Journey to Gurnee for a bunch of ways to have fun with the family.
Gurnee packs a punch for a village its size. It's got small-town warmth galore, and a whole lot of thrilling attractions too - and not just its famous theme park.
Because yes, although that park is amazing, there's more to this town than just roller coasters. Here you've got one of the Midwest's biggest shopping centres, you've got family-friendly escapades and adventure, you've got great bars and restaurants, and all around, you've got an amazing vacation destination.
So grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to discovery why this Illinois gem is worth a trip.
Gurnee Attractions
A playground full of playgrounds
Looking for something to do in Gurnee? You can scream your head off on Six Flags' coasters or make a splash at Hurricane Harbor. Rainy day? Launch's trampolines have you covered. Nature lovers can explore Lake County Forest Preserves' trails and scenic spots. Gurnee Mills is a 170-store playground for bargain hunters. For a high-flying twist, test your piloting skills at Extreme Flight Simulation.
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Six Flags Great America
Fun is serious business here. Buckle up for Maxx Force, the coaster that launches you to 78 mph in less than two seconds. Between rides, you can catch your breath at a live shows, or on the hot summer days, hit the water rides to cool off while keeping the fun going.
Six Flags Great America -
Gurnee Mills
Welcome to the shopping mothership. Gurnee Mills is one of the largest shopping malls in the Midwest, offering a shopping experience like no other. Comfy shoes will help with all the walking, but with 200+ stores, it's your wallet that could get a real workout.
Gurnee Mills -
Launch
Launch yourself into a world where gravity's less a law than a suggestion. There are wall-to-wall trampolines and foam pits, that'll get you bouncing off the walls (literally). Take the opportunity to challenge your crew to a game of aerial dodgeball, or just practice a few superhero-style flips.
Launch -
Extreme Flight Simulation
At Extreme Flight Simulation, your aviation fantasies take flight. Strap in and soar through virtual skies in a detailed replica of a 737 or F18 fighter jet - and don't worry, you don't need a pilot's licence. Just don't blame us if the car ride home feels a bit... grounded.
Extreme Flight Simulation -
Lake County Forest Preserves
Mother Nature's playground sprawls across 31,000 acres in Lake County. Hike, bike, or bird-watch your way through prairies, wetlands, and woodlands. Cast a line, spot local wildlife, visit a historic site, take in one of the year-round programs, or just soak in the scenery.
Lake County Forest Preserves
Great Gurnee Restaurants
After all that fun and excitement, you'll be wanting to refuel. So now it's your tastebuds' turn for fun on a rollercoaster of flavors. Here, you'll find all the classics, delivered in crowd-pleasing ways. Steak, pancakes, BBQ, and an authentic taste of Chicago deep-dish. And if you want to go on a culinary globe-trot, they've got you covered on that front, too.
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Stevens' Steakhouse
Stevens’ is a local Gurnee favorite for classic American steakhouse fare, and with very good reason. Its perfectly-cooked steaks are the stars of the show, but the fresh seafood is also a real winner, and you'll want to make sure you leave room for the sides.
Stevens' Steakhouse -
Big Ed's
Big Ed's BBQ brings a true taste of Southern barbecue to Gurnee. Obviously, you can't go past their meat, with delicacies like pulled pork and ribs slow-smoked in the pit with seasoned hickory wood. But they really take it to another level with signature sauces, soups, salads, and homemade desserts.
Big Ed's -
Giordano's
At this slice of Chicago, dive into the region's signature deep dish pizza, generously layered with cheese, toppings, and culinary history. Everyone who visits the greater Chicago area should give it a try, but hey, if you're just not in a pizza mood this time, they have other Italian classics too.
Giordano's -
Timothy O'Toole's
At Timothy O'Toole's, Irish charm meets Midwest appetite. The craic is mighty, the taps are flowing, and the food could fuel a small army, with classics like wings, and not-so-classics like 'Irish' nachos. Grab yourself a pint and settle in for the long haul, because this is a great place to unwind.
Timothy O'Toole's
Events and Festivals in Gurnee
Where family fun fills the calendar
Make the most of your visit with one of Gurnee's festivals and events, which pack the calendar with excitement each and every year. You can toast the summer at a craft beer fest, or sample the freshest local treats at a weekly farmers' market. When autumn falls, prepare to scream (with delight) at Halloween thrills. Winter? It's pure magic, with indoor snowfalls, and events that bring the whole community together. And when the warmer days roll back 'round, an annual summer bash delivers the region's best and brightest fireworks.
Fright Fest at Six Flags
Six Flags Great America always delivers thrills, but during Halloween season each year, Fright Fest takes those thrills to a spooky new level. If you're brave enough, dare yourself to enter the haunted houses and wander the scare zones, but keep your wits about you - there'll be a few surprises...
Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge
Each holiday season, Snowland turns Great Wolf Lodge into a winter wonderland, full of festive decorations, holiday-themed activities, and even snow falling indoors! It's guaranteed to fill you with holiday spirit, and if you're lucky, you might even meet jolly ol' Saint Nick himself.
Legions of Craft Beer Fest
Love trying new beers? The Legions of Craft Beer Fest is your paradise, bringing together local breweries, live music, a variety of food trucks, and, of course, legions of beer enthusiasts. Sample from more than 40 local brews in a laidback atmosphere which welcomes experts and casual fans alike.
Gurnee Days
Come to Viking Park each August for two days of family-friendly fun. You can tap your feet along to live music, treat your tastebuds at food stalls, stroll through a car show, and enjoy a parade. As the sun sets, find a comfy spot to watch one of the area's most spectacular fireworks displays.
Frosty Fest
Embrace the chill and warm your heart at this January Gurnee tradition. All the winter classics await you, from skating to s'mores, and snowball fights to sleigh rides. Grab a cup of steaming hot cocoa and enjoy live entertainment and holiday games, right before school kicks off for the new year.
Gurnee Farmers’ Market
From spring to fall, each Sunday you'll find the freshest local produce and unique handmade gifts at the Gurnee Farmers' Market. It's a great chance to get to know the local community, whether it's chatting to farmers about their latest harvest, or picking up tips from local artisans.