Olivet Nazarene University Campus Map

Introduction

Olivet Nazarene University is a private Christian liberal arts university located in Bourbonnais, Illinois. The campus is spread over 275 acres and offers a range of academic programs and extracurricular activities. Whether you’re a student, staff member, or visitor, there’s plenty to see and do on campus. This comprehensive travel guide will help you explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

Centennial Chapel

The Centennial Chapel is a stunning architectural masterpiece and a spiritual hub of the campus. It was built in 2003 to commemorate the university’s 100th anniversary and can seat up to 4,000 people. The chapel hosts regular worship services, concerts, and other events.

Ted & Gloria Damron Cultural Center

The Ted & Gloria Damron Cultural Center is a hub of cultural and artistic activities on campus. It houses the ONU Art Museum, which features a collection of more than 2,000 pieces of art from around the world. The center also hosts regular exhibitions, concerts, and performances.

Perry Student Life & Recreation Center

The Perry Student Life & Recreation Center is a state-of-the-art fitness and recreation center that offers a wide range of facilities and programs for students and staff. It has a gymnasium, swimming pool, weight room, cardio room, racquetball court, and indoor track.

Hidden Gems

Heritage Quad

The Heritage Quad is a beautiful green space on campus that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. It’s surrounded by historic buildings and offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of campus life.

Baker Observatory

The Baker Observatory is a hidden gem on campus that offers a unique stargazing experience. It has a 0.6-meter telescope and hosts regular public viewing nights.

The Chapel Steps

The Chapel Steps are a popular spot for students to hang out and socialize. They offer a great view of the campus and are a great place to catch a sunset or sunrise.

Food Scene

The Gathering Place

The Gathering Place is a popular spot on campus for coffee, snacks, and quick meals. They offer a range of sandwiches, salads, and soups, as well as a selection of baked goods and pastries.

The Quarry

The Quarry is a full-service restaurant on campus that offers a range of American and international cuisine. They have a rotating menu of daily specials and offer vegetarian and gluten-free options.

The Grille

The Grille is a fast-food style restaurant on campus that’s perfect for a quick bite between classes. They offer burgers, fries, chicken sandwiches, and other classic fast-food fare.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Events

There are plenty of free events on campus throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibitions, and guest lectures. Check the campus calendar for upcoming events.

Discounted Movie Tickets

The Perry Student Life & Recreation Center offers discounted movie tickets for students and staff. Check with the center for current prices and movie schedules.

Campus Library

The campus library is a great place to study and access resources for free. They offer a range of books, journals, and online databases.

Outdoor Adventures

Kankakee River State Park

Kankakee River State Park is located just a few miles from campus and offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, canoeing, and camping.

Perry Farm Park

Perry Farm Park is a 170-acre park located in Bourbonnais that offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking.

Exploration Acres

Exploration Acres is a corn maze and pumpkin patch located in Lafayette, Indiana, about an hour’s drive from campus. It’s a great place to visit in the fall and offers a range of family-friendly activities.

Historical Landmarks

Old Main

Old Main is the oldest building on campus and was built in 1906. It’s a beautiful example of Collegiate Gothic architecture and houses the university’s administrative offices.

Streatorland Historical Museum

The Streatorland Historical Museum is located in Streator, Illinois, about an hour’s drive from campus. It features exhibits and artifacts related to the history of the region.

Bourbonnais Grove Historical Society

The Bourbonnais Grove Historical Society is located in Bourbonnais and features exhibits and artifacts related to the history of the town and the university.

Family-Friendly Activities

Exploration Station

Exploration Station is a children’s museum located in Bourbonnais that offers a range of hands-on exhibits and activities related to science, technology, engineering, and math.

Perry Farm Park

Perry Farm Park is a great place for families to enjoy the outdoors together. They offer a range of activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking.

Kankakee Railroad Museum

The Kankakee Railroad Museum is located in Kankakee and features exhibits and artifacts related to the history of railroading in the region.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Kankakee River

The Kankakee River is a hidden gem in the region and offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.

The Limestone Caves

The Limestone Caves are a series of underground caves located in nearby Manteno. They offer a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience for adventurous visitors.

Channahon State Park

Channahon State Park is located about 45 minutes from campus and offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping.

Natural Wonders

Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park is located about an hour’s drive from campus and is one of the most popular natural attractions in the region. It features 13 miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views of the Illinois River.

Kankakee River State Park

Kankakee River State Park is another natural wonder in the region and offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, canoeing, and camping.

Mazon Creek Fossil Beds

The Mazon Creek Fossil Beds are located in nearby Morris and offer a unique glimpse into the prehistoric past of the region. Visitors can collect fossils and learn about the geology of the area.

Vibrant Nightlife

BrickStone Brewery

BrickStone Brewery is a popular brewery and restaurant located in nearby Bourbonnais. They offer a range of craft beers and pub fare.

Grundy County Speedway

The Grundy County Speedway is located about 30 minutes from campus and offers a range of racing events throughout the year.

The Majestic Theatre

The Majestic Theatre is located in nearby Kankakee and hosts regular concerts and performances.

Local Markets

Bourbonnais Farmers Market

The Bourbonnais Farmers Market is held on Saturdays during the summer and fall months. It features a range of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

Kankakee Farmers Market

The Kankakee Farmers Market is held on Saturdays during the summer and fall months. It features a range of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

Manteno Farmers Market

The Manteno Farmers Market is held on Thursdays during the summer and fall months. It features a range of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

Beaches and Mountains

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is located about an hour’s drive from campus and offers 15 miles of sandy beaches along Lake Michigan.

Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park features stunning views of the Illinois River and a range of hiking trails through the wooded bluffs and canyons.