Beach Park IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Beach Park, Illinois.
1. Illinois Beach State Park
LAKESIDE NATURAL WONDER
Illinois Beach State Park is renowned for being the last remaining beach ridge shoreline in Illinois, offering six and a half miles of sandy beaches against Lake Michigan. The park offers diverse ecosystems, featuring sand dunes, marshes, forests, and over 650 plant species, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, picnicking, fishing, and even stay at the Illinois Beach Resort located within the park.
2. Founders Park
NEIGHBORHOOD FAMILY PARK
Founders Park is Beach Park's first public recreational area, situated off Holdridge Avenue behind Howe School. The park is ideal for families, with facilities such as baseball and soccer fields, walking and jogging paths, a modern playground, picnic shelter, concession stand, and restroom amenities. It serves as a community hub for leisure and local events in Beach Park.
3. Lake County Forest Preserves
EXPANSIVE NATURAL ESCAPES
The Lake County Forest Preserves spans over 24,000 acres and offers a wide assortment of recreational and educational opportunities throughout the year. Visitors can hike, bike, birdwatch, or simply enjoy serene nature settings at any of the county's numerous, well-maintained forest preserves. Seasonal programs, award-winning facilities, and special events make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
4. Illinois Beach Resort Fitness Center and Spa
RELAXATION BY THE LAKE
The Illinois Beach Resort Fitness Center and Spa provides a scenic health and wellness retreat along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Guests can enjoy modern fitness facilities, rejuvenating spa treatments, and breathtaking lake views, whether staying at the resort or visiting for the day. It is a popular choice for relaxation after exploring the natural beauty of nearby Illinois Beach State Park.
5. Shiloh Park Golf Course
SCENIC LOCAL GOLFING
Shiloh Park Golf Course is a welcoming public golf course nestled in Zion, offering nine holes of lush fairways and scenic views. The well-kept grounds and friendly atmosphere make it ideal for both beginners and experienced players seeking a casual round. The facility also features a clubhouse and hosts community golf events.
6. ThunderHawk Golf Club
PREMIER GOLF DESTINATION
ThunderHawk Golf Club stands out as an award-winning, championship-level course designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr. The course offers immaculate fairways set amid natural wetlands, prairie, and woodlands, making each round both challenging and picturesque. It's a top pick for serious golfers visiting the Beach Park area.
7. Six Flags Great America
THRILLING AMUSEMENT PARK
Six Flags Great America in Gurnee is a premier theme park boasting a wide selection of roller coasters, family rides, and live entertainment. Highlights include iconic coasters like Raging Bull, Batman The Ride, and Superman Ultimate Flight, along with a Caribbean-themed water park. It's a must-visit for adrenaline seekers and families looking for a day of fun and adventure.
8. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
WATER PARK ADVENTURE
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, attached to Six Flags Great America, is an extravagantly themed outdoor water park with hundreds of rides and attractions for all ages. From massive water slides to a relaxing lazy river, guests can cool off and enjoy aquatic excitement throughout the summer. Admission is included with a Six Flags Great America ticket, making it a popular dual-park experience.
9. 60 to Escape
IMMERSIVE ESCAPE ROOMS
60 to Escape offers visitors a thrilling and challenging series of escape room adventures at the Gurnee Mills mall. Groups work together to solve puzzles and unravel mysteries within a set time limit, making it exciting for families, friends, and team-building events. The creatively themed rooms and engaging staff have made it a top entertainment destination in the area.
10. Extreme Flight Simulation
REALISTIC FLIGHT EXPERIENCE
Extreme Flight Simulation brings the excitement of professional flight training and virtual reality to the general public. Visitors can take the controls of high-fidelity simulators and experience the sensation of flying commercial jets, guided by expert instructors. It's a unique and educational activity for aviation enthusiasts and curious adventurers alike.
11. Genesee Theatre
HISTORIC LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
The Genesee Theatre is a beautifully restored, historic venue in downtown Waukegan, offering a diverse line-up of concerts, Broadway shows, comedy acts, and community events. The opulent interiors and state-of-the-art acoustics create an unforgettable experience for all attendees. It remains a cultural landmark and one of the region's most popular destinations for entertainment.
12. Des Plaines River Trail
PICTURESQUE RIVER PATH
The Des Plaines River Trail near Beach Park is a multi-use path stretching over 56 miles, surrounded by beautiful forest preserves and watersheds. The trail is ideal for walking, jogging, cycling, and wildlife watching, offering peace and scenic beauty away from city life. Its wide gravel paths and proximity to nature make it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
13. Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve
SPRAWLING GREEN REFUGE
Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve is one of Lake County's oldest and most cherished natural spaces, encompassing expansive woodlands, prairies, and the scenic Sterling Lake. Visitors can fish, bike, hike, or picnic within its serene setting and enjoy seasonal wildlife spotting. It's an excellent escape for those seeking tranquility and outdoor recreation.
14. Shiloh House
HISTORIC LANDMARK HOME
Shiloh House is a beautifully preserved historic mansion once home to Zion city founder John Alexander Dowie. The house features original furnishings, period architecture, and fascinating exhibits detailing the city's unique history. Guided tours provide insight into Zion's development and the story of its charismatic founder.
15. Edge of Escape Rooms
INTERACTIVE PUZZLE GAMES
Edge of Escape Rooms in Zion offers a series of immersive and story-driven escape room experiences for groups of all sizes. Each room is elaborately themed and requires teamwork, critical thinking, and creativity to complete. It's a fun and challenging alternative for entertainment seekers or team-building groups.