The best things to do in Downers Grove

18 things to do we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Entertainment · 18 places · showing the latest additions first

Golf course with a country club hosting banquets and other events, plus scenic views.

10522 S California Ave (Chicago)

Golf course with a country club hosting banquets and other events, plus scenic views.

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Spacious ballroom and foyer for weddings and other special events.

3S002 Route 53 Corner of Route 53 and, Butterfield Rd (Glen Ellyn)

Spacious ballroom and foyer for weddings and other special events.

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Whether you’re chasing a quick after work loop or dialing in your irons on grass, Marquette Park Golf Course delivers a scenic, par 36, 9…

6700 S Kedzie Ave (Chicago)

Whether you’re chasing a quick after work loop or dialing in your irons on grass, Marquette Park Golf Course delivers a scenic, par 36, 9 hole test with spacious fairways, strategic water, and a full size grass driving range and practice center. Join league play, groove a swing, let Southwest Side vibes do the rest.

From the Chicago newsletter, August 4, 2026

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With lake views, covered heated mats, two slick synthetic putting greens, and a newly refreshed 18-hole mini course full of playful…

141 W Diversey Pkwy (Chicago)

With lake views, covered heated mats, two slick synthetic putting greens, and a newly refreshed 18-hole mini course full of playful hazards, Diversey Driving Range & Mini Golf is perfect for an after-work bucket this week or a casual putt-off with friends. Lessons are there if you want a tune-up.

From the Chicago newsletter, August 7, 2026

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This vintage postcard-inspired mural near the elevated tracks incorporates iconic local images.

2226 N Milwaukee Ave (Chicago)

This vintage postcard-inspired mural near the elevated tracks incorporates iconic local images.

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Neighborhood golf site featuring a short, 18-hole course with scenic, tranquil surrounds.

6100 N Central Ave (Chicago)

Neighborhood golf site featuring a short, 18-hole course with scenic, tranquil surrounds.

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Golf center featuring 2 18-hole courses & practice facilities, plus a clubhouse with a restaurant.

11001 S Doty Ave (Chicago)

Golf center featuring 2 18-hole courses & practice facilities, plus a clubhouse with a restaurant.

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South Shore Golf Course recently reopened after a bunker refresh, and those shoreline views still deliver major calm. Perfect for a quick,…

7059 S South Shore Dr (Chicago)

South Shore Golf Course recently reopened after a bunker refresh, and those shoreline views still deliver major calm. Perfect for a quick, low-stress round that feels like a mini escape from Gary traffic, plus they host events when you want golf energy without the swing.

From the Gary newsletter, August 14, 2026

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The 606

Entertainment

Created on a former rail line, this elevated, 2.7 mile landscaped trail draws runners & bikers.

1805 N Ridgeway Ave (Chicago)

7 mile landscaped trail draws runners & bikers.

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Movie theater screening new releases as well as independent, foreign & avant-garde flicks.

2828 N Clark St (Chicago)

Movie theater screening new releases as well as independent, foreign & avant-garde flicks.

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Golf course at Jackson Park offering 18 holes of play, a driving range & lessons.

6401 S Richards Dr (Chicago)

Golf course at Jackson Park offering 18 holes of play, a driving range & lessons.

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Work on that draw without leaving the city at Indian Boundary Golf Course, an 18-hole championship track woven through Schiller Woods with…

8600 W Forest Preserve Ave (Chicago)

Work on that draw without leaving the city at Indian Boundary Golf Course, an 18-hole championship track woven through Schiller Woods with surprising quiet and wildlife. Sneak in a quick nine, join a league, or book a lesson and actually stick that new grip this week.

From the Chicago newsletter, August 15, 2026

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Park-based outdoor mini-golf course with seasonal 18- or 36-hole play for all ages.

845 Pershing Ave Unit 1 (Glen Ellyn)

Park-based outdoor mini-golf course with seasonal 18- or 36-hole play for all ages.

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Belmont Golf Club

Entertainment

Established in 1892, this scenic course has mature trees and water hazards, as well as a driving range.

2420 Haddow Ave

Established in 1892, this scenic course has mature trees and water hazards, as well as a driving range.

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Outdoor water park with slides, splash pads and sandpits, plus a concession stand.

1825 Short St (Lisle)

Outdoor water park with slides, splash pads and sandpits, plus a concession stand.

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The Logan Theatre

Entertainment

Built in 1915 with vintage charm and a full bar, The Logan Theatre is a perfect this-week pick with late-night screenings, movie trivia,…

2646 N Milwaukee Ave (Chicago)

Built in 1915 with vintage charm and a full bar, The Logan Theatre is a perfect this-week pick with late-night screenings, movie trivia, and open mic comedy. Grab a cocktail, soak up the old-school ambiance, and remember why going to the movies still hits different.

From the Chicago newsletter, August 12, 2026

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Public scenic 9-hole course on the shores of Lake Michigan, offering rental carts & equipment.

3701 N Recreation Dr (Chicago)

Public scenic 9-hole course on the shores of Lake Michigan, offering rental carts & equipment.

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Public golf course offering a mix of par-3s to par-5s in a relaxed setting.

5701 W Jackson Blvd (Chicago)

Public golf course offering a mix of par-3s to par-5s in a relaxed setting.

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