1 Day 4 Ways: Start Your Adventure in Lemont
When you think of adventure time, the first thing that comes to mind probably isn’t Illinois, let alone, a suburb 45-minutes outside of the city. However, if you’re craving wildlife, nature, and thrills to get your heartbeat racing, you’ll find everything you need right here in Lemont. Wake up with a coffee at Sandhill and end your day watching the sunset on the deck at Pollyanna.
We’ve put together the perfect itinerary for all of the thrill-seekers and day-trip explorers from start to finish with a little something for everyone.
If you’re traveling in from Downtown Chicago, skip the traffic: Metra’s Heritage Corridor Line is offering increased service on Saturdays through September 3rd. When you arrive at Lemont Station, you’ll find that most places are well within walking distance and bike-share rides are available at the stop and throughout Lemont Downtown.
9:00 AM: Start Your Day with a Cup of Sandhill Coffee
The small-batch roaster with a location based here in Lemont, Illinois brings the joy of fresh from the farm coffee to your cup. With a mission of connecting people to the outdoors, they are the perfect place to support with 1% of their annual revenue donated to environmental nonprofits.
What To Order: When the coffee is good, keep things plain and simple. Order a cold brew with your favorite creamer and grab a bag of their 12 oz roasted coffee to go.
Hot Tip: Follow them on social to find out where the mobile cafe is set up. If the weather is nice, enjoy your drink while strolling around downtown.
Details: 310 Main Street, Lemont IL
10:00 AM: Explore New Heights at the Climb & Zipline Adventure at The Forge Lemont Quarries
If you’re looking for adventure, there is no better place than The Forge. Check out activities from axe throwing to laser tag and everything in between. Make your way through the world’s largest rope course and 2 miles of ziplines. Climbers can choose their challenge with elements ranging from easy peasy so you can focus on fun to a daredevil climb that will push you to your limits. There is a little something for everyone.
For smaller kids, we recommend The Jungle Gym - an aerial and climbing adventure that is safely netted and perfect for ages 3 and up. It’s a perfect plan to allow them to find a little freedom and test their balance and build gross motor skills.
The Forge believes in fun for all. If you’re looking for adaptive adventures, be sure to check out the activities available for visitors with cognitive, physical, and sensory-sensitive disabilities. Private sessions and specialized teams are available so everyone is able to enjoy the Climbing/Ziplining, Jungle Gym, and Water Sports.
Hot Tip: Est. time for the climbing adventure is 4 hours so enjoy lunch at The Forge by grabbing the food package with your ticket.
Details: Located at 1001 Main Street, Lemont, IL. Climbing Adventure is $95 per adult (14 and up) and $85 per youth (13 and younger) for the Climbing & Zipline Course. The Jungle Gym is $15 per child. Reservations are recommended but not required.
2:00 PM Enjoy a cold margarita and some tacos outside on the deck at Next Mex
There is always a good reason for tacos but, surely, climbing and ziplining over 2 miles warrants a treat like the Hibiscus Margarita sweetened with agave nectar and garnished with fresh lime. You’ll find all of your Mexican classics that are so good you won’t want to share.
Hot Tip: Save room for the Fruity Pepples Fried Ice Cream for Dessert. If you have little ones with you, ask them how it’s possible to fry ice cream. Boom! You’ve added science to your trip.
Details: Located at 319 Front Street, Lemont, IL.
3:00 PM: Find a classic piece at smokey row Antiques
Cool down from lunch with a spin through Smokey Row Antiques. You’ll also be greeted by friendly staff who are willing to help you find a new treasure.
Hot Tip: The one-of-a-kind shop regularly manages estate sales so be sure to check and see if one is happening in the area if you’d like to be the first to see items available for sale.
Details: Located at 112 Stephen Street, Lemont, IL
4:00 PM: Take in Golden Hour with a Bike Ride Along the I&M Canal
After a little fuel, rent a bike from Heritage Quarries and take advantage of the 6 miles of trail between Lemont and Alsip. Bikes are available for rent for $5 an hour and if you plan it right, you’ll be able to see all of the natural wildlife along the canals and take in the scenery of Lemont.
Hot Tip: Plan at least 5 minutes to return and lock in your bike at the station. Bring some binoculars so you can stop and watch birds in their nest.
Details: Pick up your bike behind 55 Stephen Street (Safety Village) along the trail. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a charged phone to take pictures and tag us @lemontdowntown.
6:00 PM Close out your day with drinks at Pollyanna Brewing
Enjoy year-round beers at Pollyanna and on certain nights throughout the year, enjoy live music or the sunset on the brand-new patio deck. There is no better place to take in the scenery and recap your day.
Hot Tip: Save time and order a few beers to-go online for pickup.
Details: Located at 431 Talcott Avenue, Lemont, IL.
