Ford Heights IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ford Heights, Illinois.
1. History with Action
INTERACTIVE HISTORICAL EXPERIENCE
History with Action offers visitors an engaging and interactive way to experience the historical heritage of the Ford Heights area. Visitors can immerse themselves in various historical reenactments and hands-on activities that bring the past to life. This attraction has earned a solid 4.4 rating from previous visitors who appreciate its educational value and entertainment factor.
2. Ryan Round Barn
HISTORIC AGRICULTURAL ARCHITECTURE
Ryan Round Barn stands as a remarkable example of historic agricultural architecture in the Ford Heights region. The unique circular design of this barn showcases the ingenuity of early American farmers and has been preserved as a testament to the area's agricultural heritage. With a 4.6 rating from visitors, the Round Barn offers a fascinating glimpse into rural Illinois history.
3. Windmill Brewing Taproom
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Windmill Brewing Taproom welcomes visitors to sample a variety of locally crafted beers in a welcoming atmosphere. The taproom features an impressive selection of handcrafted brews that showcase the brewing talents of the Ford Heights region. With an outstanding 4.8 rating, beer enthusiasts particularly enjoy the quality of beverages and the friendly environment.
4. Vintage Vault
NOSTALGIC COLLECTIBLES SHOP
Vintage Vault invites collectors and nostalgia enthusiasts to explore its treasure trove of historical items and memorabilia. The shop specializes in carefully curated vintage collectibles that span several decades of American culture and history. Boasting a 4.6 rating, visitors appreciate the quality of items and the knowledgeable staff who share fascinating stories behind the collectibles.
5. Marcus Chicago Heights Cinema
MODERN MOVIE EXPERIENCE
Marcus Chicago Heights Cinema offers moviegoers a contemporary cinematic experience with the latest film releases. The theater features comfortable seating, state-of-the-art sound systems, and high-definition screens for optimal viewing pleasure. With a 3.9 rating, this cinema provides entertainment options for residents and visitors to the greater Ford Heights area.
6. Cloud Gate (The Bean)
ICONIC REFLECTIVE SCULPTURE
Cloud Gate, commonly known as 'The Bean,' stands as one of Chicago's most photographed landmarks with its distinctive reflective surface mirroring the city skyline. This massive stainless steel sculpture designed by artist Anish Kapoor creates a mesmerizing effect as visitors walk around and beneath its 12-foot-high arch. Located in Millennium Park within Cook County, this iconic attraction draws millions of visitors annually who come to marvel at its unique distorted reflections and take memorable photographs.
7. Magnificent Mile
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
The Magnificent Mile stretches along Michigan Avenue as Chicago's premier commercial district featuring luxury retailers, distinctive boutiques, and upscale department stores. This famous shopping boulevard also boasts an impressive array of restaurants, hotels, and architectural landmarks including historic skyscrapers. Visitors to Cook County often make this glamorous stretch a must-visit destination for shopping, dining, and experiencing the vibrant energy of downtown Chicago.
8. Buckingham Fountain
SPECTACULAR WATER DISPLAY
Buckingham Fountain enchants visitors with its captivating water displays that feature a central jet reaching heights of 150 feet during hourly shows. This Chicago landmark operates as one of the world's largest fountains and serves as a centerpiece within Grant Park. The fountain's dazzling water choreography, especially during evening light shows, creates a magical atmosphere that has delighted generations of visitors to Cook County.
9. Chicago Riverwalk
SCENIC URBAN WATERFRONT
The Chicago Riverwalk offers a pedestrian-friendly pathway along the south bank of the Chicago River, providing stunning views of architectural landmarks and urban landscapes. Once known as 'the stinking river' until environmental cleanup efforts in the 1990s, this revitalized waterfront now features restaurants, boat tours, and public art installations. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, waterside dining, or river cruises while experiencing the unique perspective of viewing Chicago from its historic waterway.
10. DuSable Bridge
HISTORIC RIVER CROSSING
DuSable Bridge stands as an engineering marvel and historic landmark connecting Michigan Avenue across the Chicago River. This double-deck bascule bridge features distinctive bridge houses decorated with intricate architectural elements reminiscent of Gothic design. The bridge not only serves as a vital transportation link but also represents an important piece of Chicago's infrastructure history within Cook County.
11. Wrigley Square
MONUMENTAL PUBLIC SPACE
Wrigley Square occupies the northwest corner of Millennium Park in Chicago, featuring the impressive Millennium Monument as its centerpiece. The monument recreates an almost full-size replica of the semi-circle of paired columns that once graced the city's landscape, offering both historical significance and architectural beauty. This public square provides a peaceful retreat within the bustling park area where visitors can appreciate classical design elements amid modern surroundings.
12. BP Pedestrian Bridge
UNDULATING ARCHITECTURAL MARVEL
The BP Pedestrian Bridge curves gracefully over Columbus Drive, connecting Millennium Park with Daley Bicentennial Plaza within Chicago's expansive Grant Park complex. This cantilevered bridge, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, features a distinctive serpentine form covered in stainless steel panels that complement the modern aesthetic of Millennium Park. Pedestrians crossing this 935-foot span are treated to excellent views of the Chicago skyline while experiencing a piece of functional architectural art.
13. Weber House & Garden
TUDOR COTTAGE OASIS
Weber House & Garden welcomes visitors to a storybook Tudor cottage nestled within a two-acre English Arts and Crafts Garden featuring meandering paths, roses, hollyhocks, and majestic old oaks. Inside the cottage, guests discover cozy candlelit rooms reflecting 18th-century design, creating an atmosphere of historical charm and warmth. The garden tour begins at a handsome red gate that reveals hundreds of flowers, shrubs, trees, statues, and fountains along crushed stone paths that lead through a series of outdoor 'rooms,' concluding at Luther Hall for refreshments.
14. I&M Canal Boat Tours
MULE-PULLED HISTORICAL JOURNEY
I&M Canal Boat Tours offers visitors a unique historical experience aboard 'The Volunteer,' a mule-pulled 1840's replica canal boat that operates from the Lock 16 Visitor Center. Each trip begins with 'Mule Tending 101' as period-dressed guides introduce passengers to Moe the mule before embarking on a one-mile journey up the canal to the Little Vermillion aqueduct. During the hour-long adventure, passengers hear fascinating tales of canal life while the deck hand, mule tender, and boat captain navigate this living piece of transportation history.
15. August Hill Winery
REGIONAL WINE TASTING
August Hill Winery invites wine enthusiasts to sample distinctive regional wines crafted from locally sourced fruits and grapes in a welcoming tasting environment. Visitors can explore a variety of award-winning wines while learning about the winemaking process and the unique terroir of the Illinois River Valley. The winery serves as a cultural hub where guests can enjoy wine flights, purchase bottles to take home, and experience the growing reputation of Illinois viticulture.