Is This Really the Best Family Friendly Day Trip in Illinois?
I mean, I know people don't want to have to go to Chicago or the suburbs to do everything but this just sounds a little kooky.
Mainly, because I've seen this place up close and personal.
I lived near it when I was growing up and honestly, I didn't think much of it.
If anything, this thing qualifies more as a roadside attraction and quirky and weird than it does as a destination for the best family-friendly day trip in Illinois.
Just outside Chicago, visitors will find this half-size replica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Italian landmark. This version was completed in 1934 of steel, concrete and pre-cast stone and stands a soaring 94 feet tall. Donated to the YMCA in 1960, today it features fountains, a pool, and inspirational plaque. A sight to see, to be sure — and cheaper than taking the brood to Italia.
Truth is, it's definitely worth seeing. Spending the entire day in Niles just to see this thing, is uh, not really worth it.
I do remember a driving range either on the grounds or very close to the Leaning Tower of Niles but to travel all that way in order hit a few golf balls around is also kind of crazy.
Cheapism also mentions where to eat if you're in Niles. They mentioned a pizza place. A pizza place you can get pretty much anywhere in Illinois.
Now, if you're really going to drive all that way, might I suggest stopping at SuperDawg for a hot dog or two (or six) and then a little mini golf at the Bunny Hutch?
SuperDawg is about one mile from the Leaning Tower of Niles, and the Bunny Hutch is about 10 minutes from the iconic hot dog stand.
Take it from me, doing both of those things immediately after seeing the Leaning Tower of Niles would make the trip worthwhile.