Things To Do
in Barrington

Barrington, located in Lake County, Illinois, is a charming suburban community known for its picturesque lakes and lush green parks. The town features a vibrant downtown area with boutique shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Barrington is well-regarded for its excellent school system and family-friendly atmosphere.

With a mix of outdoor activities and community events, it offers a welcoming environment for both residents and visitors alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown Barrington
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at Egg Harbor Cafe, known for its delicious omelets and fresh coffee. After breakfast, explore the historic downtown area and visit local shops.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at The Onion Pub & Brewery, where you can try their artisanal pizzas. Afterward, take a stroll around Citizens Park to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

evening
:

Dine at the award-winning restaurant, The Capital Grille, known for its dry-aged steaks and extensive wine list. End your evening with a walk along the Barrington Riverwalk.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Have a leisurely breakfast at Starbucks, then head to the Barrington Area Library to explore their local exhibits. Visit the nearby Barrington Village Hall to appreciate the architecture.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at The Village Squire, famous for its burgers, then embark on an afternoon hike at the nearby Cuba Marsh Forest Preserve.

evening
:

Experience a live performance at the Barrington Area Arts Council before enjoying dinner at the casual yet trendy restaurant, Cafe Zupas.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$8
🍕Pizza$15
Coffee$4
🍷Glass of Wine$10
🏨Hotel Night$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Family-friendly atmosphere with excellent schools.
  • Scenic parks and outdoor activities.
  • Rich community culture and local events.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Higher cost of living compared to nearby areas.
  • Less public transportation availability.

Places to Visit in Barrington

Visit one of these nice places.

Barrington Riverwalk

A scenic path along the river, perfect for capturing beautiful landscapes and sunsets.

Citizens Park

A lush park featuring gardens, playgrounds, and a picturesque pond.

Barrington Area Library

An architectural gem with modern design elements that's great for unique photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Barrington

Barrington offers a delightful culinary scene that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes.

Barrington Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Deep Dish Pizza

A Chicago-style pizza with a thick crust and generous layers of cheese and toppings.

Must-Try!

Italian Beef Sandwich

Thinly sliced seasoned roast beef served in a long roll, often topped with giardiniera.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Barrington Farmers Market

Held weekly, this market features local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Barrington experiences four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and snowfall occurring. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging in the 80s°F. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and beautiful foliage, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Greeting locals with a smile and saying 'hello' is appreciated.

Punctuality

Being on time for social gatherings and appointments is considered respectful.

Community Engagement

Participation in local events and festivals is encouraged and welcomed.

Safety Guide

Safety

Barrington is considered a safe community with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings and securing personal belongings. Emergency services are readily available, and the community is engaged in ensuring public safety.

Tipping in Barrington

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service workers around 15-20% for good service in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit/debit cards, and mobile payments are also widely used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather invites locals and visitors to enjoy lakeside activities and community festivals.

Fall

Experience the beauty of fall foliage, particularly in the surrounding parks and nature preserves.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snowfall can lead to winter sports and holiday festivities in the community.

Nightlife Guide

Barrington at Night

Barrington's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few bars and restaurants offering live music and events. The local pubs often have trivia nights and community gatherings, making it a friendly atmosphere for socializing. For a more vibrant scene, residents often head to nearby Chicago for a wider variety of nightlife options.

Hiking in Barrington

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cuba Marsh Forest Preserve

Offers a variety of trails through wetlands and woods, perfect for hiking and observing wildlife.

Bartlett Nature Center

Features trails through prairies and forests, providing a scenic backdrop for hikers.

Airports

How to reach Barrington by plane.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport

Located about 30 miles from Barrington, O'Hare is a major international airport offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Barrington is a walkable suburban area, particularly in the downtown district where shops, cafes, and parks are within easy walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the community often sees residents walking, jogging, or biking around town, making it accessible for those who prefer not to drive.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Barrington is home to many families, drawn by its excellent schools and safe environment.

Young Professionals

The area attracts young professionals who appreciate the suburban lifestyle while still being close to Chicago.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

High school football games are a community favorite, drawing local support and enthusiasm.

Golf

Barrington boasts several golf courses, making it a popular sport for residents and visitors.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Barrington is generally light, especially during non-peak hours. The suburb is connected by several major roads, making it easy to navigate. Public transportation options include Metra train services that connect residents to Chicago and other nearby areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Barrington.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, including salads, pastas, and veggie burgers.

Gluten-Free

Several eateries provide gluten-free alternatives for their dishes, especially in bakeries and pizzerias.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Barrington is robust, with several clinics and hospitals in the vicinity. The community is served by Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital, which provides comprehensive medical services. Residents have access to urgent care facilities and specialists, ensuring quality healthcare is within reach.

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