Showing 1-96 of 423 items
Museum of Science and Industry
A world of discovery awaits at the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere. Explore more than 800 exhibits, including the legendary U-505, a German submarine captured on the high seas during World War II; take off on a Boeing 727 airplane for a simulated cross-country flight; descend down a mineshaft for a tour of a realistic coal mine; and witness robots at work in a toy factory. Take a seat at the museum’s Omnimax Theater and watch awesome 3D flicks on a giant screen.
CITY: Chicago
Navy Pier
The Midwest’s number-one attraction is the place in Chicago for lakefront fun. Take an exhilarating ride on the sky-high Ferris wheel, board a sightseeing or dinner cruise boat, and see a live performance at the outdoor Skyline Stage or acclaimed Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Dine at one of Navy Pier’s many boardwalk restaurants and browse the unique shops and stands (a great place to pick up a souvenir).
CITY: Chicago
Starved Rock State Park
Seasonal waterfalls, awe-inspiring bluffs and rugged canyons dominate the storied landscape at Starved Rock. Rich with history and beauty, Starved Rock’s hiking trails meander through towering trees and scenic overlooks along the Illinois River. Outdoor activities include hiking, canoeing, paddleboat cruises, cross-country skiing, trolley rides, fishing and picnicking. Visitors can stay at the historic Starved Rock Lodge or in one of its cozy cabins.
CITY: Utica
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
One of the most-visited presidential museums in the nation allows visitors to experience the entire Lincoln story under one roof, from Abe's humble beginnings in an Indiana log cabin to his days as president in the White House. Be dazzled by two special effects theaters featuring historical ghosts and a Civil War battlefield, life-like vignettes that depict important moments in the president’s life, and artifacts that range from Lincoln’s stovepipe hat to an original copy of the Gettysburg Address.
CITY: Springfield
KeyLime Cove Indoor Waterpark Resort
KeyLime Cove, the official resort of nearby Six Flags Great America, offers a year round tropical resort experience. The massive indoor water park features a wave pool, body and tube slides, a lazy river, waterfalls and whirlpools. Besides the splashy fun, KeyLime Cove offers a variety of restaurants and entertainment options geared to both kids and parents. Grab a little "me" time and indulge in the luxurious Paradise Mist Spa, or pamper your princess at The Enchanted Lagoon Kids Spa.
CITY: Gurnee
John G. Shedd Aquarium
Strap a mask and flippers onto your imagination and chart a course to the Shedd Aquarium. Have you ever seen eye-to-eye with a dolphin? Said hello to a penguin on a stroll to the South Pole? Immersed yourself in a flooded Amazon forest? Or met a friendly beluga whale? You can do it all at the Shedd! Photo courtesy of the John G. Shedd Aquarium
CITY: Chicago
Grizzly Jack's Grand Bear Resort and Enchanted Forest
60 acres of Northwoods themed accommodations near Starved Rock. Lodge rooms, villas & cabin, indoor water and amusement parks, dining, banquet & conference center.
CITY: Utica
Millennium Park
In the heart of the city you’ll find a state-of-the-art park designed for the new millennium. Discover the reflective Cloud Gate sculpture, the multimedia Crown Fountain and the Frank Gehry-designed Jay Pritzker Pavilion, all with Chicago’s stunning architecture as a backdrop. The park is also host to many free cultural programs, concerts and family activities. Plus, there's alfresco dining in the summer and an ice skating rink in the winter.
CITY: Chicago
The Field Museum
Discover Sue, the largest and most complete T. rex ever found! At the Field Museum you can also get a bug's-eye view in the Underground Adventure, descend into an Egyptian tomb, be dazzled in the Hall of Gems, come nose to nose with the infamous man-eating lions of Tsavo, and walk among dinosaurs in Evolving Planet.
CITY: Chicago
Starved Rock Lodge
Starved Rock Lodge is surrounded by beautiful Starved Rock State Park. Explore 2,630 acres of forests, 13 miles of hiking trails, canyons, bluffs and seasonal waterfalls in Utica, IL. Plan your winter getaway today! We have comfortable hotel rooms, cabins in the woods, a 2-sided fireplace in the Great Hall, an indoor pool and more. Relax in the Back Door Lounge, Trailheads Concessions or at the Starved Rock Cafe. The Dining Room is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner (with a fantastic Sunday Brunch).
CITY: Oglesby
Chicago Botanic Garden
The Chicago Botanic Garden opened a little more than 40 years ago as a beautiful place to visit, and it has matured into one of the world's great living museums and conservation science centers. Each year, nearly one million people visit the Garden's 26 gardens and four natural areas, uniquely situated on 385 acres of land on and around nine islands. Six miles of shoreline extend along 81 acres of water, including the Great Basin, North Lake, and Skokie River Corridor. The Garden also has a renowned Bonsai Collection.
CITY: Glencoe
Wildlife Prairie State Park
Wildlife Prairie State Park is home to over 150 animals that are native to Illinois, including wolves, bison, black bear, elk and cougars. Experience the Adventure Trek Tour, which includes a trip through the bison and elk pasture. Unique overnight lodging located in the park includes authentic train cabooses and a cabin nestled in the woods.
CITY: Hanna City
CoCo Key Water Resort - Rockford
CoCo Key, one of Illinois' largest indoor water parks, is Rockford's home for any-weather family water park fun. Attached to the Best Western Clock Tower Resort and Conference Center, CoCo Key Water Resort makes for a perfect tropical family getaway. Explore over 60,000 square feet of indoor water park fun with three giant waterslides, Coconut Grove Adventure River, Parrot's Perch interactive Play Island, indoor/outdoor spa, kiddie pool with zero depth entry, 10,000 square foot Key Quest Arcade, private cabanas, birthday party rooms, and more
CITY: Rockford
Lincoln Park Zoo
Located in the heart of the city, the free Lincoln Park Zoo features an impressive ape house, the Farm-in-the-Zoo, a charming children’s zoo, and rides on an old-fashioned carousel. Catch ZooLights during the holidays, when the zoo features glittering light displays and seasonal family activities. The zoo was one of the locales featured in the film Return to Me.
CITY: Chicago
Caterpillar Visitors Center
Opened in October 2012, this brand new visitors center celebrates the long history of the Caterpillar company. Visitors can explore the past by taking a journey back in time via historic photos and antique equipment. Visitor favorites include a 24-foot tall 797 mining truck that doubles as a movie theater and a product floor complete with simulators to explore its world-famous product line.
CITY: Galesburg
Six Flags Great America/Hurricane Harbor
Six Flags Great America features 14 rocking roller coasters (including the new X Flight wing coaster), the free Hurricane Harbor water park with splashy water rides and a giant wave pool, spectacular shows and parades, and pint-size rides for the little ones. New for 2013 is “igNIGHT - Grand Finale,” a vibrant nighttime spectacle bursting with brilliant high-tech visual effects and lively performances.
CITY: Gurnee
Nov 17
Lambs Farm Famous Farmyard
The Lambs Farm Farmyard will open on daily March through October and weekends only in November. Come and enjoy Lambs Farm's famous Farmyard. Meet Miss Wiggles, the 450-pound pig with an affinity for Bavarian Crème donuts and Oreo Cookies® and meet all of the new miniature animals, including Levi the miniature horse. Climb into the petting zoo with goats, sheep and lambs. Check out the llamas, alpacas, cows, horses, ducks and more. Enjoy a ride on the old-fashion carousel or the train. Then challenge your friends and family to a round of mini golf! Farmyard memberships are available. Day passes for all activities available for $8 for adults and $12 for children 2-12.
CITY: Libertyville
Knight's Action Park & Caribbean Water Adventure
The theme park offers miniature golf, go-karts, batting cages, carnival rides and an arcade. While the water park features a wave pool, bumper boats, water slides, paddle boats and a lazy river. Catch a movie at the old-fashioned drive-in, adjacent to Knight's.
CITY: Springfield
Tall Ship Windy
Navy Pier's resident 148-foot, four-masted schooner pays tribute to the Great Lakes' rich maritime heritage during a variety of cruises each day.
CITY: Chicago
Chicago's First Lady Cruises
Located at the Michigan Avenue Bridge, Chicago's most luxurious touring vessels offer one of Chicago's top tourist attractions, the critically-acclaimed Chicago Architecture Foundation river cruise with commentary by trained, certified docents, and the American Girl Dinner & River Cruise created especially for families and girls (8-12).
CITY: Chicago
Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Co.
We operate Chicago’s premier Hop On Hop Off ® city sightseeing tours in the classic red & green Trolleys and fun-filled Double Decker buses. We also offer private group transportation for special events such as weddings, parties, and corporate outings. For 19 years the Hop On Hop Off® sightseeing tour has been the gold standard for entertaining and informative tours. Covering 13 miles and 14 stops, the Signature Tour is an eye-popping adventure through the heart of Chicago, giving you the option of Hopping On and Off at your choice of stops to visit the hottest retail, cultural, and family attractions. Summer tours include neighborhood tours and night tours.
CITY: Chicago
Burpee Museum of Natural History
The award-winning "Jane: Diary of a Dinosaur" exhibit explores the history of the museum's young T. rex skeleton on display that has been called one of the 10 most important dinosaur discoveries of the past 100 years. Visitors can also view the skull of Homer, a juvenile Triceratops, and see Burpee staff members working on his bones in the lab. Other exhibits include a coal forest with simulated thunderstorms, a Native American exhibit with a full-size wigwam, and rotating traveling exhibits in the new Woodward Hall. Don't miss Burpee's annual PaleoFest in March.
CITY: Rockford
Safari Land
Family entertainment center featuring Illinois' largest indoor roller coaster, go-karts, bumper cars, Tilt-A-Whirl, bowling, and hundreds of video and redemption games.
CITY: Villa Park
Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field
The North Side Chicago Cubs baseball team calls historic Wrigley Field home.
CITY: Chicago
John Deere Pavilion
The legend of John Deere lives on at the world's most comprehensive agricultural exhibit. Showcases vintage and modern-day equipment, interactive agricultural displays and feature film. Largest collection of John Deere merchandise anywhere.
CITY: Moline
LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Step inside LEGOLAND® Discovery Center and it's like you have just jumped into the biggest box of LEGO® bricks ever! Journey through a medieval castle on the Dragon Ride and pedal to the skies on the Technicycle, feel a part of the story in the 4D cinema, learn top LEGO® building secrets from the Master Model Builder, see iconic landmarks in "Miniland" and much more!
CITY: Schaumburg
Jump America, LLC
We have over 16,000 square feet of trampolines including two dodgeball courts, a foam jumping pit, kids zone, and more! Plenty of parking, convenient location. This awesome facility designed for kids from age 4 and up. Jump America is great for adults too. It's a great place for birthdays, parties, day camps, schools, civic and community gatherings, and corporate events.
CITY: Gurnee
Enchanted Castle Restaurant & Entertainment Complex
Chicago's premiere entertainment complex! 60,000 sq. ft. of fun featuring: indoor go karts, laser tag, bumper cars, 200+ games, mini golf, Kid's Quest Softplay plus a 625-seat restaurant w/ great food and song (karaoke)., Sir Bounce-A-Lot Jumpland coming this summer! Great team building and corp. events for up to 1,800.
CITY: Lombard
Oct 27
Dinosaurs Alive!
Dinosaurs Alive! They're back at Brookfield Zoo, and they're bigger and better than before. Some favorites are returning but many are new! Brookfield Zoo guests can take a trip back millions of years and experience Dinosaurs Alive!, presented by Dominicks. Come and enjoy this unique, fun, and educational exhibit of Tyrannosaurus proportions that will feature supersized animatronic dinosaurs, including favorites like Stegosaurus and Triceratops, as well as obscure dinosaur species with unusual characteristics, like feathers.
CITY: Brookfield
Brookfield Zoo
There's more than 200 beautifully landscaped acres to explore at Brookfield Zoo. Highlights include dolphin shows at Seven Seas, ape encounters at Tropic World and the chance for kids to dress up and play veterinarian at the Hamill Family Play Zoo. The zoo also offers an old-fashioned carousel and a wide variety of shopping and dining options.
CITY: Brookfield
Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum
The Adler Planetarium — America's First Planetarium — was founded in 1930 by Chicago business leader Max Adler. The museum is home to three full-size theaters, extensive space science exhibitions, and one of the world's most important antique astronomical instrument collections on display. The Adler is a recognized leader in science education, with a focus on inspiring young people, particularly women and minorities, to pursue careers in science.
CITY: Chicago
Tempel Lipizzans
Home of the famous Lipizzan stallions known for their beauty, strength and intelligence. The beautiful rolling hills of Tempel Farms have been home to the Tempel Lipizzan for more than 50 years. For the past 27 years, the farm setting has been backdrop for the 90-minute performances in the tradition of the Spanish Riding School in Vienna. Performances chronicle the horses’ training from the youngest foals to the most highly trained stallions all performing to musical accompaniment. Performances are held on the one Sunday a month July through September and one Saturday night a month July through September. Saturday night performances include a self-guided tour where complimentary hors d'oeuvres, wine and beer will be served as the sun sets.
CITY: Wadsworth
Azoosment Park at Santa's Village
Azoosment Park at Santa's Village is an amusement park/petting zoo. Unlimited pony rides and amusement rides with one paid admission.
CITY: East Dundee
Cantigny Park
Consisting of the Robert McCormick Mansion Museum, the First Division Military Museum, ten acres of gardens and parks, 27-hole championship golf course and nine-hole Cantigny Youth Links.
CITY: Wheaton
Jun 1
Washington Cherry Festival
Love cherries? Then this is the event for you! This annual festival is held in Washington, IL and is themed around the delicious fruit. Beer tents, classic carnival foods, family events and fireworks are all part of the festivities. Admission is free for those wanting to attend.
CITY: Washington
Mayan Adventure Indoor Waterpark by The Waverton Hotel
237 newly remodeled guestrooms, Holidome Recreation Center, indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna & fitness room. Two diverse dining establishments - Hang Time Restaurant and Hang Time Bar & Eatery. 3,500 square feet in meeting space.
CITY: Elmhurst
Chicago Children's Museum at Navy Pier
Hands-on exhibits and daily-changing activities make every visit unique for young children and adults, too. Dig deep into the Dinosaur Expedition, try to stay dry in WaterWays, make a masterpiece in the KraftArtabounds Studio, and climb up to the crow's nest on the Kovler Family Climbing Schooner. Toddlers can have fun in Kids Town and Treehouse Trails.
CITY: Chicago
Magic Waters Waterpark
Some of the many fun water attractions include the five-story Abyss (a dark tunnel tube ride), the two-person Splash Blaster water coaster, Tsunami Bay (Illinois' largest wave pool), Splash Magic River, and Little Lagoon for the tykes. The newest ride is the Double Dare Drop speed slides. Each slide drops riders 75 feet, making the thrill ride the steepest speed slide in northern Illinois.
CITY: Cherry Valley
Scovill Zoo
This zoo overlooking Lake Decatur is home to animals from around the world, the Z.O.&O. Express train, the Endangered Species Carousel and the Zootique Gift Shop. Family events and activities are offered regularly.
CITY: Decatur
William M. Staerkel Planetarium
Do some star gazing at the second-largest planetarium in Illinois, located at Parkland College. More than 7,000 stars are projected onto the planetarium’s 50-foot dome. The Planetarium also features special children’s presentations and rock-and-roll light shows.
CITY: Champaign
23
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Kick off the holiday season and create your special memories on The Magnificent Mile in 2013! The BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, the nation’s largest evening holiday celebration, jump starts the holiday season on Saturday, November 23 with a full day of family friendly activities, concerts by top musical artists and the best holiday shopping. The day’s excitement culminates with a grand evening parade down Michigan Avenue marshaled by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse from Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, illuminating one million lights on 200 trees. The parade concludes with a grand finale fireworks show over the Chicago River.
CITY: Chicago
National Great Rivers Museum
Located adjacent to the Melvin Price Locks and Dam, this museum is dedicated to telling the story of the Mississippi River, from its colorful history to its modern-day role as a major transportation corridor. The museum features kid-friendly, interactive and computer animated exhibits. Steer a towboat through the locks and dam via simulator, measure your water consumption or come face-to-face with river fish in the aquarium.
CITY: Alton
Laser Force Lazer Tag Zone
A 5,000 sq. ft. laser tag arena and a 2,500 sq. ft. game arcade is conveniently located by hotels and restaurants off I-64.
CITY: Caseyville
The Science Center of Southern Illinois
This center was designed for children ages 3-13 and their families. The science museum features several interactive hands-on exhibits dealing with a variety of basic concepts of science, as well as special events and programs.
CITY: Carbondale
24 - 26
Red, White & BBQ Festival
A weekend of tasty barbecue, music and fun at Ty Warner Park in Westmont. Start off the summer with great food, live music, and an all-ages carnival, and observe some of the best BBQ experts compete to win prize money, learn BBQ tips, and enjoy Ty Warner Park!
CITY: Westmont
Blackberry Farm's Pioneer Village
Go on a one of a kind country adventure you'll never forget! Become pioneers for a day on a real 1800s farm and village. Miniature train rides, pony rides, petting zoo, pioneer craft demonstrations, and special events.
CITY: Aurora
Splashdown at EastSide
The wettest and wildest family water park in Central Illinois. Play in Splashtower Island or ride the lazy river. There's even a splash and play area for the young ones in your family. www.fondulacpark.com
CITY: East Peoria
24
Louie Louie Parade and Festival
One of Peoria’s favorite events signals the beginning of summer, the Louie Louie Festival! Bring your kazoo and your most creative outfit down to the CEFCU Center Stage. Enjoy the warm breeze and a cold beverage while supporting the Illinois Valley Striders and St. Jude Runners. The parade begins at 3:30pm and heads down Main Street to the Riverfront. Admission is free for those wanting to attend.
CITY: Peoria
Luthy Botanical Gardens
This beautiful spot features five acres of landscaped gardens including the Woodland Garden, Children's Garden, Herb Garden and several others. Tropical conservatory is open year-round. Outdoor Garden is open 8:30am to dusk year-round. Closed Mondays.
CITY: Peoria
Hardy's Reindeer Ranch
The North Pole has moved to Central Illinois. Try your luck at the 6+ acre corn maze, the Grand Prix style race track, pick a pumpkin or a Christmas tree (depending on season), stop by the fascinating gift shop and, of course, see the reindeer!
CITY: Rantoul
Odyssey Fun World
Out of this world family fun featuring a four-level exploration playland, tag team laser trek, interactive video/prize redemption/games and outdoor amusement park. Caters to groups.
CITY: Naperville
Discovery Center Museum
Named one of the top 12 children's museums in the nation by Forbes in 2012, here kids can explore more than 250 hands-on art and science exhibits, a planetarium, TV studio, robotics lab and the Tot Spot for toddlers. Discovery Center also boasts the nation's first community-built outdoor science park, the Rock River Discovery Park, featuring a two-story maze, water play area and dinosaur fossil dig.
CITY: Rockford
Lewis and Clark State Historic Site
The Lewis and Clark State Historic Site commemorates Camp Dubois, the 1803-1804 winter camp of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. It was at Camp Dubois that members of the Corps of Discovery prepared for their expedition to the Pacific Ocean. The 14,000 square-foot exhibit space contains six galleries that outline the background and history of the Lewis and Clark expedition from its conception to its meaning for today's America. Exhibits are kid-friendly, offering opportunities for hands-on engagement. A "reconstruction" of the winter camp, Camp Dubois, is located on the grounds near the visitor center. Its design reflects 1803 U.S. Army regulations for the construction of military posts. Interpreters are on-site daily in the camp to explain how the men prepared for the journey.
CITY: Hartford
Dec 24
Christkindlmarket
The Christkindlmarket is a four-week, open-air market modeled after the famous Nuremberg Christmas market dating back to 1545. The market offers shopping opportunities and serves as a winter wonderland meeting place for family and friends. Plus, enjoy German delicacies like brats, goulash and potato pancakes while you’re there.
CITY: Chicago
Fantasea at the Shedd Aquarium
Dolphins soar, belugas dance and penguins parade in Fantasea, the aquatic show at the Shedd Aquarium. The marine mammal presentations showcase the natural talents and learned skills of the animals—and their trainers.
CITY: Chicago
Raging Waves Waterpark
Illinois' largest Waterpark offers 45 acres of family fun! 17 water slides, wave pool, lazy river, huge kiddie play structures, sandy beach area and a 2000 foot long 4 course zip line.
CITY: Yorkville
Grady's Family Fun Center
As Bloomington-Normal's only amusement park, Grady's features an 18-hole mini-golf course, batting cages, bumper boats, go-karts and kiddie rides.
CITY: Bloomington
Laugh Out Loud Improv Theater
Hilarious improvised comedy that combines live action, video, and the audience! Family-friendly and grown up shows every weekend starring Chicago's top improv comedians.
CITY: Schaumburg
24 - 27
Gaelic Park Irish Fest
Irish Fest brings together the best in Irish music from America, Canada and Europe. In addition to all of the music, there will be Irish sports, dancing, theater & story-telling, a petting zoo, Irish dogs and ponies, and Irish import stories. For the little people, there are magicians, puppets, jugglers, and clowns, and most importantly, unlimited carnival rides are included in the admission price in addition to free parking.
CITY: Oak Forest
WaterWorks
The Water Works is an indoor water park located in the Schaumburg Park District Community Recreation center. It features three water slides, rapid water channel, water playground, diving pool, lap pool, gradual beachlike entry pool, whirlpool, family changing room and a nursery.
CITY: Schaumburg
Pelican Harbor Indoor/Outdoor Aquatic Park
Illinois' only indoor/outdoor aquatic park features seven water slides, a lazy river, two zero-depth entry pools, a spray play area, diving well, sand playground and two concession stands.
CITY: Bolingbrook
Gateway Fun Park
Gateway features mini-golf, go-karts, an arcade, bumper boats, a kiddie track and Rudy's Restaurant.
CITY: Collinsville
Chicago History Museum
The Chicago History Museum is a major museum and research center for Chicago and American history. From permanent galleries to special exhibitions and exciting programs, people of all ages are able to experience the past and better understand the present. Please call for museum hours, pricing and exhibitions.
CITY: Chicago
Amazing Chicago's Funhouse Maze
This Navy Pier funhouse takes visitors on a 15-minute, full sensory experience that challenges and dazzles guests to navigate through a series of mirror mazes set in the great city of Chicago.
CITY: Chicago
Oct 27
Model Railroad Garden
The 7,500-square-foot “Model Railroad Garden: Landmarks of America” exhibition features trains running on 1,600 feet of track, for train and garden enthusiasts to enjoy the delightful sights and sounds of the miniature trains traversing high and low through tunnels, across bridges and around buildings.
CITY: Glencoe
Exploritorium
Named “Chicagoland’s Best Rainy Day Activity Site” by Chicago Magazine, the Exploritorium is much more than an indoor playground. It is a place where children and adults can come and explore together through interactive play. Make-believe in our costumed dress-up area, run your fingers through our water play area, make music, play with trains, and experience new heights in the two-and-a-half story maze of tubes and tunnels.
CITY: Skokie
C & A Robot Factory
This fun factory is the perfect place for LEGO fans ages 2-14. Come and build your own creation, and learn about LEGO machines and robotics.
CITY: Libertyville
Kohl Children's Museum
Kohl Children’s Museum offers hands-on, interactive exhibits designed exclusively for children ages birth to 8. All of the exhibits and programs are designed to make learning fun and interesting for young children. A visit to a grocery store, a veterinarian’s office as well as a day care inhabited by dolls allow children to participate in adult activities on their own scale. Children can build a house, make music, take care of cars, explore the properties of water and much more in the many engaging exhibits featured.
CITY: Glenview
DuPage Children's Museum, Inc.
Where children and adults learn to play together. Enjoy exhibits, workshops and materials that stretch the imagination and stimulate creativity. A fun environment for exploration and discovery.
CITY: Naperville
Jun 2
Funfest for Air-cooled VW
This FunFest is Mid America Motorworks way of saying "Thank You" to all VW enthusiasts. The three-day event is the best Air-Cooled enthusiasts party anywhere. Expect to see more than 1,000 VWs and 8,000 enthusiasts. This is not your typical car show. With non-juried fun judging, one of a kind expert seminars and a guest list including some of the best-known names in the VW world, it's no wonder that Funfest has become a must-attend event.
CITY: Effingham
Joe Roger's Original Recipe Chili Parlor
Voted Springfield's best chili since 1945. The restaurant also serves hot dogs, sandwiches, tamales and their famous, "Denburger."
CITY: Springfield
Haunted Trails Restaurant & Entertainment Park
Perfect setting to raise your spirits! 14 acre park offers 3 go kart tracks, two 18-hole mini golf courses, batting cages, laser tag arena, rides, 100+ games, restaurant w/ private dining room plus private 5 acre picnic grove for company picnics and groups up to 2,000.
CITY: Joliet
19 - 27
Boo! at the Zoo
Halloween fun awaits families at Brookfield Zoo’s annual Boo! at the Zoo celebration. The popular daytime event, presented by Fisher-Price, features a Costume Parade, Costume Showcase, professional pumpkin-carving demonstrations, not-so-scary games and activities, special animal Zoo Chats, and haunted hayrides. For more information, visit www.CZS.org or call (708) 688-8000.
CITY: Brookfield
Raging Rivers WaterPark
Choose from four winding waterslides, brave the waves at the Breaker Beach wave pool or just spend the afternoon floating along the Lazy River. Located just outside Grafton on the Great River Road.
CITY: Grafton
Volcano Falls Adventure Park
Play miniature golf on the ground-shaking Volcano Course under the shadow of a three-story erupting volcano or take it easy on the nine-hole Palm Course. Sharpen your sports skills in batting cages and the area's only soccer cages; enjoy "combat" with your friends in the Laser Zone; and race around the Go-Kart track.
CITY: Loves Park
Lakeview Family Aquatic Center
This outdoor aquatic center has a swimming pool, a zero depth pool with play equipment, 2 giant water slides, 1 small slide, diving boards, a video arcard and wet sand play area.An arcade, lockers, showers, concessions and souvenirs are also available! Children seven years and under must be accompanied by an adult 17 years or older.
CITY: Peoria
Stoney Creek Inn & Suites
The Northwoods theme runs through this 140 room, 10,000 sq.ft. of meeting space hotel. A walk-through lobby & glass elevator greet each guest. The Wilderness Park indoor/outdoor pool area is a great place to relax. Suites are available with hot tubs & fireplaces! Internet access & meeting space is available for the business traveler & meeting planner. An atmosphere that is uniquely different. This is a very family-friendly hotel property and close to attractions including the John Deere Pavilion, John Deere Store, Celebration Belle Riverboat, Channel Cat Water Taxi, shopping, dining and nightlife. The hotel provides complimentary shuttle airport shuttle service, High-speed wireless internet access, and complimentary hot breakfast. The hotel property is located conveniently right off Interstate 74.
CITY: Moline
Donley's Wild West Town
See a Wild West show and museum of Western memorabilia, then dine at Donley's Old West Steakhouse.
CITY: Union
American Girl Place
Located at the famous Water Tower Place, you'll find the store girls of all ages want to visit. They come from far and near to experience the magic that is American Girl Place Chicago—featuring specialty shops, private dining and, of course, lovable dolls. The only destination of its kind in the world for girls and their families.
CITY: Chicago
Danville Dans at Historic Danville Stadium
Built in 1946 as part of the Brooklyn Dodgers farm system, during the summer the field is home to the Danville Dans, a college summer wooden bat team. This NCAA-sanctioned, Major League-sponsored wooden bat collegiate league plays at Danville Stadium.
CITY: Danville
Splash City Family Waterpark
Surfing in Illinois? Yes! The FlowRider creates a perfect wave for surfing and body boarding. Water slides, a lap pool, the lazy river, a sandy play area and "Monsoon Mountain" make for a family adventure.
CITY: Collinsville
Rink Side Sports and Family Entertainment
Fun for the whole family in this state of the art entertainment center featuring a regulation-size ice skating rink offering hockey games, public skating and lessons, 180 video and interactive games, virtual reality laser tag arena, 18 holes of glow in the dark miniature golf, and snack bar featuring awesome home made pizza. Group events and birthday party packages with several packages to choose from with many different activities, or we can cater to fit your needs. Visit the website for special events and hours as they can vary during the season.
CITY: Gurnee
24 - 26
Blaze Memorial Day Classic
Blaze Memorial Day Classic is a youth soccer game that is held outdoors at McClallen Park. Boys and girls ages 5 -15 will be playing in this tournament. Come out and help cheer these kids on as they play.
CITY: Morton
Wildlife Discovery Center
The Wildlife Discovery Center features one of the largest reptile exhibits in northern Illinois. It also features the nation's largest public exhibit of rattlesnakes and venomous reptiles.
CITY: Lake Forest
Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears are made up of a talented group of young and veteran players this season. Come to Soldier Field and join the Bears' enormous fan base of die-hard supporters who enthusiastically cheer their team to victory.
CITY: Chicago
Shenandoah Riding Center
Experience the beautiful, scenic Galena outdoors atop a horse! Our center offers knowledgeable staff, well-trained horses in a lovely setting.
CITY: Galena
Adventure Quest of the Quad Cities
Adventure Quest of the Quad Cities is the perfect for fun-filled outdoor adventures. This 54-acre facility is located just off 1-80 & I-88 near East Moline IL. Make your reservations today and enjoy zip lines, panning for gems, hay rack rides, and wonderful hiking trails. This facility is also available for parties and corporate team building. An elegantly decorated 8,000 square foot banquet facility with an extensive menu is available. The facility also offers interactive games, inflatables, dunk tanks, water slides, laser tag, and more. Check out these annual fall events that include Pumpkin Festival the last weekend in September and the QC Haunted Forest every Friday & Saturday in October. Call (309) 523-3619 for reservations or more information.
CITY: Port Byron
Polk-a-Dot Drive In
Drive-In founded over 50 years ago has become one of the most memorable attractions along Illinois Route 66. Stop in and see the collection of memorabilia and enjoy a great meal.
CITY: Braidwood
John Hauberg Indian Museum
Discover the history of the Sauk and Meskwaki Native Americans in this intimate museum located in the Watch Tower Lodge situated in Black Hawk State Historic Site. This small museum tells the story of these tribes, the great warrior Black Hawk and the village of Saukenuk. After a visit to the museum, be sure to explore the wooded trails that wind throughout this beautiful park located on the Rock River. The Watch Tower Lodge was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1934 and features a special Civilian Conservation Corps exhibit that highlights the building of the lodge.
CITY: Rock Island
Route 66 Park & Tourism Center
This small park is right on Route 66, and it's a great place to check out the town of Atlanta. It is a great park, including flat area to run and playground for the kids to climb and run on, you and your family are sure to enjoy.
CITY: Atlanta
25 - 26
Mt. Carroll Mayfest
Held on the campus of Campbell Center for Historic Preservation Studies. Continuous headline music on the main stage, juried art show, classic car show, unique art vendors, antique appraisal fair, kids activities & more!
CITY: Mount Carroll
Urbana Indoor Aquatic Center
The Indoor Aquatic Center has a recreational and competition pool, a beach-like entry and a water playground.
CITY: Urbana
8 - 18
Illinois State Fair
Make plans now to bring the entire family for adventure, thrills, top name entertainment and the best agriculture exhibition in the country! Each August, hundreds of thousands of visitors flock to Springfield for the Illinois State Fair. Enjoy 10 days of Illinois excitement and entertainment, with everything from top name stars to carnival rides, food, contests, concerts, livestock shows and auto racing.
CITY: Springfield
Serpent Safari
Located at Gurnee Mills, this indoor live reptile zoo offers tours of the world's greatest collection of rare and exotic reptiles, including the largest snake in the world, Baby, who weighs in at over 400 pounds.
CITY: Gurnee
YOU! The Experience
More than just a body, you are a complex blend of your choices, your personality, and your environment. Who you are depends on how you care for yourself and enjoy your life. YOU! The Experience brings these elements together into an interactive exhibit examining and celebrating the experience of life itself. It is one of the first and largest exhibitions to showcase the connection between the human mind, body and spirit in the 21st century. Start exploring the exhibit's fun and fascinating opportunities to explore what it is to be … YOU!
CITY: Chicago
Wilderness Falls
Two mini golf courses, batting cages and an arcade are located at this family fun spot near Clow Airport.
CITY: Bolingbrook













