Celebrate the Weekend Doing Something Fun, Fabulous & Local
WEST SUBURBAN CHICAGO– When it comes to uncovering the magic of the western suburbs, residents have plenty to choose from this Memorial Day Weekend. From epic outdoor adventures to colorful cultural affairs, west suburban Chicago is a playground of possibilities. Get ready! Let's make memories together.
1. Visit an Open-Air Farmers & Artisan Market
Take advantage of the fresh produce and handmade goods at one of the many open-air farmers markets in the western suburbs. Some popular options include markets happening in Naperville, Downers Grove, Batavia, Aurora, Geneva and more.
2. Explore 1,700 Acres at The Morton Arboretum
Escape the hustle and bustle of the busy downtown areas and visit The Morton Arboretum in Lisle. This beautiful place offers 1,700 acres of gardens, woodlands, and prairies to explore, including a children's garden where the kids can frolic and play all day.
3. See a Red Fox at Cosley Zoo
Head to Cosley Zoo in Wheaton, a small but charming zoo featuring native Illinois wildlife, farm animals, and seasonal events perfect for young children. Moms, dads and grandparents will love it, too! NOTE: Fox pictured not the actual fox at Cosley Zoo.
4. Enjoy a Scenic Bike Ride
The western suburbs offer plenty of scenic bike trails for all levels of riders. Take a leisurely ride along the Fox River Trail or challenge yourself with the hills at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve.
5. Have a Picnic in Nature
Gather your friends and family for a picnic at one of the many parks in the area. Pack some sandwiches, snacks, and games for an afternoon of fun outdoors. A local favorite is Fabyan Forest Preserve in Batavia, situated along the Fox River. You may even spot some cicadas under the old oak trees.
6. Savor Delicious Local Cuisine
From classic deep-dish pizza to trendy farm-to-table restaurants, there's no shortage of delicious food options in the western suburbs. Explore new flavors or stick to old favorites during your weekend adventures. We pick Lou Malnati's for deep dish - one of our faves! For farm-to-table try Craft Urban in Geneva and Aurora - scrumptious!
7. Visit an Award-Winning Museum
Learn something new by visiting one of the many museums in the area, such as DuPage Children's Museum or Cantigny Park's First Division Museum. There's so much to see and do at each of these unique establishments, where you will create new memories to last a lifetime.
8. Spend an Afternoon Shopping
Spend some time browsing unique boutiques and shops in downtown areas like Batavia, Geneva, Naperville, North Aurora or Wheaton and St. Charles where both Jeans and a Cute Top locations are. Geneva Commons is also a great place to visit and if you love indoor markets visit The Rustic Fox where you'll find Urban Echo Shop or another favorite– trend + relic in St. Charles.
9. Attend a Sporting Event & a Concert All in One
Catch a baseball game at the Kane County Cougars stadium or cheer on your favorite team. Head there on Sunday and you'll get to see the Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band, Second Hand News at the pre-concert scheduled to take place before the game.
10. Take a Day Trip to Starved Rock State Park
Located about an hour and a half from the western suburbs, Starved Rock State Park offers beautiful hiking trails and waterfalls to explore. More than 13 miles of trails allow access to rain fed waterfalls, sandstone overhangs, and spectacular overlooks. How fun is that?
11. Spend Some Relaxing Time at the Spa
Treat yourself to some pampering by booking a massage or facial at one of the many spas in the area. Enjoy Solaia Salon & Spa in Downtown Naperville at Water Street if you are looking for a new one to try. You will LOVE it!
12. Go Golfing on an Award-Winning Course
With over 100 golf courses in the western suburbs, there's no shortage of options for golf enthusiasts. Naperville Park District has some favorite courses that the avid golfer will most certainly love. View them here. Have fun!
13. Visit a Local Winery or Brewery
Sip on locally-made wine or beer at one of the many wineries and breweries in the area, such as Lynfred Winery in Roselle or Two Brothers Artisan Brewing in Warrenville.
14. Attend Guys & Dolls at Drury Lane
Support local talent by attending a play or musical at one of the many community theaters in the western suburbs. Also, the perfect Broadway musical comedy Guys and Dolls is happening now at Drury Lane Theatre.
15. Marvel at Uniquely Created Artwork
Attend the 26th Annual St. Charles Fine Art Show in St. Charles. This show features over 100 fine artists, each hand-selected by a jury for their exceptional talent and unique style. The artists work with a range of mediums, including Clay/Ceramics, Digital Art, Drawing/Illustration, Glass, Jewelry, Mixed Media, Painting, Photography, Printmaking, Sculpture and Wood, all available for purchase during the show.
16. Go Kayaking on the Fox River
Rent a kayak and paddle along the Fox River, enjoying the serene waterway and picturesque surroundings. Several rental locations are available in St. Charles and Geneva.
17. Take a Cooking Class
Learn new recipes and techniques by taking a cooking class at places like Sur La Table or Marcel's Culinary Experience.
Participate in the Memorial Day Ceremony at Oakbrook Terrace, honoring military personnel with speeches, wreath-laying, and a moment of silence. Visit Oakbrook Terrace Memorial Day Ceremony
19. Go Bowling, Play Mini-Golf or Get Your Whirly On
Have some fun indoors by bowling at Bowlero with friends or playing mini-golf at Morton Arboretum with family members. If you have never been to WhirlyBall, get your whirly on and enjoy fun for the entire fam!
20. Attend a Memorial Day Parade
Wrap up your weekend by honoring those who have served our country at a Memorial Day parade. Many suburbs, such as Naperville and Wheaton, host parades with marching bands, floats, and veterans.
21. Relax at Home
Sometimes, there's nothing better than spending quality time with loved ones while grilling out and enjoying each other's company in your own backyard. Visit Casey's in Naperville or Ream's in Elburn for tasty grilling favorites! Enjoy.
The western suburbs offer a variety of recreational activities and attractions for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're seeking adventure on a hiking trail, relaxation at a spa, or a fun game of mini-golf, there's something for everyone to enjoy. From savoring local wines and beers to exploring charming downtown areas like Naperville, the possibilities are endless. So, gather your friends and family, and make the most of what the western suburbs have to offer, creating wonderful memories along the way.
