Things To Do
in Clarendon Hills
Clarendon Hills is a quiet, tree-lined suburb just west of Chicago, offering a small-town atmosphere with easy access to big-city amenities. The community centers on a charming village core, friendly residents, and well-kept homes set along pleasant streets. Despite its compact size, Clarendon Hills is a great base for day trips to Hinsdale, Oak Brook, and downtown Chicago, with plenty of parks and family-friendly activities.
Visitors will find welcoming neighborhoods, convenient dining options in nearby towns, and scenic routes along Salt Creek for leisurely strolls.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Clarendon Hills Farmer's Market, where you can enjoy fresh produce and artisanal goodies. Stroll through the quaint downtown area and absorb the small-town atmosphere while grabbing a coffee at a local café. Don’t miss out on the unique shops that offer local crafts and souvenirs.
After lunch at a cozy bistro, head to the nearby Prospect Park for a leisurely walk or a picnic. The park offers beautiful walking trails and serene spots to unwind while enjoying nature. Take the time to soak up the sun and channel your inner artist by sketching the lovely scenery.
As the sun begins to set, treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant known for its delicious farm-to-table offerings. After dinner, gather with friends or family for some evening games at the Clarendon Hills Park District. Conclude your day with a charming stroll through the neighborhood, appreciating the peaceful ambiance.
Start your cultural exploration at the Clarendon Hills Historical Society to learn about the area's rich history. Enjoy a guided tour that showcases the historical figures and events that shaped the town. Take some time to view the unique exhibits that will leave you wanting to know more about local lore.
Lunch at a local café followed by a visit to a nearby art gallery can inspire creative thoughts and conversations. Engage with the featured artists and perhaps attend an art workshop if available. This will provide an immersive experience into the thriving art scene of the area.
As night falls, join a community event if available, featuring local musicians or theater performances. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and connect with locals who share similar interests. After the event, relax at a charming pub for a nightcap and casual conversations.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment in suburb | $1,800-2,400/mo |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3.50-4.50 |
| 🛒Groceries per person per month | $250-350 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Chicago with easy access to big-city attractions
- Family-friendly suburban atmosphere
- Strong local dining and shopping in nearby towns
- Safe, walkable village core
- Limited nightlife within the village itself
- Some amenities require a short drive to Hinsdale/Oak Brook
- High suburban costs compared to rural areas
- Seasonal weather can impact outdoor plans
Places to Visit in Clarendon Hills
Visit one of these nice places.
A quintessential small-town centerpiece perfect for morning light and classic street photography.
Cobbled sidewalks, boutique storefronts, and mature trees along Washington Street provide warm golden-hour shots.
Gentle water reflections and bridges offer serene compositions especially at dawn.
Elevated boardwalks through lush woods ideal for nature photography and wildlife.
Food in Clarendon Hills
Clarendon Hills Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thinly sliced roast beef sandwich on a crusty Italian roll, often served with au jus and hot peppers; available at regional delis within easy reach.
Must-Try!
A thick, buttery crust filled with cheese and chunky tomato sauce; best sought at Chicago-area pizzerias within the Hinsdale/Oak Brook corridor.
A hearty pasta dish featuring robust tomato sauce, Italian sausage, and herbs, commonly found in family-owned Italian eateries nearby.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, and prepared foods; great for fresh ingredients to cook at your rental.
A small, local market with fresh produce, cheeses, and ready-to-eat treats; perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be considerate of residential areas; avoid loud noise late at night; keep noise down in shared spaces.
Wait your turn in lines, greet staff, and say please and thank you.
Respect property and park hours; follow local signage when in parks and preserves.
Safety
Tipping in Clarendon Hills
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% pre-tax is standard in the United States; tipping hotel staff and taxi drivers is customary.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for small vendors; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, often humid days with afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated and plan shade breaks.
Crisp air and vivid fall foliage along tree-lined streets; a great time for outdoor photography and walking tours.
Cold with snow possible; dress in layers and explore indoor attractions as needed.
Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes; watch for early-season rain.
Clarendon Hills at Night
Hiking in Clarendon Hills
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and boardwalks suitable for easy hikes near Oak Brook.
Multi-use trail along Salt Creek with scenic river views, connecting Hinsdale and Oak Brook.
Airports
How to reach Clarendon Hills by plane.
Major international hub about 16-25 miles from Clarendon Hills by car, with multiple terminals and radiating transit options.
Secondary airport closer to the southwest suburbs, offering a wide range of domestic flights and some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households with children, favoring quiet neighborhoods and good schools.
Commuters and professionals who work in the Chicago area.
Active retirement communities and long-time residents.
A mix of backgrounds typical of Chicago’s western suburbs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular as a summer sport in local leagues and schools.
A staple in schools and community centers; pickup games and leagues happen seasonally.
Youth and adult leagues frequent local parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Clarendon Hills.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy many garden salads, pastas, veggie pizzas, and grain bowls at most places; look for dishes labeled veggie or request modifications.