Things To Do
in Bourbonnais
Bourbonnais is a small village in northeastern Illinois, nestled along the I-57 corridor between Kankakee and Manteno. It blends rural charm with family-friendly amenities, including parks, open spaces, and a quaint downtown. The community hosts seasonal markets and events that showcase Midwest hospitality.
With easy road access to Chicago and surrounding nature parks, Bourbonnais serves as a convenient base for exploring the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the picturesque Bishop McNamara Catholic High School’s Athletic Fields, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or jog. With beautiful greenery and scenic views, it's the perfect spot to get your blood pumping. Grab a coffee from a local café to fuel your morning adventures.
Head over to the Bourbonnais Township Community Center to participate in some fun recreational activities or attend a community workshop. The interactive environment will allow you to meet locals and engage with the community. Wrap up the afternoon with a relaxing picnic at the nearby Bourbonnais Grove Park.
As the sun sets, visit one of the charming local restaurants for a delicious dinner featuring regional cuisine. Take a stroll through the well-lit streets to enjoy the warm evening atmosphere. Consider catching a local live music performance if available, adding the perfect end to an active day.
Begin your exploration at the Olde Towne Historic District, where you can admire well-preserved architecture and learn about the town's rich history. Take your time enjoying the quaint shops and perhaps pick up a historical guidebook. The locals are friendly and often share interesting tales of Bourbonnais’s past.
Visit the Kankakee County Museum to delve deeper into the history of the area, with exhibits showcasing local artifacts and stories. Don't miss the museum’s beautiful garden, which offers a peaceful retreat. Take a break for lunch at a nearby deli or café reflecting the town's history.
Spend your evening in the historic downtown area, sampling craft beers at a local brewery or enjoying outdoor dining. The ambiance is perfect for unwinding and reflecting on the day’s adventures. Take a casual stroll to enjoy the town's evening lights and a sense of community.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏠Rent for 1 bedroom apartment in city center | $900-1,300 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $50-80 |
| 💡Utilities (monthly) | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Small-town charm and friendly locals
- Easy access to Chicago and the Kankakee River area
- Budget-friendly with family-focused activities
- Strong community events and festivals
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Fewer high-end dining options within the village
- Public transit is limited; car is usually necessary
Places to Visit in Bourbonnais
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic railroad depot and nearby vintage storefronts provide authentic architectural textures for daytime and golden-hour shots.
Riverside vantage points with water, reeds, and wildlife; ideal for landscape and nature photography.
Prairie-woodland landscapes with seasonal colors, offering easy to moderate routes for scenic photography.
Elevated spots along the river for panoramic views and sunrise photography.
Food in Bourbonnais
Bourbonnais Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional favorite available at several diners and delis, typically featuring a seasoned roast beef sandwich served with au jus and optional peppers.
Must-Try!
Available at local Polish-influenced eateries or markets; fried or boiled dumplings filled with potato, cheese, or other fillings.
Slow-cooked pork or beef ribs with a tangy barbecue sauce, common at casual dining spots and bar-and-grill venues.
Crispy fried chicken dishes at family-owned diners and eateries, often served with sides like mashed potatoes and coleslaw.
Seasonal veggie dishes and salads highlighting produce from local farms at diners and cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with local produce, baked goods, and Often live music; great for fresh ingredients and a taste of the area.
Mobile options offering a range of cuisines during warm-weather events throughout the region.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly hello, hold doors for others, and show respect in residential areas.
Stand in line at stores and restaurants; keep a respectful distance in crowded public spaces.
Tipping is customary for service workers; modest cash tips are appreciated for small, local establishments.
Safety
Tipping in Bourbonnais
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, standard is 15-20% of the pre-tax bill; for takeout or delivery, tipping to reflect service is common but often lower.
Major credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash remains universally usable.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms possible. Plan outdoor activities for early mornings or evenings; stay hydrated and seek shade.
Colorful foliage and comfortable temperatures make it ideal for hiking and outdoor photography; farmers markets and harvest events ramp up.
Cold with regular snowfall possible; indoor activities and scenic snow scenes are common—dress warmly and be prepared for slick conditions.
Mild temperatures with rainy periods; blooming trees and wildlife viewing increase, making it great for nature photography and walks.
Bourbonnais at Night
Hiking in Bourbonnais
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and riverside trails offering scenic views and wildlife.
Easy to moderate loops through prairie and woodlands.
Wide prairie trails with wildflowers and occasional bison viewings; longer loops available.
Airports
How to reach Bourbonnais by plane.
Major international hub approximately 60-70 miles north; frequent domestic and international flights; good road connections.
Another major hub about 60 miles north; often shorter domestic flights and closer access for some travelers.
Local/general aviation airport near Bourbonnais; convenient for private pilots and charter flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-oriented community with schools and parks.
Commuters and service workers serving the day-to-day economy.
Quiet neighborhoods with services catering to retirees.
A growing community contributing to the cultural and culinary scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple in local schools and community programs; pick-up games and leagues are common.
Youth leagues and local parks host seasons in spring and summer.
High school football is a community event on weekends in fall.
Kankakee River provides recreational fishing and scenic banks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bourbonnais.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most diners offer meat-free options such as veggie burgers, salads, soups, and vegetable sides; ask about specific ingredients and gluten-free accommodations where needed.