The best things to do in DuPage County

“When winter or work keeps you off the course, Clubhouse540 makes golf happen anyway with premium indoor golf, lessons, and low-key leagues right here in Naperville. It’s a no-excuses spot to dial in the driver, fix that wedge, and keep the group chat chirping.”

From the Naperville newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Green Valley Golf Range is the go-to in nearby Hanover Park with 80 lighted stations, 20 heated bays, an expansive grass area plus putting, chipping and a sand trap, and Toptracer to geek out on ball flight. Family-owned since 1969 with new balls every year, plus mini golf for the tag-alongs.”

From the Bartlett newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Renovated bowling alley opened in 1959 with billiards, arcade games, a snack shop & a sports bar.”

“Posh golf resort with luxe contemporary rooms, rooftop suites, fine dining & a retro bowling alley.”

“Tivoli Bowl packs 12 classic wood lanes tucked beneath the Tivoli Theatre, plus the Underground Lounge with arcade games, billiards, and TVs with theater seating.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Opened in 1928 and renovated, Classic Cinemas Tivoli Theatre keeps Downers Grove movie nights interesting with new releases, beloved classics, and fun special events. It’s the rare hometown screen where the room feels grand, the popcorn disappears fast, and meeting up with friends just makes sense.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, October 8, 2026

“Run by the Westmont Park District, Twin Lakes Golf Club keeps things simple with online tee times and leagues that make it easy to sneak in a round without overthinking it. No fuss, just a dependable place to swing it out close to home.”

From the Bolingbrook newsletter, October 8, 2026

“Fox Bowl has been serving the western suburbs for more than 25 years with classic lanes, Cosmic Bowling, leagues for all abilities and a pro shop to tune your gear. Grab a pie and a pint at Stella’s Pizza & Pub, book a party, then pretend that 7-10 split never happened.”

From the Wheaton newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Built in the 1920s, Glen Art Theatre keeps it charming while mixing first-run hits with indie gems locals actually want to see. Reserved seating with lobby kiosks makes it easy, enhanced cleaning keeps it comfy, and yes, there’s beer and wine for the perfect low-key night.”

From the Lombard newsletter, September 25, 2026

“Whether you’re sneaking in an after-work loop or introducing a friend to the game, Lombard Golf Course is the Lombard Park District’s 9-hole, par 35, 3,051-yard layout with tranquil, well-maintained, gently sloping greens, plus sand and water to keep you honest, and a clubhouse concession and limited pro shop.”

From the Lombard newsletter, October 1, 2026

“Retro-inspired bowling alley and entertainment center featuring blacklight lanes, an arcade, a restaurant, and a bar.”

“For a no-fuss local golf fix, Links and Tees Golf Club packs a 9-hole course, outdoor range, an indoor golf dome for bad-weather reps, and Putter’s Peak mini golf. Add lessons and easygoing clubhouse rentals, and you’ve got a spot that works for the whole crew.”

From the Addison newsletter, September 18, 2026

“If you need a quick jolt of speed without the road salt, K1 Speed Addison runs all-electric karts on two indoor tracks that actually feel fast. Between heats, refuel at the Paddock Lounge and settle grudges in the arcade with billiards, air hockey, and modern games.”

From the Glen Ellyn newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Grass driving range and a 9-hole golf course that's suitable for beginners and families.”

“Bowling alley chain featuring arcade games & snacks; some locations offer laser tag.”

“With 84 lanes, four lounges, live music, games, plenty of TVs for sports, and a legit diner, Stardust Bowl nails everything from league nights to last-minute friend hangs. Easy place to bowl a couple, grab fries, and pretend that gutter ball never happened.”

From the Lombard newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Five acres of native wildlife, friendly domestic animals, ponds, and a charming barn make Cosley Zoo the easiest way to feel outdoorsy without leaving town. Stroll the natural habitats, let the kids lead, and call it a win for everyone's sanity this week.”

From the Wheaton newsletter, October 6, 2026

“DuPage Event Center & Fairgrounds is where the community shows up. Expect train and toy shows, craft and quilt fairs, festivals and markets, plus the beloved DuPage County Fair. It’s a dependable spot for low-key fun and the kind of weekend surprise you didn’t know you needed.”

From the Wheaton newsletter, September 25, 2026

“If you want a legit test without a country club vibe, Village Links of Glen Ellyn pairs a championship 18 with a friendly 9, plus a large range and practice areas. Leagues, junior programs, and Reserve 22 for the post-round bite, at a course that’s hosted 48 PGA Tour and USGA events.”

From the Addison newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Skip the highway and make a sunny afternoon of it at Cypress Cove Family Aquatic Park, with Mud Bug Beach’s sand, kid-loved spray-ground areas, a body slide, and mischievous squirt guns. Refuel at Swamp Shack Cafe or Snapper’s Snack Shack, then let the crew burn off the last wiggles.”

From the Bolingbrook newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Glen Oak Country Club delivers classic, tree-lined fairways with fast, rolling greens plus a sleek Aquatic Center, a veranda for outdoor dining, and resort-style fire pits. If you’re a member or eyeing it, this week is perfect for golf, family time, and low-key hangouts.”

From the Lombard newsletter, October 7, 2026

“Glendale Lakes Golf Club is a Dick Nugent designed 18-hole public course owned by the Village of Glendale Heights, with hazards that keep things interesting, plus vibes from Spring Fling, Turkey Shoot and the Glendale Heights Charity Golf Classic. Need a spot to celebrate?”

From the Glendale Heights newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Arrowhead Golf Club is a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, so the course feels more nature walk than grind. Book a tee time, then stick around for the restaurant’s monthly trivia and live music or the Sept 21 to Oct 4 Oktoberfest menu... a solid Wheaton one-two.”

From the Wheaton newsletter, September 21, 2026

“If a wedding or big celebration is on deck, Abbington Distinctive Banquets brings Glen Ellyn elegance with 20,000 square feet of banquet space, a 15,000-square-foot ballroom, and a grand 5,500-square-foot foyer, all backed by family-run service since 2002. Peek at their virtual tour and start plotting this week.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Trade screen time for waterfalls at Lost Mountain Adventure Golf, a course built around a three-tiered waterfall that rises 22 feet and throws you at holes like Leap of Faith, Where Eagles Dare, and Triple Threat. Fresh air, goofy bragging rights, big summer vibes... perfect for a quick Tinley Park reset.”

From the Tinley Park newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Slides that actually zip, a giant water playground for the kids, a sandy chill zone and a real lap pool for those who pretend they’re training for the Olympics... Turtle Splash Water Park is your easy, low-stress way to cool off this week without overthinking plans.”

From the Arlington Heights newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Perfect for when the backyard hose just isn't cutting it, Splash Island Outdoor Pool - Oak Brook Park District is an outdoor aquatic playground at Swim Central where all ages can chill, play, and soak up summer together. Easy choice for quick family fun without leaving the neighborhood.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Chasers Laser Tag keeps the competitive vibes high with multi-level arenas, classic Space Marines for kids 6+ and tactical sessions for 11+ that feel pretty legit. Add an arcade that pays out e-tickets, plus party-ready extras like Bubble Soccer and a gamer lounge, and you’ve got easy local fun.”

From the Naperville newsletter, September 25, 2026

“Dial in the driver at The Preserve at Oak Meadows, an 18-hole public track with a practice range, then reward yourself at the midcentury modern clubhouse’s Greenway Table & Tap, where indoor and outdoor seating deliver views of the course and prime post-round bragging rights.”

From the Elmhurst newsletter, October 3, 2026

“Need an easy win with the fam or friends? Astro Fun World delivers indoor glow-in-the-dark mini golf plus go karts, laser tag, and a ropes course with a zip line in nearby Aurora. A quick, low-effort outing that burns energy and fuels bragging rights.”

From the Aurora newsletter, October 3, 2026

“Founded in 1963 and still the Western Suburbs’ family go-to, Cress Creek Country Club pairs a Ron Prichard designed championship course with member dining full of club favorites, weekly specials, and seasonal dishes, plus tennis and pickleball programs for all ages, so your crew can play, eat, repeat in Naperville.”

From the Naperville newsletter, October 3, 2026

“Golfzon Social - Oak Brook IL is the local move when you want world-class simulators, 240-plus courses, and a legit hang. Grab a bay with friends, catch the game, or join leagues and lessons, then settle into elevated bar food and a full pour.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Apple Orchard Golf Course is a nine-hole, par-3 walking track that keeps things fun and fast, perfect when you want real swings without sacrificing your Saturday.”

From the Bartlett newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Golf club, event venue and restaurant featuring 36 holes and a driving range, plus a locker room.”

“Prairie-themed putts, playful obstacles, and just enough challenge keep rounds breezy at Clocktower Mini Golf & Skate Park, then cruise the skate park to keep the fun going. Call dibs on this week’s bragging rights with a quick game or a few laps.”

From the Wheaton newsletter, September 29, 2026

“Take a midweek swing at Springbrook Golf Course, renovated with new tees and bunkers on its 18-hole championship layout, plus a 28-stall natural turf range and a short game practice green. Play, practice, then linger at the casual grill patio pretending that punch-out was totally on purpose.”

From the Naperville newsletter, October 6, 2026

“Main Event Warrenville solves the 'what now' rut with professional-level bowling, state-of-the-art laser tag, and an arcade packed with over 100 classic and modern games. Refuel with pizza, wings, and great burgers, maybe a cocktail, while the crew keeps the friendly trash talk going.”

From the Bolingbrook newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Shaded greens, bubbling waterfalls, and 18 playful holes make Putter's Peak Miniature Golf the low stress, bragging rights spot for friendly rivalries. Perfect for quick after-dinner rounds, family birthdays, or corralling the neighborhood crew when you need screen-free fun close to home.”

From the Addison newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Coyote Crossing Mini Golf is a professionally designed, park-district mini links with a picnic pavilion and snack stand, plus simple options for birthdays and group outings. Grab a putter, squeeze in some friendly competition, and call it a quick reset that’s close to home.”

From the Bartlett newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Holes & Knolls Miniature Golf Course has two 18-hole park courses, so play 18 or go for 36 if bragging rights are on the line. It’s a seasonal, all-ages way to get outside, perfect for low-stress hangs and a little friendly smack talk.”

From the Wheaton newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Belmont Golf Club sits on the Chicago Golf Club’s first site where Charles Blair Macdonald built nine holes in 1892 then expanded to America’s first 18 in 1893. Today it’s a scenic 9-hole par 36 with mature trees, water and elevation plus a 24-station range to tune up the swing this week.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, September 30, 2026

“If you haven’t climbed the 253 steps at Millennium Carillon yet, consider this your nudge. The 16-story tower on the Riverwalk’s Rotary Hill packs a 72-bell instrument and, on a clear day, Chicago skyline views, plus guided tours and an observation deck when you’d rather ride than stride.”

From the Naperville newsletter, September 22, 2026

“From drop and flume slides to a splash playground, zero depth and vortex pools, and even a sand play zone for the beach vibes, Sea Lion Aquatic Park is the easy win this week for burning kid energy while you refuel at Sammy's Snack Shack with cool drinks and sweet treats.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Seven Bridges Golf Club has been serving up public-access, legendary golf since 1991 with those sweeping views you never get tired of. Sneak in a tee time this week, then hit The Dock Bar & Grill to relive the round and plot a comeback.”

From the Naperville newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Bowlero Roselle is the local go-to when you want state-of-the-art lanes, an action-packed arcade, and indoor mini golf without trekking far from Bartlett. Grab a lane, let the kids chase tickets, then refuel with chef-inspired bites while you plot the rematch.”

From the Schaumburg newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Wonder Woods Mini Golf turns tree science into play with a nine-hole course designed with help from Arboretum scientists, featuring giant mushrooms, oversized bugs and acorns, and clever holes that reveal tree rings and forest ecosystems.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Cantigny Golf delivers three distinct nines (Woodside, Lakeside, Hillside), a renovated Lakeside Nine and clubhouse with expanded event space and stellar views, and even a museum and gardens open to the public. It’s a Golf Digest Top 35 Course in Illinois, so your weekend round feels a little fancier.”

From the Bolingbrook newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Upscale entertainment destination with bowling, craft food & cocktails, plus lively arcades.”

“Village Greens of Woodridge is now managed by KemperSports, which means dialed-in conditions and genuinely helpful staff. Warm up on the driving range, book a lesson or join a league, then refuel at Bunkers Grill Room. A solid home base for your weekly golf fix.”

From the Naperville newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Naperville Country Club pairs an award-winning 18-hole championship course with a lively Pump Room, the quieter Grille on the Greene, and elegant banquet spaces for weddings and big milestones.”

From the Naperville newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“Puttshack - Oakbrook turns mini golf into friendly chaos with automatic scoring and interactive challenges, then reels you in with chef-driven bites and handcrafted cocktails. Perfect when your Elmhurst crew wants something lively, competitive, and indoors without anyone arguing over the scorecard.”

From the Elmhurst newsletter, October 6, 2026