Elwood IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Elwood, Illinois.
1. Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery
HONORING FALLEN HEROES
Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery is a sprawling military burial ground spanning nearly 1,000 acres in Elwood. Dedicated to honoring veterans, its serene fields, memorials, and ceremonial spaces offer visitors a place for reflection and remembrance. The site provides guided tours and is a significant point of historical and emotional importance for visitors to the area.
2. Tyler Park
VILLAGE FAMILY PLAYGROUND
Tyler Park is a family-friendly community park nestled in the heart of Elwood. The park features expansive green spaces, recreational playgrounds, and picnic areas perfect for gatherings. It regularly hosts local events and provides a welcoming environment for visitors of all ages to relax and unwind.
3. Douglas Street Route 66 Pavement & Workers Roadside Exhibit
HISTORIC ROUTE 66 STOP
The Douglas Street Route 66 Pavement & Workers Roadside Exhibit allows visitors to walk on exposed original Route 66 pavement and view interpretive displays. Statues and signage detail the road-building history and pay tribute to workers who built this iconic American highway. The exhibit provides a genuine connection to America's fabled Mother Road and the village's unique role in its history.
4. Children's Garden Project of Elwood
INTERACTIVE LEARNING GARDEN
The Children's Garden Project of Elwood offers a hands-on space for children and families to discover gardening and nature. With educational beds and programs, it encourages young minds to connect with the environment through planting and observation. This vibrant community initiative creates lasting memories and cultivates a love for nature among the youth.
5. Elwood Community Garden
LOCAL GARDENING PLOTS
Elwood Community Garden gives residents and visitors the opportunity to rent plots and grow their own vegetables and flowers. The garden is a hub for horticultural activity and neighborly interaction, fostering a sense of community pride. Each plot provides hands-on agricultural experience for gardeners of all skill levels.
6. Dog Pet Walk Way
PET-FRIENDLY PARK TRAIL
The Dog Pet Walk Way in Elwood's public park invites pet owners to enjoy a dedicated pathway for walking their dogs. With a special permit system, the trail ensures a safe and monitored experience for dogs and their companions. This amenity offers a unique, local area for exercising pets in a well-maintained environment.
7. Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail
HISTORIC BIKING ADVENTURE
The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail is a renowned multi-use path stretching more than 96 miles, running through Joliet near Elwood. It features scenic views, restored historical sites, and connections to various parks, making it popular for biking and hiking. The trail offers immersive experiences for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
8. Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie
RESTORED TALLGRASS PRAIRIE
Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, located near Elwood in Wilmington, offers thousands of acres of prairieland and historic remnants to explore. Visitors can hike, birdwatch, and learn about prairie restoration efforts through trails and interpretive displays. The site is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking an immersive natural experience.
9. Gemini Giant
RETRO ROUTE 66 LANDMARK
The Gemini Giant is an iconic fiberglass 'Muffler Man' statue that greets travelers along historic Route 66 in Wilmington. With its space-age theme, the statue is a favorite photo backdrop and a piece of classic Americana that delights Route 66 fans. Its quirky presence marks one of the most memorable roadside stops near Elwood.
10. Rialto Square Theatre
HISTORIC ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, just a short drive from Elwood, stands out for its opulent 1925 architecture inspired by the Palace of Versailles. This grand theater hosts concerts, plays, and special events in a luxurious setting. Its splendid foyer and classic ambiance make it a beloved landmark for arts and culture in the region.
11. Pilcher Park Nature Center
NATURE DISCOVERY TRAILS
Pilcher Park Nature Center in Joliet offers an immersive outdoor experience with miles of wooded trails, a greenhouse, and educational wildlife exhibits. The park is ideal for families, school groups, and anyone looking to connect with nature close to Elwood. Seasonal programs and interactive displays enhance the educational value of every visit.
12. Chicagoland Speedway
PREMIER RACING DESTINATION
Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet is a major motorsport venue hosting NASCAR races and large-scale automotive events. Its impressive grandstands and state-of-the-art facilities draw racing fans from across the Midwest. The speedway delivers exhilarating experiences for visitors seeking high-adrenaline entertainment.
13. Old Joliet Prison
HISTORIC PRISON TOURS
Old Joliet Prison is a landmark with imposing Gothic architecture, offering guided tours detailing its storied history and famous inmates. Once a working penitentiary, its atmospheric corridors have also served as filming locations for popular movies and TV series. Visitors are intrigued by its haunting tales and significant cultural impact.
14. Route 66 Raceway
DRAG RACING EXCITEMENT
Route 66 Raceway, adjacent to Chicagoland Speedway, is known for its quarter-mile drag strip and action-packed racing events. The venue hosts NHRA races, car shows, and automotive festivals. Visitors experience the thrill of live motorsports just minutes from Elwood.
15. Wilmington Island Park
SCENIC RIVERSIDE RETREAT
Wilmington Island Park, situated on the scenic Kankakee River, is a favorite local spot for family picnics, fishing, and playground fun. The park's natural beauty, footbridges, and river views make it an ideal escape for outdoor recreation. The peaceful setting and convenient amenities appeal to visitors seeking a laid-back day in nature.