The best things to do in Wheaton

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

Browse another shelf: all of Wheaton’s best · Restaurants · Beauty · Shopping · Nightlife · Bakeries & Sweets · Antiques, Thrift, & Vintage · Parks & Outdoors · Health & Wellness · Hobbies, Books, & Crafts · Arts & Culture · Home & Garden · Pets · Cafes · Services

Pinned in Wheaton today

This spot is open today.

Two pinned places a day in Wheaton — $10 here, $25 adds the newsletter. List your business →

Paid placements are always marked.

Entertainment · 31 places · showing the latest additions first

Fox Bowl

Entertainment

Fox Bowl has been serving the western suburbs for more than 25 years with classic lanes, Cosmic Bowling, leagues for all abilities and a…

1101 Butterfield Rd

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

Website ↗

Glen Art Theatre

Entertainment

Built in the 1920s, Glen Art Theatre keeps it charming while mixing first-run hits with indie gems locals actually want to see. Reserved…

540 Crescent Blvd (Glen Ellyn)

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.

Website ↗

Lombard Golf Course

Entertainment

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…

2400 Butterfield Rd (Lombard)

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 Glen Ellyn newsletter, September 10, 2026

Website ↗

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

558 E North Ave. (Glendale Heights)

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

Website ↗
Run a Wheaton business? Two pinned spots a day — $10 here, $25 adds the newsletter. Advertise →

Cosley Zoo

Entertainment

Five acres of native wildlife, friendly domestic animals, ponds, and a charming barn make Cosley Zoo the easiest way to feel outdoorsy…

1356 N Gary Ave

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, August 30, 2026

Website ↗

DuPage Event Center & Fairgrounds is where the community shows up. Expect train and toy shows, craft and quilt fairs, festivals and…

2015 Manchester Rd

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.

Website ↗

Ridge Country Club is one of the only private country clubs in the city, bringing classic Beverly charm with a well-maintained course,…

10522 S California Ave (Chicago)

Ridge Country Club is one of the only private country clubs in the city, bringing classic Beverly charm with a well-maintained course, relaxed dining, and social spots. If you're weighing membership or planning a banquet-worthy event, the family-friendly vibe and scenic greens make it an easy yes. Check it out.

From the Chicago newsletter, September 17, 2026

Website ↗

Glen Oak Country Club delivers classic, tree-lined fairways with fast, rolling greens plus a sleek Aquatic Center, a veranda for outdoor…

21W451 Hill Ave (Glen Ellyn)

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, August 26, 2026

Website ↗

Glendale Lakes Golf Club is a Dick Nugent designed 18-hole public course owned by the Village of Glendale Heights, with hazards that keep…

1550 President St (Glendale Heights)

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

Website ↗

Arrowhead Golf Club

Entertainment

Arrowhead Golf Club is a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, so the course feels more nature walk than grind. Book a tee time, then…

26W151 Butterfield Rd

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

Website ↗

If a wedding or big celebration is on deck, Abbington Distinctive Banquets brings Glen Ellyn elegance with 20,000 square feet of banquet…

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

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

Website ↗

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

Website ↗

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

Website ↗

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.

Website ↗

Edgebrook Golf Course winds through Chicago’s forest preserves along the Chicago River, a short 18-hole track with mature trees and low-key…

6100 N Central Ave (Chicago)

Edgebrook Golf Course winds through Chicago’s forest preserves along the Chicago River, a short 18-hole track with mature trees and low-key vibes that make quick rounds feel like mini getaways for your swing. Perfect when you want neighborhood golf without sacrificing your Saturday.

From the Chicago newsletter, September 23, 2026

Website ↗

Harborside International Golf Center packs the Port and Starboard 18-hole courses plus an award-winning practice facility, so you can chase…

11001 S Doty Ave (Chicago)

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

Website ↗

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

Website ↗

The 606

Entertainment

Set above the streets, The 606 centers on the elevated Bloomingdale Trail linking four neighborhood parks and art installations, turning…

1805 N Ridgeway Ave (Chicago)

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

Website ↗

Prairie-themed putts, playful obstacles, and just enough challenge keep rounds breezy at Clocktower Mini Golf & Skate Park, then cruise the…

Naperville Rd &, E Liberty Dr

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 Aurora newsletter, August 12, 2026

Website ↗

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.

Website ↗

Coyote Crossing Mini Golf is a professionally designed, park-district mini links with a picnic pavilion and snack stand, plus simple…

27W650 North Ave (West Chicago) · ✓ checked Aug 6

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

Website ↗

If your Crystal Lake routine needs a shake-up, Jackson Park Golf Course delivers a historic, fully renovated 18 holes with mature trees…

6401 S Richards Dr (Chicago)

If your Crystal Lake routine needs a shake-up, Jackson Park Golf Course delivers a historic, fully renovated 18 holes with mature trees guarding fairways, a lakefront breeze, a driving range to tune up, and lessons when the slice gets sassy. Feels classic, plays legit.

From the Crystal Lake newsletter, September 6, 2026

Website ↗

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

Website ↗

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…

845 Pershing Ave Unit 1 (Glen Ellyn)

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

Website ↗

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

Website ↗

Sydney R. Marovitz Golf Course is a public, scenic 9-hole track right along Lake Michigan, perfect when you want real views and a quick…

3701 N Recreation Dr (Chicago)

Sydney R. Marovitz Golf Course is a public, scenic 9-hole track right along Lake Michigan, perfect when you want real views and a quick loop. Open year-round, weather permitting, with rental carts and gear, plus leagues and lessons if you’re trying to tighten up that mid-iron tempo.

From the DeKalb newsletter, September 2, 2026

Website ↗

City Mini Golf

Entertainment

City Mini Golf sits in Maggie Daley Park and leans into Chicago flair with new themed obstacles added almost every season, including a…

337 E Randolph St (Chicago)

City Mini Golf sits in Maggie Daley Park and leans into Chicago flair with new themed obstacles added almost every season, including a Portillo's hot dog finish on 18. A low-stress hang when you want a killer backdrop and a little friendly trash talk with friends.

From the DeKalb newsletter, September 10, 2026

Website ↗

Wonder Woods Mini Golf turns tree science into play with a nine-hole course designed with help from Arboretum scientists, featuring giant…

4100 IL-53 (Lisle)

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

Website ↗

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,…

5701 W Jackson Blvd (Chicago)

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

Website ↗

Cantigny Golf

Entertainment

Cantigny Golf delivers three distinct nines (Woodside, Lakeside, Hillside), a renovated Lakeside Nine and clubhouse with expanded event…

27W270 Mack Rd

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

Website ↗

Listed here?

You’ve earned the mark — get the BaseLocal’s Best badge for your site →. Want in? List your business →