Villa Park IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Villa Park, Illinois.
1. Safari Land
INDOOR FAMILY FUN CENTER
Safari Land is a 62,000 square foot family entertainment center in Villa Park offering eight indoor attractions, 12 lanes of bowling, and over 80 arcade games. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides like the Tiger Terror Roller Coaster and MaxFlight Simulator, or gentler options like the Merry Go Round and Lion's Den soft play area for younger children. The center also features the Atlantis Restaurant with a variety of food options and a full bar for adults, making it an all-weather destination for family fun.
2. Orchids by Hausermann
EXOTIC ORCHID GREENHOUSE
Orchids by Hausermann is a renowned orchid greenhouse in Villa Park showcasing an impressive variety of exotic orchid species. Visitors can explore the extensive collection of blooming orchids, learn about orchid cultivation, and purchase plants to take home. The greenhouse offers a tropical escape regardless of season and is considered one of the premier orchid specialists in the Midwest.
3. Villa Park Historical Society & Visitors Center
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Villa Park Historical Society & Visitors Center preserves and celebrates the rich heritage of this DuPage County community. Housed in a historic building, the center features exhibits showcasing Villa Park's development from its early days to the present. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the town's evolution while gaining valuable information about local attractions.
4. Windy City Curling
OLYMPIC SPORT EXPERIENCE
Windy City Curling offers visitors the unique opportunity to try the Olympic sport of curling in Villa Park. The facility provides lessons for beginners and practice sessions for those looking to improve their skills on the ice. Guests can experience the thrill of sliding stones toward the target while learning the strategy and teamwork that makes curling a beloved winter sport.
5. Salt Creek Pottery
CERAMIC ARTS STUDIO
Salt Creek Pottery is a creative ceramics studio in Villa Park where visitors can explore their artistic talents. The studio offers classes, workshops, and open studio time for people of all skill levels to create pottery pieces. Visitors can learn techniques from experienced instructors and take home their handcrafted ceramic creations as unique souvenirs of their time in Villa Park.
6. Villa Park Skate Park
URBAN RECREATION SPACE
Villa Park Skate Park provides a dedicated space for skateboarding enthusiasts to practice tricks and enjoy this urban sport. The park features various ramps, rails, and obstacles designed for different skill levels from beginners to advanced skaters. Visitors can watch talented local skaters showcase their skills or bring their own boards to join in the action at this popular recreation spot.
7. Salt Creek Woods
NATURAL FOREST PRESERVE
Salt Creek Woods is a serene natural area in Villa Park offering visitors a chance to experience the region's native ecosystem. The preserve features walking trails through woodland areas where visitors can observe local wildlife and native plant species. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the tranquil environment that provides a peaceful escape from urban life while still being conveniently located within the community.
8. Salt Creek Greenway Trail
MULTI-USE RECREATIONAL PATH
The Salt Creek Greenway Trail is a 25-mile-long multi-user path that passes through Villa Park, connecting Busse Forest in Elk Grove Village to the Brookfield Zoo. This paved trail follows Salt Creek, offering scenic views of the waterway and surrounding natural areas for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. The trail serves as both a recreational amenity and a transportation corridor, linking several communities and parks throughout DuPage County.
9. Crazy Pour
POPULAR LOCAL PUB
Crazy Pour is a beloved local establishment in Villa Park known for its extensive beer selection and lively atmosphere. The pub offers a wide variety of craft beers on tap along with a menu of pub fare favorites to satisfy hungry patrons. Visitors can enjoy sports on multiple screens, occasional live music, and friendly service that keeps locals and tourists coming back.
10. Wrigley Field
ICONIC BASEBALL STADIUM
Wrigley Field is a historic baseball stadium located in Chicago, just a short drive from Villa Park, and home to the Chicago Cubs since 1916. The iconic ballpark is famous for its ivy-covered brick outfield walls, hand-turned scoreboard, and intimate atmosphere that connects fans to baseball's golden era. Visitors can take guided tours of the stadium or experience the electric energy of a Cubs game during baseball season.
11. Six Flags Great America
THRILLING AMUSEMENT PARK
Six Flags Great America is a massive amusement park in Gurnee, accessible as a day trip from Villa Park, featuring world-class roller coasters and family attractions. The park offers over 100 rides, shows, and attractions including record-breaking coasters like Maxx Force and Goliath that provide heart-pounding thrills for adventure seekers. Visitors can also enjoy Hurricane Harbor water park during summer months, making it an ideal destination for families looking for all-day entertainment.
12. Michigan Avenue
MAGNIFICENT MILE SHOPPING
Michigan Avenue's Magnificent Mile is Chicago's premier commercial district, easily accessible from Villa Park, featuring upscale shopping, dining, and attractions. The iconic stretch boasts over 460 retail stores, from luxury flagships to popular brands, alongside historic landmarks like the Water Tower and Tribune Tower. Visitors can indulge in world-class restaurants, explore remarkable architecture, and experience the vibrant energy that makes this one of America's most famous shopping destinations.
13. Navy Pier
LAKEFRONT ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier on Chicago's Lake Michigan shoreline, offering Villa Park visitors a variety of entertainment options just a short drive away. The landmark features the iconic Centennial Wheel with spectacular views of the city skyline and lake, alongside attractions like Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Chicago Children's Museum, and various restaurants. Visitors can enjoy seasonal events, boat tours, fireworks displays on summer evenings, and the beautiful waterfront promenade that makes this one of Chicago's most visited destinations.
14. Soldier Field
HISTORIC SPORTS STADIUM
Soldier Field is a historic stadium in Chicago that serves as home to the NFL's Chicago Bears and stands as an architectural marvel combining classical columns with modern design elements. The venue hosts major sporting events, concerts, and cultural gatherings throughout the year, making it a versatile entertainment destination for Villa Park visitors. Tours of the facility offer insights into its rich history dating back to 1924, including its designation as a National Historic Landmark and its 2003 renovation that modernized the facilities while preserving its historic façade.
15. McCormick Place
MASSIVE CONVENTION CENTER
McCormick Place is North America's largest convention center, located in Chicago and easily accessible from Villa Park, hosting major trade shows, expositions, and special events throughout the year. The massive complex spans 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space across four interconnected buildings situated along Lake Michigan. Visitors can attend diverse events ranging from auto shows and comic conventions to industry conferences and cultural exhibitions, making it a hub of business and entertainment activity in the region.