The best things to do in McHenry County

Local movie theater chain showing new releases also features familiar concessions for purchase.

Celebrating 103 years, Cary Country Club is a public course with rolling hills, big vistas, and a spacious deck perfect for lunch, dinner, or a beverage. It’s an easy go-to when you want solid golf close to home, plus event space for gatherings.

From the Algonquin newsletter, September 10, 2026

If you want a gorgeous, impeccably maintained 18-hole course without leaving town, Crystal Lake Country Club delivers, pairing 100+ years of local tradition with multi-million-dollar capital improvements completed in 2024.

From the Crystal Lake newsletter, September 16, 2026

Freshly renovated in 2024, Crystal Lake Park District Nature Center is the go-to launch point for Veteran Acres hikes, with hands-on exhibits, monthly drop-in crafts, and the summertime Butterfly Habitat plus a see-through beehive that keeps kids and grownups equally curious.

From the Crystal Lake newsletter, September 23, 2026

Old Top Farm Golf Course is that low-key 9-hole gem tucked among trees in Crystal Lake, an easy hop for McHenry folks, public and daily fee with no tee time required, perfect when you want a quick loop that still makes you think. Friendly for new golfers, sneaky challenges for the rest.

From the Crystal Lake newsletter, October 21, 2026

Palace Bowl keeps it local with classic lanes, Bowl Party events, an on-site Grill, and events that make it an easy go-to when you want simple fun without the fuss. In Johnsburg, it feels like the neighborhood hangout your week actually needs.

From the Lake Geneva newsletter, September 10, 2026

Venerable drive-in movie theater for current films with a playground, picnic area & concessions.

Large-scale indoor trampoline center hosting open jump, fitness classes, dodgeball & parties.

Golf Club of Illinois rewards good shots with accuracy-testing fairways, water and sand that keep you on your toes. Friendly to all skill levels and perfect for a midweek reset, it’s the kind of round that makes your next backyard barbecue bragging rights feel earned.

From the Crystal Lake newsletter, August 28, 2026

Two themed 18-hole mini golf courses, 40 lighted tees and a colossal 60,000-square-foot putting green make Lippold Park Family Golf Center a no-brainer for weeknight fun. Settle neighborhood rivalries, tune your short game, then grab concessions and chill by the restored wetland trails.

From the Crystal Lake newsletter, October 7, 2026

Xtreme Wheels - Roller Skating & Family Fun Center keeps Crystal Lake gliding with all-ages sessions, throwback theme nights, and a legit concession stand for pizza and snacks. Bring the crew for birthdays or group outings, rent skates or blades, and rediscover your turn-around-the-rink swagger.

From the Crystal Lake newsletter, September 30, 2026