Riverside IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Riverside, Illinois.
1. HIggins Glass Studio
ARTISTIC GLASS CREATIONS
HIggins Glass Studio is one of the top attractions in Riverside, showcasing beautiful handcrafted glass art and creations. Visitors can observe skilled artisans at work and learn about the intricate process of glass-making in this historic studio. The studio also offers unique glass pieces for purchase, making it a perfect destination for art enthusiasts and souvenir hunters alike.
2. Riverside Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE
The Riverside Historical Museum preserves and celebrates the rich history and cultural heritage of this National Historic Landmark village. Exhibits highlight Frederick Law Olmsted's unique landscape design that earned Riverside its historic designation, as well as architectural contributions from famous architects like Frank Lloyd Wright. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of this distinctive community established as one of America's first planned suburbs.
3. Andrew Toman Forest Preserve
TRANQUIL WOODLAND ESCAPE
Andrew Toman Forest Preserve offers a peaceful natural retreat in the heart of Riverside, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The preserve features scenic walking trails through lush woodlands, providing visitors with opportunities to observe local wildlife and native plant species. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, bird watching, and picnicking in this serene forest setting that exemplifies Riverside's commitment to preserving natural spaces.
4. Commons Park
COMMUNITY GATHERING SPACE
Commons Park serves as a central recreational hub for residents and visitors in Riverside. The park features well-maintained green spaces, walking paths, and areas for relaxation that reflect Frederick Law Olmsted's landscape design principles. Families particularly enjoy the playground facilities and open areas for games and community events throughout the year.
5. F.F. Tomek House
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT MASTERPIECE
The F.F. Tomek House is an architectural gem designed by the renowned Frank Lloyd Wright, showcasing his distinctive Prairie School style. Built in 1906, this historic home features Wright's characteristic horizontal lines, overhanging eaves, and integration with the natural landscape. Architecture enthusiasts travel to Riverside specifically to admire this landmark, which exemplifies the village's rich architectural heritage.
6. Vault Escape Rooms
INTERACTIVE PUZZLE ADVENTURES
Vault Escape Rooms provides an exciting interactive entertainment experience for groups looking for mental challenges in Riverside. Participants work together to solve puzzles, find clues, and complete objectives within a set time limit to escape themed rooms. This attraction offers a fun and engaging activity for families, friends, or team-building events that tests problem-solving skills and teamwork.
7. Psychic Readings with Sarah White
MYSTICAL PERSONAL INSIGHTS
Psychic Readings with Sarah White offers visitors a unique and personalized metaphysical experience in Riverside. Sarah provides intuitive consultations that many find insightful, thought-provoking, and sometimes unexpectedly accurate. This distinctive attraction stands out among Riverside's offerings, appealing to those interested in spiritual guidance or simply curious about the psychic experience.
8. North Riverside Park Mall
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
North Riverside Park Mall is the area's premier shopping destination, featuring numerous retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues. The spacious mall houses major department stores alongside specialty boutiques, providing a comprehensive shopping experience for visitors with diverse tastes and budgets. Its convenient location makes it a popular destination for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a day of shopping and entertainment.
9. Village Commons
SCENIC COMMUNITY CENTERPIECE
Village Commons stands as one of the most beautifully executed green spaces in the western suburbs, featuring a picturesque pond with a fountain as its centerpiece. Visitors can enjoy the well-maintained walking paths that wind through the park, perfect for leisurely strolls and appreciating the carefully landscaped surroundings. The commons also includes peaceful picnic areas and a veterans' memorial gazebo, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection.
10. Riverside Golf Club
HISTORIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
The Riverside Golf Club, founded in 1893, offers a historic golfing experience with its beautifully maintained course and classic clubhouse. Golfers appreciate the challenging layout and scenic views that make each round both enjoyable and memorable. The club combines rich traditions with modern amenities, providing an exceptional experience for golf enthusiasts in a serene setting.
11. Brookfield Zoo
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION PARK
Brookfield Zoo is a world-class wildlife park housing over 2,000 animals across 216 acres of naturalistic habitats just minutes from Riverside. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits including the popular Tropic World, Great Bear Wilderness, and the immersive Hamill Family Play Zoo where children can enjoy hands-on experiences. The zoo's commitment to conservation education makes it both an entertaining and educational destination for families and animal lovers throughout the year.
12. Salt Creek Trail
SCENIC OUTDOOR PATH
The Salt Creek Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts a scenic pathway for hiking, biking, and nature observation near North Riverside. The well-maintained trail winds alongside Salt Creek, providing beautiful views of the waterway and surrounding forest preserves throughout the seasons. Visitors particularly enjoy the abundant wildlife viewing opportunities and the peaceful atmosphere that makes this trail a favorite escape from urban surroundings.
13. Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
ARCHITECTURAL HISTORY LANDMARK
The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in nearby Oak Park served as the architect's residence and workplace from 1889 to 1909, where he developed his distinctive Prairie School style that influenced the homes in Riverside. Visitors can tour the meticulously restored property to see Wright's innovative design elements, including his dramatic vaulted studio space and experimental living quarters. The site offers insightful guided tours that explain Wright's evolving architectural philosophy and how his work in this studio influenced American architecture for generations.
14. Loyola University Medical Center
WORLD-CLASS MEDICAL FACILITY
Loyola University Medical Center is a renowned academic medical facility that serves as both a regional healthcare provider and an educational institution near Riverside. The center features state-of-the-art facilities including the Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center and the Stritch School of Medicine, attracting medical professionals and researchers from around the world. While primarily a healthcare facility, its impressive campus and occasional public health events and educational programs make it a significant point of interest in the area.
15. Scottish Home
HISTORIC RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
The Scottish Home is a historic retirement community with deep roots in the area, providing a glimpse into North Riverside's cultural heritage. Founded by the Illinois Saint Andrew Society, the facility features beautiful grounds and architecture that reflect its Scottish connections. Visitors can appreciate the institution's historical significance to the community during special events or scheduled tours that showcase this longstanding North Riverside landmark.