Are you looking for summer activities to enjoy summer’s last months around the western suburbs of Chicago? DuPage County offer an array of fun places for those seeking leisurely enjoyment. Just west of Chicago, the area provides easy access for suburbians and an oasis for city dwellers looking to escape. Here are a few places that offer some great fun for individuals, couples and families.
1. The Great Western Trail
With a 4.5-star ranking on Alltrails, If you are looking for things to do in Lombard this summer and fall, this is a great choice. Hop on a section of over 11 miles of scenic trails that cut through deep forest and gorgeous wetlands. This section of the larger Great Western Trail network that spreads across the entire western hemisphere of the country. This is the eastern section, that cuts through Lombard showcases the biodiversity of Illinois’ wildlife. This portion of the historic trail offers a variety of activities every summer, including marathons, walks and nature hikes. Dogs are allowed on a leash, and the park makes for a great place to walk them. The Great Western Trail is a “must visit” for nature lover’s passing through DuPage County. Visit the Alltrails website to figure out the best place to access the path from your location.
2. Enchanted Castle
Looking for some family fun or a great place to celebrate a summer birthday on a hot day? Another of our favorite things to do in Lombard, IL is the Enchanted Castle. While it is important to remember that COVID-19 still poses a threat, that doesn’t mean that indoor fun isn’t warranted with the right precautions. The Enchanted Castle recently announced that they are operating under compliance of phase 4 re-opening under COVID-19 regulations set by the state of Illinois. They are happy to welcome guests who wear face masks and follow health guidelines for everyone to enjoy a fun time in a safe environment.
Lombard’s Enchanted Castle offers a little something for everyone. Their restaurant, the Dragon’s Den offers a casual dining menu with everything including salads, pizzas, burgers and a variety of sweet treats, along with catering options available for larger parties. Great food isn’t the only reason to visit the Enchanted Castle; the park is famous for its large game room with cutting edge video and carnival gaming. Plus, there are other popular attractions including go-kart racing, laser tag, bumper cars, bowling and even a mini golf course. The amusement park offers a variety of party packages suited for birthdays, graduations and company gatherings.
Location: 1103 S. Main St. Lombard, IL 60148
3. Lombard Historical Society Museum
Arguably one of the more active historical societies in the western suburbs, the Lombard Historical Society is now open to welcome guests as long as they are willing to follow set guidelines for re-opening under COVID-19. Located next to Lombard’s popular Lilacia Park, the Carriage House holds exhibits that rotate throughout the year on diverse topics including art and history.
Under the management of the Lombard Historical Society, visitors can play in the Pioneer Playhouse or explore one of the historical properties on site. These include the Victorian Cottage, Carriage House, or Sheldon Peck Homestead to learn a bit of history about the village of Lombard and the greater area. If it’s gardens your after, you will not only want to visit Lilacia Park, but you’ll also want to make a visit to Sheldon Peck Homestead for the Sheldon Peck Accessible Garden. The Sheldon Peck Homestead also operates as a museum showcasing northern Illinois’ role in the underground railroad. Visit Lombard Historical Society’s website for the most recent updates on hours of operation, re-opening guidelines and schedule of events.
Location: 23 W. Maple Street, Lombard IL, 60148-2512
4. Mayslake Peabody Estate
Located in the western Chicago suburb of Oak Brook, Illinois, the Mayslake Peabody Estate is now managed and operated as part of Mayslake Forest Preserve District of DuPage County. The beautiful home was constructed as a country home for the renowned Chicago architect Francis Stuyvesant Peabody sometime between 1919 and 1922.
The estate along with the park offer an excellent urban break away. The park surrounding the estate offers hiking trails and picnic areas for visitors to fully enjoy the scenic and artistic surroundings. Meanwhile, the Mayslake Peabody Estate hosts exhibits and performances throughout the year. Visit the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s website for more information.
For the latest updates on how the venue is managing COVID-19, visit the Forest Preserve District of DuPage coronavirus page.
Location: 1717 W. 31st Street Oak Brook, IL 60523
“Great Western Trail (Kane Co., IL)” by Aff1737 is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Mayslake Hall photo by Dmytro Sergiyenko under Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International
