Kankakee

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Kankakee's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Kankakee River State Park
morning
:

Start your day with a hike in Kankakee River State Park, enjoying the scenic views and fresh air. Pack a breakfast picnic to enjoy by the river.

afternoon
:

After the hike, spend your afternoon fishing or kayaking on the river. The park offers beautiful spots perfect for relaxation.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head back to the park for a cozy campfire experience. Share stories and roast marshmallows with family or friends.

day 2
Discover Historic Downtown Kankakee
morning
:

Begin your day with a stroll through historic downtown and visit the local shops. Enjoy a cup of coffee at a quaint café to fuel your exploration.

afternoon
:

Visit the Kankakee County Museum to learn about the area's rich history. You can also grab lunch at one of the local eateries.

evening
:

Wind down your day at the Kankakee Symphony Orchestra if they're performing. Alternatively, enjoy some live music at a downtown venue.

day 3
Outdoor Adventure at Kankakee River
morning
:

Kick off your day with an exciting fishing trip on the Kankakee River. Bring your gear or rent equipment from a local shop.

afternoon
:

After fishing, enjoy a relaxing boat ride to appreciate the river's beauty. Pack a lunch to enjoy on the water.

evening
:

Return to the shore for a riverside barbecue with family or friends. Unwind while watching the sunset over the water.

day 4
Nature Day at Herscher Park
morning
:

Spend the morning exploring Herscher Park, enjoying its walking trails and beautiful natural surroundings. Bring your camera for some stunning shots.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch in the park amidst the beauty of nature. After lunch, let the kids enjoy the playground equipment.

evening
:

As the day wraps up, consider a leisurely walk as the sun sets. The park provides a tranquil setting for unwinding.

day 5
Biking Adventures in Kankakee
morning
:

Get your bike ready for a morning ride on the Kankakee Bike Trail. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and fresh morning air.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch at a local diner, then continue your biking adventure to explore more scenic areas. Don't forget to hydrate!

evening
:

Conclude your biking day with a stop at a nearby brewery. Relish a refreshing beverage while sharing highlights from your ride.

day 6
Scenic Views at Aroma Park
morning
:

Begin with a visit to Aroma Park to appreciate its picturesque views. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or jog.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch to enjoy by the water, followed by some birdwatching along the trails. The park is known for diverse wildlife.

evening
:

Enjoy a peaceful evening at Aroma Park, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere as the day transitions to dusk. Consider bringing a blanket for an outdoor movie under the stars.

day 7
Foodie Crawl in Kankakee
morning
:

Start with breakfast at one of Kankakee's favorite breakfast spots known for its local specialties. Don’t miss trying the unique pancakes.

afternoon
:

Explore local food trucks for lunch, sampling a variety of cuisines. Taste everything from tacos to gourmet grilled cheese.

evening
:

End your culinary tour with dinner at a well-reviewed restaurant downtown. Delight in local flavors and perhaps a dessert stop after.

day 8
Fun at Kankakee County Fair
morning
:

If the county fair is in town, kickstart your day with exciting rides and games. Gather your friends and family for a fun-filled experience.

afternoon
:

Enjoy the fair's diverse food offerings for lunch while mingling with local community members. Don’t forget to visit the livestock exhibits.

evening
:

As night falls, enjoy the fair's live entertainment or fireworks display. It's a perfect end to an exhilarating day at the fair.

day 9
Splash Day at the Kankakee Community Aquatic Center
morning
:

Spend your morning cooling off at the Kankakee Community Aquatic Center. The water slides and pools are perfect for family fun.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at the poolside snack bar, then relax on a lounger or enjoy a leisurely swim. The atmosphere is lively and joyful.

evening
:

As the day wraps up, participate in any evening swim sessions if available. Enjoy the warmer waters as you wind down.

day 10
Stargazing at Kankakee River
morning
:

Start with a relaxed morning at a local café enjoying breakfast and coffee. Get ready for a night of stargazing by planning your evening.

afternoon
:

Explore the parks or river areas in town to scout the best stargazing spots while enjoying the beautiful views during the day.

evening
:

Settle down for an evening under the stars with blankets and snacks. Remember to bring a telescope or binoculars for an enhanced experience.

Discover Kankakee

Read more in our Kankakee 2024 Travel Guide.

Kankakee Travel Guide