purchase Secondhand Clothes
Visit Double Take Consignment to find secondhand, high end fashion, or stop by Jeans and A Cute Top Shop's pre-loved sidewalk sales.
04
Shop at Antique & Consignment Stores
One of the best ways to find beautiful furniture and collectables is through antiquing. Visit some of our local stores such as SG Too Consignment, Circa Vintage Gallery, or Antique Market 1.
05
Make Intentional Meal Choices
Try to prioritize more plants into your diet. Locations like Crazy Fox Bar & Grille offer a vegan menu full of mouthwatering dishes that everyone will love.
06
Use Beeswax Food Covers
Instead of using plastic wrap, you can purchase reusable Beeswax Food Covers from The Pep Line for an ecofriendly alternative.
07
Cycle in St. Charles
Rent a bicycle from Sammy's Bikes to help get around town while reducing your carbon footprint.
08
Do Low Impact Activities
Rent a kayak or pedal boat from St. Charles Park District, and cruise along the Fox River.
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Sustainable Travel Tips
It is important to prioritize the environment no matter where you are traveling. To help create eco-friendly travel habits, read our blog on Sustainable Travel Tips.