It's hard to believe that Spring Break is already upon us. In today's hectic world, finding time to pack up and leave for a week can be a challenge, let alone taking the time needed to plan it. But guess what? You can skip all of that fuss and enjoy an amazing break right here in St. Charles, engaging in activities you may not usually do, or haven't done in a while. Keep reading below to discover ten ways to spend this Spring Break that will be keep everyone in your family smiling.
Indulge in a New Restaurant and/or Cuisine
Photo 1: Szechwan Restaurant. Photo 2: Taste of Himalayas
One of the most exciting aspects about going on a trip is to try the signature flavors of the area you're visiting. However, right here in town, there are more than enough signature flavors to go around! It's no secret that St. Charles is known for it's incredible dining scene - featuring a diverse range of cuisines, delicious bites, and even award winning establishments. Spring Break is the perfect time to try a brand new restaurant, and even explore different cuisines that you haven't experienced before. Doing this will make you feel like you are in a new area, and who knows? You may even find your new favorite spot. To view dining options in St. Charles, click here.
Head to Primrose Farm
Photos Courtesy of the St. Charles Park District
Especially if you have little one's that love animals, Primrose Farm makes for the perfect Spring Break activity that doubles as an educational opportunity. At Primrose Farm, you'll get to learn all about life on the farm; getting to greet the animals, stroll around the farmyard, and even exploring the historic barns and buildings. If you want to really get hands-on, view their calendar here to find upcoming activities such as feeding goats, feeding chickens, and hands-on milking!
Take a Cooking Class
Photo #1 Courtesy of Fox Den Cooking, Photo #2 Courtesy of @rachaelkawate
Yes, it's true that during Spring Break, class is out of session. However, that doesn't mean that you can't learn a new skill! Fox Den Cooking offers guided cooking lessons, for both kids and adults, walking you through how to create tasty mouthwatering dishes. Cooking together in the kitchen is an activity that can bring families closer together, and the experts at Fox Den Cooking can help you get started with just that. To view their upcoming class schedule, please click here.
Play a Round of Disc Golf
Photos Courtesy of the St. Charles Park District
Spring Break is also a great time for the whole family to engage in a little friendly competition. If the weather cooperates, take a trip to James O. Breen Community Park for a 9-hole round of disc golf. There is a fantastic course that weaves throughout a wooded area, challenging participants with shots of differing elevations. Not only spend quality time with your loved ones, but it also allows for a bit of fresh air and exercise, too! Need to pick up some discs? Play It Again Sports have a large selection of gently used discs of every style.
Catch a Show
Photos Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography
Prepare to be entertained! Your memorable Spring Break would just not be complete without the delight of witnessing a first-class performance, so don't forget to catch one at one of theatres in town. This town boasts exceptional venues such as the Steel Beam Theatre or Marquee Youth Stage, along with jaw-dropping historic spaces where you can also frequently find live music, like at the Arcada Theatre or Moonlight Theatre.
What Type of Information Do You Seek When You Travel?
Where to Eat
Where to Shop
Where to Stay
Indoor Activities
You can vote for more than one answer.
Try an Escape Room
Photos Courtesy of iPanic Escape Room
Nothing brings a family closer quite like teamwork! At iPanic Escape Room, you'll need to work together in order to escape one of their creative themed rooms, filled with clues and puzzles you'll need to solve to win. With fun themes such as "Witching Hour" or "Dragon Slayer", there's sure to be a room that everyone can get excited about. Keep in mind that these games are made for groups ages 14+ and up, and participants under 14 must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Go to Hickory Knolls Discovery Center
Photos Courtesy of the St. Charles Park District
If the sun is out during your Spring Break, take advantage of it with a visit to Hickory Knolls Discovery Center. Here, they have various trails that wind through natural areas that include wetlands, prairies, woodlands and more. Plus, there is a great opportunity for children to get a hands-on animal lesson during their "Hangin' with Hickory Friends" event that take play Monday through Saturday at 11am and 3pm. The staff will display and discuss one of their many animal ambassadors, giving kids a unique experience up close to wildlife!
Admire Public Art
Photos Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography
Fun fact: there are over 180 pieces of public art throughout St. Charles! Admire these works of art with the entire family this Spring. A great place to see a variety of works is at Mt. St. Mary Park, where there are sculptures throughout the park, and can be seen by taking a stroll on the trail. We also recommend downloading the Travel St. Charles App and take our Public Arts Tour, which will show you the locations of an array of public art, along with audio so you can learn more about the pieces, too!
Visit an Art Gallery
Photo 1 Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography, Photo 2 Courtesy of Fine Line Creative Arts Center
Aside from all the lovely public art you can find throughout town, you can also discover some top-tier visual arts at one of the galleries in St. Charles. St. Charles has such a vibrant arts scene, with galleries showcasing local, as well as national and international artists. You have plenty of first-class galleries in town including 116 Gallery, Norris Cultural Arts Center, and Fine Line Creative Art Center, to view incredible works of art in an assortment of different mediums.
Become a St. Charles Explorer
Photo 1 Courtesy of the St. Charles Park District
Now that Spring is here, that means all the wildlife will start getting more and more active. So, why don't you try and see how many animals you can find using our Fox River Scavenger Hunt? The first step is to print off the pdf form found here. Next, you're simply going to look for the animals listed on the brochure. Once you find them all, take your completed brochure to the St. Charles Municipal Building from Monday through Friday from 8am-1pm to receive a FREE Kimmer's Scoop of Ice Cream Coupon, seeded paper that you can plant, and of course, your very own St. Charles Explorer Certificate!
Looking for a way to make your Spring planning easier? Download our Travel St. Charles App: your guide to everything St. Charles. Using this app, you can explore events, dining options, things to do, and much more. Click here to download today!