The park itself includes high ridges and swales of dune, marshlands, forests of oak and pine, and an array of wildlife. Close to home as well for Zion residents are key elements in the Lake County Forest Preserves. Van Patton Woods is the nearest and covers 972 acres. The preserve is situated to the northwest of Zion and features nature trails for hiking, biking, and cross country skiing, picnic sites and shelters, fishing, access to the DesPlaines River Trail, and playgrounds. The Zion area has many privately operated recreation centers, including a dozen bowling centers and nearly 20 health and fitness clubs.
Festivals are at the core of community culture in Zion.
They celebrate tradition and they bring families together with dozens of fun things to do. Jubilee Days Festival is among the biggest events of the summer season. Stretching over three days in late August and early September, Jubilee Days celebrates Labor Day with the selection of a queen, a big arts and crafts show, outdoor and indoor concerts, and food vendors. There's a prayer breakfast hosted by the mayor, a two-mile run for a trophy, and a 10K run. On the third day of the festival, the state's largest Labor Day parade is held, with as many as 120 units.