Des Plaines Bucket List: 10 Best Places to Visit in Des Plaines, Chicago, IL

Des Plaines is a small suburb in Chicago, located just north of the O’Hare International Airport, making it a convenient place of exploration in the state of Illinois. It is named after the Des Plaines River, which runs south of the suburb in the downtown area.

It offers a combination of fun water activities and indoor recreations as the suburb is filled with waterparks or indoor establishments such as escape rooms, casinos, and art centers. We’ve already done the legwork for you and found the best things you can do in Des Plaines, IL.

Walk around Lake Opeka

Lake Opeka is a calm and tranquil lake located in the city of Chicago. There are plenty of benches to sit on situated on the slope down the lake.

Additionally, it is an excellent place to stay and watch the sunset amidst the city skyline. At night, it transforms into a beautiful lake to walk around.

Play in the water at Mystic Waters Waterpark

Mystic Water Park provides the peak fun water experience in Des Plaines. Enjoy sliding against the waterslides and looking over the calm lake.

Children will especially enjoy this waterpark. It has a good reputation for being clean and having accommodating staff.

Pray and reflect at the Our Lady of Guadalupe Shrine

This is a Catholic Shrine with designated areas for prayer and devotion. There is also a chapel if you are looking to confess or attend a mass.

Peak season would be on December 12, which is the annual celebration for this particular Shrine.

Spend a game day of fun at the Rivers Casino

Because it is just minutes away from the O’Hare International Airport and the Rosemont Entertainment District, it is a popular destination for visitors.

It offers a wide variety of 1000 hottest slot games and 70 pool games, as well as delicious dining when you get hungry.

Play with friends at the Escape Brigade

This is a beautiful recreational activity if you want to build teamwork and have fun with your friends, family, or even colleagues.

Crack your brain open with these escape challenges, which range in difficult to novice and experienced participants.

Bike along the Des Plaines River Trail

If you are looking for a fun outdoor adventure, consider biking, walking, or trekking along the Des Plaines River Trail.

The path is clear and beginner-friendly, and it also offers fresh air from the abundance of trees around.

Learn at the Des Plaines History Center

For the history-lovers out there, this is a spot that you must visit. The center contains extensive accounts and historical artifacts about the origins of Des Plaine.

There are also regular art exhibits from the Des Plaines Art Guild.

Ride Motorcycles at the EagleRider Motorcycle Rentals

For a fun, dare-devil outdoor adventure, consider renting our motorcycles at EagleRider. Rentals are quick and easy, with badass and high-quality bikes.

They also offer bike tours for traveling groups.

Des Plaines Travel and Tour Packages

Searching for the best hotels, resorts, tour packages, and affordable flights in Des Plaines and nearby Cities? Check out our list of affordable Des Plaines hotels and resorts via Agoda and Booking.

Want more updates about new package tours and tourist spots in Des Plaines, Chicago, Illinois, USA? Follow #TeamOutofTown, on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Bloglovin, and Pinterest for more travel ideas.

Also read:

• The Ultimate List Of The Best Hotels In Chicago, USA
• 5 Hidden Gem Museums In Chicago
• 10 Eating Traditions Around The World