Interesting places to visit near Chicago, United States

Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA

Best For: Nature Lovers, Families with Young Children, Dog-Friendly, History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Nestled in the heart of Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood, the Lincoln Park Zoo offers an enchanting urban wildlife adventure perfect for a delightful detour. This historic zoo, one of the oldest in the United States, combines free admission with a rich variety of animals and beautifully landscaped grounds, making it a unique and accessible experience for all travelers.

Visitors can explore diverse animal habitats, engage with interactive exhibits, and enjoy seasonal events that celebrate wildlife and conservation. The zoo's proximity to the lakefront and surrounding parklands provides scenic walking trails and picnic areas, ideal for families and nature lovers alike. Foodies will appreciate the nearby eateries offering local flavors, while history buffs can delve into the zoo's legacy dating back to the 19th century.

Designed with families in mind, the zoo features kid-friendly activities such as the Farm-in-the-Zoo, a carousel, and educational programs that captivate young minds. Dog owners will find that while pets are not allowed inside the zoo itself, the adjacent Lincoln Park offers ample dog-friendly spaces for a pleasant stroll before or after the visit.

Whether you're seeking an engaging day with children, a peaceful nature escape within the city, or a cultural experience steeped in history, Lincoln Park Zoo provides a memorable and enriching detour on your Chicago journey.

Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA

Best For: Families with children, History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Foodies, Dog-Friendly (limited outdoor areas)

Why it's a great detour: The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago offers an unparalleled interactive experience that captivates visitors of all ages. As one of the largest science museums in the world, it blends hands-on exhibits with immersive adventures that ignite curiosity and learning. This detour is perfect for travelers seeking educational fun, inspiring innovation, and a memorable family outing in a vibrant urban setting.

Key activities: Explore the U-505 Submarine exhibit, engage with the Science Storms gallery showcasing natural phenomena, wander through the interactive genetics and robotics displays, and enjoy live science demonstrations. Foodies can delight in the museum café offering diverse options, while nature lovers appreciate the surrounding Jackson Park and nearby outdoor spaces.

Kid-friendly focus: The museum is exceptionally kid-friendly with numerous interactive exhibits designed for young minds to explore science through play and discovery. It’s ideal for families with children of all ages, providing educational entertainment that keeps kids engaged and inspired.

Dog-friendly notes: While the museum itself does not allow pets inside, the adjacent outdoor areas and nearby parks offer limited dog-friendly spaces for visitors traveling with their furry companions to enjoy some fresh air before or after the visit.

Location: Oak Park, Illinois, USA

Best For: History Enthusiasts, Architecture Lovers, Families with Children, Nature Lovers, Dog-Friendly

Nestled in the charming suburb of Oak Park, the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio offers a captivating detour for travelers eager to explore the birthplace of American modern architecture. This historic site showcases the visionary designs of Frank Lloyd Wright, providing a unique glimpse into his early life and creative process. Visitors can immerse themselves in architectural history while enjoying the peaceful residential neighborhood.

Key activities include guided tours of the meticulously preserved home and studio, where you can admire Wright's innovative Prairie style and handcrafted details. Families will appreciate interactive exhibits and storytelling sessions that engage children with architectural concepts. Nature lovers can stroll the surrounding gardens and tree-lined streets, while foodies can explore nearby local eateries offering Midwestern flavors.

The site is welcoming to families with young children, offering accessible pathways and educational programs tailored for younger visitors. Dog owners will find the outdoor areas dog-friendly, allowing well-behaved pets on leashes to accompany their owners during garden walks, though pets are not permitted inside the buildings.

Whether you're a history buff, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a serene and inspiring stop, the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in Oak Park provides a memorable and enriching experience for all ages.

Location: Brookfield, Illinois, USA, just outside Chicago

Best For: Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly (limited areas), History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: The Brookfield Zoo offers an immersive wildlife experience just a short drive from Chicago, perfect for travelers seeking a blend of education, adventure, and family-friendly fun. Its interactive exhibits and diverse animal habitats provide a unique chance to connect with nature and learn about conservation efforts in an engaging setting.

Key activities: Visitors can explore over 450 species across expansive exhibits, participate in interactive feeding sessions with giraffes and penguins, enjoy the seasonal butterfly house, and attend educational shows. Foodies will appreciate the variety of dining options featuring local and international flavors. History enthusiasts can explore the zoo's rich heritage dating back to 1934.

Kid-friendly focus: The zoo is designed with families in mind, featuring hands-on exhibits, playgrounds, and stroller-friendly paths, making it ideal for children of all ages.

Dog-friendly notes: While pets are generally not allowed inside the zoo, designated pet-friendly areas and nearby parks offer options for travelers with dogs to enjoy the surroundings before or after their visit.

Location: Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois, USA

Best For: Foodies, Families with Young Children, Dog-Friendly, History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers

Why it's a great detour: Nestled in Oakbrook Terrace, this gourmet foodie haven offers an authentic taste of Chicago’s iconic deep-dish pizza, making it a must-stop for culinary travelers. Beyond the delicious food, the welcoming atmosphere and family-friendly setting make it an ideal break from the road. Its proximity to local parks and historical sites also allows visitors to blend food exploration with outdoor and cultural activities.

Key activities: Savoring handcrafted deep-dish pizzas made with fresh, local ingredients; exploring nearby outdoor spaces like the Oakbrook Terrace Nature Park for a scenic walk; visiting local historical landmarks that showcase the region’s heritage; enjoying a relaxed meal in a pet-friendly environment where dogs are welcome in outdoor seating areas.

Kid-friendly focus: The restaurant offers a warm, casual environment with menu options that appeal to children, making it a comfortable spot for families to dine together.

Dog-friendly notes: Dogs are welcome in designated outdoor seating areas, allowing pet owners to enjoy their meal without leaving their furry friends behind. Nearby parks also provide great opportunities for walks before or after dining.

Location: Lisle, Illinois, United States

Best For: Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: The Morton Arboretum offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and educational experiences just outside Chicago. This expansive outdoor museum of trees and plants invites visitors to immerse themselves in scenic trails, interactive exhibits, and seasonal events, making it a perfect escape for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

Key activities: Explore over 1,700 acres of diverse landscapes featuring walking and biking trails, the Children’s Garden with hands-on activities, and the interactive Treehouse Adventure. Visitors can also enjoy bird watching, seasonal festivals, and guided tours that highlight the Arboretum’s rich history and conservation efforts.

Kid-friendly focus: The Arboretum is exceptionally family-friendly, with dedicated children’s areas designed to engage young minds through play and discovery. The Treehouse Adventure and nature scavenger hunts provide fun, educational experiences suitable for children of all ages.

Dog-friendly notes: Leashed dogs are welcome on many of the Arboretum’s trails, allowing pet owners to share the joy of nature with their furry companions. Water stations and pet waste bags are available to ensure a comfortable visit for dogs and their owners.