River Grove

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with River Grove's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring River Grove's Parks
morning
:

Start your adventure at River Grove's scenic parks, such as Harrer Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning walk among lush greenery. Bring a picnic breakfast to unwind while listening to the soothing sounds of nearby nature. Spend some time birdwatching or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere before the day heats up.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the River Grove Historical Society to delve into the local culture and history. Explore intriguing exhibits showcasing the town's past and learn about the influential individuals who shaped the community. Wrap up your afternoon with a leisurely stroll along the Des Plaines River, savoring the beautiful waterfront views.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot at a local restaurant for dinner, tasting classic Midwestern cuisine. After your meal, enjoy a relaxing evening at the nearby Riverside Theatre, catching a live performance or movie. Cap off your day with a peaceful walk along the river, basking in the gentle sounds of the flowing water.

day 2
Nature and Wildlife Excursion
morning
:

Begin your day with an early visit to the Salt Creek Greenway Trail, a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Bring your bike or hiking shoes to explore the pristine trails, surrounded by vibrant wildflowers and the chance to spot local wildlife. The morning sun filtering through the trees creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for photography.

afternoon
:

After a morning full of activity, stop by a local café for a hearty lunch before continuing your adventure. Spend your afternoon at the nearby Brookfield Zoo, home to diverse species and engaging exhibits that provide insight into animal conservation. Don't forget to catch a live animal demonstration to enhance your experience!

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy a unique dining experience at a restaurant that features farm-to-table dishes made with fresh local ingredients. After dinner, consider visiting a local bar with live music, where you can unwind and soak in the vibrant local nightlife. Conclude your day with a nightcap while discussing your favorite moments from your nature-filled adventures.

day 3
Cultural Discoveries
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the River Grove Public Library, where you can explore a range of books or attend a morning workshop. Get lost in a captivating story or join a community event to meet locals who share your interests. The cozy atmosphere of the library is perfect for kicking off a culturally rich day.

afternoon
:

Next, head to the nearby Italian Cultural Center for an afternoon of art and culture exploration. Engage in an art class or partake in a cultural workshop that showcases the rich heritage of the community. Afterward, explore the area’s charming boutiques and artisan shops, supporting local craftsmen and artists.

evening
:

For dinner, treat yourself at an Italian restaurant that reflects the area's cultural roots, relishing traditional dishes and fine wines. After dining, attend a cultural performance or art exhibit at the local community center, immersing yourself further into River Grove's artistic landscape. Enjoy the evening ambiance and connect with fellow art enthusiasts.

day 4
Historical Journey
morning
:

Dedicate your morning to discovering the rich historical roots of River Grove. Visit local historical landmarks accompanied by informative guides who can share their knowledge and anecdotes about significant events in the town's history. Photo opportunities abound as you learn about the architecture and the stories behind these cherished buildings.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, take a leisurely bike ride along the Chicago River, stopping at key historical sites along the way. Enjoy a packed lunch at one of the riverside parks, filled with both nature and stories. Consider a guided tour with a local historian who can provide insights into the stories that shaped the area.

evening
:

As night falls, dine at a restaurant renowned for its historical significance and local stories connected to the town. Share your discoveries with friends or family over delicious dishes, reminiscing about the day's explorations. Finish the evening with a walk through the town, enjoying the beauty of the streets illuminated at night.

day 5
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Kick off the day with a family-friendly breakfast at a local diner that offers hearty meals for all ages. After breakfast, take the kids to the local playground or splash pad, where they can enjoy playing outdoors and making new friends. The laughter and joy in the air will surely set the tone for a memorable day.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at a family-friendly activity center where both kids and parents can engage in exciting games and challenges. Whether it's mini-golf, bowling, or arcade games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Take breaks for snacks and ice cream to keep the energy high while you compete against each other.

evening
:

Conclude your fun-filled day with a family dinner at a pizzeria known for its delectable slices and fun atmosphere. Share stories about your favorite moments from the day while tasting the best the local cuisine has to offer. Top off the evening with a movie night at home or at a nearby theater, embracing the family bond.

day 6
Arts and Crafts Day
morning
:

Start your creative journey with a morning art class at a local studio focusing on painting or pottery. Tap into your artistic side while learning new techniques and allowing your imagination to flow freely. Bring home a masterpiece as a reminder of your artistic morning experience.

afternoon
:

Afterward, spend time at a craft market where you can pick up supplies for your next project or discover unique handmade items by local artisans. Interact with crafters and get inspired by their stories and creations. Consider joining a workshop to further hone your craft skills and make new friends in the process.

evening
:

In the evening, gather with friends for a craft night at home, where everyone can showcase what they've been working on. Share ideas, techniques, and creativity over snacks and drinks, transforming the evening into a vibrant artistic exchange. Finally, celebrate your collective creativity by displaying your newfound creations.

day 7
Culinary Adventure
morning
:

Kick off your culinary tour with a visit to a local farmers market to explore the fresh produce and artisanal goods available. Engage with vendors, sample local treats, and gather ingredients for your festivities. Taking in the sights and sounds of the market promises an invigorating start to your food-focused day.

afternoon
:

Next, participate in a cooking class led by a local chef who can share secret family recipes and culinary techniques. Together, you’ll prepare a delicious meal while learning about the cultural influences that shape the local cuisine. Enjoy the fruits of your labor together with newfound friends at the midday feast.

evening
:

For dinner, visit a well-reviewed local restaurant that specializes in the dishes you learned to prepare during your class. Savor each bite of your meal while reminiscing about the culinary experiences of the day. Wind down with dessert at a local bakery, enjoying the sweet end to your culinary adventure.

day 8
Outdoor Adventure
morning
:

Begin your outdoor adventure with a refreshing bike ride along the trails of River Grove's beautiful parks. The crisp morning air and vibrant surroundings are invigorating, providing the perfect environment for an active start to your day. Stop along the way to appreciate nature and take stunning photos.

afternoon
:

When hunger strikes, enjoy a packed lunch in one of River Grove's picturesque parks, where you can relax and recharge amid the scenery. Spend your afternoon kayaking on the nearby rivers, taking in the scenic views from the water and spotting wildlife along the banks. Embrace the thrill of adventure as you paddle through the refreshing waterways.

evening
:

As evening arrives, return from your adventure for a barbecue dinner at home or a local grill, enjoying hearty food that's perfect after a day of activity. After dinner, gather around a firepit in your backyard or a local park for s'mores and storytelling under the stars. Relish the satisfying conclusion to an action-packed day in the great outdoors.

day 9
Local Sports Day
morning
:

Start your morning by visiting local sports complexes where you can watch or participate in friendly matches among the community. Cheer on local teams as they compete, or join a pickup game to get involved. The lively spirit of the community will energize your day and foster a sense of camaraderie.

afternoon
:

After some sports action, grab lunch at a nearby café where sports memorabilia decorates the walls, making you feel even more connected to the local teams. Engage with fellow sports enthusiasts over hearty meals while discussing game highlights and favorite players. The afternoon can be spent attending a local sporting event or engaging in your favorite sport.

evening
:

As the day draws to a close, have dinner at a sports bar featuring a big-screen TV where you can catch the latest game highlights. Revel in the excitement of the local sports scene and celebrate with fellow fans over good food and drinks. Wrap up the day by reminiscing about the fun-filled events and perhaps planning your next sports outing.

Discover River Grove

Read more in our River Grove 2025 Travel Guide.

River Grove Travel Guide