Best Things to do in Gurnee | Must-see attractions 2025

Six Flags Great America

10:00 AM–12:00 AM

Theme Park

1 Great America Pkwy (btwn Cedar Ave & Washington St)

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Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois features over 100 rides, including roller coasters and a 20-acre water park, attracting millions annually.

Duration: 5-7 hours.

Varies. General admission ranges from $40-$80 depending on season and purchase method.

Betty Russell Community Park

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

5300 Pinewood Rd

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Betty Russell Community Park in Gurnee offers multiple recreational facilities, trails, and a playground, providing a peaceful environment for locals and visitors alike.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some events may require registration or fees.

Serpent Safari

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Zoo

Grand ave and Gurnee Mills dr

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Serpent Safari in Gurnee, Illinois, showcases a diverse array of reptiles, offering educational experiences for animal enthusiasts of all ages.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Adults: $12, Children (3-12): $8. Discounts available for seniors and groups.

Forest View Park

Open 24 hours

Park

Forest View Dr (Heron)

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Forest View Park in Gurnee, Illinois features expansive green spaces, walking trails, and playgrounds, making it an ideal outdoor destination for families and nature lovers.

Duration: Around 1-2 hours.

Free. No ticket is required for entrance.

Ethel's Woods Forest Preserve

7:00 AM–sunset

Nature reserve

19330 Miller Rd.

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Ethel's Woods Forest Preserve spans 500 acres in Gurnee, Illinois, featuring diverse ecosystems, scenic walking trails, and a meandering creek for nature enthusiasts.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. No fees for general entrance.

Justice League

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Theme Park

Gurnee

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Justice League in Gurnee features interactive exhibits and attractions inspired by the DC Comics superhero team, featuring rides, games, and character encounters.

Duration: 3-5 hours.

Paid. Adult tickets are $45, children 3-12 are $30, under 3 free.

The Lobster

11:00 AM–10:00 PM

Theme Park

Gurnee

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The Lobster in Gurnee, IL, offers a unique dining experience with fresh seafood and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for families and seafood lovers.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free entry. Menu items priced individually.

Up, Up & Away

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Theme Park

Kidzopolis (Six Flags Great America)

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Up, Up & Away in Gurnee, USA is a family-friendly adventure park featuring colorful hot air balloons and a variety of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free entry, fees apply for hot air balloon rides.

Grand Music Hall

12:00 PM–10:00 PM

Theater

Hometown Square (Six Flags Great America)

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Grand Music Hall in Gurnee, Illinois, offers a vibrant array of live performances, connecting the community through music and entertainment.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

General admission: $20. Discounts for students and seniors available.

Gurnee Community Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

4555 Old Grand Ave

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Gurnee Community Church in Gurnee, IL, fosters spiritual growth and community engagement through diverse services and outreach programs.

Duration: 1.5 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required for services.

Village Church of Gurnee

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

1319 N Hunt Club Rd

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Village Church of Gurnee is a community-centered church with a rich history and modern facilities, offering various programs for all ages in Gurnee, Illinois.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations accepted during services and events.

Millburn Congregational Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

19073 W Grass Lake Rd (rt.45)

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Millburn Congregational Church in Gurnee, US, features traditional architecture and a welcoming community atmosphere, encouraging spiritual growth and service.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for special events.

Great Wolf Lodge

Indoor Water Park: 10:00 AM-9:00 PM

Theme Park

1700 Nations Dr

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Great Wolf Lodge in Gurnee is a casual hotel featuring a large indoor water park. It offers various water slides, pools, and fun activities for families.

approx. 3-5 hours

Varies on room type and day

Gurnee Mills

10:00 AM-9:00 PM

Mall

6170 W Grand Ave (Hunt Club Rd)

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Gurnee Mills is the largest outlet shopping mall in Illinois. It features over 200 stores, including big brands like Neiman Marcus Last Call and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH.

Duration: approx. 2-4 hours

Free

Jump America

10:00 AM-10:00 PM

Landmark

880 Lakeside Dr

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Jump America is a trampoline center in Gurnee, Illinois. It offers fun activities like jumping, fitness classes, and children's party services.

Duration: approx. 2 hours

$20

McDonald Woods Forest Preserve

6:00 AM-7:00 PM

Park

19611 W Grass Lake Rd

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McDonald Woods Forest Preserve is a nature area in Lake County, Illinois. It features scenic trails for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing amidst rolling green hills.

approx. 1-2 hours

free

BATMAN The Ride

10:00 AM-10:00 PM

Landmark

1 Great America Parkway

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BATMAN The Ride is a thrilling roller coaster in Gurnee, Illinois. Riders experience high-speed twists and turns while suspended beneath the track, providing a unique and exciting perspective.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

$59.99