Top things to do in Crest Hill (Illinois)

A Tourist Guide to Crest Hill, Illinois

Welcome to Crest Hill, Illinois! This charming city is filled with rich history, stunning nature preserves, and exciting attractions. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking for a fun day out with family and friends, Crest Hill has something for everyone.

Nature Preserves

Crest Hill is home to several beautiful nature preserves, each offering unique opportunities to explore the great outdoors.

  • Theodore Marsh: Located on Fox Meadow Dr, this preserve features over 200 acres of wetlands and prairies. Visitors can hike on the paved trails or go birdwatching. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning wildlife. (URL: www.reconnectwithnature.org...)
  • Prairie Bluff Preserve: This nature preserve offers protected wetlands and paved trails for hiking, running, or biking. The large picnic shelter is perfect for a day out with family and friends. Prairie Bluff Preserve is located on 20205 Renwick Rd. (URL: www.reconnectwithnature.org...)
  • Joliet Iron Works Historic Site: History and nature come together at this preserve located on Columbia St. Visitors can explore the remains of the historic ironworks or hike one of the many trails that wind through the preserve. (URL: www.reconnectwithnature.org...)
  • Teale Woods Preserve: This stunning preserve is located on 391 Theodore St. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the woods or have a picnic under the shade of the trees. (URL: www.reconnectwithnature.org...)
  • Lockport Prairie Nature Preserve: This preserve is located on Broadway St and offers visitors a chance to see the rare black soil prairie habitat. (URL: www.reconnectwithnature.org...)

Historical Attractions

Crest Hill is steeped in history. From old correctional facilities to museums, there is no shortage of historical attractions to explore.

  • Old Joliet Prison: This correctional facility was built in 1858 and was in operation until 2002. It was even featured in the film The Blues Brothers. Explore the historic site located on 1125 Collins St. (URL: www.jolietprison.org/)
  • Joliet Area Historical Museum: This museum located on 204 N Ottawa St, offers colorful and interactive exhibits focused on regional history. Visitors can also browse the gift shop for unique souvenirs. (URL: www.jolietmuseum.org/)
  • Illinois State Museum-Lockport Gallery: Located on 201 W 10th St, this museum showcases the history and culture of Illinois. The exhibits change regularly, so there is always something new to see. (URL: www.illinoisstatemuseum.org/)

Family Fun

Crest Hill is the perfect destination for families looking for a fun day out.

  • Family Fun Zone: This amusement center located on 2333 Theodore St offers a variety of fun activities for the whole family. From go-karts to arcade games, there is something for everyone. (URL: familyfunzone.com/)
  • Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Center & Picnics: Located on 1423 N Broadway St, this spooky-themed family park offers rides, batting cages, miniature golf, and more. Don't forget to try their famous pizza! (URL: hauntedtrailsjoliet.com/)
  • KidsWork Children's Museum: This interactive museum located on 11 S White St, offers hands-on exhibits focused on science and art. It is the perfect destination for curious young minds. (URL: www.kidsworkchildrensmuseum...)

Parks and Recreation

Crest Hill is home to several parks offering the perfect setting for outdoor activities and relaxation.

  • Brent Hassert Park: This public site located on 19623 Renwick Rd, offers a picnic pavilion, soccer field, playground, splash pad, and trails on 77 acres. It is the perfect place to spend a sunny day with family and friends. (URL: www.lockportpark.org/)
  • Dellwood Park: This 150-acre park is located on Woods Dr and offers picnicking, kids' play areas, and disc golf. Visitors can also explore the trails winding through the park. (URL: lockportpark.org/)
  • St. Joseph Park: This park located on 700 Theodore St, offers a playground, basketball court, and baseball field. It is the perfect place to spend an afternoon with the family.

Attractions Nearby

If you have extra time in Crest Hill, be sure to check out these nearby attractions.

  • Route 66 Park: This longtime themed park located on 920 N Broadway St, salutes the famed highway and The Blues Brothers with an old-time ice cream stand and paths. (URL: cityofjoliet.info/governmen...)
  • Millennium Park: This 24.5-acre green space located on 201 E Randolph St, offers art, theater, and an ice rink. Visitors can see the famous "Bean" sculpture or catch a concert at the outdoor theater. (URL: www.chicago.gov/city/en/dep...)
  • Lincoln Park Zoo: This small, free zoo located in Chicago offers lions, primates, reptiles, a children's area, and an interactive farm exhibit. (URL: www.lpzoo.org/)

Conclusion

Crest Hill, Illinois, is a charming city filled with stunning nature preserves, historical attractions, and exciting family-friendly activities. Its proximity to nearby attractions like Millennium Park and Lincoln Park Zoo make it the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. Be sure to plan your visit to Crest Hill soon to experience all this wonderful city has to offer.