Darien IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Darien, Illinois.
1. Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve
NATURAL WOODLAND RETREAT
Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve offers visitors a peaceful natural escape in suburban Chicago with extensive hiking trails and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and wildlife observation throughout the seasons. The preserve features unique geological formations and diverse ecosystems that make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
2. National Shrine and Museum of St. Therese
RELIGIOUS HERITAGE SITE
The National Shrine and Museum of St. Therese stands as the largest museum dedicated to Saint Therese outside of France. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing the life and spiritual journey of the beloved saint known as 'The Little Flower.' The shrine provides a peaceful setting for contemplation and prayer while offering historical insights into Catholic heritage.
3. Miskatonic Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER EXPERIENCE
Miskatonic Brewing Company offers craft beer enthusiasts a taste of locally brewed specialties in a welcoming taproom atmosphere. Visitors can sample a rotating selection of innovative beers crafted with attention to quality and flavor profiles. The brewery provides a social gathering spot for both locals and visitors looking to experience Darien's craft beverage scene.
4. Indian Prairie Public Library
COMMUNITY KNOWLEDGE CENTER
Indian Prairie Public Library serves as a vital community resource offering extensive collections of books, media, and digital resources. Visitors can participate in various programs, workshops, and cultural events designed for all age groups throughout the year. The library provides a welcoming space for learning, research, and community connection in Darien.
5. Cass Avenue Commercial District
HISTORIC SHOPPING AREA
Cass Avenue represents one of Darien's original commercial arteries dating back to the village's earliest days in the 1830s. Visitors can explore a variety of shops, restaurants, and businesses that reflect both historical charm and modern amenities. The district serves as a reminder of Darien's evolution from rural crossroads to vibrant suburban community.
6. Argonne National Laboratory
SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH FACILITY
Argonne National Laboratory stands as one of America's premier scientific research facilities, located near Darien in neighboring Lemont. Visitors can learn about groundbreaking research in energy, physics, and environmental science through scheduled tours and educational programs. The laboratory's advanced facilities and contributions to scientific discovery make it an impressive destination for those interested in science and technology.
7. Southern DuPage County Regional Trail
EXPANSIVE RECREATIONAL PATHWAY
The Southern DuPage County Regional Trail network spans nearly 50 miles connecting Darien with eleven surrounding communities. Travelers can use the well-maintained paths for walking, running, or cycling through residential areas, commercial districts, and natural preserves without using a car. The trail system, completed in the 2000s, provides an environmentally friendly transportation option while showcasing the diverse landscapes of southern DuPage County.
8. The Adventure Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION COMPLEX
The Adventure Park offers visitors numerous outdoor recreational activities including mountain biking trails and a BMX pump track. Water enthusiasts can rent canoes or kayaks to explore the park's flooded quarries for a unique paddling experience. The facility combines natural landscapes with adventure activities to create a comprehensive outdoor destination near Darien.
9. Morton Arboretum
BOTANICAL TREE COLLECTION
Morton Arboretum encompasses 1,700 acres of magnificent trees and natural landscapes just a short drive from Darien. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails, themed gardens, and special exhibits that change with the seasons. The arboretum's mission of planting and conserving trees creates a living museum that combines education, recreation, and natural beauty.
10. Brookfield Zoo
WORLD-CLASS ANIMAL PARK
Brookfield Zoo houses over 2,000 animals from around the world in naturalistic habitats spread across 216 acres near Darien. Visitors can observe everything from big cats to dolphins while learning about conservation efforts and animal care through interactive exhibits and presentations. The zoo's commitment to education and preservation makes it both an entertaining and enlightening destination for families.
11. Burr Ridge Village Center
UPSCALE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Burr Ridge Village Center presents a sophisticated open-air shopping and dining destination minutes from Darien. Visitors can browse upscale boutiques, enjoy fine dining restaurants, and participate in seasonal events in an elegantly designed setting. The center combines luxury retail with community gathering spaces to create a premier lifestyle destination in Chicago's western suburbs.
12. Willowbrook Wildlife Center
NATIVE ANIMAL REHABILITATION
Willowbrook Wildlife Center serves as both a rehabilitation facility for injured native wildlife and an educational center for the public. Visitors can observe recovering animals and permanent residents who cannot be released while learning about local ecosystems and conservation. The center's nature trails and interactive exhibits provide engaging experiences that connect people with the region's natural heritage.
13. Downers Grove Museum Campus
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Downers Grove Museum Campus preserves and interprets the rich history of the area through historic buildings and engaging exhibits. Visitors can step inside the 1846 Blodgett House, explore a Victorian mansion, and discover artifacts that tell the story of the region's development. The museum offers educational programs and seasonal events that bring local history to life for all ages.
14. Blackwell Forest Preserve
DIVERSE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Blackwell Forest Preserve offers over 1,300 acres of recreational opportunities including fishing, boating, and hiking within easy reach of Darien. Winter visitors can enjoy tubing down Mount Hoy while summer guests can cool off at the swimming beach on Silver Lake. The preserve's varied terrain encompasses prairies, woodlands, and wetlands that support diverse wildlife and provide scenic views throughout the year.
15. Westmont Yard Sports Complex
INDOOR ATHLETIC FACILITY
Westmont Yard Sports Complex provides a comprehensive indoor athletic facility featuring multiple sports courts and fields for year-round recreation. Visitors can participate in organized leagues or drop-in activities including soccer, basketball, and volleyball regardless of weather conditions. The complex offers programs for all ages from toddlers to adults, making it a popular destination for active families in the Darien area.