Morris may seem like a small town with few activities, but you’d be dead wrong to make an assumption without first checking out what this amazing place has to offer. There is absolutely something for anyone that is interested in escaping the hustle and bustle of urban Chicago. From an outdoor escape to community events, to nightlife and family-friendly fun, there are so many fun things to do in Morris, Illinois that you and your family or friends can enjoy! Morris is only a stone’s throw away from the Windy City, so don’t miss out!
1. Gebhard Woods State Park
If you’re thinking about what to do in Morris, IL, that can be enjoyed by the family, here’s one you should really consider. As one of the most popular state parks in Illinois, Gebhard Woods State Park offers a wide variety of fun and relaxing activities for outdoor enthusiasts. This 30-acre (12-hectare) land of natural beauty is bordered on the south by the Illinois and Michigan Canal and Nettle Creek to the north. The park also features a wooded area with walnut, oak, ash, maple, sycamore, hawthorn, and cottonwood trees providing ample shade for hikers.
Outdoor recreation enthusiasts will also love it here as there are plenty of fun things to do here including fishing, boating, hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and more.
Gebhard Woods State Park
Address: 401 Ottawa St, Morris, IL 60450, United States
Website: Gebhard Woods State Park
Opening hours: 5am - 7pm (daily)
2. Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail
Boasting a very long 96-mile (154-kilometer) route along several state parks, restored historical sites, bluffs, rolling hills, and an abundance of wildlife, the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail is definitely one of the destinations you shouldn’t miss, especially if you’re a nature enthusiast. It’s not just going to be a scenic hike as true adventure awaits visitors with so many activities to enjoy along the trail including camping, boating, and fishing, among many others.
So if you’re in Morris and you’re thinking, “what attractions are near me”, head to the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail and make the most of your vacation!
Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail
Address: Morris, IL 60450, United States
3. Letty Mae's Tea Room
For those who enjoy the finer things in life, Letty Mae’s Tea Room allows you to experience a meal like an aristocrat. Letty Mae’s serves anything from quiches to chicken sliders. So, it’s the perfect place not just for an adult, but also to take the kids. One of the most attractive attributes of Letty Mae’s is its small-town vibe, along with all of the activities and events that occur! Don’t miss out on a classic dining experience.
Letty Mae's Tea Room
Address: 112 E Washington St., Morris, IL
Facebook: Letty Mae’s Tea Room
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4. 3 French Hens Country Market
This country market is perfect if you’d like to catch a little fresh air while shopping for fresh food. The market has a picturesque view of the I&M Canal and offers many different products from produce, freshly baked bread, to artisan items, and even antique goods. Over 100 vendors can be found at the 3 French Hens Country Market! This is a huge event that allows you to catch some of the beautiful scenery around Morris, IL as well as discover spectacular homemade and handmade products.
3 French Hens Country Market
Address: 123 W Illinois Ave., Morris, IL
Website: 3 French Hens Country Market
5. Carson Tap House
The Carson Tap House is a cozy pub and eatery in Morris that offers a variety of beers and events. Live entertainment, fun trivia nights, and even car shows are hosted here. This place almost always has something going on; they’re even open for most holidays! Plus, if you’re a connoisseur of beer, you’ll be happy to know they’ve quite the selection for any traveler happening to come its way. If you’re thinking it’s time to get away from the kids for a weekend, Morris has the fix for you. Have a fun night with great company and good vibes at the tap house!
Carson Tap House
Address: 823 Liberty St., Morris, IL
Facebook: Carson Tap House
6. Kayak Morris
If you’re in Morris and you’re thinking “what are the outdoor things to do near me”, you should definitely check this out! Kayak Morris offers you the opportunity to kayak, bike, and even glamp (yes, glamorous camping is an option). It’s easily accessible–less than one hour from Chicago–and has gained fame for being one of the top 10 urban camping spots in the U.S. They’re only open from mid-May to the beginning of October, but they are open every single day during their season.
They offer kayak rentals and guided tours, bike rentals, as well as canoe rentals. Kayak Morris even offers you the ability to camp right on the beach! For those who’d like a more relaxing camping experience, Kayak Morris offers glamping, which includes everything you need brought right to you.
Kayak Morris
Address: 801 Kayak Morris Rd., Morris, IL
Website: Kayak Morris
7. Nettle Creek Country Club
Nettle Creek has a state-of-the-art championship course with 18 holes. The best part of this country club is the wide array of discounts that change on a regular basis. You won’t have to burn a hole in your pocket to enjoy a day on the green at Nettle Creek. Some prices are even as low as 25 USD for an 18-hole game with a cart included. If you need a day to stretch out, enjoy a leisurely game at the Nettle Creek Country Club!
Nettle Creek Country Club
Address: 5355 Saratoga Rd., Morris, IL
Website: Nettle Creek Country Club
8. Grundy County Historical Museum
For a truly enlightening experience, the Grundy County Historical Society Museum is a must-see stop. Originally organized in 1923, the Historical Society has a longstanding history of preserving the county’s local history. There are even artifacts from notable events involving Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglas. Few places in the U.S. have preserved history so extensively.
The museum is only open three days of the week (Thursday, Friday, and Saturday), so you’ll have to plan in advance for this museum. However, it’s worth every second! It’s also one of those places to go for free near you if you happen to be visiting Morris.
Grundy County Historical Museum
Address: 510 W Illinois Ave., Morris, IL
9. Grundy County Speedway
Want to live life in the fast lane for a night? Come check out the Grundy County Speedway! The prices are very affordable; on a regular race night, kids 11 and under even get free admission, which makes it even easier for it to be an exciting night for the whole family! The crowd is friendly and energetic, and there are even concessions to keep your hunger at bay during the race. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable opportunity!
Grundy County Speedway
Address: 8890 N Rt. 47, Morris, IL
Website: Grundy County Speedway
Morris brings spirit
Morris, Illinois allows anyone to become part of their tightly-knit community and enjoy either the beautiful scenery or plethora of things to do. Instead of getting lost in the large crowds of a modern-day metropolis, come out to a more suburban Morris. It’s less than an hour from Chicago and still offers plenty of amenities, but with the charm of a smaller city.