20 Attractions to Explore Near Bowen Park

Illinois Beach is one of the most beloved natural attractions in the Midwest. With over 4,000 acres of nature, it offers tourists and locals alike plenty of activities to explore. Along the miles-long shoreline visitors can have a picnic, swim, search for fossils or take boat rides across the lake. For an additional thrill, there are sand dunes that visitors can ride on ATVs or climb! Illinois Beach is also home to a variety of rare wildlife, making this a great spot.

Viking Park West is a fantastic place for outdoor recreation. From its boat launch ramp on the Chain O'Lake to its fishing pier and picnic areas, visitors can enjoy all that the picturesque park has to offer. The park also boasts more than 51 acres of lush forest, so visitors can get away from it all while surrounded by nature's beauty. The park also features trails for biking or running, as well as two large playgrounds and tennis courts.

Hurricane Harbor Chicago is a great spot for families to spend an afternoon splashing around together. From classic water attractions like the White Water Wave pool to family adventures on Tropical Twist and Splashwater Falls, there's something for everyone at Hurricane Harbor. Thrill-seekers will love the height of Storm Chaser, while little kids can enjoy the beach-like atmosphere of Paradise River. Other awesome attractions include speed slides like Riptide Run, Tsunami Surge, and Wipeout!

Vertical Velocity is a roller coaster at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois. The ride opened on May 4, 2001. It is a steel inverted roller coaster manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard. The coaster has a top speed of 55 mph and a maximum height of 150 feet. It features two vertical loops, oneImmelmann loop, and one batwing.

Mardi Gras Hangover is a fire ball attraction located at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois, United States. Located in the Mardi Gras section, the attraction is themed on the Mardi Gras celebration. Opening on May 22, 2018, the ride was manufactured by Larson International, opening as the tallest fire ball amusement ride in the world, at a height of 100 feet tall.

Kidzopolis, is a unique entertainment destination that provides kids with an immersive learning experience. Perfect for birthdays or family outings, It offers a variety of attractions and activities including an indoor playground, laser tag arena, rock climbing wall, miniature golf course, arcade games and more. The facility also features themed party rooms to accommodate large groups.

Batman The Ride, at Six Flags Great America amusement park, is a thrilling steel roller coaster that promises a wild ride. Standing tall amidst the towering trees and bright blue skies, Batman The Ride takes riders on an impressive 4D journey on its hammerhead-shaped track. Riders will first experience a steep climb to the top of the inverted loop before embarking on their journey filled with flips and turns through cobra rolls and zero gravity dives.

Six Flags Great America, is a great destination for those looking for thrilling amusement park adventures. With over twelve roller coasters and countless other rides, shows and attractions, amusement seekers of all ages will find plenty of ways to stay entertained. Great America's different themed areas like DC Universe and Bonzai Pipelines provide an exciting atmosphere as guests explore all the fun the park has to offer. Themed cafes ensure visitors stay fueled throughout the day.

Maxx Force, is a high-speed roller coaster experience that has been thrilling visitors since 2019. Shaped like a giant X, riders are catapulted at forces up to 78 miles per hour along the 2802-foot track. At 17 stories tall, the record-breaking vertical lift hill provides an incredible thrill before plunging its passengers into five inversions. Its speed and height make it one of the world's most intense roller coasters and gives guests memories that will last a lifetime!

Great Wolf Lodge Water Park is an exciting vacation destination for families. The extensive indoor water park spans 84,000 square feet and is filled with attractions including massive inner tube slides, body slides and a giant wave pool that creates six-foot swells. There's also an indoor lazy river, hot tubs and even an adults-only spot to relax after all the thrills of the day. Family-friendly activities abound like MagiQuest, reminiscent of a real-life video game, etc.

Gurnee Mills is a shopping destination known for its selection of over 200 stores and outlets. It features popular national brands as well as unique local retailers in its 250,000 square feet of retail space. It also offers a variety of entertainment options such as its movie theater, putt-putt golf course and the JumpZone Indoor Trampoline Park. Visitors can make the most of their time with convenient amenities like an on-site food court, complimentary stroller rentals and free Wi-Fi access.

This Museum is home to a wide range of historical military artifacts from around the world. Spanning centuries of warfare, the museum contains displays and documents covering a variety of topics including artillery pieces, uniforms, flags and more. Visitors can walk through the streets of a simulated WWII town and view a collection of restored military vehicles from different eras. Along with these physical items, the museum also holds a wealth of knowledge about military history.

Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve is a popular destination for visitors looking for a unique slice of nature. Covering nearly 3,000 acres, this preserve features woodlands and wetlands brimming with wildlife and activities like fishing, hiking and picnicking are just a few of the many recreational activities available. With prairies of flowers in full bloom in spring and summer months, it also provides stunningvisual backdrop throughout the year.

Jones Island Park is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike. Located on the shores of Fox Lake, Jones Island Park offers many activities including fishing, boating, swimming, and picnicking. The park also has several trails to explore on foot or by bike. Visitors to the park can take leisurely strolls while visiting the lush gardens or wander along paths through dense forests of trees. The lake is an excellent spot for anglers.

The Ward W. Willits House, is a stunning example of the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright. Built in 1901, it was one of the first Wright-designed houses in the area and has since become one of his most iconic works. This two-story frame residence is simple yet elegant, featuring many natural materials like redwood and cypress that blend perfectly with its modest surroundings. Its horizontal lines give a sense of balance to the house, while its award-winning interiors are truly captivating.

Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area comprises over 30 acres of breathtaking scenery. This conservation area is accessible by both car and foot. Visitors can enjoy expansive views of open fields filled with wildflowers, creeks lined with shady trees, and a meandering stretch of Union Pacific Railroad tracks along the eastern side of the property. Taking advantage of its variety of habitats, this is a great place to observe wildlife ranging from birds to red-bellied turtles to white-tailed deer.

The Ravinia Festival, is an outdoor music festival that has been providing quality performance experiences since 1904. This summer-long event showcases some of the best musical talent around, from symphony orchestras to jazz ensembles and classical soloists. Other unique attractions include food and wine demonstrations, open-air markets, specialty shops and a Children's Garden with interactive activities for little ones.

The Chicago Botanic Garden, is an oasis of natural beauty amidst the bustling city. Spanning across 385 acres, this amazing garden features 27 stunning display gardens and 4 natural areas, as well as a 38-acre fruit and vegetable garden. Visitors can take nature walks on 6 miles of picturesque paths or wander through the greenhouse conservatories. There are also special events throughout the year, such as art exhibitions, lectures and cooking classes at the Regenstein center.

Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve is a breathtaking destination for nature lovers. It offers over 1,000 acres of rolling hills, prairies, wetlands and ravines to be explored. Visitors can spot wildlife such as eagles, deer and turkeys as they explore the lush greenery. Whether guests are looking for a leisurely stroll down one of the multiple trails or an adventurous canoeing trip on Buffalo Creek itself; there is something for everyone.

The Volo Auto Museum in Lake County, Illinois is a must-see for anyone interested in cars. With over 300 vehicles on display, including famous movie cars and President Kennedy's limousine, there's something for everyone. The museum also offers a variety of events and activities, making it the perfect place to spend a day with family or friends.