Hoopeston IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Hoopeston, Illinois.
1. The Lorraine Theatre
HISTORIC ART DECO GEM
The Lorraine Theatre stands as a wonderful treasure in Hoopeston, showcasing true art deco architecture from the 1920s. Visitors can enjoy movies on a huge screen with wonderful sound while relaxing in roomy seats. This historic venue offers a nostalgic cinema experience that transports patrons back to the golden age of movie theaters.
2. Skater's Paradise
FUN FAMILY ROLLER RINK
Skater's Paradise offers a classic roller skating experience for visitors of all ages in Hoopeston. The rink provides a family-friendly environment with music, lights, and special events throughout the year. Guests can rent skates, enjoy concessions, and participate in skating games that create lasting memories.
3. Fast Lanes Of Hoopeston
LOCAL BOWLING ENTERTAINMENT
Fast Lanes Of Hoopeston provides a fun bowling experience for locals and visitors alike. The alley features multiple lanes, automatic scoring, and bowling equipment rentals for casual players and serious bowlers. Beyond bowling, Fast Lanes offers arcade games and a snack bar, making it a complete entertainment destination for families and friends.
4. Hoopeston Health & Fitness
SMALL TOWN FITNESS CENTER
Hoopeston Health & Fitness is a small town gym operated with small town heart, located at 210 S Market St. The facility offers six styles of cardio machines, a variety of strength machines, over 5,400 lbs of free weights, and a large private classroom for group fitness classes led by experienced and certified trainers. Visitors can also enjoy a commercial tanning bed and spacious changing rooms, making it a comprehensive wellness destination in Hoopeston.
5. Bricks & Ivy Sports
SPORTS MEMORABILIA SHOP
Bricks & Ivy Sports serves as Hoopeston's premier destination for sports enthusiasts and collectors. The shop features an extensive collection of sports memorabilia, with a special focus on Chicago teams merchandise and collectibles. Visitors can browse through authentic jerseys, autographed items, and unique sports-themed gifts while connecting with fellow fans.
6. Lisa's Candy Shop
SWEET TREATS DESTINATION
Lisa's Candy Shop delights visitors with a charming selection of confections in downtown Hoopeston. The shop offers handmade chocolates, nostalgic candy varieties, and specialty sweets that appeal to all ages. Patrons can enjoy the friendly service while selecting treats that make for perfect souvenirs or gifts from this small-town gem.
7. McGee Martial Arts
TRADITIONAL MARTIAL ARTS TRAINING
McGee Martial Arts offers traditional martial arts instruction to Hoopeston residents and visitors of all ages. The studio focuses on discipline, respect, and self-defense skills through structured training programs. Students benefit from experienced instructors who emphasize both the physical techniques and philosophical aspects of martial arts.
8. Okinawan School of Karate
AUTHENTIC KARATE INSTRUCTION
The Okinawan School of Karate provides authentic Japanese martial arts training in the heart of Hoopeston. Students learn traditional karate techniques, self-discipline, and respect through a structured curriculum suitable for various age groups and skill levels. The school regularly hosts belt advancement ceremonies and special training events that showcase students' progress and dedication.
9. Sweet Delights
LOCAL ICE CREAM PARLOR
Sweet Delights is a beloved local ice cream shop located at 711 W. Orange St. in Hoopeston. The parlor serves hand-scooped ice cream, milkshakes, sundaes, avalanches, floats, and more to satisfy any sweet tooth. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing treat in this charming small-town establishment that has become a community gathering spot.
10. Field Museum
WORLD-CLASS NATURAL HISTORY
The Field Museum stands as one of Chicago's crown jewels, housing an extraordinary collection of natural history exhibits just a short drive from Hoopeston. Visitors can marvel at SUE, the most complete T. Rex fossil ever discovered, along with extensive anthropological artifacts from civilizations around the world. The museum's immersive exhibits bring science and history to life through engaging displays that educate and inspire guests of all ages.
11. The Art Institute of Chicago
ICONIC ART COLLECTION
The Art Institute of Chicago houses one of the world's most notable collections of fine art, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring beyond Hoopeston. The museum's extensive galleries feature iconic works like Grant Wood's "American Gothic," Georges Seurat's "A Sunday on La Grande Jatte," and an impressive collection of Impressionist masterpieces. Visitors can spend hours wandering through the beautifully curated exhibits spanning centuries of artistic achievement from around the globe.
12. Shedd Aquarium
UNDERWATER WONDER WORLD
The Shedd Aquarium offers an immersive aquatic experience showcasing marine life from around the world, located within driving distance from Hoopeston. Visitors can observe fascinating creatures from Caribbean coral reefs to the Arctic waters, including dolphins, beluga whales, sea otters, and colorful fish. The aquarium's conservation efforts and educational programs highlight the importance of protecting our planet's precious water ecosystems while entertaining guests with dynamic exhibits and presentations.
13. Museum Of Contemporary Art Chicago
MODERN ARTISTIC EXPRESSION
The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago showcases cutting-edge artistic expressions that challenge and inspire visitors venturing from Hoopeston. The museum features rotating exhibitions that highlight emerging artists alongside established names in the contemporary art world. Special exhibitions like "mymothersside" explore the impact of indigenous culture in modern society, offering thought-provoking perspectives on current cultural movements and artistic innovations.
14. Hoopeston Square
DOWNTOWN COMMUNITY HUB
Hoopeston Square serves as the vibrant heart of the downtown area, offering a central gathering place for community events and casual visits. The square features charming landscaping, benches for relaxation, and often hosts seasonal festivities that bring locals and visitors together. Surrounded by unique shops and dining options, the square exemplifies the welcoming small-town atmosphere that makes Hoopeston special.
15. Downtown Hoopeston
HISTORIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
Downtown Hoopeston invites visitors to explore its unique shopping and dining establishments housed in historic buildings with character. The district features locally-owned businesses offering everything from handcrafted items to specialty foods in a walkable, charming setting. Revitalization efforts continue to enhance this area, making it an evolving destination that honors Hoopeston's heritage while embracing new opportunities for growth and community engagement.