While it’s always fun to head into Chicago to do some exploring, there’s no need for you to head into the Windy City for some entertainment if you live in Minooka, IL. Located just over 50 miles outside of Chicago, Minooka is perfectly positioned to give its residents and visitors the benefits that come with living near a major metropolis and the serenity that typically accompanies life in a friendly village comprising close-knit neighborhoods.
While Minooka is smaller than Chicago, its size doesn’t mean there’s a shortage of things to do and see within its borders. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Heap’s Giant Pumpkin Farm
Heap’s Giant Pumpkin Farm is a family-run operation that’s located less than 10 miles west of I-55 on US Highway 52 in Minooka. The farm is open from the second week in September until Halloween every year. Admission is free for visitors of all ages. This fully functioning farm grows corn, soybeans and more than 90 kinds of pumpkins, gourds and squash. From visiting with the farm animals to making your way through corn and bean mazes to taking a hay ride and picking your own pumpkin, there’s plenty to do when you visit Heap’s Giant Pumpkin Farm.
You don’t have to pack a lunch when you visit this family-friendly attraction. You can pick up some sweet treats in Linda Kay’s Craft Shop and enjoy a pork burger along with a few pumpkin cookies from Papa Heap’s Grill while your kids play in the new Milo’s Castle Playground on-site.
- Lake Chaminwood Preserve
If you enjoy the outdoors and outdoor activities year-round, you’ll love the Lake Chaminwood Preserve no matter when you visit Minooka, IL. This preserve is part of the DuPage River preservation system, which exists to protect more than 1,500 acres. The Lake Chaminwood Preserve conserves a 35-acre lake, a 12-acre lake and part of the DuPage River with its sustained wetlands.
The preserve has a paved trail that’s less than a mile long. This trail is ideal for biking, jogging and in-line skating when it’s warm outside. It’s also great for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing after snow has fallen in the colder months. Fishing, canoeing, kayaking and boating are popular activities at Lake Chaminwood Preserve as well.
- Java Jills Gaming Café
Do you crave the action and excitement that only Vegas-style slot games can provide, but you don’t want to travel to Sin City for some fun? If so, you’ll be happy to know that you can get all the slots action you want simply by visiting local favorite, Java Jills Gaming Café.
Java Jills Gaming Café provides an adult-oriented, casino-like environment where you can enjoy intimate, personalized service. You can savor some good food, beer, wine and a selection of additional beverages while you play your favorite slot games at Java Jills Gaming Café.
- Giordano’s
Whether you’re planning a date, an evening out with the whole family or you want to enjoy an expertly prepared meal in the comfort of your own home, Giordano’s is the place for you. For more than 40 years, Giordano’s has made enjoying authentic Italian fare as easy as visiting our location to dine in or carry out or picking up the phone for a delivery.
Our menu includes our acclaimed, handcrafted stuffed pizzas, thin crust pizzas, tasty appetizers, savory pastas, hearty sandwiches and fresh salads. Visit our location on South Ridge Road in Minooka, IL today to enjoy a meal you won’t forget.