Kenney IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Kenney, Illinois.
1. Dewitt County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Dewitt County Museum showcases the rich heritage and history of Dewitt County where Kenney is located. Visitors can explore fascinating exhibits that highlight local artifacts, photographs, and stories from the region's past. The museum provides an educational experience that connects travelers to the cultural roots of this Illinois community.
2. Whitney's Cove
LOCAL SOCIAL HOTSPOT
Whitney's Cove is a popular bar and club in Kenney where locals and visitors gather for drinks and socializing. The establishment offers a welcoming atmosphere with friendly service and a variety of beverages to enjoy. Music and entertainment often accompany the experience, making it a great place to unwind after exploring the area.
3. Weldon Springs State Park
NATURAL RECREATION HAVEN
Weldon Springs State Park offers over 550 acres of natural beauty with hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and picnic areas just a short drive from Kenney. The park features a 29-acre spring-fed lake where visitors can fish for bass, bluegill, and catfish throughout the year. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse wildlife, beautiful woodlands, and educational programming available at this tranquil outdoor destination.
4. Gail's Pumpkin Patch
SEASONAL FAMILY FUN
Gail's Pumpkin Patch is a beloved fall destination offering a variety of pumpkins, gourds, and seasonal produce near Kenney. Families can enjoy picking their own pumpkins, navigating corn mazes, and participating in farm activities during the autumn season. The farm also features homemade treats, decorative items, and photo opportunities that create lasting memories.
5. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park
INDOOR AQUATIC ADVENTURE
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park provides year-round aquatic fun with thrilling water slides, wave pools, and interactive water features in the wider region around Kenney. The indoor water park maintains a comfortable 84-degree temperature regardless of the weather outside, making it perfect for family visits any time of year. Guests can enjoy various themed attractions, from gentle lazy rivers to adrenaline-pumping slides that cater to all ages and adventure levels.
6. R.P. Home & Harvest
RUSTIC SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
R.P. Home & Harvest offers a charming retail experience featuring home décor, seasonal items, and locally crafted goods in the region surrounding Kenney. Shoppers can browse through a thoughtfully curated selection of rustic and farmhouse-style merchandise that reflects the area's rural character. The store frequently updates its inventory with seasonal collections, making each visit a unique opportunity to discover something special.
7. Fair Oaks Farms
AGRICULTURAL TOURISM DESTINATION
Fair Oaks Farms is an agricultural tourism destination offering interactive farm experiences and educational exhibits within driving distance of Kenney. Visitors can witness daily farm operations, learn about sustainable farming practices, and interact with various farm animals in a family-friendly environment. The facility also features dining options that showcase farm-fresh ingredients, allowing guests to taste the fruits of agricultural labor.
8. Sundrop Alpacas
UNIQUE ANIMAL EXPERIENCE
Sundrop Alpacas offers visitors a chance to meet and learn about these gentle, curious animals near Kenney. The farm provides educational tours where guests can observe alpacas up close and learn about the process of harvesting and utilizing their luxurious fiber. The farm store features a variety of alpaca products, from soft yarn and clothing to unique crafts made from their sustainable wool.
9. Wildlife Prairie Park
NATIVE SPECIES SANCTUARY
Wildlife Prairie Park spans over 2,000 acres and houses native Illinois wildlife including bison, black bears, and cougars in a natural setting within the broader region around Kenney. Visitors can explore the park by train or hike winding trails that overlook natural habitats featuring more than 100 animal species. The park combines conservation efforts with education, offering an authentic glimpse into Illinois' natural heritage and the wildlife that once freely roamed the prairie state.
10. Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour
THRILLING FOREST ADVENTURE
Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour offers an exhilarating zipline experience through the forest canopy of Shawnee National Forest, accessible as a day trip from Kenney. Adventurers can soar through the treetops on multiple ziplines that traverse bluffs and valleys, providing a unique perspective of the Midwest's premier national forest. The guided tour combines adrenaline-pumping excitement with educational elements about the local ecosystem and geology.
11. Clinton Lake State Recreation Area
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Clinton Lake State Recreation Area encompasses a 4,900-acre lake and 9,300 acres of land offering extensive outdoor recreational opportunities near Kenney. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and water skiing on the expansive reservoir created by Clinton Power Station. The surrounding parkland features camping facilities, hiking trails, picnic areas, and hunting grounds that attract outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.
12. C.H. Moore Homestead
HISTORIC VICTORIAN ESTATE
The C.H. Moore Homestead is a beautifully preserved Victorian mansion built in 1867 that now serves as a museum showcasing period furnishings and local history close to Kenney. Visitors can tour the elegant rooms filled with original and period-appropriate artifacts that illustrate the lifestyle of wealthy 19th-century Illinois residents. The property also includes a barn museum with agricultural exhibits, a blacksmith shop, and lovely gardens that transport guests back in time.
13. Railsplitter State Park
LINCOLN'S NATURAL LEGACY
Railsplitter State Park offers peaceful natural surroundings and recreational facilities named in honor of Abraham Lincoln's early career in the vicinity of Kenney. The park features a serene lake for fishing and non-motorized boating, along with hiking trails that wind through woodlands and open spaces. Picnic areas, playgrounds, and camping facilities make this an ideal destination for families seeking outdoor relaxation in historical surroundings.
14. Lincoln Heritage Museum
PRESIDENTIAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Lincoln Heritage Museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits related to Abraham Lincoln's life and legacy within the region surrounding Kenney. Visitors can experience immersive displays that chronicle Lincoln's journey from his humble beginnings to his presidency and lasting impact on American history. The museum combines traditional displays with interactive technology to create a compelling educational experience suitable for history enthusiasts of all ages.
15. Scovill Zoo
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ANIMAL PARK
Scovill Zoo is a charming animal park home to over 400 animals representing more than 90 species within a reasonable drive from Kenney. Visitors can observe a diverse collection of wildlife from around the world, including endangered species, in naturalistic habitats designed for animal welfare and visitor education. The zoo also offers a miniature train, carousel, and interactive experiences that make it an ideal destination for family outings.