Looking for the perfect way to celebrate Labor Day weekend in the Chicagoland area? This list explores 5 ways to make the most of your long weekend in Chicago's western suburbs. Whether you're planning a relaxing staycation, a fun-filled family outing, or a quick getaway close to home, DuPage County has plenty of ways to help you unwind and explore.
1. Grab a Seat on the Patio
Take advantage of the remaining sunny days and warm weather! Here are a few of our favorite places to enjoy a leisurely afternoon or night out with good company:
- Arrowhead Restaurant and Bar
- Anyway's Resturant & Pub
- BubbleHouse Brewing Company
- Church Street Brewing Company
- Clara's
- Cooper's Hawk: Bloomingdale, Burr Ridge, Downers Grove, Naperville
- Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Oak Brook
- Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse
- Ike & Oak Brewing Co.
- Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar
- Mesón Sabika
- Osteria by Capri at DoubleTree Downers Grove
- Pinstripes
- Pollyanna Brewing Company
- Reserve 22, Village Links of Glen Ellyn
2. Tee Off on the Green
Did you know that DuPage is home to the first 18-hole golf course? With a rich golf history, DuPage is one of the top golfing destinations in the United States, offering gorgeous greenery and state-of-the-art facilities. Golf Digest's 2025-2026 ranking for America's 100 greatest golf courses included three DuPage County courses on the list. Explore DuPage County golf courses and experience the area's scenic fairways firsthand.
3. Family Fun for Everyone
Make memories with the whole crew this Labor Day weekend in DuPage County. From mini golf to indoor entertainment centers, there’s no shortage of kid-friendly adventures to keep the fun going all weekend long. Whether you're mastering a high ropes course at The Forge: Lemont Quarries or hosting a family competition at Bowlero or Dave & Buster's, DuPage County offers plenty of different ways to enjoy the long weekend with the whole family. Check out a full list of entertainment spaces here.
4. Optimize those Shopping Hours
Spend this Labor Day Weekend shopping the sales and prepping your fall wardrobe. DuPage is a shopping mecca full of outlets, major shopping centers, cute downtown boutiques, and of course Oakbrook Center — one of the largest outdoor premier shopping destinations. Finish your shopping, and then enjoy lunch or dinner (or both!) at some of our favorite dining destinations:
Burr Ridge Village Center: Cooper’s Hawk Burr Ridge, The Hampton Social
Oakbrook Center: Alter Brewing + Kitchen - Oak Brook, Antico Posto, Beatrix, Fogo de Chão Oak Brook, Maggiano’s Little Italy, Piccolo Bucco, Pinstripes, The Table at Crate, Wildfire
Yorktown Center: Billy Bricks - Lombard Yorktown, Empire Burgers + Brew, Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse, Holy Mackerel! Fresh Seafood
Another way you can partake in shopping is by visiting one of many DuPage farmers' markets! Read this blog to learn about the markets you can visit during Labor Day weekend!
5. Museums in DuPage
Take some time over the weekend to learn about the history of the county by exploring museums and galleries in DuPage. With a rich history and compelling backstories, DuPage’s museums are sure to teach you something new. As the nation commemorates a historic milestone this year, take the opportunity to visit a special America250 themed exhibit. Here is a brief list of some special America250 exhibits:
- Enduring Symbols: Liberty Set in Stone, Lizzadro Musesum of Lapidary Art
- Power of Place: America 250 Outdoor Art Installation, Lilacia Park
- Defining US: The 250th Anniversary of the United States Exhibit, DuPage County Historical Museum
- Walking with Giants, McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage
- Gardens: Gallantly Streaming, Cantigny
If you want to find more events during Labor Day Weekend, be sure to visit our Calendar, as new events are added weekly. If you are able to make it a staycation, pick from over 100 hotels and resorts and discover even more DuPage: things to do with kids, where the wild things are, and our top 10 trails.