Things to do in Des Plaines

Activities, attractions and tours

City of Chicago USA, sunset colorful panorama skyline
Woman walking on the Des Plaines River Trail in autumn at Iroquois Woods in Park Ridge, Illinois
Man sitting at a picnic table at Axehead Lake in Des Plaines, Illinois with a pretty reflection
Rosemary S. Argus Friendship Park in Des Plaines Town of Illinois
A pair of geese rest by floating along the Des Plaines River in Joliet, Illinois.
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

What to do in Des Plaines

Stay near popular Des Plaines attractions

Rivers Casino

4.0/5 (559 reviews)
Chicagoland's premier casino offers over 1,000 slots and nearly 50 table games in a vibrant setting. Enjoy upscale dining at Hugo's Frog Bar & Chop House while taking advantage of the free on-site parking.
See properties

Where to stay in Des Plaines

Find the best Des Plaines areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Des Plaines
Learn more about Des Plaines
0_146824604

Oakton

The restaurants and shopping are just a few features travellers like about Oakton. If you want to do some sightseeing nearby, Lake Park and Allstate Arena are a few top places to visit.

Downtown Des Plaines

While Downtown Des Plaines may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Lake Park and Allstate Arena.

Norma

The restaurants and shopping are just a few features travellers like about Norma. If you want to do some sightseeing nearby, Lake Park and Allstate Arena are a few top places to visit.

Chicago

Chicago

589-77 Chicago Botanic Garden Pano

Arlington Heights

Rosemont

Rosemont

Chicago riverfront and skyline at dusk. Chicago is the most populous city in the US state of Illinois and in the Midwestern United States.

Elk Grove Village

Downtown city buildings and skyline over the Chicago River Illinois USA

Northbrook

Frequently asked questions

Is Des Plaines worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor pursuits, there are many interesting things to do in Des Plaines. Don't forget to enjoy the area's blend of awesome attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Des Plaines?
Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District and 390 Golf Experience are two great places to start your getaway adventures. Remember to explore the shopping and dining options in Des Plaines while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Des Plaines?
The top tourist attraction in Des Plaines is Rosemont Theatre, so make sure to put it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Des Plaines?
Three days will give you enough time to check out some popular city attractions, including Rosemont Theatre, Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District and Rainbow Falls Waterpark. The average stay in Des Plaines is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your break, Chicago isn't far away.
Is Des Plaines a walkable city?
If exploring on foot sounds like your kind of getaway, Des Plaines is a great place to visit. Find leading sights, like Allstate Arena, within walking distance of downtown. You can also go for a stroll around Norma, a vibrant neighbourhood located about 3 kilometres from downtown.
What are some activities to do in Des Plaines with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a schedule filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Check out our recommendations for what to do in Des Plaines with kids.

What to do in Des Plaines for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Des Plaines, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Milwaukee Avenue or Chevy Chase Country Club.
Are there free things to do in Des Plaines?
One of the simplest ways to discover free things to do in Des Plaines is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on interesting neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can enjoy without reaching into your pocket. Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District is one sight that doesn't charge an entrance fee.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia