Welcome to DuPage County, where winter magic meets budget-friendly fun! As the chill in the air invites us to embrace the season, discover the beauty of winter without breaking the bank. From snowy adventures to entertaining indoor escapades, this blog is your go-to guide for free activities during the winter months.
Forest Preserve District of DuPage County
Beautiful in all seasons, especially winter, trek across the trails and take in the views of snowflakes on trees and pathways, sunrises, or pastel-colored sunsets. Challenge yourself and see how many you can get to this winter. Popular DuPage forest preserves include:
- Blackwell, Warrenville
- Herrick Lake, Wheaton/Warrenville
- Hawk Hollow, Bartlett
- Meacham Grove, Bloomingdale
- Pratt's Wayne Woods, West Chicago
- Waterfall Glen, Lemont
Shopping Centers
Who doesn’t love window shopping? It’s a great way to reach daily “step” goals and helps beat the feelings of “cabin fever” during the winter. There are plenty of pedestrian-friendly and easily accessible shopping destinations in DuPage County, including our charming downtowns. Looking to walk your dog, but want the both of you to stay warm? Yorktown Center is a dog-friendly place to let your furry friend get some exercise (on a leash, of course). Make sure you stop by their designated dog lounge.
Illinois Prairie Path
Don’t let the chill of winter days prevent you from enjoying a leisurely walk or challenging run! Regardless of your fitness level, the Illinois Prairie Path helps residents and visitors stay active year-round. The path is the first successful rail-to-trail conversion in the United States, spans over 40 miles in DuPage, and is a main artery connecting communities, quaint downtowns, forest preserves, and recreational trails.
Free Museums
Let your curiosity reign at one of many free DuPage museums, rich with history, extraordinary attention to detail, and compelling backstories.
- Addison Historical Museum (open Wednesday through Friday)
- Billy Graham Center Museum (open Tuesday through Saturday)
- DuPage County Historical Museum (open daily)
- Elmhurst History Museum (open Tuesday through Sunday)
- Gallery 200 (open Wednesday through Sunday)
- Carriage House at Lombard Historical Society (Tuesday through Friday. Sheldon Peck Homestead reopens in February and Victorian Cottage reopens in March)
- Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art (free on Wednesdays)
- National Shrine and Museum of St. Therese (open Monday through Saturday)
- Oakbrook Terrace Historical Society (open on Wednesdays)
- The Museums at Lisle Station Park (tours available by appointment only)
- Warrenville Historical Society (open Sunday)
- West Chicago City Museum (open Thursday thorugh Saturday)
- William L. Gregg Museum (closed in January; open Wednesdays and Sundays)
Volunteer with an Organization
Why not be part of something bigger than yourself? Giving DuPage is a great resource to find your next volunteer opportunity. The organization coordinates several volunteer-related programs throughout DuPage. Give back to your community and help make a difference this winter.
Looking for more fun things to do this winter? Check our Calendar of Events, as new events are added weekly!