Fun in the Land of Lakes: The Best Places to Visit and Things to Do in Lake County, IL

Lake County is a county, not a town, and that changes how you plan it. The east side is Lake Michigan: Illinois Beach State Park, the Ravinia Festival and the North Shore towns strung along the water. The middle is forest preserve, which is where the trails and the bog are. The west and the Gurnee corner is the commercial end, with Six Flags Great America, the outlet mall and the water park resort. Pick one. Driving between them eats the day.

Planning a trip to Lake County, Illinois and looking for things to do? The county covers a lot of ground, from amusement parks and museums through to nature trails and unique shopping. Traveling with family, friends or alone, there is entertainment enough in this scenic North Shore destination.

Gurnee’s Giggle-Inducing Attractions are the first stop for anyone after a good laugh. Six Flags Great America, KeyLime Cove Indoor Waterpark Resort and Gurnee Mills Shopping Center all sit in one corner, so nobody runs out of things to do. Art and history buffs get Lake County Style instead. The Jack Benny Center for the Arts and the Raupp Museum both cover the area’s cultural heritage.

Nature’s Playground in Lake County runs hiking and biking through to fishing and boating. For a buzzing social scene, the downtown areas of Lake Forest, Libertyville and Highland Park are the ones. The dining is unusually diverse for a suburban county, farm-to-table restaurants through to ethnic eateries. And sports enthusiasts get golfing, skiing and plenty else outdoors.

Key Takeaways

Lake County, Illinois offers a wide range of fun things to do and places to visit for all ages and interests.
From amusement parks and museums to nature trails and unique shopping experiences, there’s something for everyone in Lake County.
Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, you’re sure to find plenty of entertainment in this scenic North Shore destination.

Gurnee’s Giggle-Inducing Attractions

Looking for laughs during a visit to Lake County, Illinois? Gurnee is where they are, and it holds some of the most entertaining and exciting attractions in the area. These are the giggle-inducing ones you will not want to miss:

Six Flags Great America

Six Flags Great America is where the heart-pounding thrills and spills are. This amusement park runs some of the most exciting roller coasters and rides in the country, the Goliath and Batman: The Ride and the Raging Bull among them. Feeling brave? Take a spin on the X-Flight, a wing coaster that flips and twists you through the air. And there are plenty of family-friendly rides and attractions for anyone who needs a break from the adrenaline rush.

Gurnee Mills

If shopping is more your style, head over to Gurnee Mills, the largest outlet mall in Illinois. Over 200 stores to choose from, high-end fashion through to bargain deals. And when the shopping stops, the many restaurants and eateries in the mall handle lunch.

Indoor Water Park

Looking for a way to beat the heat or escape the cold? The indoor water park in Gurnee handles both. Slides, pools and water attractions for all ages, plus the Hurricane Vortex, a slide that swirls and twirls you down a giant funnel. Do not forget your swimsuit and a sense of humor.

Whatever kind of entertainment the trip needs, Gurnee covers it. So pack your bags, grab your sense of humor, and go and enjoy Lake County, Illinois.

Art and History, Lake County Style

History buffs and art enthusiasts are well served in Lake County. Museums through to historic downtowns, and the two sit close together.

Museums and Exhibits

Lake County holds a variety of museums and exhibits covering the area’s history. Maritime history or the Civil War, there is a museum for both.

One of the most popular museums in the area is the Lake County Discovery Museum. The exhibits run from the history of the area’s Native American tribes through to the impact of the automobile on Lake County.

For military history, the National Museum of the American Sailor. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the United States Navy’s enlisted sailors.

Historic Downtown Long Grove

For a charming historic downtown, Long Grove. This village holds shops and restaurants inside historic buildings, and the whole thing is walkable.

One of the most popular attractions in Long Grove is the Long Grove Confectionery Company, where candy makers create treats right in front of you.

National Museum of the American Sailor

The National Museum of the American Sailor is the stop for anyone interested in military history. It is dedicated to preserving the history of the United States Navy’s enlisted sailors.

The most popular exhibit at the museum is “Sailor Made”. It covers the creative ways sailors passed the time at sea, from carving intricate ship models to intricate needlework.

Art or history, Lake County has plenty to offer. Work through these museums and historic downtowns on the next visit.

Nature’s Playground in Lake County

Looking for somewhere to connect with nature? Lake County, Illinois has options. Sandy beaches through to rolling hills and lush forests. These are the best places to get outdoors:

Illinois Beach State Park

For a beach day, head to Illinois Beach State Park in Zion. Over six miles of shoreline gives you space to spread out and enjoy the sun. Take a dip in Lake Michigan, walk the shore, or sit and look at it. And there are hiking trails behind the dunes for anyone feeling adventurous.

Independence Grove Forest Preserve

For something more inland, Independence Grove Forest Preserve. Over 1,100 acres of woods, prairies and wetlands, with hiking, biking and fishing across all of it. There is also a beach, boat rentals and picnic areas for a more leisurely day.

Volo Bog State Natural Area

For something genuinely unique, Volo Bog State Natural Area. This 1,200-acre preserve holds one of the few remaining quaking bogs in Illinois. Walk the boardwalk and look for the rare plants and animals that live here. A sandhill crane or a great blue heron turns up if the timing is right.

A day at the beach or a hike in the woods, Lake County covers both. Get out there and enjoy nature’s playground.

The Buzzing Social Scene, Lake County, Illinois

Looking for a fun night out in Lake County? The buzzing social scene is busier than a suburban county has any right to be. Live music and theater through to events and festivals, something exciting is always on.

Live Music and Theater

Fans of live music and theater are in luck. The Genesee Theatre in Waukegan is a historic venue running concerts and shows throughout the year. Classic rock bands through to Broadway musicals, the Genesee takes all of it.

For an outdoor concert experience, the Ravinia Festival in Highland Park. This iconic venue has been hosting concerts since 1904, and the beautiful outdoor pavilion puts live music under the stars.

Events and Festivals

Lake County runs events and festivals throughout the year. Food and drink festivals, art fairs, carnivals. Something fun is always happening in the area.

One of the most popular events in Lake County is the Lake County Fair. This annual event features carnival rides, live music and food vendors. It is a good way to spend a summer day with your family and friends.

Lake County Fair

The Lake County Fair is the one to catch for a fun-filled day of carnival rides, games and live entertainment. Classic fair food like funnel cakes and corn dogs, plus live music and animal exhibits.

So why wait? Grab your friends and head out to the buzzing social scene in Lake County for a night of fun and excitement.

With children, the county divides into big days and small ones. Six Flags Great America is a full day and then some, and it is expensive before you have bought a single thing once you are inside the gate. Great Wolf Lodge is the same, with a bed attached. The forest preserves, Lambs Farm and the beach are the small ones, they cost very little, and they work at short notice. That matters. The Volo Auto Museum is the answer when the weather turns against you. Plan the trip around the one big thing and fill in around it.

Foodie’s Paradise

For food, Lake County is the place to be. Fine dining through to breweries and farmers markets. These are the best food spots in Lake County:

Restaurants and Breweries

Lake County has an unusual number of amazing restaurants and breweries. For a great meal, The Shanty in Wadsworth is known for its delicious burgers and craft beer selection. For something a little fancier, The Chocolate Sanctuary in Gurnee, where the whole menu runs on chocolate, cocoa-crusted lamb chops and chocolate-covered bacon included.

Beer lovers should go to Half Day Brewing Company in Lincolnshire, which rotates its craft beers and runs a great food menu. For something a little more low-key, Mickey Finn’s Brewery in Libertyville. This brewpub has been around for over 20 years and is known for its beer and its live music.

Farmers Market

For fresh, local produce, the Lake Bluff Farmers Market is the place to be. It runs from June to October with over 20 vendors selling fruits and vegetables through to baked goods and flowers. Stock up for the next meal, or just eat something while wandering around.

The Chocolate Sanctuary

Sweet tooth? The Chocolate Sanctuary. This Gurnee restaurant runs on chocolate, with dishes like cocoa-crusted lamb chops and chocolate-covered bacon. The dessert menu is the real star of the show, chocolate fondue through to s’mores pizza.

A great meal, a cold beer, or fresh produce, Lake County has all three. Just make sure to bring your appetite.

Sporty and Outdoorsy Fun

Ready to get your heart pumping outdoors in Lake County? These are the exciting sporty and outdoorsy activities.

Golfing in Lake County

Fore! Lake County is home to some of the best golf courses in the state. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, you’ll find a course that suits your needs. Check out the ThunderHawk Golf Club in Beach Park, which was rated the #1 public golf course in Illinois by GolfWeek Magazine. Or, head to the Deerpath Golf Course in Lake Forest, which offers a challenging yet enjoyable course for golfers of all levels.

Hiking and Biking

If you’re looking for a more active way to explore the great outdoors, Lake County has plenty of hiking and biking trails to choose from. Check out the Des Plaines River Trail for a scenic hike or bike ride along the river. Or, head to the Green Bay Trail for a leisurely ride through the suburbs. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beautiful scenery!

Boating and Kayaking on Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan is a short drive from most of Lake County and it opens up boating and kayaking. Rent a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard and work the shoreline at your own pace. Or take a boat tour and get the history of the lake and the surrounding area. Do not forget to pack a picnic lunch.

Whatever the interest, Lake County has a version of it. Get outside and use this beautiful area properly.

Retail Therapy and Unique Finds

Need to satisfy a shopping craving? Lake County has options for retail therapy and unique finds. These are a few places you will not want to miss:

Malls and Antique Shops

For a one-stop-shop, head to Gurnee Mills. Over 200 stores, and the outlet prices reward a bargain hunter. For something a bit more unique, the antique shops in the area are worth the detour, and you never know what turns up in them.

Artwauk

For a more artsy shopping experience, Artwauk in Waukegan. On the third Saturday of every month, downtown Waukegan turns into a run of art galleries, studios and shops. Paintings and sculptures through to jewelry and handmade crafts. Live music and food trucks run alongside it.

Car Show

Classic car people should not miss the Volo Auto Museum. Over 300 classic and vintage cars on display, which is enough to lose an afternoon in. And with luck, one of their car shows or cruise nights is running while you are there.

Mall shopping, antique hunting, art browsing or car ogling, Lake County covers all four. Get ready to spend.

Family-Friendly Frolics

Looking for family-friendly fun in Lake County, Illinois? These are the three frolicsome options.

Lambs Farm

Lambs Farm is a non-profit organization providing vocational and residential services for adults with developmental disabilities. It is also a good place to spend a day with the family. The petting zoo holds llamas, goats and sheep. The country store sells handmade items, candles and soaps and jams included.

Petting Zoo

Speaking of petting zoos, Lake County has plenty of them. There is the one at Lambs Farm, and there are others across the area. The Wildlife Discovery Center holds snakes, turtles and birds of prey, and Wagner Farm is a working farm running tours and hands-on activities for kids.

Great Wolf Lodge

For somewhere to stay in Lake County, Great Wolf Lodge is the obvious answer. This family-friendly resort features an indoor water park, a variety of dining options and plenty for kids to do. Spend the day splashing around in the water park, or work through the mini-golf, the bowling and the arcade games.

Whichever option you choose, the family will do well in Lake County, Illinois.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the deal with Lake County, Illinois? Why is everyone talking about it?

You know how people always say “location, location, location”? Lake County has it in spades. It is a hop, skip and a jump from Chicago with a completely different feel to it. Add the natural beauty, the food and the activities and the appeal is obvious.

Are there any secret spots or hidden gems to check out in Lake County?

Oh, you betcha. We could tell you, but then we would have to kill you. Only joking. But seriously, we would rather not have everyone and their mom crowding our favorite spots. If you are willing to do a little exploring, you will find some seriously cool stuff.

What’s the wildest outdoor activity you can do in Lake County?

We are glad you asked. Ever heard of ziplining? It is flying without the pesky airplane tickets. Head over to Boundless Adventures in Bristol and spend an afternoon soaring through the trees like a bird. Wear the helmet.

Absolutely. Lake County is a great place to bring the whole fam. For something outdoorsy, the Lake County Forest Preserves run miles and miles of trails for hiking and biking. For an indoor day, the Volo Auto Museum, which holds everything from classic cars to movie props.

What’s the most Instagram-worthy spot in Lake County?

Tough one. There are so many good-looking spots in Lake County that picking just one is hard. But if we had to pick, the Chicago Botanic Garden. Gardens, a Japanese teahouse, and even a waterfall. Make sure there is plenty of storage on your phone.

What’s the best way to spend a lazy day in Lake County?

Now you are speaking our language. If you are feeling lazy, head over to Independence Grove Forest Preserve. There is a beautiful lake, a beach and plenty of shady spots to nap in. Feeling more active? Rent a paddleboat or a kayak and explore the lake. Or lie there and soak up the sun. We will not judge.

Frequently asked questions about Lake County, Illinois

Is the beach at Illinois Beach State Park actually swimmable in summer?

Yes. The shoreline runs long enough that you can walk clear of the crowds without much effort at all, even on a hot weekend in July. Lake Michigan stays cold well into the summer, which surprises visitors every single year. Wear something on your feet, because the sand hides things.

How far is Volo Bog from the Lake Michigan beaches on the county’s east edge?

It is a real drive, west across the whole county, and there is no fast road running between the two. Volo Bog holds one of the few quaking bogs left in Illinois, and the floating boardwalk is the only way across it. The beaches sit on the east edge of the county, at Zion. Not in one morning.

Which Lake County trail is actually worth the effort of getting to?

The Des Plaines River Trail. It runs the length of the county north to south, flat, crushed limestone in places, and long enough that you pick a section of it rather than attempting the whole thing. Independence Grove is the easy access point, with parking, a beach and boat rentals on site. Start there.

Keep exploring Lake County, Illinois