Gurnee is a scenic village in Lake County, Illinois, United States. It is on the northern outskirts of Chicago.
Gurnee offers a world-class vacation experience, guaranteeing a memorable shopping, dining, and outdoor experience.
This village attracts thousands of tourists because of its assortment of attractions and activities.
It is famous for being the location of Six Flags Amusement Park. It is also home to the renowned Gurnee Mills shopping outlet.
Some places to visit in Gurnee include Hurricane Harbor Chicago, Marcus Gurnee Mills Cinema, Six Flags Great America, Top Shelf Ice Arena, and Great Wolf Lodge.
Let’s explore our well-curated list of the best and fun things to do in Gurnee, IL.
Things to Do in Gurnee, IL
1. Six Flags Great America
Six Flags Great America was recorded as one of the most frequented amusement centers in the country.
It was constructed in the mid-1970s and founded by Marriott before it was taken over in 1984 by the Six Flags trademark.
In this Park, you will find nine interestingly themed zones, exhilarating shows, carnival-inspired games, and packing rides.
Six Flags Great America is an excellent choice for those who want adrenaline rushing through their veins.
You have to try out the Maxx Force whenever you visit; it is known as the world’s longest and fastest inversion during just two seconds from 0-78 mph.
Visiting Six Flags Great America is one of the most fun things to do in Gurnee, IL. Make sure you include it on your must-visit list.
Address: 1 Great America Parkway, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
2. Gurnee Mills
Gurnee Mills is recognized as the third biggest shopping mall in the whole state, combining a full-scale shopping plaza with an outlet mall. It is one of the best places to visit in Gurnee, IL.
Here, you will find up to two hundred stores with outlets that offer discounts of about 70%, which you can’t get elsewhere.
You will find a number of chains, such as Bed Bath & Beyond, Macy’s, Forever 21, Kohl’s, H&M, Forever 21, Dick’s Sporting Goods and more.
Gurnee Mills features factory stores, which include Abercrombie & Fitch, Vans, Disney Store, Adidas, Guess, Fitch, and Nike.
You can also check out any of the two food courts along with other attractions, including an ice arena, escape room, and movie theater.
Address: 6170 W Grand Ave, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
3. Great Wolf Lodge
Great Wolf Lodge is an enormous self-contained hotel in Gurnee, which was founded in 2018 as an 80,000-square-foot facility.
There is a gigantic water park which you can visit, especially on a hot summer day when you just want to cool off.
Great Wolf Lodge features a fascinating play fort comprising a large tipping bucket, numerous slides, and the magnificent Fort McKenzie, a zero-depth region for little kids, and numerous slides.
The water in the park is maintained at 84 degrees (warm) throughout the year. It consists of a rope course, a climbing wall, and an arcade.
The facility will cater to all your needs, from exciting attractions to event planning, dining options, and unique experiences.
Address: 1700 Nations Dr, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
4. Hurricane Harbor Chicago
Hurricane Harbor Chicago was formerly under Six Flags Great America. It began operating on its own in 2021, meaning it now needs a different admission for entry.
This twenty-acre establishment has two huge pools, twenty-five slides, a surf simulator, and a lazy river.
Families are highly encouraged to visit this park, as there are plenty of things to do. There are areas for children featuring sprays.
Hurricane Harbor Chicago also comprises a region for bigger kids to experience great fun and have a great time.
Address: 1 Great America Parkway, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
5. Only Child Brewing Company
After working without getting a proper rest, you should visit Only Child Brewing Company to have a drink and cool off.
Only Child Brewing Company is a family-owned and operated brewery established in 2013 before moving into its new location after two years.
The company is now housed in a warehouse of 4,000 square feet due to the owners’ passion for serving delicious beers in a comfortable space.
There is a tap room where visitors try out their freshly brewed beers directly from the kitchen of the only child brewery.
You can visit the tap room any day since it is open throughout the week. You can come along with your dog or child.
Some available drinks include a Hazy IPA, German Pils, a DIPA, Pinot Noir, Berliner Weisse, and many more.
Address: 1350 Tri-State Pkwy, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
6. Launch Trampoline Park
Launch Trampoline Park used to be a warehouse in Gurnee City before it was transformed into a high recreational center.
This brand has several branches scattered all over the country, and they respectively draw visitors because of their trampoline courts.
The trampoline courts consist of bouncy wall surfaces, knockout, foam pit, and dodgeball. Your kids would definitely love to visit this park.
Launch Trampoline Park partners with the Leave restaurant to bake and deliver homemade pizza. The arcade room consists of a good number of redemption machines.
The Park experienced an upgrade, including a battle beam, basketball area, bowling alley, and so on.
Launch Trampoline Park is perfect for custom events where you come to celebrate, compete with friends, and create good memories.
Address: 880 Lakeside Dr, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
7. Betty Russell Community Park
Betty Russell Community Park is one of the best public parks in the village. It is located not far away from Great Wolf Lodge.
As a community park, it is a perfect place for children to come in and have a great time while playing with their fellow kids.
There is a gigantic playground with slides, merry-go-round, swings, and many other exciting play equipment.
Betty Russell Community Park features picnic regions where family and friends can hang out and spend quality time.
You and your grown-up kids can also check out the skate park, pickleball, softball/baseball fields, soccer fields, a trail, basketball courts, and tennis courts.
Exploring Betty Russell Community Park is undoubtedly one of the fun things to do in Gurnee, IL.
Address: 5300 Pinewood Rd, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
8. Marcus Gurnee Mills Cinema
For the movie lover, seeing a movie at Marcus Gurnee Mills Cinema ought to be on your list of top things to do in Gurnee, IL. It’s more fun when you visit with friends.
Marcus Gurnee Mills Cinema was established in 1993 as a multiplex theater. It has been developed over the years and currently houses twenty screens.
All the chairs have been replaced with luxury recliners, enabling guests to enjoy their favorite blockbuster movies in great comfort.
There is the 4DX screens, which was one of the first of its kind in the country, providing a unique experience filled with immersive innovation.
You get to enjoy high-tech lighting, motion seats, and different kinds of installed ambient effects, such as scents, vibrations, and so on.
Address: 6144 Grand Ave, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
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9. Top Shelf Ice Arena
Top Shelf Ice Arena is a locally owned company that was established in February 2021. It has been striving since then.
The owners were born and raised in Lake County. They started playing Ice hockey when they were kids.
They founded this ice arena with just one goal, which is to share their passion for the sport with those who wish to play.
Top Shelf Ice Arena offers ice hockey and skating to individuals of various skill levels and ages. It doesn’t matter if you’re just a beginner; Top Shelf Ice Arena got you covered.
The facility serves as the home for Vipers Hockey and the local team of Warren Township High School; they offer public skate programs for $5.
Address: 6152 W Grand Ave, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
10. Gurnee Days
Gurnee Days
Gurnee Days is a festival you have to look forward to when visiting Gurnee City. Attending this festival should be on your checklist of the best things to do in Gurnee, IL. Make sure you check their calendar so you don’t miss out.
This is a huge event held during summer by the Park District and the community. It usually takes place in late July or early August.
The event is usually celebrated in Viking Park. It is filled with kits of excitement and games for both adults and children.
Gurnee Days offers a petting zoo, amusement rides, beer garden, face painting, dance, music, bike rodeo, and so much more.
The festival attracts lots of food vendors who sell different local delicacies. However, the Gurnee Days parade is the light of the event.
11. Extreme Flight Simulation
Not too far from Only Child Brewing is Extreme Flight Simulation, a distinct, grand-tech attraction in Gurnee, IL. Ensure to add the exploration of this attraction to your itinerary of what to do in Gurnee, IL.
Extreme Flight Simulation is a one-of-a-kind company in the region offering flight simulation to the public. It is regarded as a state-of-the-art experience.
This game institution offers the sort of experience that fascinates gamers, non-expert pilots of various levels, as well as those curious about what it feels like to be in an airline’s cockpit.
They offer flights that can last from 30 minutes to about two hours, where you can fly to anywhere in the globe, stopping by any airport out of the 25,000 airports in the world.
Extreme Flight Simulation also consists of a virtual escape room and a reality room, so you can book a flight or play a bit of virtual.
Address: 1350 Tri-State Pkwy Ste 128, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
12. 60 to Escape
60 to Escape is one of the most loved escape rooms in Gurnee. It has been able to keep a reputable record, and so is one of the best places to visit in Gurnee, IL.
The escape room offers a 60-minute time limit. Each session requires at least two to eight persons to complete the task.
You’re offered six rooms to pick from, each of which offers an immersive adventure needing extensive brain and teamwork.
Players are asked to solve codes, clues, and puzzles and overcome obstacles in order to come out of any escape room victorious.
60 to Escape offers different themes, such as revoking a curse, disarming a bomb, giving power to an unknown government establishment, and so on.
Whenever you walk into 60 to Escape, there is always something new for you and your group to try out.
Address: 6170 W Grand Ave, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
13. Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, known as a national chain in Gurnee, operates a huge group of stores in wilderness themes.
They offer an enormous collection of outdoor, fishing, and hunting gear; you can get whatever you want from the store.
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World considers itself as more than just your usual hunting and fishing store.
Visitors can shop for grilling, camping, hiking, hunting, and fishing equipment, including music, hot sauces, toys, wind chimes, and more from their gift and nature store.
They offer footwear and clothes from popular brands like Bob Timberlake, RedHead, etc.
For those planning to embark on a water expedition, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World offers equipment for snorkeling, rafts, kayaks, surfing boards, and so on.
Address: 6112 W Grand Ave, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
14. Tina’s Italian Café and Bake Shop
Tina’s Italian Café and Bake Shop
Tina’s Italian Café and Bake Shop is a locally owned and operated business founded by Tina Tortorici.
She migrated from Sicily to America when she was only twenty with a burning desire to gladden people’s hearts with her meals.
This goal motivated her to share her most-loved Italian meals with others. Tina offers only freshly made authentic meals with high quality.
Tina’s Italian Café and Bake Shop has been able to bring Sicily right to your doorstep so you can enjoy some of the nice Italian culture.
The restaurant offers desserts, gourmet sandwiches, and pasta dishes with drinks to complement them.
Do well to try out their Caesar With Chicken, Spinacia Dolce, Insalata Con Tonno, Low-Carb Sandwiches, Provolone E Verdure, Bandiera Italiana, and more.
Address: 5101 Washington St Ste 14a, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
15. Kaisers Pizza and Pub
Still wondering what to do in Gurnee, IL? Include dining at Kaisers Pizza and Pub, the best place to have pizza.
Kaisers Pizza and Pub is famous for serving the most delicious pizza with a variety of unique toppings.
You can visit this place whenever you like, especially with some of your friends and family members, as you enjoy a creatively crafted pizza.
The restaurant was chosen as Gurnee’s best pizza spot. It is also said that they offer the most delicious pizza in Northeastern Illinois.
Some of their creations you should definitely try are Taco Pizz, the Beast Pizza, BBQ Chicken Club Pizza, White Pizza, Hawaiian Special Pizza, BLT Pizza, and so on.
Address: 1801 North, 1801 IL-21, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
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16. Ravinia Park
Ravinia Park is one of those amusement parks that helps families and friends rekindle lost bonds.
Here, you get to spend memorable time with your loved ones outdoors, a place where elegance and enchanting are words used to describe its beauty.
Dog owners love and adore Ravinia Park since it provides enough space for their pets to run around as much as they want.
Ravinia Park is home to a collection of amenities, such as a trail system, Baseball/Softball Fields, Volleyball courts, and more.
There is a basketball court for basketball players, including beginners, with a playground that is wheelchair accessible.
Families can host an intimate and memorable picnic; just ensure to come with lots of snacks and drinks.
Address: 925 Ravinia Dr, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
17. Skull Island
Every history fanatic would love to explore this facility, especially those who enjoy seeing scary and unpleasant creatures.
Skull Island offers tourists a distinct adventure from the moment they set their feet here until they leave.
The facility is the home of ancient and rare creatures, which is why it is referred to as a living museum.
Here, you will be immersed in fascinating history and strange nature, well-preserved from the 1930s.
All the animals here are almost harmless. So, you could get close for a better view; along the line, you might have to listen to the snoring of King Kong when the sun goes down.
Address: 1 Great America Parkway, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
18. Lake Carina Forest Preserve
Every nature aficionado wouldn’t hesitate to include Lake Carina Forest Preserve on their Gurnee must-visit itinerary.
Lake Carina Forest Preserve is a beautiful nature preserve offering an overwhelming serenity and calmness.
That moment when you need to think and breathe in some fresh breeze while also sinking in the beauty of the environment, visit Lake Carina Forest Preserve.
The Lake is an excellent spot for those who enjoy casting lines and waiting to make a good catch.
Lake Carina Forest Preserve is open to everyone, including pets. Make sure you come along with your furry friend; it is worth it.
The Forest Preserve is perfect for picnicking, birdwatching, sightseeing, and hiking through the nice one-mile trail.
Many people who visit this place always appreciate its beauty, so they prefer sitting by the Lake and listening to the rhythmic sounds of the waters.
Address: 33919 IL-21, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
19. Gurnee Park District
The Gurnee Park District is an organization that ensures that the community of Gurnee doesn’t run out of excitement.
The district is committed to being the number one frontiersperson of community-based events and creative parks, including memorable experiences.
Their goal is to conserve nature and facilitate fun, which is achieved through several services and programs.
Gurnee Park District is known as an eclectic entertainment center that aspires to offer families and friends pleasure throughout the year.
The Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center is one of the major highlights of the Gurnee Park District, especially on summer days.
The aquatic center features a tube slide, body slide, and spray ground with open green spaces ideal for picnics.
Address: 4374 Old Grand Avenue, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
20. Viking Park West
If you’re looking for a place to chill and spend time, Viking Park West is a perfect choice.
Viking Park West features an expansive land space that offers great solitude and peace to its visitors.
The Park is available for any special occasion. Its tall trees form a nice cathedral shade.
This is a nice location for several community events, including sporting events and exciting family gatherings.
Viking Park West features a fully equipped playground for little kids, including soccer fields, basketball courts, and ice skating rink.
Visitors can also explore the nicely designed tennis courts, baseball diamonds, hiking paths, biking trails, and restrooms.
All fans of sports would love to visit this park, including those who wish to brush up their skills and those who want to sweat a little.
Address: 4374 Old Grand Avenue in Gurnee, IL, United States
21. Ceramics For You
A creative and innovative place that inspires visitors to unleash their artistic side in the city of Gurnee is Ceramics For You.
Ceramics For You guarantees visitors an exhilarating experience whether they’re lovers of art or not.
The moments you spend here are worth every kobo you will be obliged to pay; all you have to do is sit down and let the magic happen.
They provide everything you might need throughout your creation process, including offering tips and guidelines.
Ceramics For You has a party room for small private events, which can contain about 5 to 18 people.
The staff is nice and friendly; they are always available to offer assistance and answer all your questions.
Address: 6695 Grand Ave Ste D, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
22. Gowe Memorial Park
Gurnee is certainly home to several beautiful parks, and Gowe Memorial Park is one of them.
Gowe Memorial Park is perfect for a nice gateway, especially when you want to take a break from all the noise in the world.
The Park features a lot of green spaces, providing perfect spots for picnicking with loved ones.
There are several outdoor activities to do here, such as canoeing, kayaking, sightseeing, and many others.
Gowe Memorial Park offers a vast entry to the Des Plaines River Water Trail with an enormous parking space.
Address: 4621 McClure Ave, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
23. Kidzopolis
Kidzopolis can be found at Six Flags Great America. It is one of those attractions that offers tons of excitement.
You will be carried away by its energy and celebration vibes when you step into the facility.
The excitement, happy music, and colorful decorations will grab your attention as soon as you walk in.
Kidzopolis is inarguably called a magical world created for children. It is an amazing place for many families.
The food and snacks served here are delicious and satisfying, including their cotton candies and hot dogs.
The time you spend here cannot be forgotten, as Kidzopolis will offer you a chance to create great memories.
Address: 1 Great America Parkway, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States
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Plan Your Trip to Gurnee
Gurnee is one of those places that offers a little of everything. Children and adults have lots of options for them to pick from.
Your time in this village will undoubtedly be fun, thrilling, and memorable.