Arlington Heights

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Arlington Heights's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly brewed coffee and artisanal pastries. After breakfast, take a stroll through the picturesque streets of Arlington Heights, admiring the charming architecture of historic buildings. Visit the Arlington Heights Historical Museum to learn about the rich heritage and stories of the area.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a popular bistro downtown, where you can enjoy a delicious meal featuring local ingredients. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant Arlington Heights Arts District, where you can browse galleries showcasing the work of local artists. Don't forget to stop by the local shops for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a nearby restaurant known for its farm-to-table dining experience. Enjoy a delightful dinner while listening to live music that captures the spirit of the town. After dinner, take a relaxing walk through the park, soaking in the serene evening atmosphere.

day 2
Nature and Wildlife Exploration
morning
:

Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for a day of exploration. Head to the North Branch of the Chicago River, where you can hike along scenic trails surrounded by lush greenery. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as birds and deer, as you immerse yourself in nature.

afternoon
:

After a morning of hiking, enjoy a packed picnic lunch at a designated area in the park, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon kayaking or canoeing on the river, experiencing the beauty of the landscape from a different perspective. Engage in some birdwatching, as the area is known for its diverse avian population.

evening
:

Return to town and enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant that features a seasonal menu. After your meal, consider visiting a local brewery to taste craft beers brewed right in Arlington Heights. Wrap up the evening with a stroll through downtown, enjoying the vibrant nightlife and perhaps catching a live performance.

day 3
Cultural Immersion at Local Festivals
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café that’s known for its unique brunch offerings. If your visit coincides with one of the town’s many festivals, head over to the festival grounds to soak in the lively atmosphere. Participate in various activities and workshops that showcase local crafts and traditions.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch from local food vendors, sampling a variety of cuisines that reflect the community's diversity. Spend the afternoon exploring the festival's booths, where you can purchase handmade items and artwork from local artisans. Be sure to catch live performances, as local musicians and dancers often entertain throughout the day.

evening
:

As the festival wraps up, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that offers a menu inspired by the festival's theme. Join in on evening celebrations, which may include fireworks or a concert in the park. End your day mingling with locals, sharing stories, and dancing under the stars.

day 4
Adventure in the Great Outdoors
morning
:

Kick off your day with breakfast at a local café that serves hearty portions. After breakfast, head to Busse Woods, where you can rent a bike and explore the extensive trail system surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Keep your camera ready for stunning views and the chance to spot wildlife.

afternoon
:

After a morning of biking, stop for a packed lunch at one of the scenic picnic areas within the woods. Spend the afternoon engaging in outdoor activities like paddle boating on the lake or participating in a guided nature walk. This is also a great opportunity to take part in a photography session capturing the beautiful landscapes.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Arlington Heights and treat yourself to dinner at a charming restaurant known for its seasonal menu. After dinner, enjoy a nightcap at a local bar or lounge, where you can unwind and reflect on your day’s adventures. If you're lucky, catch an outdoor movie screening or an event happening nearby.

day 5
Family Fun and Amusement
morning
:

Start the day with breakfast at a family-friendly eatery that offers a variety of options for all ages. Head to the nearby Legoland Discovery Center for an exciting morning filled with interactive exhibits and creative building activities. Kids will enjoy exploring the miniature cities and participating in fun workshops.

afternoon
:

After a morning of fun at Legoland, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant that caters to families. Spend the afternoon at the Arlington Heights Park District, where you can participate in sports, visit the playgrounds, or enjoy the splash pad on a warm day. This is the perfect time for family bonding and enjoying the outdoors.

evening
:

In the evening, head to a casual dining spot where the whole family can enjoy pizza or burgers. After dinner, consider visiting a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat to cap off the day. Take a leisurely walk through the nearby park, enjoying the fresh air and sharing laughter as you recount the day's highlights.

day 6
Art and History Day
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a quaint café that offers a selection of locally sourced dishes. Afterward, visit the Arlington Heights Historical Museum, where you can delve into the history of the area through engaging exhibits. Don’t miss the chance to explore the beautiful gardens on the museum grounds.

afternoon
:

For lunch, choose a nearby spot that features local art on the walls, creating a vibrant dining atmosphere. Spend the afternoon visiting local art galleries, discovering the works of talented local artists and perhaps even meeting some of them. Participate in an art workshop if available, allowing you to create your own masterpiece.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that showcases art-inspired decor and a creative menu. After dinner, attend a live theater performance at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, where you can enjoy a range of shows from musicals to plays. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the arts district, soaking in the artistic vibe of the area.

day 7
Culinary Delights and Tasting Tours
morning
:

Start your day with a gourmet breakfast at a local restaurant that prides itself on innovative dishes. After breakfast, embark on a guided food tour that introduces you to Arlington Heights' diverse culinary scene. Sample everything from classic American fare to ethnic delicacies, learning about the rich food heritage of the area.

afternoon
:

Continue your food adventure with a lunch stop at a food market where you can taste various local specialties. Spend the afternoon visiting local farms or markets, where you can meet the producers and learn about sustainable practices. Participate in a cooking class that allows you to incorporate local ingredients into your own culinary creations.

evening
:

In the evening, dine at a renowned restaurant known for its creative tasting menu, offering an exquisite dining experience. Pair your meal with local wines or craft cocktails for a complete gastronomic experience. After dinner, consider joining a dessert tour to satisfy your sweet tooth with the best desserts Arlington Heights has to offer.

day 8
Shopping and Relaxation Day
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying a relaxed atmosphere. Spend the morning browsing the shops at the Arlington Heights Town Center, where you can find everything from boutique clothing to unique home goods. Don't forget to stop by a local bookstore to pick up a good read for the day.

afternoon
:

After a morning of shopping, enjoy lunch at a café that offers a cozy ambiance and delicious sandwiches. Spend the afternoon pampering yourself at a local spa, indulging in a massage or facial that will rejuvenate your body and mind. Alternatively, you could visit a local salon for a fresh haircut or manicure.

evening
:

As the day comes to a close, head to a nearby restaurant for a delightful dinner that features a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. After dinner, take a stroll through a nearby park to unwind and reflect on your day. If you're in the mood, catch a movie at a local theater for a perfect end to your relaxing day.

day 9
Sports and Recreation Adventure
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a sports-themed café, getting in the mood for an active day ahead. Afterward, head to a local golf course for a round of golf, enjoying the manicured greens and friendly competition. If golf isn't your game, consider visiting a nearby batting cage or bowling alley to get your adrenaline flowing.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy a hearty meal at a nearby sports bar, where you can catch up on the latest games. Spend the afternoon at a local sports complex, where you can engage in various recreational activities like tennis, swimming, or even joining a pick-up basketball game. This is a fantastic way to meet locals and enjoy the spirit of competition.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that features a sports theme, complete with screens showing live games. After dinner, consider attending a local sporting event, such as a minor league baseball game or a soccer match, to experience the local sports culture. Cap off the evening celebrating with fellow fans, relishing the excitement of the game.

Discover Arlington Heights

Read more in our Arlington Heights 2025 Travel Guide.

Arlington Heights Travel Guide