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Gurnee, Illinois: Where Fun and Adventure Meet – Best Things to Do and Places to Visit

Gurnee asks almost nothing of you, which is the whole point of it. Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor sit next to each other, and Gurnee Mills is a short drive from both of them. Great Wolf Lodge runs indoors all year. So does the mall. The hardest walking you will do here is the length of an outlet mall with nearly 200 stores in it.

Are you planning a trip to Gurnee, Illinois? This is an easy one. This village in Lake County runs plenty of activity, and almost none of it asks much of you. Amusement parks, historic sites and museums, Gurnee covers everybody.

If you want the adrenaline, Six Flags Great America is here, one of the country’s top 20 most-visited amusement parks, running rides that take the wind out of you. And if you want shopping, check out Gurnee Mills, the largest outlet and value shopping destination in Illinois. With over 200 stores, you will find what you came for.

Want water? Head to Hurricane Harbor, the water park adjacent to Six Flags. Or if you want to be outdoors, check out the nearby Des Plaines River Trail for hiking and biking. And when you are ready to sit down, Gurnee runs plenty of places to do it, from spas and wellness centers to indoor options such as escape rooms and simulations. So pack your bags for a weekend that costs you no effort.

Key Takeaways

• Gurnee has something for everyone, from thrilling amusement parks to historic sites and museums.
• If you’re looking for a shopping extravaganza, check out Gurnee Mills, the largest outlet and value shopping destination in Illinois.
• Gurnee offers plenty of options for outdoor activities, relaxation, and family-friendly fun.

Thrilling Amusement Parks

If you want the adrenaline, Gurnee has it covered with its amusement parks. Here are the ones to work:

Six Flags Great America

Six Flags Great America is where the day goes. With over 45 rides and attractions, this amusement park earns the trip for anybody after adventure. From roller coasters such as Goliath and The Joker to family rides such as the River Rocker and the Hometown Fun Machine, Six Flags covers everybody.

And the rides are not all of it. Six Flags also runs shows, games and dining options that hold a whole day. If you are visiting during the summer, check out Hurricane Harbor, the park’s water park, which runs slides, wave pools and lazy rivers.

Hurricane Harbor

Speaking of Hurricane Harbor, this water park is where to cool off on a hot summer day. With attractions such as the Tsunami Surge, the Mega Wedgie and the Monsoon Lagoon, you will be splashing and sliding for hours. And if you want something slower, grab a tube and float down the Hurricane Bay lazy river.

You will not go hungry at Hurricane Harbor either. There are plenty of dining options, burgers, pizza and ice cream among them. And if you want to get out of the sun, check out the park’s indoor dining area.

So grab your sunscreen, put on your swimsuit, and head to Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor for a day of thrills and spills.

Shopping Extravaganza

Want shopping that takes a whole day? Gurnee, Illinois runs it. With the two major shopping destinations, Gurnee Mills and Bass Pro, you will find what you need and then some.

Gurnee Mills

Gurnee Mills is where the bargain hunters go. This outlet mall runs nearly 200 stores, popular brands such as Nike, H&M and Forever 21 among them. Clothing, accessories or home goods, you will find it all at Gurnee Mills. And stop by Build-A-Bear to make your own furry friend.

But Gurnee Mills is not only shopping. You can also catch a movie at the Gurnee Marcus Cinema, play a game of mini-golf at Glowgolf, or test your skills at the Rink Side Sports & Family Entertainment Center. With this much on offer, the whole day goes here.

Bass Pro

If you follow the outdoors, do not walk past Bass Pro. This large store is the place for hunters, fishermen and anybody who likes being outside. With a big selection of gear, clothing and accessories, you will find what your next trip needs.

But Bass Pro is not only a store. Take a stroll through the indoor waterfall and aquarium, or take a meal at the Islamorada Fish Company Restaurant. And check out the gift shop, where you find souvenirs you will not get elsewhere.

So get ready for a shopping extravaganza in Gurnee, Illinois.

Water Fun and Games

If you want water in Gurnee, you are in luck. The town holds some of the strongest water parks in the Midwest, and they work for cooling off on a hot summer day. Here are the places to get your splash on:

Great Wolf Lodge

Great Wolf Lodge is a large indoor water park that opens year-round, so the weather outside makes no difference to it. The park runs a range of slides, the Howlin’ Tornado among them, which sends you swirling down a giant funnel. If you want something slower, you can float down the lazy river or sit in the hot tub. The lodge also runs a game room, a mini-golf course and other activities that hold the day.

Keylime Cove

If you want the tropics, Keylime Cove is where to go. This Caribbean-themed water park runs everything a day in the sun needs, a wave pool, water slides and a lazy river among them. The park also runs restaurants and bars, so you can refuel with a meal or a drink. And if you want to stay overnight, the park runs a hotel with rooms decorated in a beachy style.

Whichever water park you choose, the day will hold. So grab your swimsuit, put on some sunscreen, and get ready for wet and wild fun in Gurnee.

Outdoor Activities

Want outdoor activities in Gurnee? This is the place. Here are the options to check out:

Betty Russell Community Park

Betty Russell Community Park works for families and for groups of friends who want to be outside. This park runs it all, playgrounds and basketball courts through to tennis courts and soccer fields. Shooting some hoops, playing a game of tennis, or simply sitting on the grass, Betty Russell Community Park covers you.

Van Patten Woods

If you want something more rugged, check out Van Patten Woods. This forest preserve runs miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as cross-country skiing in the winter. The trails wind through wooded country, and there are plenty of places to stop and take the scenery in.

So a leisurely afternoon at the park or a harder outing in the woods, Gurnee has you covered. Get out there and work the outdoor activities this town runs.

Indoor Entertainment

When the weather outside turns, it is time to find indoor entertainment. Gurnee runs plenty of options that keep you warm. Here are the strongest indoor entertainment options in Gurnee:

Jump America

If you want exercise that does not feel like it, Jump America is the place. This indoor trampoline park will have you bouncing off the walls, literally. You can jump on trampolines, play dodgeball, or practice your flips in the foam pit. It burns off energy and holds the afternoon at the same time.

Arcade Fun

If you miss the old days of arcade games, head over to Gurnee Mills Mall and check out the arcade. With classic games such as Pac-Man and Galaga, as well as newer ones such as Dance Dance Revolution, the arcade covers everybody. You can spend hours racking up high scores and reliving your childhood.

And there is more. If you want further indoor entertainment options, Gurnee runs them. You can go bowling at Brunswick Zone, or test your skills on the climbing wall at Vertical Endeavors. Whatever you choose, the day stays warm and indoors.

Food and Drink

Dining Options

You are in Gurnee and you are hungry. Lucky for you, there are plenty of dining options to work through. Classic American fare or something further afield, Gurnee has it covered.

If you want a classic burger and fries, head over to Culver’s. They run all the classic fast-food options, plus frozen custard to finish it off.

For something more upscale, check out Timothy O’Toole’s Pub. They run a strong selection of craft beers and a menu full of pub fare, their famous corned beef and cabbage among it.

If you want something further afield, head over to Tacos El Norte. They run all the classic Mexican dishes, plus options you will not get elsewhere such as their shrimp ceviche tostadas.

Only Child Brewing Company

If you follow beer, do not miss Only Child Brewing Company. This local brewery runs a strong selection of beers on draft, from classic IPAs through to more unusual ones such as their chocolate milk stout.

But it is not only the beer at Only Child. The room holds up too, with plenty of seating both inside and out. And they often have food trucks parked outside to feed you while you drink.

So a classic burger or a craft beer, Gurnee runs plenty of options either way.

Relaxation Spots

After a long day of roller coasters and shopping, you might want to sit down. Gurnee runs some strong places to do it. Here are the places to visit when you want the quiet.

Spa Retreat

If you want serious pampering, head to the Spa at KeyLime Cove. This spa runs a range of treatments, massages, facials and body wraps among them. You can also work their steam room, sauna and whirlpool.

If you want something you will not get elsewhere, check out the Float Sixty Float Center. Here you float in a sensory deprivation tank. It sounds strange. It works.

For a more traditional spa experience, try Mario Tricoci Hair Salons & Day Spas. They run a broad range of services, massages and facials through to haircuts and color. They also have locations all over the Chicagoland area, so one of them will be near you.

Whichever spa you choose, you will come out of it refreshed. So go ahead and take the quiet in Gurnee.

Escape Rooms and Simulations

If you want something to work at with friends or family, Gurnee runs plenty of escape rooms and simulations. Test your problem-solving and your teamwork as you race the clock to escape a themed room or finish a simulated challenge.

One of the top-rated escape rooms in Gurnee is 60 to Escape, where you get 60 minutes to solve the puzzles and clues and get out. They run a range of themed rooms, a zombie apocalypse, a bank heist and a spy mission among them.

The other one people rate is Edge of Escape, which has been called “far and away the best escape room” by reviewers on Yelp. They run challenging and immersive rooms, a haunted house and a prison break among them.

If you want something higher-tech, check out the simulations at VR Universe. They run a range of virtual reality experiences, racing games, shooting games and a virtual escape room among them.

For something you will not get elsewhere, try the virtual reality escape room at Zero Latency VR. You and your team get moved to a different world where you solve puzzles and work together to escape before the clock runs out.

Whichever escape room or simulation you choose, the time will hold in Gurnee. So gather your friends and family and get ready for it.

Historic Sites and Museums

If you follow history, Gurnee runs plenty with its historic sites and museums. Here are the places to visit:

1. Warren Cemetery

Warren Cemetery is a historic cemetery dating back to the 1830s. It is the final resting place of many of Gurnee’s early settlers. It has a garden area. It is a place to walk slowly and pay your respects to the town’s founding families.

2. Gurnee Historical Society

The Gurnee Historical Society is a small museum setting out the town’s history from the 1800s to the present day. It is run by volunteers who care about keeping Gurnee’s past on the record. You can learn about the town’s early settlers, the impact of the railroad, and the growth of Six Flags Great America.

3. Adlai E. Stevenson II Farm

The Adlai E. Stevenson II Farm is a historic site that was once the home of the politician and diplomat. It is now a museum setting out Stevenson’s life and career. You can see his personal belongings, his desk and typewriter among them, and learn what he put into American politics.

4. Jack Benny Center for the Arts

The Jack Benny Center for the Arts is a cultural center housed in the former home of the comedian. It runs art exhibits, theater productions and music performances. You can also tour the home and see some of Benny’s personal belongings, his violin among them.

Local history or simply a good way to spend an afternoon, these historic sites and museums earn the stop.

Six Flags Great America runs over 45 rides and attractions, and Hurricane Harbor sits right next door to it. Gurnee Mills holds nearly 200 stores, a cinema, an arcade and a mini-golf course under the one roof. Great Wolf Lodge is indoors and open year-round. Warren Cemetery dates back to the 1830s and holds the town’s early settlers. Gurnee itself sits between Chicago and Milwaukee, an easy drive either way.

Nightlife and Events

You might think Gurnee, Illinois is a quiet town after dark. It is not.

If you want nightlife, head to one of the local bars or pubs. You can take a drink and talk to the people who live here. The spots people go to include Timothy O’Toole’s Pub, Mickey Finn’s Brewery and The Vine Martini & Wine Bar.

But if you really want to let go, head to Six Flags Great America for their annual Fright Fest event. This Halloween-themed extravaganza runs haunted houses, scare zones and spooky shows. You might run into some zombies or ghosts. Bring a change of pants if you frighten easily.

If you want culture, check out the Genesee Theatre. This historic venue hosts concerts, comedians and theatrical performances. You might catch a well-known musician or actor on stage. And if you want to go up a level, you can add VIP seating and a pre-show dinner.

So do not let the small town read fool you. Gurnee runs plenty for a night out. A quiet drink or a proper scare, both are here.

Budget-Friendly Options

So you are trying to save money and still want the day to hold in Gurnee? No trouble. There are plenty of budget-friendly options here.

First off, if you are planning to hit Six Flags Great America, check their website for discounts and promotions. They often run deals on tickets, food and souvenirs. And if you are in the military, take advantage of their military discount.

Want free activities? Gurnee runs plenty of parks and nature preserves to work. Check out the Des Plaines River Trail for the scenery and the wildlife. Or head to Hunt Club Park for disc golf, volleyball and more.

If you want shopping, check out the Gurnee Mills Mall. They often run sales and discounts at their various stores. And if you are a AAA member, bring your card for the extra savings.

For a cheap meal that does the job, head to the Burger King on Grand Avenue. They run a value menu with items priced at 1 dollar. And if you want pizza, check out Rosati’s Pizza. They often run coupons and specials on their website.

So do not let a tight budget hold you back in Gurnee. With these budget-friendly options, this village still gives you the day.

Weekend Getaways

So you are planning a weekend getaway to Gurnee, Illinois? Strong choice. With this much to see and do, the time goes. But what about accommodation? Gurnee runs plenty of good hotels. Upscale or budget-friendly, you will find what suits you.

If you are flying in, Gurnee sits between Chicago and Milwaukee. That means you can spend a day or two working those cities before heading back to Gurnee for the quiet.

Chicago, known as the Windy City, is known for its architecture, museums and deep-dish pizza. You could spend hours working the Art Institute of Chicago or taking photos in front of the “Bean” at Millennium Park. And try some Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches while you are there.

Milwaukee runs slower. That does not mean there is nothing to do. Beer people will want to check out the Miller Brewing Company or the Lakefront Brewery. And if you follow motorcycles, do not miss the Harley-Davidson Museum.

But back to Gurnee. After a busy day of sightseeing, you will want to sit down. That is what the hotel is for. The KeyLime Cove indoor water park resort is what families go for. With a lazy river, a wave pool and plenty of slides, it holds the kids. And if you want something more upscale, the Marriott Lincolnshire Resort runs a spa and a golf course.

Whatever your budget or interests, Gurnee covers it. So pack your bags for the weekend.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you want family-friendly activities in Gurnee, you are in luck. There is plenty in the area that works for kids of all ages.

Amusement Parks

First up, the amusement parks. Gurnee holds Six Flags Great America, one of the largest and most popular amusement parks in the country. With dozens of rides, shows and attractions, Six Flags covers everybody. Roller coasters through to water rides, the family will get their day.

Playgrounds

If you want something lower-key, Gurnee runs plenty of playgrounds for the kids. Head over to Viking Park or Hunt Club Park to be outside. Both parks run multiple playgrounds, as well as picnic areas and sports fields.

Family-Friendly Activities

Gurnee also runs a range of other family-friendly activities. Visit the Gurnee Mills mall for shopping and entertainment. The mall holds a movie theater, an arcade and a miniature golf course. Or check out the Gurnee Park District, which runs classes and programs for kids of all ages. Dance classes through to sports teams, the range covers everybody.

So a big day at an amusement park or a slow afternoon at a playground, Gurnee runs plenty of family-friendly activities to hold you and the kids.

Touring Gurnee

Welcome to Gurnee. You are in for a straightforward few days working this village in Lake County, Illinois. Here is what you can do while touring Gurnee:

Visit Six Flags Great America

If you want adventure, Six Flags Great America is where to go. With over 45 rides and attractions, you will be screaming in short order. From the heart-pumping Goliath roller coaster to the classic American Eagle wooden coaster, Six Flags covers everybody. And cool off at the Hurricane Harbor water park, which runs over 30 water attractions.

Explore Gurnee Mills

For the shopaholics, Gurnee Mills is the place. With over 200 stores, you find everything from designer brands to discount outlets. Wear comfortable shoes, because you will be walking. And when you need a break, take a meal at one of the many restaurants or catch a movie at the Gurnee Marcus Cinema.

Relax at KeyLime Cove Waterpark Resort

If you want somewhere to sit down, KeyLime Cove Waterpark Resort is where to go. This tropical-themed resort runs a large indoor water park, with a lazy river, a wave pool and water slides. There is also a spa, shopping and six restaurants.

Go on a Ghost Tour

Are you brave enough for a ghost tour? Gurnee has a haunted history, and you can work all of it on the Haunted History Tour. You visit historic sites and hear spooky stories from the past. And you might meet a ghost while you are at it.

Play Golf

If you follow golf, Gurnee runs some strong courses. The Bittersweet Golf Club has two challenging 18-hole courses, while the HeatherRidge Golf Course has a scenic 9-hole course. And if you want something different, try mini-golfing at the GlowGolf indoor mini-golf course.

There you have it. These are some of the things you can do while touring Gurnee. So pack your bags, grab your friends, and go.

Sports and Recreation

You might not be a professional athlete, but that does not stop you working the sports and recreation in Gurnee, Illinois. Break a sweat or simply take the afternoon, there are plenty of options either way.

First up, sports. If you follow baseball, you can catch a game at the Gurnee Park District’s baseball fields. And if you are competitive, you can sign up for a league and show what you have.

If you want something lower-key, hit one of the many parks in the area and shoot some hoops, play some volleyball, or try your hand at horseshoes. And if you are feeling adventurous, try disc golf at the Gurnee Disc Golf Course.

Now to recreation. No trip to Gurnee is complete without a visit to Six Flags Great America. With roller coasters, water rides and plenty of other attractions, it is where to let go.

But if you want something slower, head to the movie theater and catch the latest blockbuster. And grab some popcorn, because it earned its place for a reason.

So a sports fanatic or simply somebody after a good day, Gurnee runs plenty of options.

County Fair Fun

The county fair. The smell of fried food, the sound of carnival games, and the sight of farm animals. It is a classic American experience, and Gurnee’s county fair is one of them.

First, the food. You cannot go to a fair without taking some deep-fried goodness. Corn dogs through to funnel cakes, the fair has it covered. And they run plenty of options for those with dietary restrictions too. The facilities are also kept clean, so that is one thing off your mind.

Now the games. You may think you are a pro at carnival games, but those stuffed animals are harder to win than they look. That is part of it. And you might get lucky and take home that giant teddy bear.

But the fair is not only food and games. It is also a chance to see farm animals up close. Cows through to pigs and chickens, the fair runs them all. And if you are lucky, you might catch a baby animal in the pens.

So grab your friends and family and head down to the county fair for a day of fun and nostalgia. Bring some cash for the fried treats and the carnival games.

Theme Park Souvenirs

The classic theme park souvenir. You cannot leave without one. Collector or simply somebody who wants a reminder of the visit, Six Flags Great America has it covered.

First up, the classic: t-shirts. You cannot go wrong with a t-shirt that reads “I survived the Demon” or “I conquered Goliath.” And if you want something bolder, why not a tie-dye shirt with Bugs Bunny on it? It reads like the ’60s and Looney Tunes had a baby.

If t-shirts are not for you, there is more. How about a plush Bugs Bunny or Tweety Bird to take home? Or a keychain with your favorite roller coaster on it? And if you want to go all out, you can get a personalized caricature of yourself riding a roller coaster. It is a selfie with more work in it.

But the best souvenir from any theme park is what you remember. So ride that coaster one more time, scream your head off, and take in the sights and sounds. And if you want to hold on to all of it, take a few pictures, or a lot of them. Just grab a souvenir on your way out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the deal with Gurnee, IL? Is it just Six Flags and outlet shopping or is there more to it?

You are not wrong. Six Flags and Gurnee Mills are the big attractions in town. But Gurnee runs more than roller coasters and discounted designer clothes. You can take a stroll through the scenic Warren Township Park or hit the Gold Pyramid House for a taste of Egypt in the Midwest. And the food scene holds up, with local favorites such as Timothy O’Toole’s Pub and Giordano’s Pizza.

Are there any free things to do in Gurnee besides walking around the mall?

Yes. You can check out the Gurnee Farmer’s Market on Wednesdays for fresh produce and live music. The Warren-Newport Public Library runs events and activities for all ages, and the Gurnee Park District runs free concerts and movies in the park during the summer. And the Warren Township Park works for a picnic or a game of catch.

What are the best kid-friendly activities in Gurnee that won’t make me want to pull my hair out?

Understood. Six Flags is a big day, but sometimes you want out of the crowds and the noise. Check out Jump America for indoor trampoline time or the KeyLime Cove Indoor Waterpark Resort for a day of splashing around. The Gurnee Park District runs plenty of playgrounds and sports fields, and the Wildlife Discovery Center works for animal-loving kids.

Looking for a romantic evening in Gurnee – any suggestions besides staring into each other’s eyes at a crowded theme park?

Take a sunset stroll through the Independence Grove Forest Preserve or catch a movie at the Gurnee Marcus Cinema. For dinner, try the upscale cooking at Wildfire or the Italian fare at Osteria di Tramonto. And if you are feeling adventurous, sign up for a hot air balloon ride with Soaring Adventures of America for the area from above.

Is it just me or does Gurnee seem to come alive at night? What are some must-do activities after dark?

You are not imagining it. Gurnee runs a lively nightlife scene. Check out Timothy O’Toole’s Pub for pub grub and live music, or hit the Brunswick Zone for late-night bowling. For a slower evening, head to the Vine Martini & Wine Bar for the drinks and the room.

What’s the best way to spend a day in Gurnee? I want to make the most of my time there.

Start your day with breakfast at Egg Harbor Cafe or Honey Butter Pancakes, then head to Six Flags for the thrills and spills. Take a break for lunch at the family-friendly Rainforest Cafe or grab a slice at Gurnee’s Pizza. Afterward, check out the shops at Gurnee Mills or hit the nearby Volo Auto Museum. End your day with dinner at one of Gurnee’s many strong restaurants and catch a movie at the Marcus Cinema.

Frequently asked questions about Gurnee, Illinois

Which one of the Gurnee water parks works when the weather is bad outside?

Great Wolf Lodge, because the whole of it sits indoors and it is open all year round. It runs the slides, a lazy river, a hot tub and a game room all inside there as well. Hurricane Harbor is the outdoor one, sitting right next door to the Six Flags Great America park itself. Summer.

Where is the park in Gurnee for a long quiet walk in the trees?

Van Patten Woods, a forest preserve with miles of hiking and biking trails running through the whole of it. Cross-country skiing. Betty Russell Community Park is the other one, with the playgrounds and the courts and the fields all on it. Des Plaines River Trail runs nearby as well and costs you nothing at all to go and walk on it.

How far is Gurnee from the Harley-Davidson Museum up in Milwaukee, then?

Milwaukee sits one way and Chicago sits the other, with Gurnee in between them. Both are an easy enough drive away from here for a single day out and back. The Art Institute of Chicago and Millennium Park are both down there in Chicago itself. Night.

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