by Outline of the Article
- Introduction
- Overview of DuPage County
- Why Visit DuPage County?
- Getting to DuPage County
- Transportation Options
- Navigating Within DuPage County
- Top Attractions in DuPage County
- Morton Arboretum
- Cantigny Park
- DuPage Children’s Museum
- Cultural and Historical Sites
- Naper Settlement
- Elmhurst Art Museum
- Mayslake Peabody Estate
- Exploring Parks and Outdoor Spaces
- Herrick Lake Forest Preserve
- Blackwell Forest Preserve
- Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve
- Family-Friendly Activities
- Brookfield Zoo
- Wheaton’s Cosley Zoo
- Safari Land
- Food and Dining
- Local Favorites
- International Cuisine
- Must-Try Restaurants
- Shopping in DuPage County
- Oakbrook Center
- Yorktown Center
- Local Markets and Boutiques
- Nightlife and Entertainment
- Live Music Venues
- Breweries and Bars
- Theatres and Performing Arts
- Seasonal Events and Festivals
- Naperville’s Ribfest
- Lisle’s Eyes to the Skies Festival
- Holiday Lights at Brookfield Zoo
- Sports and Fitness
- Golf Courses in DuPage
- Outdoor Fitness Trails
- Accommodations in DuPage County
- Luxury Stays
- Budget-Friendly Hotels
- Unique Lodging Options
- Day Trips From DuPage County
- Chicago
- Starved Rock State Park
- Geneva and St. Charles
- Local Tips for Visitors
- Best Times to Visit
- Navigating DuPage Like a Local
- Conclusion and FAQs
- Summary of the DuPage County Experience
- Frequently Asked Questions
The Ultimate Travel Guide to DuPage County, Illinois
Introduction
Located just west of Chicago, DuPage County offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and family-friendly attractions. Known for its picturesque parks, historical landmarks, and thriving dining scene, it’s the perfect destination for a day trip or an extended getaway.
Getting to DuPage County
Transportation Options
DuPage County is easily accessible from Chicago via I-88 and I-290. The Metra commuter train system connects major towns like Naperville, Wheaton, and Downers Grove to downtown Chicago.
Navigating Within DuPage County
Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the area. Local buses and bike-friendly trails offer alternative options for shorter trips.
Top Attractions in DuPage County
Morton Arboretum
A haven for nature lovers, the Morton Arboretum spans 1,700 acres of curated gardens, walking trails, and interactive exhibits like the Children’s Garden.
Cantigny Park
This sprawling estate features beautiful gardens, a military museum, and plenty of space for picnics and family activities.
DuPage Children’s Museum
Located in Naperville, this hands-on museum is perfect for younger visitors to explore science, art, and creativity.
Cultural and Historical Sites
Naper Settlement
Step back in time at this 12-acre living history museum showcasing 19th-century life in Illinois.
Elmhurst Art Museum
This contemporary museum is known for its unique exhibitions and connection to modern architecture.
Mayslake Peabody Estate
Explore this historic mansion and its surrounding grounds, which host art exhibits and events.
Exploring Parks and Outdoor Spaces
Herrick Lake Forest Preserve
A serene spot for hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking.
Blackwell Forest Preserve
Enjoy boating, camping, and scenic nature trails in this family-friendly preserve.
Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve
Famous for its trails and limestone waterfalls, it’s a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Family-Friendly Activities
Brookfield Zoo
Located just outside DuPage, this world-renowned zoo offers animal encounters and seasonal events.
Wheaton’s Cosley Zoo
Perfect for younger kids, this small zoo focuses on native Illinois wildlife.
Safari Land
This indoor amusement park in Villa Park features arcade games, rides, and activities for all ages.
Food and Dining
Local Favorites
Try classic Midwestern dishes at family-owned diners and cafes scattered throughout the county.
International Cuisine
DuPage County’s diverse population means you’ll find everything from authentic Mexican taquerias to Indian and Mediterranean restaurants.
Must-Try Restaurants
Check out Mesón Sabika in Naperville for Spanish tapas or enjoy farm-to-table dining at Prairie Path in Wheaton.
Shopping in DuPage County
Oakbrook Center
This upscale shopping mall features luxury brands, restaurants, and beautiful open-air walkways.
Yorktown Center
A family-friendly shopping destination with a mix of retail stores, entertainment, and dining.
Local Markets and Boutiques
Explore artisan goods, handmade crafts, and unique finds at local markets like the Wheaton French Market.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Live Music Venues
Catch performances at the Tivoli Theatre in Downers Grove or community events at Cantigny Park.
Breweries and Bars
Enjoy craft brews at Two Brothers Brewing Company or Alter Brewing in Downers Grove.
Theatres and Performing Arts
The McAninch Arts Center in Glen Ellyn hosts theater productions, concerts, and art exhibits year-round.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Naperville’s Ribfest
This summer festival features live music, family activities, and award-winning ribs.
Lisle’s Eyes to the Skies Festival
Celebrate the Fourth of July with hot air balloons, fireworks, and carnival fun.
Holiday Lights at Brookfield Zoo
A magical winter event with twinkling lights, carolers, and holiday-themed animal exhibits.
Sports and Fitness
Golf Courses in DuPage
Play a round at the Arrowhead Golf Club or Cantigny Golf, both offering scenic fairways and challenging holes.
Outdoor Fitness Trails
DuPage County’s forest preserves feature miles of trails for running, biking, and walking.
Accommodations in DuPage County
Luxury Stays
Enjoy upscale amenities at the Hotel Arista in Naperville or the Drake Oak Brook Hotel.
Budget-Friendly Hotels
Affordable options include popular chains like Hampton Inn and Holiday Inn Express.
Unique Lodging Options
Stay at a historic inn or rent a lakeside cabin for a more personal experience.
Day Trips From DuPage County
Chicago
Just a short drive or train ride away, Chicago offers endless attractions, from Millennium Park to the Art Institute.
Starved Rock State Park
Explore waterfalls, canyons, and hiking trails at this natural wonder located about an hour from DuPage.
Geneva and St. Charles
Charming river towns known for their boutique shopping, local wineries, and scenic Fox River views.
Local Tips for Visitors
Best Times to Visit
Spring and fall offer mild weather, blooming gardens, and vibrant festivals.
Navigating DuPage Like a Local
Take advantage of the Metra train system for hassle-free travel to Chicago and other nearby areas.
Conclusion
DuPage County is a destination that perfectly balances outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and family-friendly fun. From its lush parks to its historical landmarks and vibrant dining scene, this charming area offers an unforgettable getaway for travelers of all ages.
FAQs
- What’s the best time to visit DuPage County?
Spring and fall are ideal, with comfortable weather and seasonal events. - Is DuPage County family-friendly?
Yes, with attractions like Cantigny Park, Brookfield Zoo, and interactive museums, it’s perfect for families. - What’s the best way to get around DuPage County?
Renting a car is most convenient, but the Metra train system is great for commuting to and from Chicago. - Can I visit DuPage County in one day?
You can explore highlights in a day, but staying longer allows for a deeper experience. - What’s the top local dish to try?
DuPage County offers diverse dining, but don’t miss the deep-dish pizza and farm-to-table offerings.
