Top 20 Trendy Instagram Locations in Lake County 2022

By: Nick Borowitz 05/13/2022

We made a guide to the top 20 trendy locations in Lake County that you can snap a picture of with ease for your Instagram.

A rich variety of scenery here in Lake County is eye-catching, no matter how you frame it. Any shutterbug can find a plethora of options to take a picture that will never need a filter or touch-up.

@visitlakecounty Congratulations to our #LetsSnapLakeCounty ♬ Sophisticated Photography - DJ BAI

You can experience many of these locations throughout the year, but we recommend taking advantage during the summer months most of all.

Speaking of filters, we left them off for this post. Follow along and show some love to these top 20 spots in Lake County.

1. Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor Chicago in Gurnee

 

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The amazing part about theme parks is the variety of choices for everyone in your group to have fun. Pick from 15 different roller coasters, including The DC Super-Villains Swing, which is Six Flags Great America's newest roller coaster. You can find something to eat in every corner of the park that will be delicious for everyone in the party. After enjoying the live shows and themed areas of the park, head over to Hurricane Harbor Chicago. You will find Tsunami Surge, a record-breaking water coaster that opened last year. Numerous water slides, a 500,000-gallon wave pool, and the world's largest interactive water playground, aptly named Skull Island will have everyone .

Six Flags Great America & Hurricane Harbor Chicago, 1 Great America Pkwy., Gurnee.

2. Bobby's Deerfield

 

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If you are a fan of delectable dining choices here in Lake County, then you no doubt will want to check out Bobby's Deerfield. They are a family-owned American bistro with a simple philosophy: provide a quality, consistently-good product that is accessible to all. Offering a full menu of appetizers and entrees, you can add in a cocktail as well. There is a lunch and dinner menu depending on what time you go. The lunch menu is more focused on lighter eats, such as brunch and sandwiches. For dinner, they have a range of meat cuts and pasta varieties. Each item on the menu is sure to make the mouth water and have you wanting to come back for more.

Bobby's Deerfield, 695 Deerfield Rd., Deerfield.

3. The Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire

 

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An intimate setting combined with the performers' passion makes the Marriott Theatre feel as big as life itself. Performances change with the season, so you can always expect something new when you go. There are five major musicals a year and three shows produced specifically for the younger audience members. They have put on performances such as "West Side Story," "Newsies" and "Singin' in the Rain." The Marriott Resort is ideal for a luxury stay with the family or an intimate evening with that special someone.  While you're there, choose from the large selection of dining options inside the hotel and the surrounding area.

Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire Resort, 10 Marriott Dr., Lincolnshire.

4. The Waukegan Harbor Light

 

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No matter where you go in Waukegan, there is always something to see. Transport inside the city is simple to figure out, the dining options are nigh-endless and it is simple to find a place to stay for the evening. But if you happen to be out on a walk down the beach, you will undoubtedly see the Waukegan Harbor Light in the distance. The lighthouse was built in 1849 and only had an electric-powered light installed in 1939. And the best part? You can walk right up to. Witness and experience the unique spirit of Waukegan.

Waukegan Harbor Light, 1 E. Water St., Waukegan.

5. The Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe

 

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Thanks to the unique design and layout of the Chicago Botanic Gardens, you can witness a large variety of flora in various stages of life and bloom as the year progresses. Tranquil lakes and 27 different gardens sit on this fascinating 385-acre sanctuary. There are four natural areas that are situated on nine islands as well. We can try to describe the breath-taking beauty, but this is one day-trip that you must make for yourself to witness.

Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe.

6. Lake County Fairgrounds & Event Center in Grayslake

 

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The annual Lake County Fair is always the main event and in the process of getting ready to celebrate its 93rd year. And since the past few years have been a bit hectic, the fair will be a full 5 days of fun. Today’s visitors experience the county’s agricultural and horticultural heritage alongside modern attractions such as motorsports, funnel cakes, beer gardens, and carnival rides. The Lake County Fair and its strong sense of community is something not always common in today’s fast-paced world.

Lake County Fairgrounds & Event Center, 1060 E. Peterson Rd., Grayslake.

7. Buffalo Creek Brewery in Long Grove

 

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Now in its third year of operation, Buffalo Creek Brewery continues to be a draw for craft beer aficionados in Long Grove and Lake County. They always have a unique and varied lineup on their taps such as the Red Headed Stepchild, a strawberry blonde ale, and the Muttersholtz, a German Hefeweizen. Enjoy the taproom, beautiful bar, a large gazebo and their outdoor patio where they often host live events. These Long Grove beer geeks are also a stop on our Lake County Libation Trail.

Buffalo Creek Brewing, 360 Historical Ln., Long Grove,

8. Volo Museum

 

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 The Volo Museum is like no other place in Lake County. Where else can you find a collection of over 300 different vehicle that range in antique, vintage, modern, famous and featured in pop culture. In addition to the vehicles, they have displays and exhibits of life on the frontier, a WW2 and Vietnam War display and a collection of rail cars. The newly-opened Jurassic Gardens is an animatronic display that the younger museum-goers will delight in. It is a photographers' wonderland and an incredibly entertaining place to bring the family on the weekend.

Volo Museum, 27582 W. Volo Village Rd., Volo.

9. Illinois Beach State Park in Zion

 

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Everyday is a good day to take the family to the beach when the summer heat arrives. Where better than the hidden Jewel that is Illinois Beach State Park in Zion. The park is also known as Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park when you are searching for it. The Michigan Lake beach runs from Waukegan all the way up to the Wisconsin state line. Offered is a campground, picnic areas, hiking and biking trails and a visitor's center that is open on select days.

Illinois Beach State Park, Park Office-Lakefront, Zion.

 

10. Lakefront Park in Fox Lake

 

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Lakefront Park is one of many green spaces and waterways located in Fox Lake. Known as the "Heart of the Chain O' Lakes," it is one of the most visited leisure locations in the country. Natural scenery, different businesses and delectable eats means that Lakefront Park is just one of many picturesque locations situated in the village. Fifteen lakes connect inside Fox Lake via 45 miles of river, all of which sits on 7,100 acres of land. No matter where you are in Fox Lake, you are only about an hour's drive from Rockford, Milwaukee and Chicago in any direction.

Lakefront Park, 71 Nippersink Blvd., Fox Lake.

11. Ravinia Festival in Highland Park

 

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Ravinia Festival is a staple of the Lake County music scene. Starting back in 1905, Ravinia Festival has featured a variety of top musicians in a large range of genres and styles. It is the oldest outdoor festival in the US, and like every year, showcases a slew of star-filled performances. This year, you will be able to witness Common, Bela Fleck, Trombone Shorty's Voodoo Threauxdown, Abba: The Concert, John Fogerty, Michael Franti & Spearhead and a huge line up that will have something for everyone. We have the full roster for your convenience!

Ravinia Festival, 200 Ravinia Park Rd., Highland Park.

12. Blarney Island in Antioch

 

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Who doesn't enjoy the roar of literal jet engines crammed into small boats? How about partying like it's Key West? Both of these make for incredible pictures, no matter which occasion you choose to attend. Blarney Island delivers both of these events all throughout the season in May-September. The neat part is that it is situated in the middle of the Chain O'Lakes and you get to ride a ferry to and from Blarney Island. If you happen to have your own boat, you can float up to the bar and restaurant, which has numerous slips to secure your craft.

Blarney Island, 27843 W. Grass Lake Rd., Antioch.

13. Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville

 

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This reclaimed gravel quarry offers 1,135-acres of forest preserve and outdoor recreation all year long. There are educational opportunities and activities that make use of the 11-acre lake. Activities such as fishing, boating and a marina with boat and bike rentals will keep visitors active all day long. Inside of the visitor’s center are exhibits of all sorts and a café for when you get hungry or need a quick snack. Various locations throughout the grounds can be rented for special events such as weddings and private functions. There is a craft beer garden that is open throughout the summer and features many of our Libation Trail members.

Independence Grove Forest Preserve, 16400 W. Buckley Rd., Libertyville.

14. Great Wolf Lodge Illinois in Gurnee

 

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A waterpark that is always at a toasty 84 degrees with a ton of slides, both inside and outdoors, that everyone will love. The resort has mini-golf, a candy shop, wall climbing, an arcade and kids activities sure to keep the kids busy. These are just some of the gems you will find inside the Great Wolf Lodge Illinois. The Barnwood Restaurant is attached to the hotel and has a rustic atmosphere. Offered are entreés that everyone will want to eat after a long day at the waterpark. There is an impressive selection of cocktails and beverages. The Great Wolf Lodge Illinois is a destination for out-of-towners and those who live in Lake County looking for a staycation.

Great Wolf Lodge, 1700 Nations Dr., Gurnee.

15. Bristol Renaissance Faire North of Lake County

 

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Transport yourself back to a time when someone may ask you "where be the dragons," or "have you any grog?" That is the immersion you experience at the Bristol Renaissance Faire in Bristol, Wisconsin. The Ren Faire is going on 34 years and has over 130 merchants and 16 different stages with a huge variety of performances. There's even jousting. Kids love jousting.

Bristol Renaissance Faire, 12550 120th Ave., Kenosha.

16. Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve in Lake Forest

 

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Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve is a scenic destination and offers a variety of opportunities to experience nature. The preserve is one of only a few places in Lake County that offers free public access to Lake Michigan and an awe-inspiring lake overlook perched on a 70-foot-high bluff. Visitors can hike, bike on the trails, cross-country ski, fish, have a picnic and birdwatch. Placards and signs throughout the park tell Fort Sheridan's story. Trails at Fort Sheridan also tie into other regional trail systems throughout Lake County and northern Illinois.

Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve, 117 Sheridan Rd., Lake Forest.

17. Diamond Lake Beach in Mundelein

 

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Diamond Lake Beach is located on 100 acres of land. Included is a natural lake, sand beach, grassy areas around the lake and a shaded picnic grove. The beach is a popular destination of residents for swimming, boating, boat & shelter rentals, special events and more. It is a fun destination for the kids to swim and play in the sand while the parents hang out. The sandy shoreline is a good backdrop for photography on the water, and vice versa with kayaks and stand-up paddleboards shot from the shore. Those same kayaks and paddle boards are available for rental for a day excursion on the water.

Diamond Lake Beach, 1016 Diamond Lake Rd., Mundelein

18. Cuneo Mansion in Vernon Hills

 

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Cuneo Mansion and Gardens is a living museum and stands as a monument to old-world elegance. The building and gardens preserve the grace of past eras and sits among a genteel country aesthetic. Venetian-style architecture on the outside compliments the antique furnishings and artwork inside the building. Built in 1916 as the home of Samuel Insull who was the original founder of General Electric Company, it was designed by classic Chicago architect Benjamin Marshall. No matter where you stand on the grounds or inside the home, every angle is photo-perfect and has a classic spirit.

Cuneo Mansion and Gardens, 1350 N. Milwaukee Ave., Vernon Hills.

19. Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area in Riverwoods

 

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Through a breathtaking combination of rare species and exceptional natural areas, Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area is a unique place in Riverwoods. Half of the land is so incredibly ecologically diverse and valuable that it is dedicated as a Historic District by the National Register of Historic Places. While you must stay in the designated walking areas, there is no shortage of eye-catching shots for the photographers.

Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area, 21950 N. Riverwoods Rd., Riverwoods.

20. Des Plaines River Trail and Greenway Throughout Lake County

 

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The incredible aspect of the Des Plaines River Trail and Greenway is that it stretches the entirety of Lake County. Different stretches of the trail run up into Wisconsin to the north and Cook County to the south. The Des Plaines trail covers 31-miles and runs through 12 different LCFPD areas such as Ryerson Conservation Area, Independence Grove, Old School Forest Preserve and more. Portions of this trail run along the Des Plaines River and offers access to six different canoe launch and exit points.


To see more snaps of the lands and locations that compose Lake County, continue here. For information about when and where to visit these locations, click here.

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