If you’ve ever wanted to travel to the heart of Illinois’ lake region, you’ll appreciate discovering the bustling village of Mundelein with its rich heritage as an agricultural community.
The initial inhabitants were Potawatomi Indians, who established a fur trade with French traders in the 17th century and turned it into a commercial hub. In the 19th century, Europeans learned about this incredible region, and now one of the republics in this hamlet has Peter Shadle’s name in honor of the first European traveler.
The University of Saint Mary of the Lake Tour was founded by the Archbishop of Chicago, George Mundelein, following World War I, and the village bears his name to this day. Manicured, precisely planned grounds give the campus of this seminary a quiet architectural look that the public can easily visit anytime during the day.
If you’re visiting or have plans to move to Mundelein, you should come during the summer as it is a great time to enjoy public facilities and picnic spots. Check out our travel guide to discover the best places to visit and things to do in Mundelein, IL.
1. Barefoot Bay Aquatic Center
The most spectacular and joyful outdoor water location for tourists and families is the Barefoot Bay Aquatic Center. It comprises 6 acres of land with a 740-foot-long lazy river, diving pool, spray park for kids, tube slides, and water wall for a unique workout.
2. University of St. Mary of the Lake Tour
Visit the University of Saint Mary of the Lake’s beautifully landscaped campus if you wish to attend a renowned Roman Catholic seminary. Its stunning architecture is inspired by Renaissance Rome and the American Colonial Revival style, which blends seamlessly with the picture-perfect lakeside location.
3. The Original Sundance Saloon
The Original Sundance Saloon is a lovely tavern in the center of town that has live country music and folk dancing. The bar presents a lot of live performances that will have you tapping your feet to the beat of the music. The kitchen is supplied with a traditional American fare that will not break the bank.
4. Bess Bower Dunn Museum of Lake County
It’s always intriguing to visit a history museum, especially one like the Bess Bower Dunn Museum. Here, you will view a 420 million-year-old fossil as well as a number of ongoing exhibits that focus on the way of life of the original Americans 12,000 years ago. You can also view an early 35mm motion picture machine and learn about Waukegan’s once-vibrant film industry.
5. X-Factor Trampoline Park
Indoor family entertainment activities start here at X-Factor Trampoline Park. This spacious center is made up of wall-to-wall trampoline courts including a foam-pit trampoline, freestyle trampoline, and dodgeball trampoline. Perfect place for hosting private parties. You can also enjoy arcade machines and inflatables for some next level fun.
6. Just for Fun Roller Rink
In recent years, roller skating has returned to popularity. Just for Fun Roller Rink is a beloved family destination in Mundelein for kids and adults, great for private events, birthday celebrations, and open rink activities. This spot is also praised for its impeccable sanitation and the rink’s polished beauty.
7. Diamond Lake Beach
When you see this magnificent natural lake, you’ll wish it was where you played on the beach and swam growing up. It has a floating sports park, covered picnic spots, and sand play areas that are open all summer long. Kayak and paddle boat rentals are also available here at very reasonable prices.
8. Steeple Chase Golf Club
The Steeple Chase Golf Club has won a lot of recognition from national and international golf players and visitors all over the country. Especially from those who truly appreciate the architect mastermind, Ken Killian.
Winner of the “Best Golf Course” in the Daily Herald’s Readers Choice Awards and maintaining a 4-star rating in the golf digest, there are many reasons as to why Steeple Chase is it as one of the best places to play golf.
9. Tighthead Brewing Company
Moving close to the Mundelein Metra station might be the best decisions of your life since it will put you right next to the Tighthead Brewing Company. Established in 2010, they make 6 year-round beers in addition to a variety of seasonal beers.
Prepare yourself for Scarlet Fire (an Irish Red Ale), Boxcar (a Porter), Irie (an IPA), Comfortably Blonde (a Blonde Ale), and Chilly Water. Enjoy pizza and burgers, meet up with friends there, and play board games in your new go-to pub.
10. Kracklauer Park
Built on 2.6 acres of land, Kracklauer Park is a compact and centrally located park with tennis courts, dance studios, and a picnic area. It also stages an exciting Sunday concert series during the summer.
No matter what your age, taste, or interest is, you’ll always have a good time in this large Chicago suburb community.
11. Peter Patterson Glassworks
Peter Patterson is a glass artist who creates collections of glassworks that are shown in a gallery, workshop, and hot shop. The most notable and eye-catching artwork you will see here includes the one embarked with aquatic themes and light bulbs. For ages 12 and up, we recommend taking a beginner’s glassblowing or sculpture class.
CJ Plumbing & Heating is Mundelein’s Beloved Plumbing Company
For a calmer pace right outside of Chicago while still enjoying nature, fun family activities, and local hotspots, map out your next trip to Mundelein, Illinois. Be sure to also read our blog for more neighborhood travel guides.
Here at CJ Plumbing & Heating, we’re Mundelein’s premier plumbing experts. We pride ourselves for being a family-owned and operated plumbing company with over 30 years of experience throughout Chicagoland – Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Evanston, Hawthorn Woods, Lincolnshire, Riverwoods, Schaumburg, Skokie, Vernon Hills, Wilmette, and much more.
Call 847-491-9828 or fill out our online contact form to request a free service quote.
