Outdoor co-op REI will be officially open for business in Vernon Hills, IL, on September 28 in the Mellody Farm shopping center at 901 North Milwaukee Avenue. The new store will support the growing outdoor community in the greater Chicago area by offering the best gear and expertise for the region’s most popular outdoor activities. REI Vernon Hills is conveniently located near the Des Plaines River and the MacArthur Woods Forest Preserve.
“The greater Chicago area is quickly becoming known for its access to outdoor recreation, and we’re excited to continue to grow in this community,” said Greg Hamilton, REI Vernon Hills store manager. “Our new store in Vernon Hills will provide members living farther north of Chicago with the best gear and expertise for all of their favorite outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, paddling and camping.”
REI Vernon Hills will also offer in-store workshops and outdoor experiences. Upcoming programs near Vernon Hills include Kayak Tour on the Des Plaines River and How to Ride a Bike at Half Day Forest Preserve, among others. Beyond Vernon Hills, REI offers experiences throughout the Chicago area, including paddle programs and rentals at the REI Boathouse at Ping Tom Memorial Park and the REI Boathouse at Saganashkee Slough. As a national leader in outdoor experiences, REI helped more than 375,000 people across the country get outside with classes and events last year.
To celebrate the new store, REI this year has invested $20,000 in the Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves in Vernon Hills. Funds will help restore the shoreline at the Route 60 Canoe Launch along the Des Plaines River, and support trail restoration efforts in Ryerson Woods.
REI Vernon Hills is hosting a grand opening event with free public activities and giveaways throughout the weekend.
