Oak Brook is one of Illinois’ finest places to live and visit. It offers luxury shopping, outdoor fun, top-notch entertainment, and a great selection of family activities.

Oakbrook Center ranks among America’s largest open-air shopping destinations. The center’s high-end retailers, like Neiman Marcus and Louis Vuitton, attract shoppers nationwide. Nature lovers will enjoy Fullersburg Woods. It has a peaceful setting and trails full of wildlife. There are activities for everyone, no matter their interest or energy level.

Families can challenge each other at Puttshack’s tech-infused mini golf or learn about the 150 acres of park district facilities. Central Park’s stunning Winter Lights display creates magical moments throughout the cold season. The area has exciting new attractions. Immersive Gamebox and Activate Games have high ratings—4.7 and 4.9, respectively. These venues keep both kids and adults excited.

This vibrant suburb has become a favorite destination for family adventures in 2025. The ARG Team has selected 14 exciting activities that showcase Oak Brook’s finest offerings.

Explore Oakbrook Center: A Shopping Paradise for Families

Image Source: Oakbrook Center

Oakbrook Center is a top family spot in Chicago’s western suburbs that goes beyond regular shopping. This spectacular outdoor mall is just 30 minutes from downtown Chicago near I-88, where families can enjoy the perfect mix of retail, dining, and entertainment.

Kid-Friendly Stores and Boutiques

Kids love exploring the many children-focused stores throughout the center. Visit popular places like Pottery Barn Kids, Land of Nod, and Build-a-Bear, where you can make your stuffed animals. GAP Kids brings classic American style with quality fabrics that work great for home, playground, and classroom wear. Your young fashion enthusiasts will also love the stylish options at Abercrombie Kids.

Family Dining Options

The center’s restaurants serve fantastic food that everyone in the family will enjoy. Maggiano’s Oakbrook serves Italian-American dishes made from classic recipes. Meanwhile, Perry’s impresses guests with its award-winning menus and tableside presentations. Beatrix gets rave reviews for its excellent food quality and unique dishes like coleslaw made with Granny Smith apples and craisins. These restaurants welcome large groups, making them perfect spots for family get-togethers.

Entertainment for All Ages

The Lawn at Oakbrook Center sits at the heart of family fun. This ample green space lets kids run and play freely (weather permitting). Families gather here throughout the year to take a breather from their shopping adventures.

Seasonal Events and Activities

The center packs its calendar with family-friendly seasonal celebrations. During the summer months, families can enjoy Movies on the Lawn and Easter festivities with egg hunts and special visits from the Easter Bunny. You’ll also find regular in-store demos, classes, and fun activities everyone can enjoy.

Oak Brook families seeking fun activities will find that this top shopping spot offers more than just regular retail experiences.

Discover Natural Beauty at Fullersburg Woods

Image Source: DuPage County Forest Preserve

Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve is a 226-acre wildlife sanctuary in Oak Brook, perfect for families seeking an escape from city life. The preserve features 6 miles of scenic trails and many outdoor activities that appeal to visitors of all ages.

Family-Friendly Hiking Trails

Families love the two easy hiking trails at Fullersburg. The Fullersburg and Graue Mill Loop Trail is 2.5 miles long and has paved or limestone surfaces that are at least 4 feet wide, making it easy for strollers to use. This trail has earned a 4.6-star rating from 1,098 reviewers. The Riverbend and Night Heron Trail runs 2.5 miles along Salt Creek on crushed gravel paths and gives visitors a peaceful nature experience. Both trails have plenty of rest areas with benches, tables, and bathrooms that comfort families.

Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

Oak woodlands and Salt Creek areas attract diverse wildlife, making this spot great for bird watching. Kids love seeing beavers, red foxes, herons, egrets, and songbirds throughout the year. The preserve becomes even more special during spring and fall migrations as warblers pass through. Families can relax on the nature center’s patio and watch wildlife along the creek.

Historical Sites and Educational Programs

The Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center has interactive exhibits where kids learn about native wildlife. The historic Graue Mill and Museum is Illinois’ only working waterwheel gristmill. It offers fun programs on milling, spinning, and weaving, which highlight life in the 19th century. The Ben Fuller House, one of Illinois’ oldest balloon-frame structures, adds historical value to your visit.

Seasonal Nature Activities

The preserve invites visitors to enjoy more than hiking. You can also bike, ride horses, fish, and have picnics. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The Night Heron Trail shows off spectacular autumn colors that draw fall visitors. Families can borrow nature backpacks to enhance their summer trail adventures.

Experience Sony’s Wonderverse: The Ultimate Movie Adventure

Sony movies come alive at Wonderverse, a 45,000-square-foot entertainment destination at Oakbrook Center. You can dive into popular films like Jumanji, Ghostbusters, and Uncharted through adventures that make cinema jump off the screen.

Interactive Movie Experiences

Three exciting Uncharted escape rooms await: The Chapel, The Auction, and The Galley. Your team must solve puzzles, break security systems, and find hidden treasure before time runs out. Each room draws inspiration from the blockbuster film, making it one of Oak Brook’s best activities for kids.

Virtual Reality Adventures

Wonderverse’s VR experiences pull you into movie worlds:

• Jumanji: Reverse the Curse – A 30-minute team challenge awaits as you gear up with a backpack vest and VR headset to recover a stolen jewel and halt evil’s advance. You become movie characters like Dr. Smolder Bravestone and Ruby Roundhouse.
• Ghostbusters VR Academy – Learn to bust ghosts in two distinct experiences: ARENA lets you zap spirits with proton packs, while BLITZ puts you in ECTO hovercrafts for high-speed races.

Guests must be at least 48 inches tall for some experiences.

Classic Arcade Games and Bumper Cars

Pacific Playland, inspired by Zombieland, delivers classic arcade action. You’ll find skee-ball, air hockey, Dance Maniax, and a virtual reality roller coaster. The Zombieland Bumper Cars steal the show – one car becomes “Patient Zero,” and each bump turns more players into zombies!

Family Dining Options

Chef Scott Donaldson’s Commissary Restaurant serves up delicious meals after your adventures. The menu features American favorites like the Classic Smash Burger ($21), Jerk Chicken Tacos, and tempting desserts. The Ghost Trap Speakeasy beckons adults with themed cocktails crafted by mixologist Jane Danger.

Adults must accompany guests under 16, and Wonderverse becomes an adults-only venue after 8 PM.

Bowl and Play Bocce at Pinstripes

Image Source: Pinstripes | Bistro Bowling Bocce

Pinstripes is one of the best things to do with kids in Oak Brook. It combines classic games and upscale dining, making it perfect for everyone. Your family will love this unique spot, which combines bowling, bocce ball, and bistro-style dining.

Family Bowling Packages

The modern bowling lanes at Pinstripes can fit up to 8 players each. You should book ahead to avoid waiting, especially during busy times, and booking online makes it easy. The happy hour special lets you bowl at 50% off regular prices. Families with tweens and teens enjoy the upscale atmosphere that feels more grown-up.

Bocce Ball for Beginners

Pinstripes gives families a great introduction to this centuries-old Italian game. The courts fit up to 10 players, which works great for more significant family get-togethers. Bocce has been around since Ancient Egyptian and Roman times, and people of all ages can play it easily. Kids and new players can use more petite bocce balls so that everyone can join in the fun, regardless of age or skill level. You can play with 2-8 players, usually with 2-3 people on each team.

Kid-Friendly Menu Options

The lanes and courts will make everyone hungry, and Pinstripes’ scratch-made Italian-American food hits the spot. Kids 12 and under can get a special $11 meal deal with a starter, entrée, dessert, and drink. The menu has kid favorites like:

• Mini cheeseburgers with French fries
• Crispy chicken tenders (also available grilled)
• Mac & cheese with housemade cheese sauce
• Pizza options include cheese and pepperoni
• Grilled cheese on sourdough with french fries

Kids with dietary restrictions can choose from several gluten-free options, making Pinstripes one of Oak Brook’s most welcoming spots for families.

Catch the Latest Blockbusters at AMC Theaters

Image Source: AMC Theaters

Movie fans will love AMC Oakbrook Center 12! This modern theater offers a fantastic movie experience that kids in Oak Brook will enjoy. It’s on the top of the Purple Garage at Oakbrook Center, where the whole family can enjoy watching the latest hits.

IMAX and Premium Viewing Experiences

The IMAX theater at AMC will blow you away with crystal-clear picture quality that pulls you right into the action. The Dolby Cinema takes things even further—you won’t just watch movies; you’ll feel every moment. Both screens come with stadium seating, so everyone gets a perfect view. The theater makes sure everyone can enjoy the shows. It has wheelchair access and listening devices. You can also pick your seats ahead of time, which makes planning easier.

Family Movie Deals

Your family can save big at AMC with smart ticket pricing. Movie tickets cost 25% less before 4 p.m. every day at all AMC theaters nationwide. AMC Stubs members get great Tuesday deals year-round, and it’s free to join. Students and military members save daily with special rates. Summer brings the best deal with AMC’s Summer Movie Camp—tickets are $3.00 plus tax. Seniors over 60 get daily discounts, too.

Concession Options for Kids

Kids go crazy for the AMC KidsPack that has:

• Kid-sized popcorn
• Kid-sized fountain drink
• Pack of AMC Frooti Tootis

Skip the lines by ordering snacks from your phone before the movie starts. For a little extra, kids can get bigger drinks and different candy. The theater serves all the classics, chicken tenders, pizza, mozzarella sticks, and fries at specific locations. Parents can grab drinks at MacGuffins Bar while kids enjoy their snacks.

Challenge Your Family at Escape the Room

Escape the Room at Oakbrook Center is a fun adventure for puzzle fans and mystery lovers. This ground adventure game challenges families to work together. In 60 minutes, they must solve clues and break free from a themed room.

Age-Appropriate Room Challenges

The facility welcomes guests of all ages and has specific policies for children. Kids aged 6-12 must have at least one paying adult with them (one adult for every three children). Kids under 6 can only enter when carried by an adult or kept in a stroller during the event.

“The Treehouse Raid at Fort Knocks” works best for families with younger kids because it’s smaller and promotes teamwork. “Ghost in the Graveyard” might be too intense for sensitive children, with its spooky themes and dark lighting. “Bonus Fun Time Game Show Challenge” tends to be a hit with bigger family groups.

Family Team-Building Benefits

These rooms are a great way to get quality family bonding time. People learn to appreciate each other’s problem-solving styles as they work on puzzles together. The immersive challenges boost communication when you share clues and ideas. They also help develop critical thinking skills through various puzzles.

During their 60-minute adventure, families learn new things about each other’s abilities. This unique physical adventure requires everyone to participate and work together, which is why it’s one of the best things to do with kids in Oak Brook.

Tips for Success with Kids

Your family will have the best experience if you:

• Show up on time – your 60-minute countdown starts 15 minutes after booking time
• Book ahead – the front door stays locked until right before scheduled sessions
• Pick kid-friendly themes without scary elements for younger children
• Tell the kids that everyone needs to help find clues
• Think over booking a private room since some locations mix groups unless asked

The rooms have a 60-minute time limit, so plan to spend 60-80 minutes total with briefing and wrap-up.

Tee Off at Game of Irons Indoor Golf

Image Source: Discover DuPage

Game of Irons is a perfect year-round destination for golf lovers and newcomers looking for things to do in Oak Brook. This 19,000-square-foot entertainment complex boasts two floors of high-tech golf simulators and serves tasty food and drinks at the 7 Iron Bar & Grill.

Kid-Friendly Golf Simulators

The facility uses advanced Golfzon technology. This creates a relaxed space for young golfers to thrive. Players can enjoy virtual versions of real golf courses in any of the 16 simulator bays spread across two levels. Each bay fits up to 6 players, which makes it perfect for family time. The simulators go beyond regular golf with special games designed for beginners and kids. The facility also provides rental clubs, so everyone can enjoy the fun without owning equipment.

Mini Golf Options

Game of Irons doesn’t offer traditional mini-golf. Instead, it has fun activities that families can enjoy in Oak Brook. Players can experience real golf courses on screen and try exciting games that kids and newcomers love. The energy hits you as soon as you walk in. A full 18-hole round takes about an hour per person, which works great for kids who might get restless.

Family Packages and Lessons

The welcoming atmosphere at Game of Irons makes everyone feel at home, regardless of skill level. Kids can join PGA Junior Golf Camps tailored to different ages and abilities. These camps create a fun and safe space where children learn and grow. Families who want to learn together can sign up for group lessons. The professional staff focuses on making golf fun in a relaxed setting. Game of Irons’ mix of unique games, good food, and refreshing drinks makes it an excellent spot for family outings or special events in Oak Brook.

Compete at The Great Big Game Show

TV game shows have always captured our imagination. Now you can live that dream at The Great Big Game Show in Oakbrook Center. This immersive experience lets you become a real contestant, with a live host guiding the action.

Interactive Game Show Experience

Your adventure begins as soon as you arrive. The staff splits your group into red and blue teams on a high-tech soundstage. Bright lights, game show sounds, and electric energy make it feel like a real TV production. A dynamic host leads you through random mini-games during your hour-long session. The competition stays exciting until the final moments. Short videos explain each game’s rules. Players can jump right in and have fun, whatever their experience level.

Family-Friendly Competitions

The Great Big Game Show features 18 rotating mini-games. Each visit brings something new. Players can enjoy different types of games:

• Knowledge-testing trivia challenges
• Team-based strategy games
• Quick physical challenges
• Luck-based games with the wheel spinning

A guest mentioned they played 5-6 different games in their hour. The activities included trivia, luck games, and team challenges, such as building the tallest block tower. Kids aged 8 and up will love this experience. The staff says birthday parties make up most of their bookings.

Birthday Party Options

The venue has four studios ready for celebrations. Each studio can accommodate up to 14 players, with 7 on each team. If no other groups have booked yet, you can reserve a private studio by blocking the remaining spots at half price during checkout. Groups larger than 14 can contact the venue directly by email or phone at (872) 259-1008.

The experience costs $38.99 per person plus tax. Oakbrook Center’s nearby dining spots make planning a full day out easy. You should grab a bite at The Cheesecake Factory before heading to your game show adventure.

Play Interactive Games at Immersive Gamebox

Step into a new world of family fun at Immersive Gamebox, where your movements become part of the game. The venue at Oakbrook Center uses projection mapping, touch-sensitive walls, and motion tracking to respond to every move.

Age-Appropriate Gaming Options

The games at Immersive Gamebox are perfect for every age group. Little ones as young as 3 can join Ryder on exciting PAW Patrol rescue missions. Kids 5 and older will love playing Angry Birds or trying the Junior Bundle with Tip Tap Memory Challenge and Temple of Coins Junior. Most games work well for players 8 and up, while Squid Game targets the 12+ crowd. Kids under 12 need an adult by their side during their visit.

Family Competition Modes

This isn’t your typical gaming experience. Your whole family becomes the controller inside immersive worlds. Each private “gamebox” lets your group work together or compete in challenges requiring teamwork and quick thinking. One parent brought their six-year-old to try the alien challenge and “The Floor is Lava.” They found the games worked great for their child and entertained adults. Many families enjoy “Trip to Mars.” It offers four games in a 60-minute adventure. The environment pulls players in as they combine their skills to climb the leaderboard.

Educational Games for Kids

The fun at Immersive Gamebox comes with a bonus – kids learn while they play. School programs feature workshops where technology meets creativity. These games boost critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Kids face different challenges, which helps them grow these skills. Group projects mirror real-life situations and teach valuable teamwork skills. Families looking for things to do in Oak Brook will find this perfect blend of entertainment and learning at Immersive Gamebox.

Enjoy Tech-Infused Mini Golf at Puttshack

Image Source: Secret Chicago

Mini golf meets the future at Puttshack Oakbrook, where state-of-the-art technology revolutionizes this classic family activity. This venue at Oakbrook Center opened in November 2021 and has become one of Oak Brook’s most entertaining spots for kids.

Interactive Course Features

The days of paper scorecards are gone—Puttshack’s patented Trackaball™ technology handles everything automatically. Each ball’s microchip:

• Tracks your score
• Identifies the current player
• Awards bonus points for special challenges

The venue features four unique 9-hole courses. Ruby and Sapphire courses occupy one side, while Amber and Emerald sit on the other. Players face classic mini golf obstacles and fun games. At some holes, they answer trivia questions. Note that Sapphire and Emerald are ADA-accessible courses without stairs, which makes this venue welcoming to every family member.

Family Packages

Families with children are welcome at Puttshack, though it becomes an adults-only venue after 8 PM. Afternoon slots work best for families with young children, while evenings suit teens and adults better. Groups can choose customized packages that include:

• One mini golf game
• Reserved seating area
• Choice of menu items
• Dedicated ambassador team

Birthday celebrations at Puttshack are a great way to eliminate “bouncy houses and DIY decorations,” making it perfect for parents who want exciting yet hassle-free party venues.

Kid-Friendly Dining Options

The venue’s food quality matches its gaming experience. The kitchen prepares everything in-house and pays special attention to flavors and ingredients. Families can share several menu favorites:

• Southwest Chicken Quesadillas
• Loaded Tots
• Sweet Heat Shrimp Skewers
• Greek Gyro Sliders

Kids love their special menu items, which receive the same attention as adult dishes. The kitchen’s dedication shows in every detail—from marinated chicken to quality meat in all dishes, including children’s options. Players can enjoy their meals in the restaurant or take drinks onto the course.

Experience Virtual Reality at Sandbox VR

Looking for an innovative technology adventure that combines physical activity with digital worlds? Sandbox VR at Oak Brook lets your family jump into action-packed virtual reality experiences. In their immersive full-body VR world, you’ll become the heroes of your adventure.

Age-Appropriate VR Adventures

Your kids should be at least 12 to participate, but parents can make the final call. Safety and equipment requirements mean participants must be at least 1.2 meters (about 4 feet) tall, whatever their age. Deadwood Mansion lets families team up to fight zombies and rats in a haunted house. The sophisticated motion capture technology turns everyone into digital characters, so you’ll immediately see each other’s movements as you play.

Family Package Options

Sandbox VR turns family celebrations into extraordinary events with birthday parties that work for kids of all ages. Parents love watching their children “play, jump and holler”—these moments become lasting memories. Sandbox VR handles all the planning for your party, making celebrations easy and stress-free. Kids often rate their birthday experience “15/10,” according to excited parents. Everyone gets highlight videos of their group adventure to share on social media afterward.

What to Expect for First-Timers

Your group will enter a “holodeck” (game room) that fits 6-50 guests based on your setup. You’ll get:

• Motion capture sensors to track all your movements
• VR headsets for immersive visuals
• Equipment that lets you move freely in the game space

Many first-time VR users worry about motion sickness, but Sandbox VR’s technology makes this much less likely. The system tracks your movement, reducing the gap between what you see and feel, which often leads to nausea. Clear boundaries in the game space prevent collisions, and immediate player tracking helps everyone see where others are. Show up on time for your session to get the most fun out of your experience.

Get Active at Activate Games

Activate Games brings something fresh to Oak Brook by blending technology with physical activity. Through interactive technology that responds to players’ movements immediately, players become living game controllers.

Physical and Mental Challenges

The gaming experience at Activate goes beyond regular screen time and combines physical effort with brain teasers. Light-up technology fills each dynamic game room to test your body and mind. Quick 1-3 minute games make this perfect for family members who might get restless easily. Your electronic wristband keeps track of points and progress so you can level up and win prizes. Just a heads up – people often say they break a sweat while having a blast.

Family Competition Options

Family game night takes on a whole new meaning at Activate. The place has many games at different skill levels, so everyone from pre-teens to grandparents can join in the fun. For example, players become “technicolor basketball all-stars” on the Hoops floor, while other games have you sprinting to complete challenges. One guest mentioned how much fun everyone had competing together, even people who had just met. The mix of games and adjustable difficulty levels lets each group tailor the experience to their priorities.

Best Games for Different Age Groups

Activate welcomes players from about 12 years old through adults, which makes it great for families with older kids and teens. Families with mixed age groups should focus on team-based games rather than solo physical challenges. Problem-solving games help balance the playing field between different ages. Teens might love the quick-reaction games, while adults often go for strategy challenges. Each group usually finds their favorite games they want to “Level Up” in. This creates a custom experience that brings families back to Oak Brook, looking for more fun with their kids.

Explore Oak Brook Park District’s Central Park

Oak Brook’s Central Park is 173 acres of recreational space between Jorie Boulevard, Kensington Road, Route 83, and Forest Gate Road. This Oak Brook Park District crown jewel offers families plenty of outdoor fun activities.

Playground Facilities

Kids will love the three unique playgrounds in Central Park. The Sandlot Universal Playground stands out with its baseball theme and features that make it available to everyone. Kids of all abilities can play together on its spongy surface, ramps, special seating areas, and musical features. A boat-shaped playground with rubber surfacing and an enormous playground with equipment for different age groups complete the play areas.

Sports Fields and Courts

The park’s sports facilities will impress athletes young and old. Eleven natural grass soccer fields spread across the grounds alongside the Evergreen Bank Group Synthetic Athletic Field. This synthetic field can split into two smaller ones or combine into one large field. Players can use this field three times longer than natural grass fields. The park also features four baseball diamonds, two basketball courts with benches and a pavilion, sand volleyball, tennis courts, and a disc golf course.

Picnic Areas and Special Events

Families can relax in shaded picnic spots between activities. The park’s Performing Arts Pavilion and new Oaks Amphitheater host community events year-round. Visitors rate the Winter Lights at Central Park 5.0 stars.

Seasonal Activities

Central Park buzzes with activity all year. Summer brings families to fish at the ponds and Ginger Creek’s pier. Walking and biking paths create multiple loops, with the longest stretching 1.29 miles. Fitness buffs can work out at outdoor exercise stations. The “Tackle the Tri” triathlon welcomes participants 12 years and older.

Dine at Family-Friendly Restaurants

Image Source: Tripadvisor

Oak Brook has plenty of family-friendly restaurants where you can grab a bite after checking out the local attractions. You’ll find everything from elegant brunches to casual spots with entertainment for the whole family.

Kid-Friendly Menu Options

Simon’s, a family-owned restaurant, has served families since 1985 with an all-day breakfast that kids can’t resist.

Standard Market Grill makes life easier for families with dietary needs by serving gluten-free and low-carb options, including their famous artisan pizzas.

The folks at HB Jones help parents make wise choices by marking their healthy options while still serving favorites like burgers, barbeque, and grilled cheese.

Parents love Egg Harbor Café’s commitment to organic produce and cage-free eggs, and kids stay busy with fun coloring contests.

Restaurants with Entertainment

Eddie V’s Prime Seafood creates the perfect family night out with live jazz from local and national musicians. Parents can sip expertly crafted cocktails in the stylish setting while kids enjoy premium seafood and hand-carved steaks.

Lucille at Drury Lane Theater lets you combine a great meal with a matinee show.

The sort of thing we love is Hacienda Calavera, where this family-owned Latin American restaurant blends authentic food with a cultural atmosphere.

Best Brunch Spots for Families

Drake Oak Brook’s Sunday champagne brunch is a feast with carving stations, waffle bars, and unlimited mimosas ($65 for adults, $35 for children ages 4-10, and free for children 3 and under). Lucille Restaurant at Drury Lane pulls out all the stops with its Sunday Champagne Brunch, featuring nine stations, from omelets to seafood. Cooper’s Corner in Winfield offers a cozy Sunday breakfast in a rustic setting from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Budget-Friendly Dining

Neat Kitchen + Bar serves New American dishes in a modern, hip setting without breaking the bank. Portillo’s Hot Dogs earns its 4.4 rating by serving delicious food at great prices. Roti brings Mediterranean flavors to your table at wallet-friendly prices, earning a solid 4.2 rating. The Cheesecake Factory is a hit with kids, especially when those tempting desserts are waiting after dinner.

Attend Seasonal Events and Festivals

Oak Brook buzzes with seasonal festivities that entertain the whole family all year round. These events add exciting new dimensions to Oak Brook’s attractions, from lively summer shows to magical winter celebrations.

Summer Concerts and Movies in the Park

The Summer Concert Series brings free performances to the community at the brand-new Oaks Amphitheater (1315 Kensington Road). Music lovers can enjoy various acts like Live Stream (80’s and 90’s music), The Neverly Brothers (rock history trip), The Four C Notes (Frankie Valli tribute), Anchors Away (Yacht Rock), and Mr. Myers (Caribbean Rock). Guests should bring blankets, baskets, and lawn chairs to these outdoor shows.

Movies on The Lawn lights up Oakbrook Center every Wednesday at 7 p.m. during the summer. The 2024 lineup features beloved family films like “Migration,” “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” and “Trolls Band Together.” Viewers can grab refreshments from The Table at Crate or browse vendors at The District. Seating is first come, first served, so early arrival with blankets and chairs is recommended.

Holiday Celebrations

Winter Lights at Central Park turns the park into a magical wonderland from November 22, 2024, to January 5, 2025 (4:30-9:30 PM daily). This free half-mile walk showcases thousands of twinkling lights that bring dancing trees, rainbow arches, and colorful butterflies to life.

The Holiday Express delights children with a trolley ride from the Family Recreation Center to Santa’s meet-and-greet at the “North Pole” (Central Park West). During this festive experience, kids can enjoy crafts, bounce in the house, and savor light refreshments.

Family-Oriented Community Events

Oak Brook Park District’s Tackle the Tri welcomes athletes aged 12 and up of all skill levels. Families can save $40 on summer pool passes when purchased by April 30.

Oktoberfest brings fun to families with roaming entertainers—jugglers, magicians, and Frozen characters—plus craft stations and carnival games. Later in the evening, DJ Coach Josh keeps the energy high with family-friendly dance music.

Holiday shoppers can visit The Google Store (first Midwest location) or enjoy festive drinks at Prancer’s Pop-Up Pub in the Hyatt Lodge.

Visit Nearby Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield Zoo sits just a short drive from Oak Brook. This 235-acre zoological paradise houses more than 3,400 animals from over 500 species. Your family can easily add this fantastic destination to their Oak Brook adventures.

Must-See Animal Exhibits

The zoo’s impressive habitats bring creatures from across the globe to life. Kids love these exhibits:

• The newly renovated Seven Seas showcases bottlenose dolphins in educational presentations
• Tropic World lets you watch western lowland gorillas through two-story glass windows
• The Living Coast houses the playful Humboldt penguins
• Great Bear Wilderness stands out as the most uniquely designed area according to visitors

Special Experiences for Kids

The zoo goes beyond standard animal viewing. Kids can meet penguins during the Penguin Encounter, and families enjoy hand-feeding giraffes in the Giraffe Feeding program. The Hamill Family Play Zoo captivates young visitors by connecting them with animals through play and discovery.

Tips for a Successful Family Visit

The zoo opens its gates at 10:00 a.m. daily, so plan to arrive early. The free Brookfield Zoo app helps you navigate with GPS and keeps track of show times. The grounds are vast—many visitors say they rival Disney World in size. Bring strollers if you have little ones. You can save some money by packing a picnic lunch since outside food gets the green light.

Seasonal Events

Brookfield Zoo keeps families entertained year-round with amazing events. Springtime brings Brunch With the Bunny and Spring Fest celebrations. Summer heats up with the popular Roaring Nights concert series and special exhibits like Butterflies!. Fall features BOO! AT THE ZOO with spooky Halloween fun. The grand finale comes with Holiday Magic (November-December), Chicagoland’s longest-running holiday lights spectacular that dazzles with over two million LED lights.

Explore Mayslake Peabody Estate

Step back in time at Mayslake Peabody Estate, a historic gem in Oak Brook. Marshall & Fox’s architectural firm created this Tudor revival-style mansion that blends history, nature, and culture. Your kids will love exploring one of Oak Brook’s most enriching attractions.

Guided Family Tours

The historic mansion welcomes visitors with guided tours Monday through Friday at 12:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. Tours cost $8 per person and run over 90 minutes. Your family can explore this architectural wonder’s impressive features. Groups of 15-50 people can book private tours by calling 630-206-9588. The building’s craftsmanship, listed on the National Historic Register, will captivate children.

Nature Trails and Grounds

The 90-acre preserve stretches beyond the mansion with 13 acres of wetlands, 9 acres of lakes and ponds, and a 15-acre savanna with restored prairie. Families can enjoy a peaceful walk along the mile-long shoreline trail, perfect for any skill level. The property also features a dog park where your furry family can run free.

Educational Programs and Workshops

DuPage Forest Preserves picked Mayslake as an education center. It offers nature experiences for everyone. The estate buzzes with life all year. You can enjoy theatrical performances, musical concerts, art classes, lectures, and exhibits. These programs let visitors connect with nature and each other. They do this through art, history, and cultural activities.

Photography Opportunities

Mayslake Estate’s picture-perfect spots make great family photos:

• The Italian-style Portiuncula Chapel showcases a colorful stone mosaic front
• Giant weeping willows dot the property
• The mansion features an impressive spiral staircase
• Wildflower fields and lakeside views create stunning backdrops

The estate continues restoration work while serving as a cultural education center. Families can experience a rare example of the magnificent country houses from the Gilded Age.

Comparison Table

Attraction	Location	Age Requirements	Price	Key Features	Duration/Hours	Rating
Oakbrook Center	Near I-88	All ages	Free entry	Shopping, dining, The Lawn area, seasonal events	Not mentioned	Not mentioned
Fullersburg Woods	Oak Brook	All ages	Free entry	226 acres, 6 miles of trails, wildlife viewing, nature center	Not mentioned	4.6/5 (1,098 reviews)
Sony’s Wonderverse	Oakbrook Center	Under 16 w/adult, 48″ height min	Not mentioned	VR experiences, escape rooms, arcade games, themed dining	Adults-only after 8 PM	Not mentioned
Pinstripes	Not mentioned	Under 12 w/adult	Kids menu $11	Bowling, bocce ball, bistro dining	Not mentioned	Not mentioned
Escape the Room	Oakbrook Center	6-12 w/adult	Not mentioned	Live escape games, themed rooms	60 minutes	Not mentioned
Game of Irons	19,000 sq ft facility	All ages	Not mentioned	16 golf simulators, PGA Junior Camps, group lessons	1 hour per 18 holes	Not mentioned
Great Big Game Show	Oakbrook Center	8+ recommended	$38.99/person	18 rotating mini-games, 4 studios	1 hour	Not mentioned
Immersive Gamebox	Oakbrook Center	3+ (varies by game)	Not mentioned	Motion tracking games, educational content	Not mentioned	Not mentioned
Puttshack	Oakbrook Center	All ages until 8 PM	Not mentioned	Tech-tracked mini golf, 4 courses, restaurant	Not mentioned	Not mentioned
Sandbox VR	Oak Brook	12+ recommended, 4ft min height	Not mentioned	Full-body VR experiences, motion capture	Not mentioned	Not mentioned
Activate Games	Oak Brook	12+ recommended	Not mentioned	Interactive physical games, electronic tracking	1-3 mins per game	Not mentioned
Central Park	173 acres bordered by major roads	All ages	Free entry	Playgrounds, sports fields, walking paths, amphitheater	Not mentioned	Winter Lights rated 5.0
Brookfield Zoo	Near Oak Brook	All ages	Not mentioned	3,400+ animals, interactive experiences, seasonal events	Opens 10 AM daily	Not mentioned
Mayslake Peabody Estate	Oak Brook	All ages	$8/person tours	Historic mansion, nature trails, educational programs	90-min tours	Not mentioned

Conclusion

Oak Brook blends modern entertainment with natural beauty to create an exceptional destination. Experience thrilling adventures at Sony’s Wonderverse and Sandbox VR. Or enjoy calm walks in Fullersburg Woods. These attractions cater to different age groups and interests.

Family spots like Puttshack, Game of Irons, and the Great Big Game Show prove that fun and learning go hand in hand. Kids build problem-solving skills at Immersive Gamebox and make lasting memories at Central Park’s seasonal events.

Oak Brook keeps families entertained all year round. Summer comes alive with outdoor concerts and movies under starlit skies. Winter turns Central Park into a dazzling light display. The indoor venues ensure your family adventures continue regardless of the weather.

Want to plan your Oak Brook family adventure? The ARG Team recommends mixing premium experiences with free spots like Fullersburg Woods or Central Park. This creates perfect itineraries that suit your family’s interests and budget. Bring your sense of adventure! Get ready to create unforgettable memories in this lively Illinois destination.