DeKalb

Day Trips

Start your day with a visit to the DeKalb Farmer's Market, where you can enjoy fresh produce and local artisan goods. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a nearby café that offers hearty options and fresh coffee. Stroll through the market to soak up the vibrant atmosphere and interact with local vendors.

Visit the Mid-American Car Rental Museum, which showcases a remarkable collection of vintage and classic cars. Experience DeKalb's rich history with a tour of the Ellwood House Museum, giving you insight into the region's past. Enjoy lunch at one of the charming local diners known for their homemade comfort food.

As the sun sets, head to the historic downtown area for an evening filled with live music and arts. Enjoy dinner at a renowned restaurant that features a farm-to-table menu highlighting local ingredients. Wrap up your day with a leisurely walk through the park, where you can relax and reflect on the day's adventures.

Kick off your day with a refreshing hike at the nearby Kishwaukee River Forest Preserve. The morning air is perfect for enjoying the beauty of nature and spotting wildlife along the trails. Pack a light breakfast to enjoy in the serene surroundings as you take in the sights and sounds of the great outdoors.

Spend the afternoon at the DeKalb Sports and Recreation Center, engaging in various activities like swimming or playing basketball. Afterward, head to a local eatery for lunch and recharge with some of DeKalb's favorite dishes. If you're up for it, take a bike ride along the scenic trails available in the area.

Return to town to experience the buzz of a local festival or community event, often held in the summer and featuring food, art, and entertainment. Enjoy dinner at an outdoor patio restaurant, relishing the local flavors and atmosphere. End the night with a stroll along the downtown streets, where you can find unique shops and cozy cafés.

Start your day at the PORT place of the theater, an inviting space that often showcases local artistic talent. Engage in a workshop or spend time admiring the rotating art exhibitions that highlight community artists. Pair your visit with a light coffee from their café to energize your morning.

Explore the DeKalb History Center, which offers enriching exhibits on local heritage and culture. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a trendy spot that reflects the artistic vibe of the neighborhood. Visit local galleries to view and purchase art from talented DeKalb artists.

Attend a performance at the Egyptian Theatre, an iconic venue where you can witness live shows ranging from concerts to theatrical productions. Dine at a nearby restaurant famous for its creative cocktails and dishes. End your evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar, sharing stories about the arts scene in DeKalb.

Begin your day with a gourmet breakfast at a farm-to-table restaurant known for sourcing local ingredients. Enjoy a dish that showcases seasonal produce and is accompanied by aromatic coffee. Take your time to savor each bite and appreciate the culinary creativity.

Participate in a guided food tour that takes you through the various eateries and food producers in DeKalb, learning about the local food scene. Sample different flavors and specialties that highlight the area’s culinary diversity. Optionally, take part in a cooking class to learn new techniques from local chefs.

Savor a well-deserved dinner at a fine dining establishment offering an innovative menu that pairs well with local wines. Join fellow food enthusiasts to celebrate the innovative and robust flavors of DeKalb. Cap off the night at a dessert shop famous for its artisanal sweets and treats.

Kick off your day with a visit to the local petting zoo, where kids can interact with and feed various animals. Enjoy a fun breakfast picnic at the zoo, complete with snacks and drinks to keep everyone energized. The morning is filled with laughter and learning opportunities for the entire family.

After the zoo, head to a family-friendly amusement park for thrilling rides and games that all ages can enjoy. Grab lunch at one of the park's casual eateries, re-energizing for another round of fun. Take a break in the park's designated areas and enjoy some downtime with your family.

Conclude your family fun day with a movie night at the local cinema, featuring family favorite films. Enjoy a dinner at a kid-friendly restaurant that caters to all palates, making it easy for everyone to find something they love. Share highlights of the day as you unwind and prepare for the next day’s adventures.

Begin your day with a visit to the DeKalb County Courthouse, marveling at its architectural beauty and learning about its historical significance. Guided tours are often available, allowing you deeper insights into the region's past. Capture stunning photos and take in the stories shared by local historians.

Spend your afternoon at the historic Sycamore Parkway, where you can appreciate beautifully restored buildings that tell the story of the town’s heritage. Crossover for lunch at a nearby café that offers a nostalgic feel and hearty food. Continue your exploration by visiting the old Train Depot, which has been transformed into a small museum.

Attend a history-themed dinner event where local chefs prepare dishes inspired by the region's historical recipes. Engage with locals who share fascinating anecdotes about DeKalb’s past and present. Wind down with a leisurely evening stroll through the historic district as the day closes.

Start with an invigorating morning at the local tennis courts, where you can enjoy a few friendly matches. If tennis isn’t your game, try a guided morning yoga session in one of the parks. The refreshing morning air combined with physical activity sets an energetic tone for the day.

The afternoon can be dedicated to visiting the local bowling alley for some lighthearted competition, allowing everyone to unleash their inner bowler. Enjoy lunch at a nearby diner that serves classic American comfort food to refuel. Alternatively, you could also try mini-golf for a fun, family-friendly activity.

Wrap up your day with a community sports game, whether it be baseball or football, to cheer on local teams. Grab a casual dinner at a sports bar, celebrating the spirit of friendly competition. Reflect on the day's activities with new friends or family as you enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Get an early start by visiting the Shoppes at DeKalb, a popular spot filled with unique boutiques and shops offering local goods. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the trendy cafés within the center before diving into a shopping spree. The morning is perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind items and gifts.

Spend your afternoon exploring antique shops and art galleries located nearby, allowing you to find beautiful items and artwork that tell a story. Treat yourself to lunch at a charming eatery that emphasizes local artisans and seasonal dishes. Take the chance to interact with shop owners and artists to learn more about their products.

As evening approaches, enjoy casual dining at a local gastro pub featuring live music and a vibrant atmosphere. Engage with locals and visitors alike, sharing opinions on the best finds of the day. Conclude your shopping adventure with a relaxed evening walk through the downtown area, soaking in the charming street lights.

Depending on the season, start your day by participating in seasonal activities like apple picking in the fall or visiting a pumpkin patch. Enjoy a delicious breakfast featuring seasonal flavors to kickstart your day. Make the most of the morning while engaging in the festivities surrounding seasonal crops.

Experience seasonal festivals that DeKalb is known for, like summer fairs or holiday markets, where you can immerse yourself in local culture and traditions. Enjoy lunch from various food stalls offering ethnic and comfort foods that reflect the community's diversity. Participate in hands-on activities and games to keep the family entertained.

Attend a seasonal event in the evening, such as caroling in the winter or outdoor movies in the summer when the community gathers to enjoy and celebrate together. Finish off your day with a fulfilling dinner that embraces the flavors of the season. Share stories gathered from the day's adventures while admiring the beautiful seasonal décor.