12 Fun Activities To Try In Highland Park, Illinois

Nestled in the heart of the North Shore, Highland Park, Illinois boasts a charming small-town feel with big city amenities. Offering something for everyone, this vibrant community offers an array of fun activities that are perfect for a day trip or a weekend adventure. From picturesque nature trails to unique art galleries, we've compiled a list of 12 fun activities to try in Highland Park, Illinois that are sure to get your heart racing and your creative juices flowing. So, let's dive in and explore all the excitement this welcoming town has to offer!

Visit the Highland Park Historical Society Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	Stupey Log Cabin
Type	Historical landmark in Highland Park, Illinois
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	5 / 1
Address	1707-1731 St Johns Ave, Highland Park, IL 60035
Profiles

Highland Park, located in Lake County, Illinois, is widely known for its historical landmarks and scenic beauty. The affluent suburb, situated on the North Shore, boasts a significant number of well-maintained homes, which reflect the essence of Chicago’s early architecture.

History buffs and curious visitors can indulge themselves in the rich history of Highland Park by visiting the Highland Park Historical Society Museum. The museum, which opened in 1966, is located in a stunning 1869 Italianate-style house that was once the home of William Clavey, one of the city's founding fathers.

Upon entering the museum, visitors are immediately greeted by the building's elegant foyer, which is adorned with a medley of antiques, portraits, and period furnishings. Each room in the house has been meticulously restored and furnished to represent a particular era in Highland Park's history.

One of the museum's exhibits tells the story of the city's founding and the early settlers who inhabited it. The exhibit showcases a collection of artifacts, including photographs, maps, and documents, which highlight the significant milestones of the city's development.

Another exhibit highlights the economic transformation of Highland Park, from being a farming community to the manufacturing and commercial stronghold it is today. The exhibit features an array of industrial equipment, appliances, and other goods produced by the city's manufacturing companies over the years.

The museum also features an extensive collection of Highland Park's historical memorabilia, including an impressive collection of antique clocks, watches, and jewelry. Similarly, several works of art from prominent Highland Park artists are also on display at the museum.

For those who wish to dig deeper into Highland Park's history, the museum regularly hosts events, workshops, and lectures. The events range from tours of the town's historical spots to workshops on genealogy, photo restoration, and more.

In conclusion, for visitors interested in exploring the history and culture of Highland Park, Illinois, a visit to the Highland Park Historical Society Museum is a must. The museum houses a treasure trove of historical artifacts, memorabilia, and artworks that reflect the city's rich and diverse history. The museum provides an ideal venue for visitors to get a feel for this remarkable North Shore community and to discover why it is one of Illinois's most alluring destinations.

Go for a walk or bike ride around the scenic Millard Park

Highland Park in Illinois boasts of beautiful and scenic parks for its residents and visitors to explore. One of these lush and picturesque parks is Millard Park, which is the perfect spot for a refreshing walk or bike ride.

Located in the heart of Highland Park, Millard Park is a lovely urban oasis that provides a getaway for the people of the city. The park features beautiful gardens, stunning water features, and well-manicured lawns that make it an excellent place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Millard Park is by taking a leisurely walk or bike ride around the park. The trails here are well-maintained, making them ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels. You'll find ample space to stroll around or jog, and the scenery along the way is breathtaking.

As you make your way around the park, you'll come across several unique attractions. The park features a charming butterfly garden that is a delight to see during the summer months when the flowers are in full bloom. The park's large pond is also a highlight, and you can relax and enjoy the sight of ducks and geese as they swim around.

Millard Park is also home to several picnic areas, so be sure to bring a blanket and some sandwiches to enjoy a relaxed lunch while taking in the beautiful surroundings. You could also bring along your furry companion, as the park is dog-friendly.

Overall, Millard Park is an ideal place to go for a walk or bike ride in Highland Park. With its scenic beauty, lush landscapes, and attractive features, you'll find this park to be a true gem that's worth visiting. So, the next time you're in the area, head out to Millard Park and enjoy a peaceful and refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Attend a live performance at Ravinia Festival, a famous outdoor music venue

Characteristic	Description
Name	Ravinia Festival
Type	Music festival
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 1,373
Address	200 Ravinia Park Rd, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone	(847) 266-5100
Profiles

Highland Park, Illinois is a beautiful suburb located just 25 miles north of Chicago. It is home to many fantastic attractions, but perhaps the most notable is the Ravinia Festival. This iconic outdoor music venue is known for its incredible live performances, beautiful scenery, and rich history. Whether you’re a music lover or just looking for something fun to do this summer, Ravinia is definitely an experience worth having.

Ravinia Festival has been a fixture of the Highland Park community for over 100 years. Founded in 1904, it has become one of the most popular outdoor music venues in the country. The festival has hosted some of the world’s most famous musicians, including Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, and Yo-Yo Ma. These legends have left their mark on Ravinia and helped to establish it as a premier destination for live music.

Today, Ravinia Festival maintains its reputation for incredible live performances. The festival hosts a variety of concerts, from classical music to pop, rock, and jazz. Some of the biggest names in the music industry perform at Ravinia each year. In fact, the lineup for 2021 includes artists like John Legend, The Beach Boys, and Santana.

Ravinia’s popularity isn’t just due to the amazing music, however. The venue itself is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon or evening. The park-like setting features rolling hills, towering trees, and bubbling fountains. The concert pavilion is a stunning piece of architecture, designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night or a family-friendly outing, Ravinia provides the perfect backdrop.

In addition to its rich history and beautiful setting, Ravinia Festival also offers a variety of dining options. Patrons can buy food at one of the many concession stands or bring their own picnic baskets. Ravinia also offers fine dining at its on-site restaurant, the Ravinia Pavilion. The restaurant features a menu of delicious gourmet dishes designed to complement the live music experience.

Overall, Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, Illinois is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves live music, beautiful scenery, and memorable experiences. Whether you’re looking to see a world-famous musician or simply enjoy a picnic with friends, Ravinia has something for everyone. So grab your tickets and get ready for a summer filled with amazing music, delicious food, and unforgettable moments.

Explore the beautiful Chicago Botanic Garden

Characteristic	Description
Name	Chicago Botanic Garden
Type	Botanical garden in Cook County, Illinois
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 2,469
Address	1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe, IL 60022
Phone	(847) 835-5440
Hours	Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 7 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 7 PM Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 7 PM Monday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 7 PM Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 7 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 7 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 7 PM
Profiles

Highland Park in Illinois is a lovely suburban community located about 25 miles north of downtown Chicago. One of the most popular attractions in the area is the Chicago Botanic Garden, a 385-acre oasis of natural beauty that attracts visitors from all over the state. If you're looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, then the Chicago Botanic Garden is definitely worth a visit!

One of the biggest draws of the Garden is its stunning collection of plants from around the world. With over 2.5 million living plants and more than 26 gardens to explore, there's no shortage of beauty to be seen here. From the vibrant colors of the Japanese Garden to the tranquility of the Aquatic Garden, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, with four natural habitats on the property, the Chicago Botanic Garden is also dedicated to conservation and scientific research.

In addition to the extensive array of plants, the Chicago Botanic Garden also boasts plenty of artistic and cultural events throughout the year. During the summer months, you can catch live music, outdoor film screenings, and even Shakespeare performances in the Garden. In the winter, you can participate in a variety of holiday-themed events, such as gingerbread house workshops and horse-drawn carriage rides.

If you're looking to get in touch with your green thumb, the Chicago Botanic Garden is also a great place to learn about horticulture. With a variety of classes and workshops available, you can learn everything from how to grow your own vegetables to how to design your garden. The Garden is also home to a variety of educational programs for kids and families, including hands-on nature exploration and scavenger hunts.

Visiting the Chicago Botanic Garden is a truly immersive experience, and there's so much to see and do that you could easily spend an entire day there. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and plenty of water, especially if you're visiting during the summer months. And don't forget to stop by the Garden Shop on your way out for some unique souvenirs or a special plant to take home with you!

Overall, the Chicago Botanic Garden is a true gem of Highland Park, and it's a must-visit for anyone who loves nature, art, or simply needs a break from the city. With its peaceful surroundings, educational opportunities, and stunning beauty, the Garden is an unforgettable experience that will enrich your mind, body, and soul.

Take a yoga class at the North Shore Yoga Co-Op

Highland Park, located in Lake County, Illinois, is a suburban city that offers plenty of recreational options. One popular activity that has taken the town by storm is yoga. The practice of yoga has become a common way to stay healthy and discover inner peace. And if you’re in the area, why not take a class at the North Shore Yoga Co-Op located in Highland Park?

The North Shore Yoga Co-Op is a community-oriented studio that brings together a diverse group of teachers and students. They offer a robust schedule of classes for yogis of all levels and backgrounds. They believe in the power of yoga as a tool to enhance overall health, reduce stress, and promote overall wellbeing.

If you’re new to yoga, North Shore Yoga Co-Op has several classes for beginners that will help you learn the basics of yoga postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. For those with a more advanced practice, there are several Vinyasa Flow, Hatha, and Ashtanga yoga classes that will help you deepen your practice.

All classes at North Shore Yoga Co-Op incorporate the seven chakras of the body, which are energy centers that govern different aspects of your physical and emotional health. The classes are designed to balance the energy of the body and help you achieve a sense of inner peace and harmony.

Aside from the multitude of yoga classes, North Shore Yoga Co-Op also offers workshops and events throughout the year for those who want to take their practice to the next level. From soundbaths to reiki to yoga retreats, they provide an opportunity to learn and deepen your practice.

If you're looking for the perfect yoga studio to start your practice, North Shore Yoga Co-Op is the place to be. It provides a welcoming and inclusive environment that allows you to discover the transformative power of yoga. Give them a try in Highland Park, Illinois and see the benefits for yourself!

Try indoor bouldering at Vertical Endeavors

Characteristic	Description
Name	Vertical Endeavors–Glendale Heights
Type	Rock climbing gym in Glendale Heights, Illinois
Website	Go to website
Address	246 Windy Point Dr, Glendale Heights, IL 60139
Phone	(630) 784-9000
Hours	Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 6 PM Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 6 PM Monday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM
Profiles

Highland Park, a beautiful suburb in Illinois, is known for its stunning parks, excellent schools, and scenic beauty. However, one of the lesser-known activities that this town has to offer is indoor bouldering at Vertical Endeavors.

If you are an adventure lover or someone who likes to stay active and fit, Vertical Endeavors is the perfect place for you. It is an indoor climbing gym that offers bouldering, lead climbing, and top-roping. But what sets it apart from other climbing gyms is the immense bouldering terrain. The walls range from 12 feet to 15 feet high and come with different levels of difficulty. You are sure to find something that suits your level of expertise and challenges you.

Bouldering is a form of rock climbing that involves climbing without ropes with a foam mat padding the floor to cushion any falls. It requires a lot of strength, flexibility, and strategy. Bouldering walls offer different types of holds, such as crimps, pockets, slopers, and pinches. It is a great workout for your entire body and requires concentration, problem-solving, and precise movements to reach the top of the route.

Vertical Endeavors is open for all ages and skill levels, so it is perfect for a family day out, group events, or solo climbing. They have experienced staff that provides orientation, safety tips, and can help you improve your technique. They also offer yoga and fitness classes that break the monotony of your climbing routine and keep you motivated to push yourself further.

If you are looking for a unique experience in Highland Park, Vertical Endeavors is definitely worth checking out. It is an affordable activity that provides physical and mental challenges and great fun for your friends or family. All you need is comfortable clothing, proper climbing shoes, and a sense of adventure to enjoy the bouldering adventure.

In conclusion, Vertical Endeavors is one of the best indoor bouldering gyms in Illinois that offers a challenging and exciting experience for all adventure seekers. It is a must-visit place if you are looking for a break from the mundane and an opportunity to test your physical and mental limits. Plan a visit with your friends, family, or join a group of climbers and experience the thrill of bouldering at Vertical Endeavors.

Shop and dine in the downtown area

Highland Park, Illinois is a beautiful and vibrant community located just 25 miles north of downtown Chicago. The downtown area is a bustling hub of activity, with a wide variety of restaurants and shops to explore.

One of the major draws of Highland Park is its unique and eclectic shopping scene. From high-end boutiques to quaint vintage shops, there is something for everyone in this charming downtown area. The shops are filled with unique and interesting goods, from locally made crafts to artisanal foods and home decor.

If you're in the mood for some window shopping, you can stroll down Central Avenue and explore the many designer clothing stores and jewelers. Or, if you're looking for something a little more offbeat, you can check out the many specialty stores that offer everything from antiques to comic books.

Of course, no shopping trip is complete without some sustenance, and Highland Park has some of the best dining options around. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or an elegant meal, you'll find it all here. From pizza to seafood, there's a cuisine for every taste bud.

One popular restaurant in the downtown area is The Ravioli Factory. It offers homemade pasta that's freshly made each day and a wide variety of sauces to choose from. Or, if you're in the mood for something a little more upscale, the Michael Restaurant is the perfect spot. It offers fine dining in a sophisticated atmosphere, and the menu features classic American dishes with a modern twist.

Overall, Highland Park's downtown area is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to shop and dine in a unique and vibrant community. So whether you're a local or just passing through, make sure to carve out some time to explore this charming part of town.

Play a round of golf at Highland Park Country Club

Characteristic	Description
Name	Highland Park Country Club
Type	Event venue in Highland Park, Illinois
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.3 / 82
Address	1201 Park Ave W, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone	(847) 213-5015
Profiles

Highland Park in Illinois is a beautiful city located in Lake County. This city is famous for its stunning parks and recreational activities, and one of the best things to do in Highland Park is to play a round of golf at Highland Park Country Club.

Highland Park Country Club is a highly-rated 18-hole private course that was established in 1899. It is a beautiful, tree-lined, and challenging course that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The course spans over 6,700 yards and has a par of 72. It is designed to provide golfers of all levels with a fun and challenging experience.

The course at Highland Park Country Club is in excellent condition, and its greens are known for being some of the best in the area. Additionally, the club offers excellent facilities, including driving ranges, practice greens, and a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar. These facilities, coupled with an exceptional staff, ensure that your golfing experience at Highland Park Country Club is memorable and enjoyable.

The club is open to both members and non-members, but tee times are required to play. Non-members can make tee time reservations up to seven days in advance. Keep in mind that weekends and holidays are busy, so make sure to book early to secure a slot.

If you're looking for a more comprehensive golfing experience, Highland Park Country Club offers a variety of lesson programs for players of all levels. The club has a team of experienced PGA instructors who are dedicated to helping golfers improve their game. Lessons are available on an individual or group basis and cover everything from the basics of golf swing mechanics to specialized mental game training.

In conclusion, playing a round of golf is an excellent way to explore Highland Park, and Highland Park Country Club is undoubtedly one of the best courses in the area. Its lush landscapes, challenging holes, and excellent facilities make it a must-visit for golfers of all levels. So, whether you are a seasoned golfer or just starting, Highland Park Country Club offers the perfect destination to improve your game or enjoy a day out on the course.

Watch a movie at the vintage-style Renaissance Place Cinema

Characteristic	Description
Name	Landmark's Renaissance Place Cinema
Type	Movie theater in Highland Park, Illinois
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 135
Address	1850 2nd St, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone	(847) 432-7903
Profiles

Highland Park, Illinois is a charming suburban town that offers residents and visitors plenty of entertainment options. One great activity is catching a movie at the Renaissance Place Cinema. This vintage-style theater boasts a cozy and intimate setting that makes for an enjoyable movie-watching experience.

The Renaissance Place Cinema is located in the heart of downtown Highland Park, surrounded by quaint shops and restaurants. The theater has four screens and shows a mix of new releases and indie flicks. As you enter the theater, you step back in time with its classic cinema decor, including a vintage-style marquee outside and plush velvet seats inside.

One of the unique features of the Renaissance Place Cinema is that patrons can enjoy a drink or snack while watching the movie. The theater offers a range of delicious treats, including popcorn, candy, and soft pretzels. If you're in the mood for something more substantial, the theater also offers hot dogs and sandwiches. You can wash it all down with your choice of a beer or a glass of wine.

In addition to the standard movie offerings, the Renaissance Place Cinema also hosts special events. Throughout the year, the theater screens classic movies, documentaries, and special broadcasts. For example, they host screenings of the National Theatre Live productions from London, which give audiences a chance to experience stage performances from the comfort of their local cinema.

The ticket prices for the Renaissance Place Cinema are very reasonable, compared to some of the larger movie chains. The theater also offers discounts for seniors and children. You can purchase tickets in advance online or at the box office.

Overall, the Renaissance Place Cinema is a gem in Highland Park's entertainment scene. Whether you're a movie buff or just looking for a fun evening out, this vintage-style theater is worth a visit. With its cozy and intimate atmosphere, delicious snacks, and wide range of movie offerings, it's the perfect way to enjoy a night out in Highland Park.

Go ice skating at Centennial Ice Arena

Highland Park, Illinois is a beautiful and charming city known for its stunning parks, unique boutiques, and delicious restaurants. One of the most popular activities in Highland Park during the winter season is ice skating at Centennial Ice Arena. This is an excellent way for families and friends to have fun, stay active, and make lasting memories.

Located at 3100 Trail Way, Centennial Ice Arena is a state-of-the-art facility that offers public ice skating, figure skating lessons, hockey games, and more. The arena has two NHL-sized ice rinks, locker rooms, a pro shop, and a snack bar. Whether you are an experienced skater or just starting, Centennial Ice Arena welcomes everyone to enjoy their ice skating experience.

Public skating sessions are available almost every day of the week for a nominal fee. The staff at Centennial Ice Arena creates a fun and safe environment for all its visitors. They provide helmets, skate rentals, and skating aids for those who need them. Moreover, they offer different types of public skating sessions such as parent/toddler skate, high school skate, and disco skate. These sessions have their own music, lighting, and theme to cater to everyone's interest.

Ice skating offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it improves cardiovascular and muscular endurance, balance, coordination, and flexibility. Secondly, it helps to burn calories, reduce stress and tension, and improve overall well-being. Skating is also a wonderful social activity, where families and friends can spend quality time together while having fun.

In conclusion, Highland Park's Centennial Ice Arena provides an unforgettable ice-skating experience. The arena's well-maintained ice rinks, friendly staff, and a wide range of skating sessions have something for everyone. So, put on your skates and experience the thrill of gliding on ice this winter season.

Attend a tasting event at Ravinia Brewing Company

Highland Park, Illinois is a picturesque suburb located on the North Shore of Chicago. Known for its beautiful parks, vibrant community, and affluent residents, Highland Park is a popular destination for both tourists and local visitors alike. One of the great attractions of Highland Park is the Ravinia Brewing Company, a local brewery that has quickly become one of the most popular gathering spots in the area.

If you're a beer lover, one of the best ways to experience Highland Park is to attend a tasting event at the Ravinia Brewing Company. This brewery is known for its unique and flavorful brews that are made using only the highest quality ingredients. Whether you're a fan of hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or light and refreshing lagers, you're sure to find something to your liking at Ravinia Brewing Company.

The tasting events at Ravinia Brewing Company offer visitors the opportunity to sample a wide variety of different beers, all while learning about the brewing process and the history of the brewery. The events are typically held on weekends, and they're a fun and relaxed way to spend an afternoon or evening with friends and family.

During the tasting events, visitors will be provided with a flight of beers that includes a variety of different brews. This will allow you to try everything from their flagship beers to seasonal specialties that are only available for a limited time. As you sample each beer, you'll have the opportunity to speak with the brewers and other experts who can answer any questions you may have about the brewing process or the history of the brewery.

In addition to the beer itself, the tasting events at Ravinia Brewing Company also offer visitors the chance to sample some of the delicious food served by the brewery's kitchen. From classic pub fare like burgers and fries to unique takes on traditional dishes, the food at Ravinia Brewing Company is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Overall, attending a tasting event at Ravinia Brewing Company is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Highland Park, Illinois. Whether you're a local resident or just passing through on a road trip, you're sure to have a memorable and enjoyable experience at this popular brewery. So the next time you're in the area, be sure to stop by and sample some of the delicious beers and food offered by Ravinia Brewing Company.

Learn about local art and culture at The Art Center Highland Park

Characteristic	Description
Name	Art Center Highland Park
Type	Art school in Highland Park, Illinois
Website	Go to website
Address	1957 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone	(847) 432-1888
Hours	Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Sunday - Closed Monday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM
Profiles

Highland Park, a suburban city located in Lake County, Illinois, is a vibrant community noted for its scenic beauty and rich history. One of the most notable attractions in Highland Park is The Art Center Highland Park, which is a local institution dedicated to promoting the arts and culture in the area.

Founded in 1960, The Art Center Highland Park is a non-profit organization that provides art education and exhibition opportunities to the residents of Highland Park and neighboring towns. The center's mission is to serve as a cultural hub where artists, art enthusiasts, and the general public can come together to learn, create, and appreciate the visual arts.

The Art Center Highland Park has an impressive facility that offers spacious classrooms, studios, and galleries. The galleries showcase the works of local and national artists and offer free admission to visitors. The center also organizes regular art exhibitions, art fairs, and open studio events that feature the work of its talented members and provides them with opportunities to sell their art.

One of the center's flagship programs is its educational program, which offers a wide range of classes and workshops for students of all ages and skill levels. The classes are taught by experienced art teachers who provide students with a comprehensive understanding of various art forms such as painting, drawing, ceramics, sculpture, and photography, among others. The center's classes not only teach the technical aspects of art but also encourage creativity and self-expression.

The Art Center Highland Park is also known for its community outreach programs, which aim to make the arts accessible to everyone. The center collaborates with local schools, libraries, and community organizations to provide art education to underserved populations. Through its outreach programs, the center strives to promote the value of art as a means of personal development and community-building.

In conclusion, The Art Center Highland Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the arts and culture in Highland Park. With its beautiful galleries, comprehensive art education programs, and community outreach initiatives, the center is a testament to the vibrant arts scene in the area and its commitment to promoting art and culture for all.

Frequently asked questions