River Grove IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near River Grove, Illinois.
1. Triton College Botanical Gardens
EDUCATIONAL PLANT SANCTUARY
The Triton College Botanical Gardens offers visitors a serene space to explore diverse plant species and landscaping designs on the college campus. Visitors can stroll through carefully maintained gardens featuring native Illinois plants and seasonal blooms throughout the year. The gardens serve as both an educational resource for horticulture students and a peaceful retreat for community members seeking natural beauty.
2. Triton College Cernan Earth and Space Center
ASTRONOMY AND SCIENCE EDUCATION
The Cernan Earth and Space Center at Triton College provides an immersive experience into astronomy and space science through its planetarium shows and exhibits. Named after astronaut Eugene Cernan, the last man to walk on the moon, this educational facility offers regular sky shows, laser light presentations, and interactive displays about our universe. Visitors of all ages can expand their knowledge of space exploration while enjoying the state-of-the-art digital projection system that brings the cosmos to life.
3. Des Plaines River Trail
SCENIC RIVERSIDE PATHWAY
The Des Plaines River Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts a picturesque path that follows alongside the gentle flow of the Des Plaines River. The trail provides opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife viewing through wooded areas and open spaces that showcase the natural beauty of the region. Visitors can enjoy seasonal changes along this well-maintained trail system that connects multiple communities in the area.
4. River Grove Historical Commission
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION
The River Grove Historical Commission preserves and celebrates the rich heritage of this Illinois community through exhibits and educational programs. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of River Grove's development from its earliest days to the present. The commission works to maintain historical records and promote awareness of local history among residents and visitors alike.
5. Bowlero
MODERN BOWLING ENTERTAINMENT
Bowlero offers a contemporary bowling experience with upscale amenities and a lively atmosphere for visitors of all skill levels. Beyond bowling, guests can enjoy arcade games, billiards, and a full-service bar and restaurant serving creative food and drink options. The venue frequently hosts special events and offers deals that make it a popular entertainment destination for families, friends, and date nights in River Grove.
6. Salt Creek Greenway Trail
EXTENDED MULTI-USE PATH
The Salt Creek Greenway Trail is a 25-mile-long multi-user path that follows the creek from Busse Forest in Elk Grove Village to the Brookfield Zoo. The trail connects numerous communities and green spaces, offering cyclists and pedestrians an extended route through diverse landscapes and natural areas. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained surfaces and abundant room that makes this trail suitable for recreational users of varying abilities.
7. Salt Creek
TRANQUIL WATERWAY REST STOP
Salt Creek provides a peaceful natural setting alongside the popular Greenway Trail where visitors can take a break from cycling or hiking. The creek offers a tranquil spot to rest, refill water bottles, and observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. Visitors should note water levels can vary seasonally, adding to the dynamic experience of this natural waterway.
8. Chicago River North Branch Bur Oak Grove
HISTORIC OAK TREE SANCTUARY
The North Branch of the Chicago River features a special grove of majestic bur oak trees that create a distinctive natural landmark. During springtime, visitors can enjoy the added beauty of wild hyacinth blooming among the ancient oaks, creating a colorful display of native flora. This serene location offers nature enthusiasts a glimpse of the region's original landscape and ecological heritage.
9. Oak Park Country Club
PREMIER GOLFING EXPERIENCE
The Oak Park Country Club features a significant portion of its beautifully landscaped grounds in River Grove, offering members and guests a premier golfing experience. The club boasts meticulously maintained fairways, challenging holes, and elegant facilities that have attracted golf enthusiasts for generations. Beyond golf, the country club serves as an important social and recreational hub for the community with its additional amenities and dining options.
10. Brookfield Zoo
WORLD-CLASS WILDLIFE PARK
Brookfield Zoo houses over 2,000 animals across 216 acres of naturalistic habitats just a short drive from River Grove. Visitors can experience immersive exhibits including the popular Tropic World, Great Bear Wilderness, and the Hamill Family Play Zoo designed especially for children. The zoo's conservation efforts and educational programs make it both an entertaining and enlightening destination for animal lovers of all ages.
11. Busse Forest
VAST NATURAL PRESERVE
Busse Forest offers outdoor enthusiasts access to one of the largest preserves in Cook County with extensive trails winding through diverse woodland ecosystems. Visitors can enjoy activities ranging from hiking and bird watching to fishing in Busse Lake, which sits at the heart of this natural sanctuary. The forest preserves the region's native flora and fauna while providing recreational opportunities throughout all four seasons.
12. Rosemont Theatre
PREMIER ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Rosemont Theatre presents world-class entertainment in an elegant 4,400-seat venue just minutes from River Grove. The theater hosts an impressive variety of performances including Broadway shows, concerts by major artists, family productions, and comedy acts throughout the year. With its excellent acoustics and comfortable seating, this premier venue offers visitors a high-quality entertainment experience in the Chicago suburbs.
13. Schiller Woods
HISTORIC FOREST PRESERVE
Schiller Woods spreads across 454 acres of natural landscape featuring picnic groves, trails, and open spaces perfect for outdoor recreation near River Grove. The forest preserve offers visitors opportunities to hike, bike, fish, cross-country ski, and observe local wildlife in a setting that has been protected for public enjoyment since 1916. With amenities including picnic shelters, restrooms, and ample parking, Schiller Woods serves as an accessible natural retreat for residents and visitors alike.
14. Donald E. Stephens Convention Center
MASSIVE EVENT SPACE
The Donald E. Stephens Convention Center boasts over 840,000 square feet of exhibit space hosting major trade shows, conventions, and special events throughout the year. Visitors from across the country attend diverse gatherings ranging from comic conventions to industry expos in this state-of-the-art facility. The convention center's proximity to O'Hare International Airport and various hotels makes it a convenient destination for both exhibitors and attendees.
15. Fashion Outlets of Chicago
UPSCALE DISCOUNT SHOPPING
The Fashion Outlets of Chicago offers a premium shopping experience with over 130 designer and brand-name stores offering discounted merchandise. Shoppers can browse luxury labels and popular brands in a climate-controlled, two-level mall that elevates the outlet shopping experience with its upscale ambiance and amenities. The center also features artwork installations throughout the common areas and a variety of dining options to complete the visitor experience.