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Bourbonnais, Illinois: Where the Fun Never Ends! Best Places to Visit and Things to Do

The sky costs nothing here, and it is the reason to come. Stargazing on the Olivet Nazarene campus is free to walk up to, and the planetarium shows run cheaper than a cinema ticket. Kankakee River State Park charges nothing to enter and holds thousands of acres of it. The county museum waives its entry fee one Sunday a month. The go-karts, the bowling and the mall are where the money actually goes.

You are in Bourbonnais, Illinois, and you are wondering what to do next. This small town runs plenty of activities to keep you busy. History reader, outdoor type, serious eater or shopaholic, Bourbonnais covers the range.

Start with a walk through history at the Kankakee County Museum. Get into the local history and culture as you work through the exhibits and artifacts. Afterward, head to the nearby Kankakee River State Park for some outdoor adventures. Hike the trails, go fishing, or take a slow canoe ride down the river. And look up at the stars at night, because Bourbonnais holds some of the strongest stargazing in the area.

For the kids, check out Exploration Station, a children’s museum running interactive exhibits and educational programs. If you are feeling sporty, head to Legends Sportsplex for some indoor soccer, volleyball or basketball. And when hunger strikes, work through the food at one of Bourbonnais’ many restaurants. From classic American fare to international cuisine, every palate is covered here.

Key Takeaways

• Bourbonnais, Illinois, has a variety of activities for everyone.
• Explore local history at the Kankakee County Museum and enjoy outdoor adventures at Kankakee River State Park.
• For the kids, check out Exploration Station and for sports enthusiasts, head to Legends Sportsplex. Don’t forget to indulge in some culinary delights at one of the town’s many restaurants.

A Stroll Through History

If you are interested in local history, Bourbonnais runs a lot. Take a walk through history and visit some of the town’s historical landmarks and museums.

Bourbonnais Grove Historical Society

Start by visiting the Bourbonnais Grove Historical Society. Here you will find a deep collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the town’s long history. The society’s collection runs from antique farming equipment to vintage clothing and household items. You will also find displays covering the town’s early settlers and what they contributed to the community.

But the real draw of the Bourbonnais Grove Historical Society is the knowledgeable and friendly staff. They are always happy to answer questions and share something you did not know about the town’s past. So do not be shy, start a conversation and learn something new.

George R. Letourneau Home Museum

Another stop worth making on your walk through history is the George R. Letourneau Home Museum. This home was built in the late 1800s and has been carefully restored to its original condition. The museum is filled with period furnishings and decor, which shows visitors what life was like in Bourbonnais over a century ago.

But the real draw of the George R. Letourneau Home Museum is the history of its namesake. George R. Letourneau was a prominent businessman and community leader who carried real weight in the development of Bourbonnais. His home stands as a record of what he built, and it is worth the walk for anyone interested in local history.

So put on your walking shoes and take a walk through history in Bourbonnais. With stops like the Bourbonnais Grove Historical Society and the George R. Letourneau Home Museum, you are going to learn something new and enjoy the doing of it. And if you are feeling extra adventurous, check out the Adrien M. Richard Heritage Preserve, a natural area that is also thick with local history.

Outdoor Adventures

Looking for an adrenaline rush? Bourbonnais, IL runs plenty of outdoor adventures. Hiking, fishing, canoeing or just sitting with the scenery, the town covers all of it.

Kankakee River State Park

Looking for a place to camp, fish or hike? Try Kankakee River State Park. With over 4,000 acres of open terrain, this park runs a long list of activities across country that will stop you where you stand.

Perry Farm Park

If you want a place to hike, canoe or have a picnic, Perry Farm Park is where to go. With over 170 acres of land, this park runs a deep bench of outdoor activities. Take a stroll along the hiking trails, or rent a canoe and work the Kankakee River.

Riverfront Park

Looking for a place to go boating or kayaking? Riverfront Park is where to be. With boat launches and plenty of space for kayaking, this park suits a day on the water. And if you are feeling adventurous, check out the Indian Caves.

Adrien M. Richard Heritage Preserve

For an outdoor adventure with a different shape, head to Adrien M. Richard Heritage Preserve. This preserve lets you work through a range of ecosystems, from wetlands to prairies. And with plenty of hiking trails, you will find something new around every corner.

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and work through the outdoor adventures that Bourbonnais, IL runs.

For the Kids

Are you looking for some fun activities to keep your kids busy in Bourbonnais? This town runs plenty of options to keep your little ones happy.

Exploration Station

The Exploration Station Children’s Museum is worth going out of your way for when visiting Bourbonnais with kids. This family-friendly museum runs a range of interactive exhibits that get children learning and exploring. One of the exhibits they head for first at the Exploration Station is the Dinosaur Dig. Your kids will love pretending to be paleontologists as they dig for fossils and learn about these prehistoric animals.

Hidden Cove Family Fun Park

Hidden Cove Family Fun Park is where to go for a day of family fun. The park runs a range of attractions, including bumper cars, miniature golf, go-karts and a climbing wall. Your kids will love racing around the go-kart track, and you will enjoy watching them burn off some energy. Plus, the park has a Sesame Street-themed area with interactive exhibits built for younger kids.

Legends Sportsplex

If your kids follow sport, Legends Sportsplex is where to be. This indoor sports complex runs a range of activities for kids of all ages, including basketball, volleyball and soccer. Your kids can also try their hand at rock climbing on the indoor climbing wall.

A day of learning at the Exploration Station, a day of family fun at Hidden Cove Family Fun Park, or a day of sport at Legends Sportsplex, Bourbonnais runs plenty to keep your kids busy.

Stargazing and More

If you want an experience in Bourbonnais, Illinois that puts things in proportion, look up. With its clear skies and minimal light pollution, Bourbonnais is where you go to stargaze and work through the size of the universe.

Strickler Planetarium

One of the strongest places to start your stargazing is at the Strickler Planetarium, on the campus of Olivet Nazarene University. This state-of-the-art facility runs a deep bench of shows and exhibits that will hold visitors of all ages.

Working through the mysteries of the cosmos, learning about the latest in space technology, or simply sitting under a light show, the Strickler Planetarium covers all of it.

Olivet Nazarene University

Along with the Strickler Planetarium, Olivet Nazarene University also holds a number of other observatories and planetariums that run unusual opportunities for star spotting.

One of the spots people head for on campus is the Kresge Auditorium, which regularly hosts stargazing events and other astronomy activities. Seasoned astronomer or complete beginner, these events are a strong way to learn more about the universe and meet people who care about it.

So if you want a fun and educational way to spend an evening in Bourbonnais, check out the stargazing at Olivet Nazarene University and beyond. Who knows what you might turn up.

Sporty Side of Bourbonnais

Looking for some fun and sporty activities in Bourbonnais? This town runs plenty of options for the sports enthusiast in you. Here are the places you should check out:

Brookmont Bowling Center

If you are in the mood for bowling, head to Brookmont Bowling Center. With 36 bowling lanes, you will find one to your liking. They also run blacklight bowling, which suits a night out with friends.

But that is not all. Brookmont Bowling Center also has pool tables, so you can show what you can do while waiting for your turn to bowl. And if you are hungry, they have a snack bar with plenty of options.

Legends Sportsplex

Legends Sportsplex is where to go if you love all kinds of sport. They run basketball and soccer courts, batting cages, and even a paintball field. So team sports or practicing your swing, Legends Sportsplex has you covered.

But there is more. Legends Sportsplex also runs an arcade, so you can take a break from the physical side and play some video games. And if you get hungry, they have a concession stand with plenty of snacks and drinks.

So put on your sports gear and head to Brookmont Bowling Center or Legends Sportsplex for an active day in Bourbonnais.

Stargazing is the late one, so it wants planning around bedtimes. The Kresge Auditorium events and the planetarium shows both run into the evening. That suits older children and defeats small ones. Do the Exploration Station or Hidden Cove in the daytime, while the energy is there. The honest friction is timing: a stargazing night and a full day outdoors do not fit into the same day.

Culinary Delights

When it comes to settling your taste buds in Bourbonnais, you will not be disappointed. From classic American cuisine to international flavors, the town runs it all. Here are the spots to work through:

Brickstone Brewery

If you love beer, do not miss Brickstone Brewery. This local brewery has been pouring craft beer since 2006. With a deep bench of styles to choose from, you will find a brew that suits you. Try their award-winning APA or their smooth and creamy Milk Stout. And if you are feeling adventurous, go for their limited edition seasonal beers.

But Brickstone Brewery is about more than beer. Their food menu is equally serious. Start with their famous Brickstone Nachos, loaded with cheese, jalapenos, tomatoes and your choice of meat. Then move on to their wood-fired pizzas, cooked properly in their brick oven. The Margherita Pizza is the classic choice, but you can also try their BBQ Chicken Pizza or the Spicy Sausage Pizza.

And if you want something heartier, try their sandwiches and burgers. The Brickstone Burger is the one to order, with a juicy patty, bacon, cheddar cheese and their secret sauce. Or go for their Pulled Pork Sandwich, slow-cooked and smothered in BBQ sauce.

So a cold beer or a proper meal, Brickstone Brewery has you covered. Cheers to good food and good times.

Retail Therapy

Feeling a little low? Need something to pick you up? What better way than some retail therapy? Bourbonnais has the place for you, which is the Northfield Square Mall.

Northfield Square Mall

This mall runs everything you could want. With over 60 stores, you are going to find something that catches your eye. Need a new outfit? Check out the latest fashion at H&M, American Eagle or Forever 21. Looking for a new gadget? Head over to Best Buy or AT&T. Need to settle your sweet tooth? Grab some candy at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.

But there is more. Northfield Square Mall also runs a food court with a range of options. Feeling like Chinese? Grab some General Tso’s Chicken at China Max. Want a burger? Head over to Five Guys. Need a caffeine fix? Stop by Starbucks.

And there are the events. Northfield Square Mall hosts a range of events through the year, from fashion shows to craft fairs. Keep an eye on their website for what is coming up.

So what are you waiting for? Get your shopping shoes on and head over to Northfield Square Mall for a day of retail therapy. Your wallet might be a little lighter, but you will feel better for it.

Local Entertainment

Looking for some fun entertainment options in Bourbonnais? Look no further than Meadowview Theatre. This local theatre offers a variety of options for movie-goers and theatre enthusiasts alike.

Meadowview Theatre

Meadowview Theatre is the perfect place to catch the latest blockbuster hits. With 4K digital projection and Datasat 7.1 sound, you’ll feel like you’re right in the middle of the action. And if you’re looking for something a little more immersive, they also offer 3D movies that will have you reaching out to touch the screen.

But Meadowview Theatre isn’t just for movie lovers. They also offer a variety of plays and performances throughout the year. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic drama or a hilarious comedy, you’re sure to find something that will tickle your fancy.

And if you want something with a different shape, check out their digital performances. These shows use cutting-edge technology to bring the stage to life in ways you will not have seen.

So if you’re looking for a fun night out in Bourbonnais, head on over to Meadowview Theatre. With their state-of-the-art technology and variety of entertainment options, you’re sure to have a great time.

Nearby Attractions

When you are done working through Bourbonnais, there are plenty of nearby attractions to keep you busy. Here are a few options that will catch your interest:

Kankakee

Just a stone’s throw from Bourbonnais is the charming town of Kankakee. Here, you will find a range of fun activities, from hiking and biking trails to quaint local shops and restaurants. If you are a history reader, check out the Kankakee County Museum, where you can learn about the region’s long past. And if you want some outdoor adventure, head to the Kankakee River State Park, where you can fish, camp and work through the country around you.

Chicago

If you are up for a bit of a drive, head to the Windy City. Chicago sits a short trip from Bourbonnais, and there is a great deal to see and do there. Check out the city’s architecture, take a stroll along the lakefront, or work through some of the serious museums and galleries. And of course, no trip to Chicago is complete without some of the city’s famous deep-dish pizza. Trust us, it is worth the drive.

A slow day trip or a full-blown adventure, the country near here runs both. So go ahead and work through it, because you never know what you will turn up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it true that the only thing to do in Bourbonnais is watch corn grow?

No, that is just a rumor spread by jealous neighboring towns. Bourbonnais runs plenty of activities to keep you busy, from hiking and fishing at Kankakee River State Park to catching a movie at the AMC Classic Kankakee 10.

Are there any exciting activities in Bradley or do I have to go to Bourbonnais?

Of course there are. You do not have to go far from Bradley to find fun things to do. Check out the Haunted Trails Family Amusement Park for mini-golf, go-karts and laser tag. Or head to the Diamond Point Park for a picnic, a playground and a splash pad.

What are some free things to do in the Bourbonnais area that won’t break the bank?

If you want some free fun in Bourbonnais, you are in luck. Take a stroll through the Olivet Nazarene University campus or work through the Kankakee River State Park. You can also visit the Kankakee County Museum, which lets you in free on the first Sunday of every month.

Is the shopping in Bourbonnais worth the trip?

Bourbonnais runs a range of shopping, from big-box stores to local boutiques. Check out the Northfield Square Mall for all your shopping needs, or head to the downtown area for something you will not see at home. And do not miss the Bourbonnais Farmers Market, where you can find fresh produce and handmade crafts.

Frequently asked questions about Bourbonnais, Illinois

Which park near Bourbonnais should you start the day at?

Kankakee River State Park. Go in the morning, because it runs over 4,000 acres and the hiking, the fishing and the camping all need daylight rather than an hour at the end of the day. Perry Farm Park is the shorter option at over 170 acres, close enough to town to fit around lunch. Riverfront Park is where the boat launches are, so leave that for an afternoon on the water. The one constraint is the driving: these are three separate sites, not one.

Which museum in Bourbonnais works best with children in tow?

The Exploration Station. Go before the afternoon slump, because everything in it is hands-on and the Dinosaur Dig is what they will talk about afterwards. The Bourbonnais Grove Historical Society and the George R. Letourneau Home Museum are the adult stops, so save those for when the children are elsewhere. The Kankakee County Museum sits nearby and waives its fee on the first Sunday of the month. Plan the free Sunday first, then build the rest around it.

Which river near Bourbonnais is worth getting a canoe onto?

The Kankakee. Rent on the Kankakee River at Perry Farm Park rather than driving out, because the launch and the parking are already sitting there. Go early, since the water is calmest before the day’s boat traffic builds. Riverfront Park handles the powered boats and the kayaks instead, which is the other end of the same river. Bring more water than you plan to drink, because there is no shade out on it.

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