The best things to do in Gurnee

“Warmly decorated suites in a down-to-earth hotel offering a water park, restaurants & a bar.”

“18-hole public golf course featuring a golf shop, practice facilities & a bar & grill.”

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

“Greenshire Golf Course is a well-maintained, par-27, 9-hole track with holes from 100 to 210 yards and a total 1,265 yards, so you can get a legit round in under 90 minutes. A Waukegan Park District spot, it’s perfect for sharpening wedges or getting juniors and returning players hooked.”

From the Waukegan newsletter, August 4, 2026

“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

“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

“Whether your kids need to burn off energy or you’re overdue for some high-flying cardio, Launch Family Entertainment in Gurnee packs wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball, a ninja course, battle pit, hoops, bowling and an arcade.”

From the Waukegan newsletter, August 14, 2026

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

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

“Harborside International Golf Center packs the Port and Starboard 18-hole courses plus an award-winning practice facility, so you can chase birdies or just fix that fade. Chicago’s home for golf since 1995, with The Pier at Harborside to debrief after, and Starboard on Golfweek’s 2025 Best list.”

From the Hammond newsletter, August 18, 2026

“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

“Set above the streets, The 606 centers on the elevated Bloomingdale Trail linking four neighborhood parks and art installations, turning runs, rides, and strolls into a mini urban adventure. If this week needs fresh air and perspective, this is your no-fuss reset.”

From the Chicago newsletter, August 26, 2026

“When the kids are climbing the walls, steer them toward FunFlatables - Gurnee. Giant indoor slides, obstacle courses, and soft, bouncy everything where they can jump, climb, and soar year-round. Open play, birthday parties, and field trips, all in a clean, friendly, truly fun setup.”

From the Waukegan newsletter, August 10, 2026

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

“Skip the weather roulette and take a quick win at AJ's Putt 'N' Play, an 18 hole indoor course with quirky themed holes plus a legit arcade for extra bragging rights. Solid pick for friend hangs or kid energy dumps, and yes, they host parties too.”

From the Waukegan newsletter, August 21, 2026

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

“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

“Country club with a challenging golf course, pool, and dining, plus facilities for weddings.”

“Scenic, challenging course owned by the Village of Gurnee with wetlands and wildlife, and a driving range.”

“This recreational center has indoor glow-in-the-dark mini-golf, an arcade, food court & party rooms.”

“Well-maintained course, featuring challenging greens and a restaurant.”

“SplashZone at Corrine J. Rose Park is the Waukegan Park District’s state-of-the-art water park where kids go full goggle mode and grownups get a well-earned breather. It’s open for the 2026 season, so pencil in an afternoon cool-down and call it quality summer parenting.”

From the Waukegan newsletter, August 17, 2026

“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

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

“Keep it local this week at Columbus Park Golf Course, a links style par 35 on the near West Side with wide open fairways, receptive greens, and a chill pace that suits both rusty swings and brag ready birdies. Expect a fun mix of par 3s to par 5s without the scene.”

From the Chicago newsletter, August 20, 2026