Things to do in Des Plaines

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Des Plaines
Photo by Erik Rowley
Photo by Erik Rowley
Photo by JG
Photo by JG
Photo by Erik Rowley
Photo by Erik Rowley
Photo by Erik Rowley
Photo by Erik Rowley

Des Plaines Attractions

It's not surprising that so many travelers keep coming back to Des Plaines every year. This captivating city is packed with wonderful things to do. Whether you're fond of visiting tourist attractions or having a go at more adventurous activities, you'll find it hard to be bored here.

Explore the sights of Des Plaines with some unique tours & day trips, or try out our list of {10 fun activities in Des Plaines fun activities in Des Plaines}. We have no booking fees and free cancellation, so you can rest easy and concentrate on planning the vacation of a lifetime.

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What to do in Des Plaines

Free Things to Do in Des Plaines

Taking a break in Des Plaines on a budget? The following can be experienced for zip.

Arndt Park - Let the kids have a good time or be a big kid again yourself — this attraction just screams fun.

Arndt Park - Prepare a picnic and enjoy a relaxing walk around the gorgeous plant life.

Things to Do in Des Plaines with Kids

There are loads of sensational experiences in Des Plaines that the whole gang will get a buzz out of. These are some of the most popular family friendly experiences in the area.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Des Plaines? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Des Plaines

Wrigley Field featuring cbd, a sporting event and a city

Wrigley Field

Tour the iconic grounds and catch a game March through September at Chicago’s beloved baseball stadium.

Wrigley Field
Magnificent Mile - River North showing night scenes, a city and signage

Michigan Avenue

You can enjoy some retail therapy when you visit Michigan Avenue, a popular shopping spot in Chicago. Amble around this vibrant area's riverfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Michigan Avenue
Navy Pier featuring a sunset and rides

Navy Pier

A Ferris wheel, shopping, restaurants and more can be found in this waterfront entertainment district.

Navy Pier
McCormick Place showing a high rise building and a city

McCormick Place

Attend an event at the United States’ largest convention center, which features hyper-modern facilities and huge exhibition spaces connected by promenades and sky bridges.

McCormick Place
Millennium Park featuring a city, modern architecture and fall colors

Millennium Park

A landmark gathering place for locals and visitors who come to admire the unique art, architecture and landscape.

Millennium Park
Soldier Field featuring a skyscraper, modern architecture and a city

Soldier Field

Events center, NFL stadium and historic landmark all in one, this waterfront field is one of Chicago’s most popular destinations.

Soldier Field
Grant Park showing a garden and night scenes

Grant Park

Chicago’s front yard is a pretty landscaped park, which is home to public art displays, museums, themed gardens and international music festivals.

Grant Park
Chicago Riverwalk which includes a city, a bay or harbor and a river or creek

Chicago Riverwalk

Stroll along the waterfront of the Chicago River to pass some of the city’s most appealing attractions and appreciate how a once grim area has been successfully revamped.

Chicago Riverwalk
Six Flags Great America featuring rides

Six Flags Great America

Spend a day at this sprawling theme park to enjoy an array of thrilling roller coaster rides, a water park and entertainment for kids of all ages.

Six Flags Great America

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Des Plaines

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Oakton

The restaurants and shopping are a few reasons travelers visit Oakton. Though there aren't many top sights in the neighborhood, you can visit Lake Park and Allstate Arena, a few notable attractions nearby.

Oakton
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Norma

Norma is well-liked for its restaurants and shopping. If you're hoping to see more of the larger area, Lake Park and Allstate Arena are some interesting sights nearby to check out.

Norma
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Des Plaines

Chicago which includes a city and a high rise building as well as a family

Chicago

Photo by Shoukath

Arlington Heights

Rosemont

Rosemont

Photo by Mark Lund

Elk Grove Village

Photo by Chasing Rainbows

Glenview

Photo by rinchindorj

Niles

Photo by Eula Bee

Mount Prospect

Photo by Tara Jabbari

Northbrook

Frequently asked questions

Is Des Plaines worth visiting?
Des Plaines has a unique blend of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or local culinary flavors, there's plenty you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Des Plaines?
Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District and Pirates Cove Childrens Theme Park are two excellent places to kick-start your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and retail options in Des Plaines while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Des Plaines?
Rosemont Theatre is one of the top tourist attractions in Des Plaines and deserves a spot on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Des Plaines?
You can easily tour top sights like Rosemont Theatre, Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District and Rainbow Falls Waterpark with a three-day break in Des Plaines. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so linger longer and check out Chicago.
Is Des Plaines a walkable city?
If discovering on foot sounds like your type of getaway, Des Plaines is a perfect place to visit. Find leading sights, such as Allstate Arena, within walking distance of downtown. You can also enjoy a stroll through Norma, a hip neighborhood located about 2 miles from downtown.
What are some activities to do in Des Plaines with kids?
Planning what to do in Des Plaines with kids has never been easier. Whether you're getting away with little ones or teenagers, there are plenty of family-friendly sights to keep them busy here.

What to do in Des Plaines for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or fan of nature, there are plenty of things to do in Des Plaines for adults including Milwaukee Avenue and Chevy Chase Country Club.
Are there free things to do in Des Plaines?
One of the top ways to discover free things to do in Des Plaines is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on exciting neighborhoods, parks and other top attractions you can visit without getting your cash out. Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District is one spot that doesn't have an admission fee.