Green Oaks IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Green Oaks, Illinois.
1. Heinz Orchard
FAMILY-FRIENDLY APPLE PICKING
Heinz Orchard offers visitors a charming apple-picking experience in the heart of Green Oaks. Families can enjoy selecting from various apple varieties while strolling through the picturesque orchard grounds. The orchard provides a perfect autumn destination with its fresh air, seasonal treats, and the satisfaction of harvesting your own fruit.
2. North Shore Distillery
CRAFT SPIRITS AND TOURS
North Shore Distillery welcomes spirits enthusiasts to explore their craft distilling operations in Green Oaks. Visitors can tour the facility to learn about the distillation process and sample a variety of handcrafted spirits. The distillery's tasting room offers a sophisticated experience where guests can enjoy premium cocktails made with locally produced spirits.
3. Glenmore Woods Forest Preserve
SERENE WOODLAND RETREAT
Glenmore Woods Forest Preserve provides a tranquil natural escape within Green Oaks. The preserve features scenic hiking trails that wind through mature woodlands and open meadows. Visitors can observe local wildlife, enjoy peaceful picnics, and experience the changing seasons in this protected natural area.
4. Des Plaines River Trail
SCENIC MULTI-USE PATHWAY
The Des Plaines River Trail stretches over 56 miles along the river, offering a scenic natural escape near Green Oaks. This multi-use trail features wide packed gravel paths perfect for cycling, walking, running, and occasional horseback riding. Visitors are treated to gorgeous views of local preserves, watersheds, forests, and marshes as they travel along this extensive outdoor corridor.
5. Half Day Forest Preserve
NATURAL RECREATION AREA
Half Day Forest Preserve offers a beautiful natural setting for outdoor recreation near Green Oaks. The preserve features a network of trails that connect to the larger Des Plaines River Trail system, providing options for hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, wildlife viewing, and seasonal activities throughout the year in this well-maintained natural area.
6. The Lambs Farm
EDUCATIONAL WORKING FARM
The Lambs Farm offers a unique blend of education and entertainment for visitors of all ages near Green Oaks. This working farm provides meaningful work and programming for adults with developmental disabilities while offering a petting zoo, shops, and restaurants for guests. Families can enjoy interacting with farm animals, browsing unique gift shops, and supporting an organization with a meaningful mission.
7. Fould's Gallery
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
Fould's Gallery presents an impressive collection of local and regional artwork near Green Oaks. Art enthusiasts can browse through diverse pieces including paintings, sculptures, photography, and mixed media works. The gallery regularly hosts new exhibitions, artist talks, and special events that celebrate creative expression in the community.
8. American Place Casino
ENTERTAINMENT AND GAMING
American Place Casino provides a vibrant entertainment destination not far from Green Oaks. Visitors can try their luck at various gaming options including slots, table games, and poker. The casino complex features dining establishments, live entertainment, and special events throughout the year.
9. Lake Carina
OUTDOOR RECREATION SPOT
Lake Carina offers a refreshing outdoor experience with its hiking and biking trails surrounding a scenic lake near Green Oaks. Visitors can enjoy fishing, wildlife observation, and photography in this picturesque natural setting. The lake area provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers seeking tranquility away from busy urban environments.
10. National Museum of the American Sailor
NAVAL HISTORY EXHIBITION
The National Museum of the American Sailor showcases the rich history and traditions of the United States Navy not far from Green Oaks. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that highlight the experiences of American sailors throughout history. The museum offers educational programs, special events, and guided tours that provide deeper insights into naval service and heritage.
11. Didier Farms
SEASONAL FARM ACTIVITIES
Didier Farms delights visitors with its Garden Center, homegrown vegetables, and seasonal attractions near Green Oaks. During the popular Pumpkinfest from September through October, guests can enjoy pony rides, an animal zoo, and a five-acre corn maze. The farm provides family-friendly activities throughout the year, including a petting zoo and seasonal produce picking.
12. Richardson Corn Maze
WORLD'S LARGEST MAZE
Richardson Corn Maze boasts the title of World's Largest Corn Maze with four interconnected mazes that challenge and entertain visitors near Green Oaks. Beyond the maze, guests can slide down a giant 50-foot slide, climb a 50-foot tall observation tower, or enjoy free pedal carts and wagon rides on weekends. The attraction offers special nighttime maze experiences where adventurers can solve the puzzles by flashlight or moonlight for an added challenge.
13. Six Flags Great America
THRILLING THEME PARK
Six Flags Great America delivers exhilarating entertainment with thrilling rides and attractions for visitors of all ages near Green Oaks. The park features live shows, nightly fireworks, and themed areas including the Operation SpyGirl Stunt Show and Wiggles World for younger guests. Adjacent Hurricane Harbor water park provides additional summer fun with 26 water slides, a massive wave pool, and Skull Island, the world's largest interactive water playground.
14. Village Band Concerts
SUMMER OUTDOOR MUSIC
The Village Band has delighted audiences for over 30 years with free public concerts in Cook Park's beautiful Rose Garden near Green Oaks. These volunteer-based musical performances have become one of the area's favorite summer traditions, drawing residents and visitors alike. Concert attendees can bring blankets or lawn chairs to enjoy live music in a picturesque outdoor setting during warm summer evenings.
15. Old School Forest Preserve
HISTORICAL NATURE AREA
Old School Forest Preserve offers visitors a blend of natural beauty and historical significance near Green Oaks. The preserve features a forest loop trail that winds through diverse ecosystems, providing opportunities for hiking, nature study, and photography. Visitors can explore remnants of the area's past while enjoying modern recreational amenities in this well-maintained Lake County preserve.