Fun Things To Do Outside Chicago

Chicago is an amazing city with lots of fun things to do and see. As the third largest city in the United States, Chicago offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. From world-famous attractions to unique experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the Windy City. But what if you only have a limited time to spend in Chicago? Or maybe you just want to explore outside the city for a day or two? Well, there are plenty of fun things to do outside Chicago that can be just as exciting and memorable. Here are some of the best activities to do and places to visit outside of the city.

Bike Paths in the Suburbs

One of the best ways to explore the suburbs of Chicago is by bike. The Chicago area is home to a wide variety of bike paths, from the Lakefront Trail to the North Shore Channel Trail. The paths vary in difficulty level and offer a great way for cyclists of all experience levels to explore the region. Plus, the paths offer scenic views of the countryside, forests, and lakes. If you are looking for a fun and active way to explore the suburbs of Chicago, biking is the perfect option.

Great Wolf Lodge

If you are looking for a fun family experience, then Great Wolf Lodge is the perfect destination. Located in Gurnee, this resort features an indoor water park with slides, pools, and a lazy river. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy, such as mini-golf, laser tag, and an arcade. The resort also offers family-friendly dining options and kid-friendly rooms. Great Wolf Lodge is the perfect place for a family getaway outside Chicago.

Starved Rock State Park

If you are looking for an outdoor adventure, then Starved Rock State Park is the perfect destination. Located about 90 minutes from Chicago, the park is home to 13 different canyons carved into the limestone bedrock. The canyons offer spectacular views of the Illinois River, and the park also features plenty of hiking trails and waterfalls. There are also plenty of picnic areas and campgrounds for those looking to spend the night.

Go Ape Zip Line & Adventure Park

Go Ape Zip Line & Adventure Park is the perfect destination for thrill-seekers. Located in Western Chicago, the park features a variety of thrilling zip lines, aerial ropes courses, and treetop adventures. The park also offers a variety of options for different skill levels, so everyone in the family can find something to enjoy. Plus, the views of the Chicago skyline are spectacular.

Ravinia Festival

The Ravinia Festival is the perfect destination for music lovers. Located just north of Chicago, the festival features a variety of music genres, including jazz, classical, blues, and pop. The festival also features outdoor seating and a variety of food vendors. Plus, the festival grounds are incredibly scenic and a great place to spend a summer evening.

Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio

The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio is a must-see for architecture buffs. Located in Oak Park, the home and studio were designed by the world-famous architect and feature his signature Prairie-style design. The home and studio are open for tours and provide a great opportunity to learn more about Wright’s work and his unique style.

The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the top art museums in the world. Located in downtown Chicago, the museum features a variety of artwork from many different eras and cultures. The museum also features a variety of special exhibitions and events throughout the year. Whether you’re a fan of classic art or modern art, the Art Institute of Chicago is a must-visit destination.

Conclusion

Chicago is an amazing city with lots of fun things to do and see. But if you want to explore outside the city, there are plenty of fun activities to enjoy. From biking the suburbs to exploring state parks and attending music festivals, there are a variety of activities to enjoy outside of the city. So if you’re looking for something to do outside of Chicago, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Insider’s Guide: Discovering hidden treasures outside of Chicago

If you’re planning to visit Chicago, you may already have a long list of popular tourist spots to visit. But what if you want to explore something different, something that only the locals know about? In this insider’s guide, we will take you on an adventure outside the city and show you some of the best-kept secrets that will make your journey unforgettable.

Local Attractions

While Chicago prides itself on well-known tourist attractions like Navy Pier and the Magnificent Mile, it’s the lesser-known gems that offer unique and memorable experiences. One such place is the Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette. This breathtaking temple is a place of serenity and beauty, composed of intricate marble structures and intricate gardens.

Another place to visit is the charming town of Lemont, located 30 miles outside Chicago. Lemont is home to the famous historic Canal Quarry, which once provided limestone for the construction of buildings in downtown Chicago. You can also take a stroll through its downtown area lined with quaint shops and restaurants.

Dining Spots

Chicago is known for its famous deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and Italian beef, but there’s more to explore when it comes to food. For example, Chicago’s West Suburbs are known for their vibrant food scene, featuring unique fusion dishes, classic steakhouses, and brewpubs. Visit the Bavarian Lodge in Lisle for some authentic German fare, or the eclectic Jelly Pancake House in Darien for some tasty breakfast items.

If you have a sweet tooth, check out The Fudge Pot in Oak Park for homemade chocolates and fudge. This cute candy store has been around since the 1960s and is still family-owned. You’ll be sure to find a treat to satisfy your cravings.

Cultural Experiences

When exploring the suburbs of Chicago, there are plenty of cultural experiences to enjoy. The Naper Settlement Museum in Naperville offers a glimpse into 19th-century American living and is an excellent option for history buffs. For jazz enthusiasts, head over to Berwyn’s Fitzgerald’s Nightclub, which has hosted some of the best-known jazz artists over the decades.

Moreover, visit The Morton Arboretum in Lisle, a 1,700-acre site that showcases a diverse range of plant and tree species. This outdoor space offers an excellent opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy a serene atmosphere.

Local History

The Chicago suburbs are not only home to picturesque settings for scenic hikes or restaurant patios but have a rich history that has shaped the city over time. For instance, stop by Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio in Oak Park, which was built in the late 1800s. This property was designed by Wright himself and is a living piece of architectural history.

Another location to consider is the Little Red Schoolhouse in Willow Springs, which is part of the Cook County Forest Preserve. The well-preserved schoolhouse dates back to 1886 and tells the tale of a time long past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to try something different, visit the Fermilab in Batavia where you can learn about particle physics as well as tour the underground tunnels. You can also explore the Morton Grove Forest Preserve, an outdoor park filled with wildlife, hiking trails, and fishing spots.

Alternatively, take a trip to the Brookfield Zoo, which is one of the largest and oldest zoos in the US. This site contains thousands of animals from all over the world.

In conclusion, the suburbs of Chicago have plenty of activities, attractions, and cuisine to offer. This insider’s guide highlights some of the best aspects of Chicago’s hidden treasures outside the city’s center. With unique experiences, cultural insights, and local knowledge, we hope you will be able to explore Chicago like a true local!