Western Springs IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Western Springs, Illinois.
1. Theatre of Western Springs
HISTORIC COMMUNITY THEATER
The Theatre of Western Springs is a 93-year-old cultural landmark founded in 1929 by resident Mary Cattell. This beloved community theater features a 400-seat main stage and a 100-seat black-box theater space named after its founder. The theater maintains a unique in-house casting system where company members work both on stage and backstage, creating quality performances for generations of audiences.
2. Bemis Woods Park
ADVENTURE IN NATURE
Bemis Woods Park offers thrilling outdoor adventures including ziplines reaching up to 553 feet through the forest canopy. Visitors can enjoy challenging treetop obstacles up to 43 feet in the air and heart-stopping Tarzan swings in this multi-hour adventure. The park welcomes adventurers ages 10 and up who meet the minimum height requirement of 4 feet 7 inches.
3. Ekdahl House Museum
LOCAL HISTORICAL HERITAGE
The Ekdahl House Museum preserves the rich historical heritage of Western Springs for visitors to explore. This local museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the village's development through the years. Visitors can step back in time and gain insights into the community's past through this carefully maintained historical attraction.
4. Uptown Shop
LOCAL RETAIL EXPERIENCE
The Uptown Shop offers a charming retail experience in the heart of Western Springs. Visitors can browse through a selection of unique items that showcase local craftsmanship and design. The shop contributes to the village's small-town charm while providing quality products for both residents and tourists alike.
5. Forest Hills Park
FAMILY RECREATION AREA
Forest Hills Park provides a welcoming recreation space for families in Western Springs. The park features various amenities for visitors of all ages to enjoy outdoor activities throughout the seasons. Its well-maintained grounds offer a peaceful retreat within the village where community members gather for relaxation and play.
6. Western Springs Park District
COMMUNITY RECREATION HUB
The Western Springs Park District serves as the central hub for recreational activities throughout the village. This organization maintains the network of 12 parks that provide outdoor spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy. Their facilities and programs contribute significantly to the high quality of life that makes Western Springs a desirable destination.
7. Spring Rock Park
PREMIER OUTDOOR DESTINATION
Spring Rock Park spans an impressive 41.7 acres on the west side of Western Springs, making it the village's premier outdoor destination. The park offers endless outdoor fun with various recreational facilities and natural spaces for visitors to explore. Since its establishment, it has remained a beloved gathering place where community members connect with nature and each other throughout the year.
8. Western Springs French Market
FRESH LOCAL MARKETPLACE
The Western Springs French Market buzzes with activity every Sunday from May through October, bringing together local vendors and community members. Visitors can browse fresh local produce and artisanal goods in this vibrant outdoor marketplace. The market has become a cherished tradition that showcases the best of local culture and craftsmanship while fostering community connections.
9. Kirschbaum's Bakery
HISTORIC SWEET TREATS
Kirschbaum's Bakery has been serving delicious treats to the Western Springs community since 1953, making it a beloved local institution. This family-owned establishment offers a variety of freshly baked goods prepared with traditional recipes that have stood the test of time. Visitors can indulge in sweet and savory creations while experiencing a taste of the village's culinary heritage.
10. Western Springs Water Tower Museum
HISTORICAL VILLAGE LANDMARK
The Western Springs Water Tower Museum preserves one of the most distinctive historical landmarks in the village. Visitors can learn about the tower's significance in the development of Western Springs and explore exhibits that illuminate local history. The museum offers a unique perspective on how infrastructure shaped this charming community throughout its growth.
11. Graue Mill & Museum
HISTORIC WORKING MILL
Graue Mill & Museum, located near Western Springs in Oak Brook, is an authentic working grist mill dating back to 1852. This historic site offers visitors the opportunity to witness the milling process just as it was performed in the 19th century while exploring exhibits about local history. The mill's picturesque setting along Salt Creek makes it both an educational and scenic destination for those interested in American industrial heritage.
12. Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park
TREETOP ADVENTURE COURSE
Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park delivers exhilarating outdoor experiences in the Bemis Woods Forest Preserves of Western Springs. Thrill-seekers can navigate challenging aerial loops with treetop bridges and soar on ziplines up to 553 feet long through the forest canopy. The adventure park offers different courses suitable for various ages, making it an exciting destination for families and adventure enthusiasts alike.
13. Cattell Theater
INTIMATE PERFORMANCE SPACE
The Cattell Theater is a 100-seat black-box theater space named after Mary Cattell, founder of the Theater of Western Springs. This intimate venue, added to the main theater complex in 1976, provides an immersive experience for audiences enjoying smaller productions and experimental works. The theater continues the cultural legacy established by its namesake, offering diverse theatrical experiences within the Western Springs community.
14. Western Springs Community Center
VILLAGE GATHERING PLACE
The Western Springs Community Center serves as a central gathering place for residents and visitors in this charming village of 13,000. The center hosts various community events throughout the year that bring neighbors together and showcase local culture. Its facilities provide space for educational programs, social gatherings, and civic activities that strengthen the tight-knit community spirit Western Springs is known for.
15. Veterans Memorial Park
HONORING MILITARY SERVICE
Veterans Memorial Park in Western Springs provides a peaceful space dedicated to honoring those who served in the United States military. The thoughtfully designed memorial offers visitors an opportunity for reflection and appreciation of the sacrifices made by service members. This dignified park stands as a testament to the community's respect for veterans and commitment to preserving their legacy for future generations.