Things To Do
in Elk Grove Village
Elk Grove Village is a family-friendly suburb in Cook County, just northwest of downtown Chicago. It offers a blend of quiet residential neighborhoods, extensive parks, and convenient shopping and dining options. Its proximity to O'Hare International Airport makes travel easy for visitors and locals alike.
The area combines suburban charm with easy access to Chicago's big-city amenities and nearby northwest suburbs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Elk Grove Historical Museum, where you can delve into the rich history of the village. Enjoy a guided tour of the historic buildings and exhibits that showcase the area's past. Don't forget to take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful grounds adorned with local artifacts.
After the museum, head to Elk Grove Park for a picnic lunch under its lush trees. Take advantage of the numerous walking trails and enjoy some fresh air while soaking in the serene beauty of nature. Consider renting a bike or rollerblading on the well-maintained paths.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to dinner at a local eatery known for its diverse culinary options. Spend some time cruising through the vibrant downtown area, checking out unique shops and boutiques. End your night with a peaceful walk around the park or catching a community movie night if one is scheduled.
Kick off your day with a refreshing walk at Busse Woods, a beautiful natural area featuring miles of scenic trails. Observe the local wildlife as you meander through various ecosystems, including forests and wetlands. Capture stunning photos as the morning light filters through the trees.
Grab a packed lunch to enjoy at one of the picnic sites nestled within the woods. Spend some time with family or friends, perhaps playing frisbee or simply relaxing. For the adventurous, consider renting a kayak and exploring the calm waters of the lake.
Return to Elk Grove Village for dinner at a restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine. Enjoy the warmth of a cozy atmosphere while sharing stories from your day in the great outdoors. If you're in the mood for more activity, see if there are any community events or live music performances in town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week (family of four) | $80-140 |
| 🚗Gasoline for a short road trip | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Chicago with easy access to the airport
- Family-friendly neighborhoods and parks
- Varied dining options and diverse cuisines
- Good base for exploring the northwest suburbs
- Relatively affordable compared to downtown Chicago
- Limited nightlife within the village itself
- Primarily car-dependent with limited dense urban core
- Occasional traffic around major highways and ORD
- Smaller-scale cultural attractions compared to the city
- Some services require travel to nearby towns
Places to Visit in Elk Grove Village
Visit one of these nice places.
A large natural area with lakes, wetlands, and forested trails that shine at dawn and dusk for landscape and wildlife photography.
Open spots near O'Hare International Airport offer dramatic aircraft photography with planes taking off and landing against a city backdrop.
Riverside views along the Des Plaines River provide serene compositions, especially in spring and fall.
Well-lit public spaces with fountains and architecture that look striking in twilight and evening photography.
Food in Elk Grove Village
Elk Grove Village Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Chicago staple: thinly sliced beef served on crusty bread with peppers or giardiniera, widely found in casual eateries and sandwich shops in the area.
Must-Try!
Thick, hearty pie with a tall crust and generous cheese and tomato sauce—lots of spots around the region offer their own takes on this iconic style.
A beef hot dog loaded with toppings like mustard, onions, relish, tomatoes, pickles, and celery salt—readily available at casual diners and fast-casual spots.
Polish dumplings that appear on a number of local menus, offering a comforting option in family-friendly eateries and casual spots.
Vietnamese beef noodle soup found in several Vietnamese restaurants in the broader northwest suburbs, great for a comforting lunch or dinner.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets and half-tinished streetside stalls offer fresh produce, ethnic snacks, and quick bites from nearby immigrant communities.
Seasonal markets in the northwest Chicago suburbs provide fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and locally produced specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and a handshake are common. Use polite language, say please and thank you, and respect personal space in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Elk Grove Village
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tip 15-20% of the pre-tax bill for good service. For delivery, roughly 10-20%. At bars, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab. Check for any service charges on large groups.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flora; good for outdoor walks, wildlife watching, and early-season photography.
Warm to hot and humid with possible afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for mornings or evenings.
Crisp air and vibrant fall colors create excellent lighting and photography opportunities; great for long walks.
Cold with snow possible; layer up for outdoor exploring and enjoy indoor attractions and cozy dining.
Elk Grove Village at Night
Hiking in Elk Grove Village
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive trail networks through woodlands and around lakes; ideal for day hikes and nature photography.
A long riverside trail offering scenic overlooks and peaceful hiking segments to explore nature just outside the city.
A nearby system of woods with winding trails and seasonal views suitable for longer hikes.
Airports
How to reach Elk Grove Village by plane.
A major hub with frequent domestic and international flights; quick access from Elk Grove Village via major highways.
Another major airport serving domestic flights; located to the south of the city and accessible by road and rail from the region.
A public-use airport serving general aviation and smaller trips; convenient for quick hops or private flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents are families seeking a suburban lifestyle with good schools and parks.
Many residents commute to the city or nearby business parks, contributing to a diverse employment base.
The area includes White, Hispanic/Latino, Asian, and African American residents, reflecting a broad cultural mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at schools and local clubs; many residents participate in community leagues.
Youth and adult football programs are common in the area, especially in fall.
Little League and school leagues are active in many communities around Elk Grove and neighboring towns.
A popular family-friendly sport with local leagues and pickup games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Elk Grove Village.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most local restaurants offer vegetarian options such as salads, veggie burgers, pastas, and vegetable-based dishes; alert staff about any allergens and ask about ingredients to be safe.