Things To Do
in Buffalo Grove

Buffalo Grove, located in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, is a vibrant community known for its family-friendly atmosphere and lush parks. With a rich history dating back to the 19th century, it boasts a mix of suburban charm and modern amenities. The village is home to diverse cultural experiences, excellent schools, and a variety of recreational activities.

Visitors can enjoy local events, shopping, and dining in a welcoming environment.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Buffalo Grove
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at Egg Harbor Cafe, then stroll through the beautiful Buffalo Grove Park District.

afternoon
:

Visit the Buffalo Grove Historical Society to learn about the local history, followed by lunch at the local favorite, Lou Malnati's Pizzeria.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at The Capital Grille, followed by a movie at the nearby AMC Theater.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Begin with a relaxing walk at the Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve, perfect for enjoying nature.

afternoon
:

Head to the Buffalo Grove Golf Course for a round of golf or a driving range session, followed by lunch at a local food truck.

evening
:

Dine at Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant, then explore the lively nightlife at local bars like The Lucky Monk.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$10
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza Slice$3
🍽️Dinner at a Restaurant$25
🏡Monthly Rent (1-bedroom apartment)$1,500

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Family-friendly community with excellent schools
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces
  • Diverse dining options
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Traffic can be congested during peak hours
  • Higher cost of living than some surrounding areas

Places to Visit in Buffalo Grove

Visit one of these nice places.

Buffalo Grove Park

A picturesque park featuring lush greenery, walking trails, and a serene pond, perfect for nature photography.

Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve

A beautiful natural area with scenic views, ideal for capturing wildlife and tranquil landscapes.

Historical Society Building

A charming historical building that represents the rich history of Buffalo Grove, making it a lovely backdrop for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Buffalo Grove

Buffalo Grove offers a diverse culinary scene with options ranging from Italian to American cuisine, ensuring that every palate is satisfied.

Buffalo Grove Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Deep-Dish Pizza

A Chicago staple, this hearty pizza features a thick crust filled with gooey cheese and topped with a rich tomato sauce.

Must-Try!

Italian Beef Sandwich

A flavorful sandwich made with thinly sliced roast beef, served with spicy giardiniera and often dipped in au jus.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Buffalo Grove Farmers Market

Open during the summer months, this market features local produce, artisan goods, and food stands.

Climate Guide

Weather

Buffalo Grove experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging in the 80s°F (27-32°C). Winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, and snowfall is common. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Residents appreciate politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' goes a long way.

Personal Space

Respecting personal space is important; maintain a comfortable distance in conversations.

Punctuality

Being on time for appointments and meetings is valued in Buffalo Grove's community.

Safety Guide

Safety

Buffalo Grove is generally considered a safe community, with a low crime rate compared to national averages. However, it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in less crowded areas at night. Emergency services are readily available, and local law enforcement is active in ensuring community safety.

Tipping in Buffalo Grove

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip service staff between 15-20% in restaurants, and a few dollars for taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payment options like Apple Pay are also common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

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

Summer

Warm and humid, summer is ideal for enjoying local farmers markets and outdoor events.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage create a beautiful backdrop for outdoor exploration and photography.

Winter

Cold and snowy, winter offers opportunities for indoor activities and holiday events, although outdoor exploration can be challenging.

Nightlife Guide

Buffalo Grove at Night

Buffalo Grove's nightlife offers a mix of cozy bars, lively restaurants, and occasional live music events. Popular spots include The Lucky Monk, which features a great selection of craft beers and a fun atmosphere. The area also hosts seasonal events that attract locals and visitors alike, providing a welcoming vibe.

Hiking in Buffalo Grove

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cuba Marsh Forest Preserve

A scenic preserve featuring a variety of trails that wind through lush wetlands and woodlands, perfect for hiking and nature walks.

Busse Woods

Located a short drive away, Busse Woods offers extensive hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife photography.

Airports

How to reach Buffalo Grove by plane.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

Located about 25 miles southeast of Buffalo Grove, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world, offering extensive domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Buffalo Grove is moderately walkable, with some neighborhoods offering sidewalks and bike paths. However, a car is often necessary to reach various amenities and attractions, especially in more suburban areas. Town centers and parks are more pedestrian-friendly, making them accessible for walking and outdoor activities.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Buffalo Grove is primarily inhabited by families, attracted by its highly-rated schools and safe neighborhoods.

Young Professionals

An increasing number of young professionals are moving to the area, drawn by job opportunities in nearby Chicago and the suburban lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is a popular sport in Buffalo Grove, with local youth leagues and community teams providing opportunities for participation and viewership.

Soccer

Soccer enjoys a strong following, with various youth leagues and community clubs fostering a love for the game among residents.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Buffalo Grove can be moderate, especially during rush hours when commuters travel to and from Chicago. While the main roads can get busy, the overall traffic is manageable. Public transportation options include Metra train services and local bus routes, providing alternatives for navigating the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Buffalo Grove.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Buffalo Grove offer vegetarian and vegan options, making it easy to find suitable meals.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free menu items for those with dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Buffalo Grove has access to a range of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialist clinics. The nearby Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital provides comprehensive medical services. Residents can also access telehealth options for convenient healthcare consultations.

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