Things to Do in Des Plaines, IL: Top 10 Attractions

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We like to offer Chicago residents great advice for trips right here on our website, as well as provide the latest information about our offers, the vehicles we have available, and so much more.

In this piece, we’ll explore some amazing things to do in Des Plaines for this planning to make the trip with one of our minibusses or coaches. Remember that Infinity Transportation makes Des Plaines bus charter services affordable and accessible for your family, team, or friends. It’s a great trip, and we make it stress-free with our easy travel services.

There are many fun things to do in Des Plaines, so let’s take a look at what’s on offer.

#1. Des Plaines Lake Park

First, on our list of things to do in Des Plaines, IL is Des Plaines Lake Park. Right off the shore of Lake Opeka, this park is 60 acres in size and full of amazing sights. It’s the perfect place to spend a spring or summer day, whether you’re looking to enjoy a picnic or sporting events, hike a little, or even go sailing and boating.

Lake Park is also great for fishers if that’s your thing. The lake is full of largemouth bass, pike, catfish, crappie, and more. If you’re interested in hiking, there’s an amazing trail that follows the eastern shore of the lake – and if you’re interested in watching the sunset with a loved one, there are plenty of benches!

This is an amazing place to visit if you’re looking to relax in nature.

#2. Rosemont Theatre

Looking to be entertained? Then you have many options in Des Plaines – including Rosemont Theatre. This popular concert hall, which was first opened in 1995, packs thousands of attendees regularly for many kinds of events.

Here you’ll find comedy shows, theater productions, concerns from some of the world’s biggest recording artists, children’s shows, and even tribute acts. Prefer something classical? Come by and watch the ballot, or even enjoy a musical.

#3. Rivers Casino

Looking for things to do in Des Plaines today with some of your buddies? Perhaps the Rivers Casino is a good option for you.

Located only minutes away from the O’Hare International Airport, this casino has been a popular attraction for locals and visitors from out of town since it opened in 2011.

What’s curious about the casino is that it was built to sit on top of a few inches of shallow water, technically making it a “riverboat.” It looks like a building, but it’s located right above water so it falls within the state’s riverboat gambling laws.

If you’re looking for a great place to unwind, play some games, and even have a drink with friends or colleagues – this is the place.

#4. Mystic Waters Family Aquatic Center

Looking for what to do in Des Plaines with the rest of the family? We’ve got you covered.

The Mystic Waters Family Aquatic Center is full of amazing attractions, and it’s the perfect place to visit during the summer months. Opening in June, this outdoor water park is the biggest and most popular in all of northern Illinois. It’s packed full of attractions, games, and rides.

There’s the Dolphin Bay zero-depth pool that’s packed full of fountains and the amazing 550ft-long lazy river where you and the family can relax the day away. And for the youngest members of the family, there’s the Beluga Beach spray park.

Mystic Waters is the perfect place to enjoy the summer sun!

#5. Des Plaines History Center

The Des Plaines History Center is a huge historic home with a modern visitor center that gives visitors an insight into the history of the town. The visitor center has an exhibition of over 31,000 items.

The museum aims to give people an insight into all areas of the history of the region, from aviation to fashion. You’ll have a chance to see what regular life was like through the ages, the history behind the architecture, and so much more.

And, depending on the time of year you visit, you may catch one of the museum’s many programs and special exhibitions!

#6. Kennicott’s Grove Nature Preserve

Kennicott’s Grove Nature preserve is a stunning area of wooded lands that also contains the historical home of John Kennicott. A famous doctor and agriculturalist, the site contain information, exhibitions, and artifacts relating to the life of Dr. Kenniccott between 1802 and 1863.

The historic site is also surrounded by 123 acres of prairie — that’s a lot of space to explore. There are many beautiful sites to see, and visitors will have a whale of a time learning about Kennicott’s life. There are animal exhibits, a log cabin, trails, wetland pools, and so much more.

#7. Mountain View Adventure Center

Love mountains and amazing views? The Mountain View Adventure Center is great for kids and adults alike and even features an 18-hole golf course.

Kids will love the skate park, the biking trails, and even the batting cages for both softball and baseball. If you’re looking for an adventure…you’ve found it! Bring your school class there and enjoy all the amenities!

Full of bridges and waterfalls, this is always a great place to spend a sunny day.

#8. Prairie Lakes Park

Another great place for the family reunion trip is Prairie Lakes Park. The park surrounds the lake and has three retention ponds within it, and many opportunities to fish in both the north and east ponds. It’s completely free to fish, too!

You’ll find a walking path, amazing places for a picnic, shelters for when it rains or the sun gets too intense, and even basketball and volleyball courts.

#9. Des Plaines River Trail

Want to escape into nature? The Des Plaines River Trail is an amazing place to take a stroll.

You’ll be walking through an oak-hickory forest, following the river, and experiencing truly untouched nature. The trail runs through Lake County and Cook County. If you keep walking north, you’ll eventually hit Mystic Waters in RandPark.

Remember to pack your lunch and plenty of bottles of water, because this trail is 32 miles long and reaches the Wisconsin-Illinois state line!

#10. Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District

Finally, there’s the Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District. This is your one-stop shop for entertainment, restaurants, bowling, comedy clubs, a cinema, and so much more. This popular 200,000-square-foot complex is home to 15 different dining and entertainment venues and closes as late as 2 am!

The AMC theater is a big attraction, the common area is home to seasonal events throughout the year, and there’s even an NHL-size skating rink open during the winter.

Chicago’s Trusted Charter Bus Service Provider

Planning a trip to Des Plaines, but want to make the journey a breeze? Chicago residents and people from further afield count on Infinity Transportation for charter bus services, shuttles, and more.

We’ll ensure you and your family or team get there on time, and always have someone ready to take you home.

Want a free Des Plaines bus rental quote? Call Chicago’s trusted charter bus providers today!