Glen Ellyn

Day Trips

Start your day with a stroll through downtown Glen Ellyn, visiting local cafés for a hearty breakfast. You can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while checking out unique shops and boutiques. Don’t miss a visit to the Glen Ellyn History Center to get a glimpse of the village's heritage.

Spend your afternoon at Lake Ellyn Park, where you can enjoy a picnic by the lake or rent a paddleboat for a fun time on the water. The park offers scenic walking paths that are perfect for a leisurely nature walk. Consider visiting the nearby Glen Ellyn Farmers Market to pick up some fresh local produce.

As the sun sets, head to one of Glen Ellyn's cozy restaurants for dinner, perhaps trying out some local specialties. After your meal, take a walk through the charming downtown area, illuminated by the soft glow of street lamps. Conclude your evening with a visit to the Village Theatre for a relaxing performance.

Kick off your day with a trip to the Morton Arboretum, where you can explore stunning landscapes and diverse plant collections. Enjoy breakfast at the arboretum café, and be sure to grab a map to navigate its extensive grounds. Don’t forget to check out the Children’s Garden for some interactive fun.

In the afternoon, delve deeper into the arboretum’s trails and exhibits, perhaps joining a guided tour to learn more about the local flora. Feel free to take your time, enjoying the tranquility of nature and discovering unique plant species. Stop by the gift shop to pick up souvenirs that celebrate the beauty of the region.

After a fulfilling day in nature, head back to Glen Ellyn for a relaxed evening. Try a local brewpub for dinner, where you can enjoy craft beers paired with delicious food. Consider winding down at the Glen Ellyn Cinema, catching the latest blockbuster or an indie film.

Start your day by visiting the Glen Ellyn Park District, which offers a variety of recreational activities for families. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby diner, and then make your way to the park to check out its playgrounds and sports facilities. If you're feeling adventurous, rent bikes for some outdoor fun.

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at the park, participating in structured activities or relaxing in the green spaces. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy under a gazebo or by a playground while the kids play. Visit the park’s nature center for educational programs tailored to all ages.

As the sun sets, gather for a family-friendly dinner at a local eatery that focuses on great pizzas and pastas. Afterward, enjoy an evening of bowling at a nearby bowling alley, a fun activity for the whole family. End your night with ice cream at a local shop as a sweet treat to cap off the day.

Begin your day by visiting the various art galleries and cultural centers in Glen Ellyn, starting with breakfast at a locally-owned café. Explore exhibits at places like the Glen Ellyn Cultural Arts Commission, where local artists display their work. Participate in a morning art class if one is offered.

In the afternoon, take a walking art tour around downtown, where you can appreciate street art and public installations. Stop for lunch at a bistro that features art from local artists on its walls, supporting the community. Visit the Glen Ellyn Public Library, known for its stunning architecture and extensive resources.

Wrap up your cultural exploration with dinner at a restaurant that hosts live music or art openings. Enjoy the ambiance as you're entertained by local talent while dining on delicious cuisine. After dinner, consider attending a play at a nearby theater, immersing yourself in the local performing arts scene.

Start your day with breakfast before making your way to the Willowbrook Wildlife Center, where you can learn about local wildlife rehabilitation efforts. Attend an educational talk or tour to see how injured animals are cared for and learn about native species. The crisp morning air adds to the excitement of seeing various animals up close.

Spend your afternoon exploring the surrounding nature trails of the wildlife center, where you can spot various bird species and other wildlife in their natural habitats. Enjoy a packed lunch at the picnic area while taking in the serene environment. Take a moment to appreciate the serenity of nature as you relax by the small pond.

For dinner, head back to Glen Ellyn and visit the local Italian restaurant for a warm and inviting meal. Afterward, consider taking an evening stroll in a nearby neighborhood to enjoy the peaceful ambiance. End your day with a visit to a local coffee shop for a warm drink and treats.

Get energized for the day with breakfast at a local diner before heading to the Glen Ellyn Sports Complex. Here, you can engage in various activities such as swimming or playing tennis. Join a morning fitness class to get your body moving and enjoy the company of other fitness enthusiasts.

Staying active, spend your afternoon participating in friendly games at the sports complex or use the walking trails for a scenic workout. After working up an appetite, enjoy a casual lunch at the complex’s café while unwinding after your physical activities. Take the opportunity to learn about upcoming sporting events or leagues to participate in.

For dinner, treat yourself to a seasonal menu at a nearby grill that specializes in fresh ingredients. Following your meal, catch a local high school sporting event, supporting community teams and cheering on the players. Wrap up the day with a nightcap at a local pub that features live sports broadcasts.

Start your morning with breakfast at a historical diner, enjoying classic dishes that reflect the area's past. Following breakfast, head to the Glen Ellyn History Center, where you can explore exhibits detailing the village's history. Take a guided tour to learn about significant milestones and stories from Glen Ellyn's past.

Continue your historical journey with a visit to the local train station, where you can learn about the importance of the railroad in Glen Ellyn’s development. For lunch, seek out a charming spot that features vintage decor and a historical theme. Use the afternoon to explore older neighborhoods and admire unique architectural styles.

For dinner, visit a restaurant that features atmosphere inspired by local history. After your meal, consider attending a historical reenactment event or lecture if available, deepening your appreciation for the community’s heritage. End the evening with a visit to a historical pub for a nightcap.

Engage with the Glen Ellyn community by starting your day with breakfast at a favorite café. Participate in a local volunteering opportunity, which could range from helping out at a food bank to community cleanups. This morning activity will provide a rewarding perspective on the community and its residents.

After volunteering, spend your afternoon at the Glen Ellyn Community Center, where you can get involved in various programs or enjoy recreational facilities. For lunch, consider supporting local businesses by trying a nearby sandwich shop. Attend workshops or classes offered through the community center to continue your involvement.

Finish off your day with dinner at a community-oriented restaurant that values local ingredients. Consider attending a community meeting or event that discusses local issues, fostering a sense of belonging. End your night with a gathering at a local pub with live music, where you can meet neighbors and unwind.

Begin your relaxing day with a wholesome breakfast at a wellness-focused café that offers fresh juices and nutritious options. Set aside the day for self-care, starting with a yoga class at a nearby studio to center yourself. Use the calm morning to meditate and embrace tranquility.

Spend your afternoon at a local spa that offers massage and wellness treatments, pampering yourself after a busy week. Enjoy a light lunch at the spa café, where healthy choices abound. With your spirits lifted, consider a stroll at a local botanical garden to reconnect with nature.

Wrap up your day of relaxation with dinner at a serene restaurant featuring a calming atmosphere. After your meal, enjoy a quiet evening at home or attend a mindful meditation session offered in the community. Conclude your day with a cup of herbal tea, reflecting on the restful experiences you encountered.