Top 10 Things to Do in DuPage County This Summer
1. Enjoy America250 Festivities
Throughout 2026, residents and visitors can take part in a variety of America250 celebrations across DuPage County. Whether you are learning about how DuPage helped to shape the last 250 years at the DuPage County Historical Museum's exhibit Defining US: The 250th Anniversary of the United States or walking among larger-than-life silhouettes of influential American artists and performers at the College of DuPage’s outdoor exhibit Walking with Giants, there are countless ways to commemorate this historic anniversary. You can also enjoy special Independence Day celebrations, art installations, and cultural programs taking place throughout the county. Don’t forget to participate in the Snapshots of DuPage: Honoring 250 Years of America photo contest to share all the wonderful experiences from this once-in-a-lifetime milestone.
2. Venture Throughout The Morton Arboretum
Beyond The Morton Arboretum’s stunning landscapes and miles of scenic trials, two special attractions make this summer an especially exciting time to visit. Vivid Creatures is the outdoor art exhibition at the Arboretum. Amid towering trees and sweeping green vistas, five giant, colorful animal sculptures can be found. Guests of all ages can delight in colorful sculptures modeled after a white-tailed deer, a brittle button snail, a fox squirrel, a blue dasher dragonfly, and a sandhill crane—all animals native to northern Illinois. Each creature is depicted in vibrantly painted, larger-than-life sculptures up to 22 feet tall! This is the last summer the view Vivid Creatures at the Arboretum, so make sure you add this to your summer bucket list!
Another fun thing to do this summer at The Morton Arboretum is Wonder Woods Mini Golf. You’ll enjoy an imaginative, tree-themed adventure with friends and family on this one-of-a-kind mini golf course specially designed for the Arboretum with the help of their research scientists. Additional fees apply for entry to the course, and tickets must be purchased separately from general admission.
3. Veggie Fest Chicago
August 8-9, Lisle
Veggie Fest Chicago is one of the largest vegetarian food and wellness festivals in North America. This festival offers fun by celebrating the joy, science, food, and compassion behind the vegetarian lifestyle, bringing more than 50,000+ participants in recent years. Visitors can enjoy a variety of international cuisine, learn from world-renowned health professionals on diet, lifestyle, and environmental issues, and watch live cooking demonstrations led by acclaimed chefs, restaurant owners, and authors. In addition, attendees can also explore more than 100 vendor booths and enjoy performances from some of Chicago’s best bands. Younger attendees can visit the children’s tent for face panting's, crafts, and other activities.
4. Tee Off in DuPage
Gearing up for the 2026 Presidents Cup this September, DuPage County offers plenty of opportunities to experience the region’s rich golf tradition. Home to award-winning courses and scenic fairways, DuPage is a destination for golfers of all skill levels. Whether you're playing a round on championship-caliber fairways, enjoying a day at the driving range, or following the excitement leading up to the Presidents Cup, DuPage's golf scene provides a great way to get outside and experience one of the region's most celebrated sports.
5. Summer Concerts Throughout DuPage
Warm summer nights, music in the air, and the glory of gathering! Many of our DuPage communities celebrate summer with concerts in the park, offering the perfect opportunity to enjoy friends, family and an easy night out with little planning. From Rock 'N Wheels to Music on Maple Street, each community has something a little different to offer. So be sure to check out our Concerts & Festivals page to see a list of summer concerts.
6. Celebrate a Century of Route 66
As Route 66 honors its 100th anniversary in 2026, explore the first 600 miles of the Mother Road in Illinois, including the historic stretch through DuPage County. Learn more about its rich history through our blog written by the DuPage County Historical Museum, History of Route 66 in Illinois. Stop at Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket for a taste of classic Route 66 nostalgia or enjoy a family-friendly break at Harvester Park’s Route 66 themed playground. Enjoy the surrounding communities by browsing at specialty boutiques and dining at diverse restaurants in Burr Ridge Village Center and The Promenade Bolingbrook. Don't forget to take a ride through history and make Route 66 part of your summer adventures in DuPage County.
7. Umbrella Sky Elmhurst
Now through September 2026
Umbrella Sky Elmhurst is back for the fourth year in a row! Three Umbrella Sky exhibits are located throughout Elmhurst. Get your picture-perfect moment this summer!
Locations are:
Schiller Court at Schiller and York Street
110 South Cottage Hill Avenue
254 North York Street
Looking for an adventure this summer? The Explore Elmhurst Express Trolley offers visitors and residents a free hop-on, hop-off service around the lively city of Elmhurst. Making six stops across the city, this fun and easy trip runs every Friday and Saturday. For added convenience, riders can track the trolley in real time. What a great way to explore the city with friends and family!
8. Reach New Heights at The Forge: Lemont Quarries
As an innovative leader in outdoor recreation, The Forge: Lemont Quarries is a state-of-the-art adventure park designed to deliver unique year-round activities for adventurers of all ages and abilities. Featuring a versatile and wide-ranging mix of recreational activities set among a reclaimed natural landscape, the park offers an escape to tranquil and interactive green space where guests can test their personal boundaries while engaging with a passionate community of like-minded outdoor enthusiasts. In addition, The Forge also offers a variety of summer events, such as the Lemont Food Truck Festival and Forge Fest.
9. Slide Into Summer Fun
Summer isn’t complete without a trip to the water park. Luckily, DuPage is home to splash-worthy spots that are perfect for cooling off and turning up the fun. Whether you’re racing down towering slides or watching little ones laugh in splash zones, there’s no shortage of ways to soak in the sunshine. Plan your visit and discover why DuPage waterparks are a must-stop for summer fun just outside Chicago.
10. Shop at One of Several DuPage Farmers Markets
Embark on a journey through DuPage's local markets, where a vibrant tapestry of flavors meets community spirit. Discover the stories behind the products and the heart of DuPage's local community. From French markets to artisan markets, each event has something a little different to offer.
For a complete list of events and other fun summer activities, make sure you look at our Calendar of Events, as new events are added weekly.