Chicago Lakefront Lakefront North Rough-legged Hawk Fermilab Seen most winters. This is a ficticious bird and does not exist, not withstanding claims to the contrary. If, however, you want to waste your time, you can try driving the roads of western Kane County and the rural roads of Dekalb County. Check the ditches. Don't have an accident.
Legend has it that after a fresh snowfall is also a good time.
So that kinda works out. If you want to walk around, try Shabbona State Park. Sandhill Crane Sandhill Cranes can be seen during migration over much of the Chicago area. Locations in the Chicago area where they are most reliably seen include the Morton Arboretum and Crabtree Nature Center . Just look up around noon.