Table of Contents
Lake County Illinois Map
Top Attractions
When visiting Lake County, Illinois, there are plenty of top attractions to explore. The Six Flags Great America amusement park is a must-visit for thrill-seekers, while the Illinois Beach State Park is perfect for nature lovers. The Volo Auto Museum is a unique attraction that showcases classic cars, and the Chicago Botanic Garden is a beautiful place to relax and take in the scenery.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Lake County has plenty of hidden gems to discover. The Long Grove Confectionery Company is a sweet spot for chocolate lovers, and the Foss Park District Nature Trail offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Port Clinton Square in Highland Park is a charming outdoor space that hosts local events and festivals throughout the year.
Food Scene
Lake County has a diverse food scene with something for everyone. For a taste of traditional American cuisine, head to Mickey Finn’s Brewery in Libertyville. For a fine dining experience, check out the Prairie Grass Cafe in Northbrook. The Half Day Brewing Company in Lincolnshire is a great spot for craft beer and pub fare, while the Shakou Sushi restaurant in Libertyville serves up delicious Japanese cuisine.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Lake County. Take advantage of the free admission days at the Chicago Botanic Garden, and explore the many hiking trails and parks throughout the area. The Lake County Discovery Museum in Wauconda offers free admission for children under 18, and the Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville has free concerts and events throughout the summer.
Outdoor Adventures
For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake County is a paradise. The Chain O’Lakes State Park offers boating, swimming, and fishing opportunities, while the Des Plaines River Trail is a great spot for hiking and biking. The Lake County Forest Preserves also offer many outdoor activities, including kayaking, birdwatching, and horseback riding.
Historical Landmarks
Lake County has a rich history, and there are many landmarks to explore. The Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve in Highland Park is a former military base that now offers hiking trails and historical tours. The Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette is a stunning architectural wonder, and the Ravinia Festival in Highland Park is a historic outdoor music venue that has hosted many famous musicians throughout the years.
Family-Friendly Activities
Lake County is a great destination for families with children. The Great Wolf Lodge in Gurnee offers a water park and plenty of family-friendly activities, while the Lambs Farm in Libertyville has a petting zoo and farm tours. The Lake County Fair in Grayslake is a fun summer tradition with rides, games, and live entertainment.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something truly unique, check out some of Lake County’s off-the-beaten-path experiences. The Volo Bog State Natural Area is a rare quaking bog that offers guided tours and nature walks. The Illinois Railway Museum in Union is the largest railway museum in the country, and the Gurnee Antique Market is a treasure trove of vintage finds.
Natural Wonders
Lake County is home to many natural wonders that are worth exploring. The Illinois Beach State Park features sand dunes and a beautiful beach, while the North Shore Channel Trail is a scenic path that follows the Chicago River. The Ryerson Conservation Area in Riverwoods is a tranquil forest preserve that offers hiking trails and birdwatching opportunities.
Vibrant Nightlife
For those looking to let loose after a day of exploring, Lake County has a vibrant nightlife scene. The House of Music and Entertainment in Arlington Heights is a popular music venue that hosts live shows and concerts, while the Club Arcada in St. Charles is a historic speakeasy that offers cocktails and live entertainment. The Genesee Theatre in Waukegan is a beautiful theater that hosts live shows and events throughout the year.
Local Markets
For a taste of local culture, check out some of Lake County’s farmers markets and local markets. The Grayslake Farmers Market is a popular spot for fresh produce and artisanal goods, while the Evanston Farmers Market is a year-round market that features local farmers and food vendors. The Lake Forest Market Square is a charming outdoor shopping center that offers boutique shops and restaurants.
Beaches and Mountains
While Lake County doesn’t have any mountains, it does have plenty of beautiful beaches to enjoy. The Illinois Beach State Park is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, while the Waukegan Municipal Beach is a family-friendly beach with a playground and picnic area. The Lake Bluff Beach is a quiet spot with beautiful views of Lake Michigan.
Cultural Immersion
Lake County has a rich cultural scene with many opportunities for immersion. The Mitchell Museum of the American Indian in Evanston showcases the history and culture of Native American tribes, while the Raue Center for the Arts in Crystal Lake hosts live theater and performing arts shows. The Art Center Highland Park offers classes and workshops for artists of all levels.
Art and Music Scene
Lake County has a thriving art and music scene with many galleries and venues to explore. The David Adler Music and Arts Center in Libertyville hosts concerts and art exhibits, while the College of Lake County in Grayslake features a performing arts center with theater and music performances. The Deer Path Art League in Lake Forest offers art classes and workshops for all ages.
Walking Tours
If you prefer to explore on foot, Lake County has plenty of walking tours to choose from. The Lake Forest Historic Walking Tour takes you through the city’s historic district, while the Highland Park Historic Preservation Commission offers self-guided tours of the city’s historic landmarks. The Waukegan Downtown Walking Tour showcases the city’s architecture and history.
Architectural Marvels
Lake County is home to many beautiful buildings and architectural marvels. The Fabyan Villa Museum in Geneva is a stunning mansion that showcases the history of the Fabyan family, while the Bess Bower Dunn Museum in Libertyville is housed in a beautiful historic building. The Gorton Community Center in Lake Forest is a former school that has been repurposed into a community center and event space.
Historical Sites
For history buffs, Lake County has many historical sites to explore. The Fort Hill Heritage Museum in Mundelein showcases the history of the area through exhibits and artifacts, while the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center in Skokie is a moving tribute to the victims of the Holocaust. The Elawa Farm in Lake Forest is a restored farmstead that offers tours and educational programs.
Biking Routes
Lake County is a great destination for cyclists, with many scenic biking routes to choose from. The North Branch Trail System follows the Chicago River and offers beautiful views of the city, while the Old School Forest Preserve in Libertyville has an eight-mile paved trail for cyclists. The Des Plaines River Trail is a popular spot for mountain biking and offers a challenging ride through the forest.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking to relax and rejuvenate, Lake County has many wellness retreats to choose from. The Lincolnshire Marriott Resort offers spa treatments and wellness classes, while the Deer Path Inn in Lake Forest has a beautiful spa and fitness center. The Sybaris Pool Suites in Northbrook is a romantic retreat that offers private pools and jacuzzis.
Adventure Sports
For adrenaline junkies, Lake County has plenty of adventure sports to try. The Lake County Skydiving Center in Grayslake offers tandem skydiving for beginners, while the Chain O’Lakes State Park has opportunities for water skiing and wakeboarding. The Lake County Forest Preserves also offer zipline and ropes courses for those looking for a challenge.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or just a relaxing getaway, Lake County, Illinois, has plenty to offer. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re sure to find something that appeals to all interests and budgets.