Last updated: 2025-04-22
Des Plaines offers a treasure trove of indoor entertainment that transforms dreary days into exciting adventures. From interactive museums to thrilling sports complexes, this suburban Chicago gem provides diverse experiences for visitors and locals seeking shelter from unpredictable Midwest weather.
Whether you’re a family seeking kid-friendly activities or an adult craving unique experiences, the area’s indoor attractions promise engaging entertainment. Explore interactive spaces, challenge yourself with escape rooms, or immerse in educational exhibits just minutes from Chicago’s bustling metropolis.
Discover Des Plaines’ coolest indoor adventures now!
Featured Indoor Activities in Des Plaines
- Escapology Escape Rooms Chicago O'Hare (Rosemont)
- Fashion Outlets of Chicago (Rosemont)
- iFLY Indoor Skydiving Rosemont (Rosemont)
- Kohl Children's Museum (Glenview)
- MB Financial Park at Rosemont (Rosemont)
- The Dome at the Parkway Bank Sports Complex (Rosemont)
- Improv Playhouse Theater (Libertyville)
- Cernan Earth and Space Center (River Grove)
- The Art Center Highland Park (Highland Park)
- Des Plaines History Center
Cernan Earth and Space Center (River Grove)
What to Expect
Advanced planetarium with comprehensive astronomical education
Description
The Cernan Earth and Space Center offers immersive planetarium shows and science experiences at Triton College. Visitors explore astronomical wonders through advanced projection technology, educational programs, and a dedicated Star Store featuring science-related merchandise and gifts.
Where: River Grove | More Info: Cernan Earth and Space Center
Des Plaines History Center
What to Expect
Comprehensive local history preservation and community archival collection
Description
Des Plaines History Center preserves local heritage through curated exhibits exploring the city's rich past. Visitors can explore comprehensive displays highlighting community development, historic artifacts, and cultural milestones specific to Des Plaines and surrounding regions.
Where: Des Plaines | More Info: Des Plaines History Center
Escapology Escape Rooms Chicago O'Hare (Rosemont)
What to Expect
Private, themed escape room experiences with multiple difficulty levels
Description
Escapology offers immersive, private escape room experiences in Downers Grove, challenging participants to solve intricate puzzles and complete missions within 60 minutes. Featuring themed rooms ranging from murder mysteries to treasure hunts, the venue provides engaging adventures for groups of all sizes, with specialized kid-friendly options for ages 7-14.
Where: Rosemont | More Info: Escapology Escape Rooms Chicago O'Hare
Fashion Outlets of Chicago (Rosemont)
What to Expect
Only two-level indoor luxury outlet shopping experience in the region
Description
Two-level indoor luxury outlet shopping center located near O'Hare Airport featuring over 130 designer brands like Gucci, Burberry, and lululemon. Offers contemporary art installations, quick-service dining options, and a unique shopping environment with the ability to enjoy alcoholic beverages while browsing.
Where: Rosemont | More Info: Fashion Outlets of Chicago
iFLY Indoor Skydiving Rosemont (Rosemont)
What to Expect
Vertical wind tunnel simulation of freefall skydiving experience
Description
iFLY Indoor Skydiving offers an immersive simulated skydiving experience using powerful vertical wind tunnels. Participants can float and fly in a controlled indoor environment, experiencing the sensation of freefall without jumping from an airplane. Professional instructors guide guests through safe, thrilling aerial experiences suitable for all skill levels.
Where: Rosemont | More Info: iFLY Indoor Skydiving Rosemont
Improv Playhouse Theater (Libertyville)
What to Expect
Professional improv comedy and comprehensive performing arts training center
Description
Improv Playhouse offers comprehensive performing arts training and live entertainment in Libertyville. The theater provides adult and youth comedy, improvisation, and acting classes, alongside live improv comedy shows. Professional performers deliver engaging performances and educational programs for various age groups and skill levels.
Where: Libertyville | More Info: Improv Playhouse Theater
Kohl Children's Museum (Glenview)
What to Expect
Child-sized interactive scientific laboratory and experimental learning spaces
Description
Interactive children's museum offering hands-on science, art, and discovery experiences. Visitors explore child-sized laboratories, engage in immersive learning environments, and participate in educational exhibits that encourage playful exploration across multiple disciplines.
Where: Glenview | More Info: Kohl Children's Museum
MB Financial Park at Rosemont (Rosemont)
What to Expect
Multi-venue entertainment complex with diverse indoor activity options
Description
MB Financial Park at Rosemont is a comprehensive 200,000 square-foot entertainment district featuring 15 diverse venues with indoor activities including bowling, indoor skydiving, live music, comedy performances, and state-of-the-art film experiences. The complex offers multiple entertainment options within walking distance of major attractions like the Rosemont Theatre and Fashion Outlets of Chicago.
Where: Rosemont | More Info: MB Financial Park at Rosemont
The Art Center Highland Park (Highland Park)
What to Expect
Community-driven art education and exhibition space
Description
Local art center offering diverse studio classes, workshops, and exhibitions that foster community creativity. Provides hands-on art experiences including figure drawing, summer camps, and wellness classes. Supports artistic expression through curated exhibits, community events, and educational programming.
Where: Highland Park | More Info: The Art Center Highland Park
The Dome at the Parkway Bank Sports Complex (Rosemont)
What to Expect
Expansive multi-sport indoor athletic complex
Description
A massive 140,000-square-foot indoor sports facility offering comprehensive tournament and event spaces for baseball, softball, lacrosse, volleyball, and football. The Dome features two indoor diamonds with movable bases and fenced playing fields, accommodating teams of all ages and skill levels.
Where: Rosemont | More Info: The Dome at the Parkway Bank Sports Complex
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