20 Attractions to Explore Near Chain O'Lakes State Park

Chain O'Lakes State Park located on more than 6,600 acres of land, Chain O'Lakes State Park offers some of the most impressive scenery in the state. From wetlands to dense forests and even an island surrounded by shallow lakes, visitors have plenty to explore. The park also includes a restaurant and campground for those looking to stay overnight or longer. Boating is available on several of the lakes, with fishing being particularly popular due to the wide variety of species found within them.

Pistakee Lake is a popular spot for fishing and recreational activities such as swimming, boating and hiking. Named after a Native American tribe, the lake has an average depth of only 6 feet—making it ideal for shallow-water activities. With its relatively small size, Pistakee Lake boasts consistent walleye and panfish catches year round. Local tour guides say that the fishing "doesn't get any better" than what can be found here.

Volo Bog State Natural Area, is a beautiful and enriching destination for those seeking to explore a unique natural haven. This 298-acre sanctuary is home to a magnificent 50-acre bald hill Prairie that has remained untouched for hundreds of years and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The rare site also features a western tamarack bog lake and an upland forest with over 100 species of birds as well as mammals like deer, coyote, and muskrat.

Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge is an incredible natural area filled with diverse species of plants and animals. It features over 4,000-acres of wetlands, prairie habitats, woods, and river shorelines along the Kishwaukee River Valley. The refuge serves as a haven for a variety of birds, from woodpeckers to great blue herons and many in between. These avian species use the refuge’s varied habitats as they migrate throughout Illinois and beyond.

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.

Lake Defiance, is an oasis of calm and peace. A stunning lake surrounded by cooler air, the lake was built by damming a stream. It's catfish-rich waters are home to many small and large fish species, while the nearby woods offer plentiful nature walks or a spot of bird watching. With zoned areas for both fishing and swimming, people can make the most of their day here in any way they please - including topping it off with a picturesque sunset picnic on its banks.

Prairie Trail is an ideal destination for those seeking a fun, outdoor activity. Located on the Fox River with miles of trails and greenways, it is perfect for all types of recreational activities such as biking, walking, running, and rollerblading. There are plenty of places to stop and relax along the way as well. Whether looking to have a picnic lunch or taking some time out to throw a line into the river and catch some fish, the area has something for everyone.

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.

Moraine Hills State Park covering nearly 2200 acres with rolling hills, nature trails and many unique natural attractions, the park offers something for everyone. Visitors can indulge in a wide range of activities throughout the year including bird watching, camping, fishing, biking and swimming. Boating and kayaking on Lake Defiance are also popular activities here. Whether you're looking for tranquility or a more energetic outdoor experience, Moraine Hills State Park will not disappoint.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.