2013 Travel Guide
Enjoy Illinois App
Showing 97-192 of 236 items found in Outdoors & Play
Chicago Park District
Come out and play with the Chicago Park District. Founded in 1934, the Chicago Park District is the largest municipal park manager in the nation and owner of more than 8,100 acres of green space. We invite you to take in a concert or a movie at one of our 580 parks.
CITY: Chicago
Round Barn Farm and Museum
This 94-acre farm features picnic and recreational areas, antique farm equipment, a petting zoo, pony rides and barrel train rides. In fall find a pumpkin patch, haunted barn and pig races.
CITY: Manhattan
Rainbow Falls Water Park
A tropical paradise waterpark. Three giant water slides, tot pool, vortex pool, drop slide, three-story funhouse with plunge pool. concessions, picnic areas, locker rooms with family changing areas. Daily admission and season passes. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day.
CITY: Elk Grove Village
Oak Brook Sports Core
269-acre sports facility that offers upscale banquets, weddings, corporate picnics, golf and polo outings for 250-400 people. Tents can be added for larger groups.
CITY: Oak Brook
Fox River Games Paintball
Bring a group of friends to play a round of paintball at Fox River Games. Open play or "walk-on" play is recreational play for all ages (age restrictions) and skill levels. Play as an individual or play in groups. Typically we are open every weekend Saturday and Sunday and during the summer we operate on Wednesdays and Fridays too. Please check our website for our operating schedule and specific hours of operation.
CITY: Aurora
Airtastic Playland
A fun and exciting play land offering 10 inflatable play structures, four party rooms and two age-appropriate play areas.
CITY: Aurora
Kanan Cruises
Chicago's newest and largest cruise ship located at Navy Pier. Cruises are available for group and private charters along Chicago's lakefront for groups of 50 to 400 passengers.
CITY: Chicago
Polar Play Zone at Shedd Aquarium
In the Polar Play Zone, kids can slip into a penguin suit and try being a bird in the Icy South play area. From there, head to the Icy North to explore the belugas’ Arctic waters in a kid-sized submarine. Don’t forget to shake hands—or is it arms—with colorful sea stars in the touch pools.
CITY: Chicago
Itasca Caribbean Theme Waterpark
Features a new zero-depth entry main pool with 6-lanes attached, new separate diving well with drop slide, and high and low diving boards, 185-foot waterslide, separate zero-depth interactive play pools, and more. Call today for birthday party package information.
CITY: Itasca
Splash Station Waterpark
Railroad-themed, outdoor water park featuring a 6 person racing slide, body slides, tube slides, lazy river and zero depth pool.
CITY: Joliet
Arrowhead Golf Club
DuPage County, Chicago’s Western Suburbs -- Arrowhead Golf Club facilities include 27 holes, driving range and new clubhouse with elegant banquet facilities.
CITY: Wheaton
Forest Preserve District of DuPage County
Over 25,000 acres, nearly 140 miles of trails and educational facilities. Enjoy relaxing, volunteering and exploring the forests, lakes, prairies, and open spaces.
CITY: Wheaton
Lincoln Landing
Dedicated on February 12, 2009, Lincoln Landing is Lockport's newest attraction. This park, located on the original Public Landing platted as a dock area by Canal Commissioners in 1836, features a unique bronze statue of a young Abraham Lincoln created by artist David Ostro. Interpretive signage through the park highlights the history of the I&M Canal, its impact on the Lockport community, and Lincoln's connections to both. This open-air museum is self-guiding, but is enhanced by a website with school lesson plans.
CITY: Lockport
Kline Creek Farm
A "living history" farm depicting life in the 1890s DuPage County. Original structures, authentic recreations and livestock combine to make a realistic 1890s working farm.
CITY: Wheaton
Oswegoland Civic Center Aquatic Park
This community water park features colorful slides, tubes, a zero-depth pool and concession booth.
CITY: Oswego
Coral Cove Water Park
Dive into this beach-themed water park with 2 tall tube slides, drop-slide, diving well, walk-in swimming pool, splash ‘n spray playground, sand play area and café. Locker rooms, showers & family restrooms. Available for group rentals for 50-1500 people.
CITY: Carol Stream
Lake Katherine Nature Preserve
158-acre nature area. Largest waterfall in Cook County. 3.5 miles of hiking trails in prairies, woodlands and wetlands.
CITY: Palos Heights
Great Western Trail
This 17-mile trail replaces the abandoned main line of the Chicago Great Western Railroad. It is a flat easy ride connecting the communities of St. Charles and Sycamore.
CITY: St. Charles
Crete Family Fun Center
From mini golf to the best arcade games around, we’ve got enough entertainment for the whole family! A family entertainment center featuring hundreds of games, rides, award-winning miniature golf, go-karts and batting cages. Open year round.
CITY: Crete
AMF Valley Lanes
This bowling alley has 40 lanes, and features glow-in-the-dark bowling on Friday and Saturday. Monday is 99¢ night.
CITY: North Aurora
Oak Meadows Golf & Banquet
Professional caliber 18-hole golf course. Banquets/meetings up to 400 year-round. Four distinct rooms for meetings, seminars or receptions. Accessible from O'Hare Airport and major expressways.
CITY: Addison
Canoe Shack
Canoe and Kayak rentals along the Fox River. These trips offer many hiking, picnicking and wildlife observation opportunities, as well as historic sites, small lime bluffs, and the country's only waterfall. Relax and enjoy the beautiful Fox River.
CITY: St. Charles
Fox Run Golf Links
Par 70. Open Sunrise to Sunset. 18 hole golf course, club house, pro shop, and restaurant and bar. Private parties upon request and availability.
CITY: Elk Grove Village
Centennial Lanes
You'll find 32 bowling lanes, all equipped with bumpers for kids, cosmic bowling on weekends, a snack bar, lounge and a bowling pro shop that's open daily during the season.
CITY: Tinley Park
Rice Pool & Water Park
Rice Pool and Water Park facilities include a zero-depth pool, thrilling slides, sand play area for children, adult lounge deck and sand volleyball courts.
CITY: Wheaton
Fox Bend Golf Course
Fox Bend offers a challenging and scenic tour of streams, ponds, willow trees and elevation changes. This highly regarded course has played host to several tournaments and qualifiers.
CITY: Oswego
Mastodon Lake at Phillips Park
Remains of the extinct elephant-like mastodon were found in this lake in the 1930s. Today, see a life-size sculpture of a mastodon and a restored prairie grass development.
CITY: Aurora
Heritage Bluffs Public Golf Club
This premier golfing destination was awarded 4-1/2 stars in Golf Digest's list of Places to Play.
CITY: Channahon
Lombard Park District
DuPage County, Chicago’s Western Suburbs - In addition to quality parks and facilities, enjoy a variety of recreational programs and special events for all ages.
CITY: Lombard
Brunswick Zone Romeoville
Brunswick Zone XL is a full- feature, family- friendly entertainment destination with something for everyone. Our center in Romeoville sets the standard for family entertainment with more than 60,000 sq. ft. of fun for all ages. Bowling, billiards, video games and more!
CITY: Romeoville
Columbia Woods Forrest Preserve
Offers places to fish and picnic. Canoe access. Biking. A host for "A River Thru History" each September, where you can step back 200 years into Chicago's past with a festive gathering of fur trappers, settlers, craftsmen, and entertains along the banks of the Des Plaines River - www.ariverthruhistory.com.
CITY: Willow Springs
Camp Sagawau Environmental Education Center
Environment Education Center - offers cross country skiing in the winter.
CITY: Lemont
Bengston Pumpkin Farm
The fall fun here includes tractor-pulled hayrack rides, a haunted barn, pig races, train rides, a petting zoo, kiddie rides, a three-acre corn maze, a Halloween shop, food and pumpkins.
CITY: Homer Glen
Woodridge Town Centre
A multipurpose open play area, Woodridge Town Center hosts a variety of festivals in Woodridge.
CITY: Woodridge
Bicycle Trails - Aurora
More than 35 miles of trails, from Aurora to Crystal Lake, pass through scenic landscapes. Routes include the Fox River, Virgil Gilman and Red Oak Trails, and the Illinois Prairie Path.
CITY: Aurora
Fermilab
Fermi is the site of the world's most powerful particle accelerator, where particles circle the four-mile ring 57,000 times each second. Restored prairie grass areas, historic barns and a buffalo herd are also on display.
CITY: Batavia
Fox River Trail
This 32-mile paved biking/hiking trail along the Fox River features scenic parks, picnic areas and playgrounds located adjacent to restaurants and shops.
CITY: Geneva
Glendale Lakes Golf Club
DuPage County, Chicago’s Western Suburbs - 18-hole public golf course and golf shop. Restaurant open for lunch daily; Wednesday, Thursday and Friday for dinner. Meeting rooms and banquet facilities for up to 250.
CITY: Glendale Heights
White Pines Golf Dome
White Pines Golf Dome is one of the world's premiere indoor golf facilities. Measuring 300 feet wide, 300 feet long and 100 feet high, it is the area's largest golf dome.
CITY: Bensenville
Forest Preserve District of Will County
Biking and running trails, bird watching, camping, cross-country skiing, sledding, outdoor ice skating, canoeing and rafting and fishing. The district office provides all information on preserves and issues picnic permits.
CITY: Joliet
Fox River Trail (St. Charles Illinois)
32 miles of biking, hiking and cross-country skiing featuring some of the most scenic trails of the Fox River. Points of interest include Carpenters Dam, Fox River Shores, Tyler Creek, Voyageur Landing, Shoemaker Nature Center and Fabyan Forest Preserve.
CITY: St. Charles
St. Charles Paddlewheel River Boats
Cruise the scenic Fox River from Pottawatomie Park in St. Charles on the Fox River Queen or the St. Charles Belle paddlewheel riverboats.
CITY: St. Charles
Seven Bridges Ice Arena
DuPage County, Chicago’s Western Suburbs - Includes three ice surfaces, public skate 7 days a week, learn-to-skate and hockey classes, observation area, off-ice training center, party/conference rooms, arcade and a pro shop.
CITY: Woodridge
Bartlett HIlls Golf Course
This 18-hole course features a practice range, pro shop, snack shop and banquet facilities.
CITY: Bartlett
All Seasons Ice Rink
Two full-sized rinks are open for year-round skating. All Seasons also offers a game room, ballet room, pro shop and party room.
CITY: Naperville
Lyon Farm and Village
The farm and village have 15 historic buildings that trace the history of Kendall County. Learn more about native prairie grasses found around the farm and enjoy a variety of history oriented special events.
CITY: Aurora
Leiseberg Park
Leiseberg Park plays host to local Bartlett events, festivals and fairs.
CITY: Bartlett
Willowbrook Wildlife Center
DuPage's premier wildlife rehabilitation and educational facility. Over 90 species of injured native wild animals are on exhibit. Open daily. Donations encouraged.
CITY: Glen Ellyn
Butterprint Farm Pumpkin Patch
This historic 1857 farm offers hay ride trips to the pumpkin patch, rope making, puppet shows and much more family fun.
CITY: Monee
Springbrook Golf Course
DuPage County, Chicago’s Western Suburbs - Springbrook Golf Course is a challenging 18-hole, 72-par championship facility with a natural turf driving range, short range, putting green and two practice bunkers. The clubhouse features a well-stocked golf shop and an eating area that seats 60.
CITY: Naperville
Apple Orchard Golf Course
Apple Orchard is a par 27, nine-hole course with a pro shop and snack bar.
CITY: Bartlett
Brunswick Zone - Carol Stream
DuPage County, Chicago’s Western Suburbs - Brunswick Zone offers bowling, billiards, Laser Tag, an arcade/game room plus meeting space for corporate parties, team-building and special events.
CITY: Carol Stream
Pirates' Cove Theme Park
A unique park for children ages two to nine years. Pirates' ship, paddle boats, train ride, climbing wall, and many more creative attractions for children. Concession and picnic areas. Birthday parties and rentals. Open daily June through August. Admission fee for children. Adults are always free.
CITY: Elk Grove Village
University Golf Club & Conference Center
This championship 18-hole golf course features a practice facility, pro shop and a conference center.
CITY: University Park
Prairie Landing Golf Club
Playing this unique, well-conditioned and spectacularly-designed 18-hole course will surely make you want to come back. Full service premier meeting and banquet facility provides outstanding culinary offerings and personal service.
CITY: West Chicago
Maple Meadows Golf Course
Come and play right in your backyard! Visit Maple Meadows for outings, leagues, tournaments, individual play, and the great food in our restaurant. 27 holes, no reservations required and a beautiful public course!
CITY: Wood Dale
Red Oak Nature Center
A visit to the center will help folks learn about the native plants and animals of the Fox River Valley. Interpretive center, hiking trails, and tours of Devil's Cave.
CITY: Batavia
Itasca Country Club
DuPage County, Chicago's Western Suburbs - Itasca Country Club is rich in tradition and offers a cost-effective solution for golf outings, corporate entertaining and special events in a picturesque setting. Enjoy beautiful surroundings, spectacular views, and the service of a fine country club-for your wedding reception or other banquet event. Amidst the elegant grounds and facilities, our skilled professional staff will put you at ease and ensure your special occasion is unforgettable.
CITY: Itasca
Center Children's Farm
Experience life down on the farm during guided family tours, or take a hike on the peaceful nature trail.
CITY: Palos Park
Trailside Museum
Get in touch with nature in this beautiful wooded setting near the Des Plaines River, where you can view local wild animals that have been rescued from the surrounding area.
CITY: River Forest
Ruffled Feathers Golf Club
Just 40 minutes from Chicago lies one of the area's premier golf courses. The only Illinois course designed by Pete Dye offers a world-class golf experience and outstanding banquets/weddings for our guests.
CITY: Lemont
Naperbrook Golf Course
Naperbrook Golf Course is an 18-hole links-style course featuring rolling hills, native prairie grass and an ever-present breeze. The course offers a ten-acre driving range, separate teaching tee, 10,000 square-foot practice green and versatile clubhouse.
CITY: Plainfield
Villa Olivia Country Club Ski Area
Skiwee for kids 4-9 years old, snow tubing, ski, dining, golf, lessons, snowboarding, sleigh rides.
CITY: Bartlett
Settler's Hill Golf Course
This unique 18-hole course was built on the site of the old County Farm and Home; the dairy barn has been remodeled and is now used as a clubhouse. The course is 6,449 yards, par 72.
CITY: Geneva
Wedgewood Golf Course
This 18-hole golf course is known for its hilly terrain, and features a clubhouse.
CITY: Joliet
Inwood Park
Inwood Park is located southwest of Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center. The park has tennis courts, fitness trails, a playground and picnic area. Horseshoes and bocce ball are also on the grounds.
CITY: Joliet
Centennial Beach
DuPage County, Chicago’s Western Suburbs - Jump in to summer fun at Centennial Beach! Featuring four acres of grass and trees, a sand beach, water play features, an NCAA/U.S.S.-approved diving complex, this historic beach is a place the whole family can enjoy! With water depths ranging from zero to 15 feet, the facility caters to swimmers of all skill levels. Combined with a playground, Frisbee® Area, shallow end slide, concessions stand and Beach store, Centennial Beach is the perfect way to beat the summer heat. Named "best public place to swim" in 2008 by Fox News Chicago viewers in an online poll!
CITY: Naperville
Wolfe Wildlife Refuge & Bike Path
Explore the natural beauty and animal habitats of this 45-acre wetlands preserve. Nature programs for all ages include bird surveys, seed collections, planting, clean-ups and hiking.
CITY: Oak Lawn
CPX Sports
A 143-acre extreme sports park featuring paintball, mountain bike trails, skate park and monthly airsoft games. Available for open or private play year round. Visit www.cpxsports.com or call 815/726-2800 for more info.
CITY: Joliet
Race View Farms RV Camping
RV, camper and car parking during major races at Chicagoland speedway and at Rte. 66 Raceway.
CITY: Joliet
Western Acres Golf Course
DuPage County, Chicago’s Western Suburbs - This 9-hole, par-35 course stretches over 3,000 yards. The well-maintained fairways and greens, along with sand and water hazards, offer a unique and challenging golf experience. The newly remodeled clubhouse is a picturesque location for a special event.
CITY: Lombard
Thorn Creek Nature Center
Enjoy a day in the country while learning about wildlife through nature displays and exhibits.
CITY: Park Forest
River View Miniature Golf Course
Most challenging course in the Fox Valley Area! Naturally landscaped greens - multiple obstacles - sand traps - waterfall and babbling brook - windmill - lighthouse - bridges. Daily specials & discounts. Scenic views along the Fox River.
CITY: St. Charles
Primrose Farm Park
Park has ball fields, sand volleyball courts, basketball courts, tennis courts, soccer goal posts, playground, benches & picnic tables, parking lot, pavilion and restrooms. A great family and group park.
CITY: St. Charles
Deer Creek Golf Club
This University Park golf course is rated 3-1/2 stars by Golf Digest, and has been host to several major Chicago-area golf events.
CITY: University Park
Coyote Crossing Mini Golf Course
DuPage County, Chicago’s Western Suburbs - Professionally designed 18-hole golf course. Putt around a waterfall, through a cave, over a river and under rocks. Coyote Crossing is a great place for birthdays, rentals, picnics, company and other group outings.
CITY: West Chicago
Bolingbrook Park District
Providing over 2,100 opportunities for recreation. Relax, have fun and embrace the power of recreation.
CITY: Bolingbrook
William W. Powers Conservation Area
Offering fishing, waterfowl hunting, picnicking, and winter sports. At the center of its attraction is Wolf Lake, segmented by dikes and offering six miles of shoreline to bank anglers.
CITY: Chicago
Siegel's Cottonwood Farm
Siegel's Cottonwood farm is a fourth generation working farm established in 1909. In the spring and early summer, the farm is open with a garden center featuring flowers, shrubs, and plants. From June 1st thru October, the farm is available for company picnics, group outings, corporate events and fundraisers. In the summer when the crop is ready its extra sweet corn. In the fall its Pumpkinfest time on the farm with playlands, cornfield mazes, new fun attractions, climbing wall, gem mining and much more. And then there is the award winning haunted prison, "Statesville."
CITY: Crest Hill
Hinsdale Parks & Recreation Department
DuPage County, Chicago’s Western Suburbs - Over 600 programs are offered by the Hinsdale Parks & Rec Dept. annually. The year round activities are designed to meet the leisure interests of residents and visitors. Community special events and outdoor summer concerts are also organized annually.
CITY: Hinsdale
Brunswick Zone XL
Brunswick Zone XL is a full-feature, family-friendly entertainment destination with something for everyone. Our center in Romeoville sets the standard for family entertainment with more than 60,000 sq. ft. of fun for all ages. Brunswick Zone XL is a great place for Corporate Parties, Team Challenges, Monumental Moments and Birthday Parties! Call us today for more details. Become a fan of Brunswick Zone XL on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/bowlbrunswick
CITY: Romeoville
Waters Edge Golf Club
This course was chosen as one of Golf Digest's Best Places to Play.
CITY: Worth
Boughton Ridge Golf Course
Situated on 45 beautiful acres, this nine-hole, 2205-yard, Par 32, executive length course offers the perfect course for a quick round of great golf.
CITY: Bolingbrook
Carol Stream Park District
DuPage County, Chicago’s Western Suburbs - Stay active! This award-winning parks & recreation agency offers over 400 acres of parks, 5 miles of paved trails, 3 recreation centers, free special events & hundreds of recreation, dance, gymnastics, summer camp, sports & fitness & active adult programs.
CITY: Carol Stream
Warrenville Park District
DuPage County, Chicago's Western Suburbs - FitnessNOW - State of the art cardiovascular equipment; Cybex cardio equipment with built in TVs; three lane indoor track; strength training; personal trainers; affordable fees; fun, knowledgeable and motivated staff; and convenient location. Enjoy nine community parks and a variety of sports and activities.
CITY: Warrenville
