Gurnee IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Gurnee, Illinois.
1. Six Flags Great America
THRILLING THEME PARK ADVENTURE
Six Flags Great America stands as one of the premier amusement parks in the Midwest, offering heart-pounding roller coasters and family-friendly attractions that delight visitors of all ages. Guests can experience world-class rides, spectacular entertainment shows, and seasonal events throughout the operating season. The park's combination of thrill rides and entertainment options makes it a must-visit destination for families and adventure seekers alike.
2. Gurnee Mills
MIDWEST'S SHOPPING DESTINATION
Gurnee Mills features an impressive collection of approximately 220 stores, making it one of the largest shopping centers in the Midwest region. Beyond retail therapy, the mall houses numerous entertainment venues and diverse dining options for a complete day out. Shoppers can find everything from outlet stores to full-price retailers, creating a comprehensive shopping experience that attracts visitors from across the region.
3. Hurricane Harbor Chicago
WET AND WILD WATERPARK
Hurricane Harbor Chicago boasts hundreds of wild and wet water activities suitable for visitors of all ages within its expansive grounds. This water park features thrilling water slides, wave pools, and relaxing lazy rivers that provide refreshing summer fun for the whole family. Adjacent to Six Flags Great America, Hurricane Harbor offers the perfect complement to the theme park experience, allowing guests to cool off during hot summer days in Illinois.
4. Great Wolf Lodge Illinois
INDOOR WATERPARK RESORT EXPERIENCE
Great Wolf Lodge Illinois features an impressive 80,000-square-foot indoor waterpark where families can swim, splash, and play regardless of the weather outside. The resort combines comfortable accommodations with water attractions, creating an all-in-one destination for family vacations throughout the year. Beyond the waterpark, guests can enjoy various dining options, arcade games, and themed activities that create a comprehensive entertainment experience.
5. Only Child Brewing
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Only Child Brewing offers visitors a taste of locally crafted beers in a welcoming taproom environment in Gurnee. Beer enthusiasts can sample a rotating selection of unique brews made on-site by passionate brewers dedicated to their craft. The brewery frequently hosts events, including live music and food pairings, making it a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists seeking authentic local flavors.
6. Launch
INDOOR TRAMPOLINE PARK FUN
Launch Trampoline Park provides an exhilarating indoor experience where visitors can literally bounce off the walls in a safe, supervised environment. The facility features wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, dodge ball courts, and other attractions that get hearts pumping and smiles widening. Perfect for family outings, birthday parties, or rainy day activities, Launch offers physical fun regardless of weather conditions.
7. Extreme Flight Simulation
VIRTUAL AVIATION EXPERIENCE
Extreme Flight Simulation offers visitors the unique opportunity to experience what it's like to pilot an aircraft through realistic simulator technology. Guests can take control of various aircraft types in different scenarios under the guidance of experienced instructors who help maximize the experience. The attraction provides an adrenaline-pumping activity without ever leaving the ground, making it popular with aviation enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
8. Lake County Forest Preserves
NATURAL OUTDOOR ESCAPES
Lake County Forest Preserves offer a peaceful retreat into nature with miles of trails, picturesque landscapes, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can hike, bike, fish, or simply relax among the preserved natural areas that showcase Illinois' native ecosystems. These preserves provide a perfect counterbalance to Gurnee's more commercial attractions, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature during their stay.
9. Chicago Architecture River Cruise
ICONIC SKYLINE TOUR
The Chicago Architecture River Cruise takes visitors on a 90-minute journey through the heart of downtown Chicago, showcasing the city's world-renowned architectural marvels from a unique perspective. Professional guides provide fascinating insights about the history and design of more than 50 significant buildings that line the Chicago River. This highly-rated experience offers spectacular photo opportunities and a deeper understanding of how Chicago's architecture has shaped the city's identity.
10. Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour
CULINARY EXPLORATION ADVENTURE
The Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour combines the best of the city's culinary delights with informative sightseeing for a comprehensive Chicago experience. Participants sample iconic Chicago dishes like deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, and more while learning about the city's food culture and history. The walking component provides exercise between tastings and offers visitors a ground-level perspective of Chicago's vibrant neighborhoods and landmarks.
11. Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour
GANGSTER HISTORY EXPERIENCE
The Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour transports visitors back to the Prohibition era, exploring the notorious legacy of gangsters like Al Capone and the fascinating criminal history that shaped the city. Guests travel in comfort while professional guides share stories of famous crime scenes, speakeasies, and mob hangouts that once dominated Chicago's underworld. The tour provides a captivating look at this darker side of Chicago's past, combining entertainment with historical insights that bring the gangster era to life.
12. Flyover in Chicago
AERIAL SIMULATOR EXPERIENCE
Flyover in Chicago offers an exhilarating virtual flight experience that takes visitors soaring over breathtaking landscapes and iconic landmarks across America. Using state-of-the-art technology, including moving platforms, wind effects, and immersive video, the attraction creates the sensation of actually flying without leaving the ground. This family-friendly experience provides a unique perspective on America's natural and urban wonders, making it a memorable addition to any Chicago itinerary.
13. 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
PANORAMIC CITY VIEWS
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, Lake Michigan, and surrounding states from 1,000 feet above the Magnificent Mile. Visitors can enhance their experience with TILT, a thrill ride that literally tilts guests outward over the city from the 94th floor. The observation deck includes interactive displays about Chicago's history and architecture, creating an educational component to complement the spectacular views.
14. Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise
SCENIC EVENING WATERS
The Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise offers a magical evening experience as visitors glide across the water while watching the sun set behind Chicago's iconic skyline. Passengers can enjoy refreshments while professional guides point out notable landmarks and share interesting facts about the city and its relationship with the Great Lake. The combination of natural beauty, architectural splendor, and golden hour lighting creates perfect photo opportunities and romantic moments on this popular cruise.
15. Original Chicago Architecture Interiors Tour
HIDDEN ARCHITECTURAL GEMS
The Original Chicago Architecture Interiors Tour: Dazzling Interiors takes visitors inside some of the city's most impressive buildings to discover architectural details that aren't visible from the street. Expert guides lead small groups through stunning lobbies, magnificent theaters, and historic buildings while sharing stories about the architects, design philosophies, and historical context. This walking tour reveals the artistic treasures and engineering marvels hidden within Chicago's architectural landmarks, providing a deeper appreciation of the city's built environment.