11 Fun Things To Do In Rosemont
Rosemont, Illinois, is a vibrant village nestled immediately northwest of Chicago. It offers easy access to the bustling city while presenting its own unique array of attractions. Established in 1956, Rosemont has carved out a distinct identity, making it a compelling destination for both tourists and locals.
Strategically positioned near O’Hare International Airport, Rosemont is a crucial hub for visitors, blending the peace of a smaller community with the vibrant opportunities of Chicago just a short drive away.
Rosemont's dining and nightlife scenes mirror the area's cultural diversity, offering everything from upscale restaurants to cozy diners. The village also celebrates a rich tapestry of cultural activities, including seasonal festivals and community events that showcase local heritage and arts.
This combination of suburban comfort and metropolitan accessibility makes Rosemont a unique place to explore, providing a mix of leisure, shopping, and cultural enrichment.
Here are 11 interesting things to do in Rosemont, IL.
1. Allstate Arena Events
Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Illinois, offers a vibrant lineup of events suitable for all tastes, making it a top pick for things to do in Rosemont. This versatile venue accommodates nearly 18,000 guests and hosts an array of concerts, sports competitions, and family-oriented shows.
Music lovers can enjoy concerts featuring famous international artists and rising stars across various genres, enhanced by the arena’s advanced sound system and thoughtfully designed seating. Sports fans will find no shortage of excitement with events like college basketball and professional wrestling, known for their electric atmosphere.
Family shows are a significant draw, with offerings ranging from ice shows to circuses and educational performances that delight both children and adults. These events provide quality entertainment ideal for family outings.
For anyone planning to visit Allstate Arena, buying tickets in advance is wise, as popular events often sell out quickly. Tickets are available through the arena's official website or authorized ticket sellers. To avoid crowds and enjoy a smoother experience, consider attending weekday events, which are typically less crowded than weekend ones.
Remembering to check the arena’s schedule for upcoming events and promotions can enhance your visit, especially if you’re looking for deals, particularly on family shows. Allstate Arena promises unforgettable experiences with every visit, seamlessly blending entertainment with convenience and accessibility.
2. Amaze Light Festival Rosemont
The Amaze Light Festival Rosemont transforms Rosemont into a winter wonderland, complete with dazzling light displays and festive attractions. Held at Impact Field from late November through early January, the festival offers an enchanting experience for all ages.
Upon entry, visitors are greeted by millions of twinkling lights that create a magical atmosphere. Each themed zone within the festival features unique light sculptures and decorations. A towering Christmas tree, central to the nightly synchronized light shows, stands out as a festive highlight.
For interactive fun, there's no shortage of activities. Ice skating rinks, holiday-themed rides, and games ensure there's something for everyone. Live performances, including carolers, add to the festive spirit, making it an ideal outing for families.
A unique feature of the festival is its immersive experiences. The Amaze at the Rosemont includes a "Light Forest," where paths lined with illuminated trees and structures offer a visually stunning journey. Additionally, there’s a spot for holiday photos with Santa, ensuring fun memories for younger guests.
The festival not only celebrates the holiday season but also brings the community together in a vibrant setting. As a must-visit destination during the winter months, the Rosemont Light Festival promises unforgettable moments filled with joy, laughter, and brilliant lights.
3. Rosemont Theatre
Rosemont Theatre stands as a cultural beacon in Rosemont, celebrated for its stunning architecture and versatile seating. This theater is a focal point for a variety of performances, drawing audiences from various regions. Its architectural design blends modern aesthetics with functional elegance, ensuring every event is a unique experience. The theater accommodates approximately 4,400 guests, offering an intimate setting where each seat provides a clear view of the stage—ideal for both performers and spectators.
The interior of Rosemont Theatre impresses as much as its exterior. The grand lobby, with its opulent fixtures and artistic nuances, sets the stage for an exceptional visit. The auditorium itself boasts plush seating arranged to optimize sightlines, and the advanced sound and lighting systems showcase each performance brilliantly. The acoustics are designed to enhance natural sound, perfect for the theater’s diverse lineup.
Rosemont Theatre hosts an eclectic mix of events, from Broadway musicals and major concerts to lively comedy shows, ensuring there’s always something captivating on offer. Musical productions feature intricate costumes and elaborate sets, attracting those who love live storytelling. Concerts here span genres, from classical symphonies to contemporary bands, thanks to a stage that adapts seamlessly to any musical style. Comedy nights bring top national stand-up talents, filling the venue with laughter. This diversity not only enriches Rosemont's cultural scene but also makes the theater a cherished landmark for exploring other things to do near Rosemont IL.
4. MB Financial Park
MB Financial Park in Rosemont, Illinois, stands out as a lively destination with a rich blend of dining, live music, and seasonal festivities, making it a prime spot for an entertaining outing. Whether you're planning a date night, a family gathering, or just hanging out with friends, this entertainment complex caters to a diverse set of interests and preferences, offering things to do in Rosemont for adults and families alike.
The dining scene at MB Financial Park features a variety of options. For a sophisticated meal, upscale restaurants serving steaks and seafood set the stage for memorable dining. More laid-back choices include sports bars where guests can watch a game while enjoying burgers and beers and themed eateries that transport diners to different culinary worlds, from a vibrant Mexican cantina to a cozy Italian kitchen.
Live performances are integral to the park’s charm, with a schedule packed with both local talents and renowned artists. The outdoor stage area, designed for live shows, allows visitors to immerse themselves in music and entertainment in a dynamic open-air setting.
Seasonally, MB Financial Park transforms to match the weather. Winter brings an enchanting ice skating rink, ideal for couples and families looking to make lasting memories gliding under the stars. Summer months fill with outdoor movies and various cultural festivals, enhancing the already festive atmosphere.
For those exploring the park, don’t miss the comedy club for a night of laughter or the bowling alley for some spirited competition. Each corner of MB Financial Park offers unique entertainment options, ensuring that every visit is fresh and exciting.
5. Donald E. Stephens Convention Center
The Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL, is a bustling hub for a diverse range of significant expos and conventions, drawing attendees from around the world. With its sprawling 840,000 square feet of space, the center is well-equipped to host large-scale events across industries such as technology, healthcare, and consumer goods.
One of the center's standout events is the "Wizard World Chicago Comic Con." This annual expo is a haven for pop culture fans, featuring everything from cosplay competitions to panels with entertainment industry luminaries. It's a key event for comic, movie, and science fiction enthusiasts, attracting thousands each year.
The "Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting" is another major event held here, bringing dental professionals together to explore the latest in dental technology and discuss industry trends. This conference is a cornerstone for dental education and networking.
Additionally, the "International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS)" is one of the largest industrial trade shows globally, showcasing cutting-edge manufacturing technology. It provides a vital platform for industry professionals to gain insights, meet potential clients, and foster collaborations.
Situated near Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center's location makes it an accessible venue for international visitors. It's not just a venue for events; it's a catalyst for professional growth and economic activity in the region, enhancing its reputation as a significant site for industry advancements.
6. The Pearl District
The Pearl District stands out as a vibrant and trendy area, renowned for its dynamic restaurants in Rosemont Entertainment District and electrifying nightlife. Once a neglected warehouse district, it has transformed into a hub of urban sophistication with eclectic eateries, bars, and clubs catering to a variety of tastes.
For culinary enthusiasts, the Pearl District offers an array of delights. At "Andina," you can dive into innovative Peruvian dishes that bring a modern twist to traditional flavors—perfect for those eager to explore beyond the conventional. For plant-based dining, "Harlow" impresses with its creative, health-conscious menu that ensures vegetarians and vegans have delicious, satisfying options.
Seafood aficionados should not miss "Ecliptic Brewing," where the day’s catch pairs wonderfully with on-site brewed craft beers. This spot captures the spirited essence of the Pearl District, making it a top choice for both food and atmosphere. For a more refined dining experience, "Can Font" offers exquisite Spanish cuisine in a setting ideal for both romantic dinners and celebratory gatherings.
As evening falls, the nightlife in the Pearl District ignites. "Teardrop Lounge" is a treasure for cocktail lovers, with its innovative mixology and stylish, intimate setting. If you're in the mood to dance, "Jones" provides a retro-themed dance floor with 80s and 90s hits, ensuring a lively and nostalgic night out. For a blend of drinks and live performances, the bars in Rosemont Entertainment District offer an exciting, varied nightlife scene sure to entertain and delight.
7. Kings Dining & Entertainment
Kings Dining & Entertainment is a vibrant hotspot, perfect for an outing with friends or family. This entertainment center is renowned for its excellent bowling alleys, appealing to casual bowlers and league players alike. Each lane is equipped with advanced technology and an automatic scoring system, ensuring every game is filled with excitement and a bit of friendly rivalry. Beyond bowling, guests can enjoy bars in Rosemont IL, where they can relax with a variety of drinks in a lively atmosphere.
Billiards tables are another highlight at King's, offering guests a chance to engage in a game of pool in a stylish setting. The venue is also packed with a diverse array of arcade games, from nostalgic pinball to cutting-edge video games, ensuring there's always something fun to do. For those who crave a unique dining experience, the on-site German restaurant in Rosemont provides a delightful selection of traditional German fare alongside modern dishes, catering to all tastes.
Kings doesn't just excel in activities but also in its culinary offerings. The menu features everything from gourmet burgers and hand-tossed pizzas to fresh salads and sweet desserts.
The dining area's welcoming ambiance, complete with large screens for sports fans and cozy booths for more intimate gatherings, makes it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy. With Bolden's service and a well-rounded entertainment experience, Kings Dining & Entertainment stands out as a premier destination in Rosemont.
8. iFLY Indoor Skydiving
iFLY Indoor Skydiving offers an exhilarating experience that mimics the thrill of skydiving without the need to jump out of an airplane. This adventure, ideal for families, thrill-seekers, and corporate groups, takes place in a vertical wind tunnel where a column of air lifts the body, allowing participants to float effortlessly. The state-of-the-art technology adjusts the airflow to suit each flyer, making it a safe and controlled environment, perfect for those hesitant about traditional skydiving. First-time flyers receive hands-on training from certified instructors who ensure safety and fun during the experience.
Various packages at iFLY cater to different preferences, from introductory sessions for beginners to advanced coaching for serious flyers. Group and family packages are particularly popular, turning an ordinary gathering into an unforgettable airborne adventure. Indoor skydiving at Rosemont offers a distinctive and exciting experience that's accessible to everyone, regardless of age or skill level.
As for age requirements, iFLY welcomes flyers from ages three and up, ensuring that even young children can enjoy the thrill of flight under the safest conditions. Participants under 18 must have parental or guardian consent. Restrictions apply to individuals with certain medical conditions to ensure the safety of all flyers. Whether planning a unique date, a family outing, or a dynamic corporate event, Rosemont skydiving at iFLY promises a memorable and thrilling adventure.
9. Wolff's Flea Market
Wolff’s Flea Market is a treasure trove for those who cherish unique finds and antiques, providing a bustling atmosphere where you can uncover everything from vintage jewelry to classic furniture and rare collectibles. Ideal for both casual browsers and serious collectors, Wolff’s offers an eclectic mix of items that cater to a wide range of interests.
The best time to visit Wolff’s is early in the morning, just as the market opens. This strategy allows you to snag the most intriguing pieces before the crowds arrive and ensures a more relaxed shopping experience. Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking a lot! Also, it's wise to bring cash since not all vendors may accept credit cards, and this could give you an edge in negotiating prices.
Negotiating is part of the flea market fun, and vendors typically expect it. Start by offering a lower price than you're willing to pay and find a middle ground. This approach not only lets you secure a good deal but also respects the vendor’s pricing.
10. Impact Field
Impact Field in Rosemont, Illinois, is the vibrant home of the Chicago Dogs, a beloved professional baseball team. This modern ballpark offers more than just exciting baseball; it provides a comprehensive entertainment experience for fans of all ages.
A visit to Impact Field is an adventure from the start, filled with the aroma of classic ballpark fare and the energetic cheers of the crowd. The culinary offerings surpass traditional game day snacks. Fans can enjoy Chicago-style hot dogs, hearty slices of deep-dish pizza, and craft beers from local breweries. Health-conscious and vegetarian options are also plentiful, ensuring delicious choices for every palate.
Entertainment at the ballpark extends beyond the baseball game. Impact Field hosts a variety of promotions, giveaways, and themed nights, adding layers of fun to every game. From post-game fireworks to guest appearances by beloved local mascots, there's always an extra touch of excitement.
The stadium’s design ensures superb views from any seat, making every ticket a gateway to an exhilarating experience. Families will appreciate the dedicated kids' zone, complete with games and activities to keep younger fans entertained.
11. Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District
Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District in Rosemont, Illinois, stands out as a dynamic center of dining, nightlife, and live entertainment. Covering over 200,000 square feet, it attracts both locals and tourists with its variety of year-round attractions suitable for all ages.
The district boasts an impressive array of dining options. Whether you're in the mood for an upscale steak dinner or a casual bite, there's something to satisfy every palate. Places like Bub City not only offer delicious BBQ but also feature live country music, creating a vibrant atmosphere that everyone can enjoy.
Beyond dining, Parkway Bank Park is alive with bars and a comedy club, providing ample entertainment options. The area is also a hub for live events. In summer, its central lawn hosts concerts, festivals, and outdoor movies. Come winter, it transforms into a charming ice rink, ensuring the fun continues all year round.
Family-friendly offerings are key here. Attractions include an indoor skydiving facility, a modern cinema, and an interactive bowling alley, making it an ideal spot for family outings. The holiday season is particularly magical, with festive decorations and activities like sleigh rides and visits with Santa, perfect for making lasting family memories.
Conclusion
Rosemont is a vibrant destination that caters to all ages and interests. Its unique blend of urban energy and cultural richness makes it a must-visit for everyone from thrill-seekers and culture enthusiasts to families and solo adventurers.
Families will find Rosemont particularly inviting, with attractions like the Fashion Outlets of Chicago offering extensive shopping and entertainment options. The Muvico Rosemont 18 cinema enhances any visit, providing top-notch film experiences for all ages.
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FAQ
1. How can I get to Rosemont, IL?
Rosemont, IL is conveniently located near major highways, including Interstate 90 and Interstate 294. It is just 2 miles from O'Hare International Airport (ORD), making it easily accessible for both local and international travelers. Public transportation options include the CTA Blue Line and Metra trains.
2. How far is Rosemont, IL from Chicago?
Rosemont is approximately 17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. Depending on traffic, the drive typically takes around 25 to 30 minutes via Interstate 90. Alternatively, you can take the CTA Blue Line from Rosemont to downtown Chicago, which takes about 40 minutes.
3. When is the best time to visit Rosemont, IL?
The best time to visit Rosemont is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are mild and ideal for exploring attractions like the Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District and attending events at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center. These seasons also offer less humidity and pleasant weather.
4. What is Rosemont, IL known for?
Rosemont is known for its proximity to O'Hare International Airport and as a hub for entertainment and conventions. The village is home to the Allstate Arena, the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, and the Fashion Outlets of Chicago. Rosemont is a popular destination for visitors attending concerts, sporting events, and shopping.
5. How would you describe Rosemont's culture and history?
Rosemont’s culture is closely tied to its role as a gateway to Chicago, with a focus on hospitality, entertainment, and business. The village has a rich history of growth and development since its incorporation in 1956, transforming from a small community into a bustling destination known for its large-scale events, vibrant nightlife, and thriving business district.