Downers Grove is an idyllic suburban village located in DuPage County, Illinois. It is surrounded by lush greenery, beautiful parks, and historic landmarks that make it an ideal destination for tourists and locals alike. If you are planning a trip to Downers Grove or nearby areas, here are some of the things to do near Downers Grove IL that you should not miss.
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1. Visit the Tivoli Theatre
The Tivoli Theatre is a historic theatre that was built in 1928. It is located in downtown Downers Grove and is known for its beautiful architecture and interior design. The theatre is still in operation today and shows a variety of movies, including classic films, independent movies, and blockbusters.
Tips:
– Check the theatre’s schedule in advance to see what movies are playing. – Arrive early to get a good seat. – Grab a snack from the concession stand, which offers classic movie theatre fare such as popcorn, candy, and soda.
2. Explore the Morton Arboretum
The Morton Arboretum is a 1,700-acre botanical garden located in nearby Lisle, Illinois. It features over 222,000 plants from around the world, including rare and endangered species. Visitors can walk or bike through the arboretum’s many trails, take a guided tour, or participate in educational programs.
Tips:
– Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor activities. – Bring sunscreen and insect repellent. – Check the arboretum’s schedule in advance to see what events and programs are available.
3. Go Shopping at the Oakbrook Center
The Oakbrook Center is a premier shopping destination located in nearby Oak Brook, Illinois. It features over 150 stores, including luxury brands, department stores, and specialty shops. The outdoor mall also offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants.
Tips:
– Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking. – Check the mall’s directory in advance to plan your shopping route. – Bring a reusable shopping bag to reduce waste.
4. Visit the Brookfield Zoo
The Brookfield Zoo is a 216-acre zoo located in nearby Brookfield, Illinois. It features over 2,000 animals from around the world, including big cats, primates, and aquatic animals. Visitors can also participate in interactive exhibits and activities, such as feeding the giraffes or riding the carousel.
Tips:
– Check the zoo’s schedule in advance to see what exhibits and activities are available. – Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor activities. – Bring sunscreen and insect repellent.
5. Explore the Graue Mill and Museum
The Graue Mill and Museum is a historic gristmill located in nearby Oak Brook, Illinois. It was built in 1852 and is one of the few remaining water-powered gristmills in the country. Visitors can tour the mill and museum, learn about the history of milling and agriculture in the area, and participate in educational programs.
Tips:
– Check the museum’s schedule in advance to see what programs and events are available. – Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking. – Bring a camera to capture the historic architecture and scenery.
FAQs
What are the best things to do near Downers Grove IL?
There are many great things to do near Downers Grove IL, including visiting the Tivoli Theatre, exploring the Morton Arboretum, going shopping at the Oakbrook Center, visiting the Brookfield Zoo, and exploring the Graue Mill and Museum.
What is the best time of year to visit Downers Grove IL?
The best time of year to visit Downers Grove IL depends on your preferences. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer is great for outdoor activities and events. Winter can be cold and snowy, but it also offers winter sports and holiday events.
What is the food scene like near Downers Grove IL?
The food scene near Downers Grove IL is diverse and offers something for everyone. There are many restaurants that specialize in American cuisine, as well as international options such as Italian, Mexican, and Asian. There are also many cafes, bakeries, and dessert shops that offer sweet treats and coffee.
Nutrition Facts
Here are some nutrition facts about the things to do near Downers Grove IL: – Visiting the Tivoli Theatre and watching a movie can be a fun and relaxing way to spend a few hours. – Exploring the Morton Arboretum and walking or biking through the trails can provide a good workout and improve cardiovascular health. – Going shopping at the Oakbrook Center can be a fun way to burn calories and get some exercise. – Visiting the Brookfield Zoo and walking around can burn calories and improve physical fitness. – Exploring the Graue Mill and Museum and walking through the exhibits and historic buildings can provide a moderate amount of physical activity.
