Things to do in Des Plaines

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
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What to do in Des Plaines

Popular places to visit

Wrigley Field featuring central business district, a city and a sporting event

Wrigley Field

Chicago’s world-renowned baseball ground, Wrigley Field is an iconic stadium where you can learn about the all-American sport and even catch a game.

Wrigley Field
Magnificent Mile - River North which includes a city, night scenes 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

Navy Pier

A waterfront entertainment strip with fun diversions for both young and old, with shops, restaurants and even a Ferris wheel.

Navy Pier
McCormick Place

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 showing modern architecture, autumn leaves and street scenes

Millennium Park

One of Chicago’s main focal points, where locals and visitors flock to see the striking art, architecture and landscape on show.

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

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

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 featuring a bay or harbor, a city 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 which includes 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

Areas of 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
Photo by Shoukath

Arlington Heights

Rosemont

Rosemont

Photo by Mark Lund

Elk Grove Village

Frequently asked questions

Is Des Plaines worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor pursuits, there are many interesting things to do in Des Plaines. Don't forget to enjoy the area's blend of awesome attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Des Plaines?
Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District and 390 Golf Experience are two great places to start your getaway adventures. Remember to explore the shopping and dining options in Des Plaines while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Des Plaines?
The top tourist attraction in Des Plaines is Rosemont Theatre, so make sure to put it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Des Plaines?
Three days will give you enough time to check out some popular city attractions, including Rosemont Theatre, Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District and Rainbow Falls Waterpark. The average stay in Des Plaines is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your break, Chicago isn't far away.
Is Des Plaines a walkable city?
If exploring on foot sounds like your kind of getaway, Des Plaines is a great place to visit. Find leading sights, like Allstate Arena, within walking distance of downtown. You can also go for a stroll around Norma, a vibrant neighborhood located about 3 kilometers from downtown.
What are some activities to do in Des Plaines with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a schedule filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Check out our recommendations for what to do in Des Plaines with kids.

What to do in Des Plaines for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Des Plaines, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Milwaukee Avenue or Chevy Chase Country Club.
Are there free things to do in Des Plaines?
One of the simplest ways to discover free things to do in Des Plaines is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on interesting neighborhoods, parks and other top attractions you can enjoy without reaching into your pocket. Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District is one sight that doesn't charge an entrance fee.