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Local picks in Vernon Hills

Fun activities

Breaking the routine with an engaging activity is the quickest way to shake off the doldrums.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Time Out Party & Play - Kids Playground image 1
Time Out Party & Play - Kids Playground image 2
Time Out Party & Play - Kids Playground image 3
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Indoor playground features soft padded ground and sensory room with soothing music, perfect for toddlers and neurodivergent kids. Parents enjoy a calm, cozy space while kids explore interactive musical panels. Safe, clean, and ideal for stress-free family fun.

A safe, clean, fun indoor playground offers kids space to play independently while parents relax. It suits families seeking a stress-free celebration spot for young kids.

People are saying

"This place is perfect for kid-friendly birthday parties; they make it so easy."

"The sensory room at this playground is a calm, cozy space for kids."

"This place is perfect for birthday parties and fun activities."

Good to know

1

The venue is ideal for children's birthday parties and family gatherings.

2

The facility is very clean and well-organized for events.

3

Parking is easy and convenient for guests.

02
Dance Religion image 1
Dance school

Dance school offers modern studios and a friendly atmosphere that supports all skill levels. Weekly rounds provide fun competitions where kids enjoy themselves. Professional coaches lead classes focused on passion and progress.

Rounds happen once a week and are super fun and well organized. The atmosphere stays friendly and welcoming for all skill levels, making it easy for kids to compete and enjoy themselves.

People are saying

"This dance studio is the best place for serious ballroom dancers."

"This place is great for kids; the instructors are excellent."

"The instructors here are so knowledgeable and engaging during fun activities."

Good to know

1

Dance Religion offers classes for all ages, from children to adults.

2

Weekly rounds are held every Wednesday, providing a fun and structured environment.

3

The studio has a variety of group classes catering to different skill levels.

03
Kid's Castle image 1
Playground

Three-story castle with multiple slides anchors a large playground featuring recycled rubber ground for safety. Kids enjoy zip line fun and diverse equipment in a clean, fenced area with zones for toddlers and older children. Shaded benches offer calm spots for parents.

A huge, clean play area offers climbing castles, slides, and swings that keep kids entertained for hours. A zip line adds extra fun for children of various ages.

People are saying

"This place is really kid friendly with a huge play area."

"It's a fun place with lots of climbing structures and slides."

"The playground's three-story castle has slides on every level."

Good to know

1

Parking is available a quarter mile away next to the tennis courts.

2

The playground has equipment suitable for children 3 years and older.

3

Kid's Castle features separate areas for toddlers and older children.

04
WhirlyBall Vernon Hills image 1
Amusement center

WhirlyBall offers unique group fun with updated carts and a spacious layout perfect for big groups. The lively atmosphere includes a dark basement bar and a loft overlooking the court. Activities like laser tag and dance keep energy high for all ages.

Playing whirlyball offers a super fun experience with a unique twist on group activities. The game suits large groups and families, creating memorable moments despite occasional slow or stalling cars.

People are saying

"Playing the games here was such a fun experience for everyone."

"The staff made my son's birthday party so special and fun."

"The food here is pretty good, even delicious."

Good to know

1

The venue has easy parking available for guests.

2

Food options include pizza, but some items may be unavailable.

3

Expect a total cost of $674 for a group of 10 for 1.5 hours of play.

05
Century Park Arboretum image 1

Park features scenic lake views and well-maintained playgrounds for kids. Visitors enjoy cricket ground and carnival excitement. Canoeing and fishing add to the peaceful, safe atmosphere with plenty of grassy spots for gatherings.

Playgrounds offer entertaining fun for children. The cricket ground provides space for active play. A carnival adds lively excitement to the park.

People are saying

"I found the park beautiful, clean, and serene."

"I loved the nice view of the beautiful lake."

"It's a beautiful, large place with grassy areas for fun activities."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at multiple lots throughout the park.

2

The park is dog-friendly, making it great for pet owners.

3

Restrooms are available, but cleanliness may vary.

06
Deerpath Park image 1

Expansive park offers large playgrounds with padded ground for safety and swings for fun. Peaceful, family-friendly space includes sports courts and a zip line for variety. Accessible paths and parking make visits easy and enjoyable.

Swings provide a fun activity for young kids. The park offers a playful environment that keeps children engaged and entertained.

People are saying

"This place is really kid friendly with an awesome playground."

"The parking available here is clean and well-maintained."

"The swings and merry-go-round here are so fun for kids."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging at Deerpath Park, especially during busy times.

2

The park features multiple play areas for different age groups, ensuring safety for younger kids.

3

Deerpath Park is well-maintained and offers clean facilities, including restrooms.

07
Bowlero Vernon Hills image 1

Huge bowling alley with well-maintained lanes offers a family-friendly atmosphere and arcade games for extra fun. Spacious, clean, and lowkey, it suits casual play and lively events alike.

Fun atmosphere shines through with a clean and professional setting. Great for family outings and celebrations, offering consistent enjoyment and a lively vibe.

People are saying

"I had a great time bowling with my family."

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful, it's really Kid Friendly."

"I found the fun activities here to be really clean and nice."

Good to know

1

Unlimited arcade games cost $13 on Tuesdays.

2

Bowling prices are higher during winter break compared to other times.

3

Expect long lines for food during peak hours.

08
Claire's image 1
Ear piercing service

Store shines with party-themed decor and a 90's mall vibe that sparks fun. Guests enjoy nail painting and hair styling during lively events. Staff offer personalized advice and gift cards, making every visit special.

A 90's mall themed birthday party includes a fun scavenger hunt and beauty treatments like hair design and manicures. The whole event keeps everyone engaged and entertained.

People are saying

"The birthday parties here are a blast with fun activities like nail painting and shopping."

"The party included fun beauty treatments like nail painting and hair styling."

"It's so kid friendly; Alicia made the ear piercing calm and stress-free."

Good to know

1

The store is closed to the public during private parties.

2

Each girl receives a gift card to shop around the store.

3

A scavenger hunt is included as part of the party experience.

09
Bears Fit image 1
Fitness center

Large space with 40-yard turf supports hybrid workouts and fun step classes with best music. Free sauna and steam room boost recovery. Friendly community keeps energy high and welcomes all fitness levels.

Maribeth's step class features fun choreography and the best music. Classes balance cardio and challenge while keeping the grind enjoyable.

People are saying

"The trainers at this gym are smart, competent, and friendly."

"Personal Training here is transformative, improving my strength and understanding of my body."

"The classes have the best music and fun choreography."

Good to know

1

The gym gets crowded from 4-6:30 pm on weekdays.

2

Bears Fit offers a wide variety of classes.

3

Maribeth is an amazing fitness instructor.

10
BHOP Esports | Hawthorn Mall image 1

Video arcade features wide game selection with retro and modern consoles plus rhythm machines. Friendly staff create a chill atmosphere perfect for families and parties. Overnights add extra fun, and pricing is reasonable with pay-by-hour options.

Overnights offer a ton of fun. Staff are friendly and add to the enjoyable atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's so kid friendly, the staff even configured a game for my son."

"The vibe here is really chill and friendly."

"The video game options and consoles made for such fun activities for the kids."

Good to know

1

The entry fee is $10 for unlimited play on most games.

2

You can bring your own catered food for events.

3

They offer a variety of games from retro to modern.

11
Sky Zone Trampoline Park image 1
Amusement center

Huge indoor space buzzes with trampolines and a warrior course for nonstop fun. Kids enjoy dodgeball in a loud, energetic setting. Staff keep the area safe, making it perfect for birthday parties and active play.

Lots of activities keep kids entertained with plenty to do. The place feels fun and safe, making it great for birthday parties or hanging out with friends.

People are saying

"The staff here is so helpful and friendly, making it feel Kid Friendly."

"It's super fun for the kids and grandkids."

"The food David prepared was fresh, hot, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations for birthday parties should be made well in advance.

2

Expect limited access to trampoline areas during busy events.

3

The facility has no elevator access to the second floor party rooms.

12
Dave & Buster's Vernon Hills image 1

Huge arcade space offers broad game selection including VR and classics like Pac-Man. Bright, energetic atmosphere with family-friendly fun fills the area, though loud music makes conversation tough. Spacious layout includes a sizable bar with multimedia TV area and accessible features.

Games offer a variety of fun experiences. The VR ride adds an exciting twist. Overall, the spot delivers family-friendly fun.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and came out hot."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly place with lots of games and prizes."

"It's a fun place to go and enjoy the games."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers and drinks from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Wednesdays feature half-price games all day, making it a great time to visit.

3

The venue uses a card-based system for game plays and ticket collection.

13
Hawthorn Mall image 1
Shopping mall

Design mimics a small town with digital billboards and murals for great photos. Peaceful, spacious vibe with interactive play areas keeps kids busy. Background music adds an upbeat vibe without noise, making it perfect for children's events and parties.

Many fun attractions keep kids entertained with activities that spark creativity and play. Spaces for children's events and parties add to the lively, engaging atmosphere.

People are saying

"This mall has a great variety of stores and food options."

"It's really Kid Friendly with tons of fun play areas."

"It's a great spot for fun activities, especially for kids' birthdays."

Good to know

1

There are many fun places to have children's events and parties at the mall.

2

Parking is easy and accessible at the mall.

3

The mall is currently undergoing renovations, which may cause some inconveniences.

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Vernon Hills, Illinois

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