Things To Do
in Elmhurst

Elmhurst, located in DuPage County, Illinois, is a vibrant suburb of Chicago known for its charming downtown area and strong community spirit. The city features a mix of historic architecture and modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for families and visitors alike. Elmhurst is home to numerous parks, cultural institutions, and a variety of dining options, providing a pleasant suburban experience.

With easy access to Chicago, it serves as a great base for exploring the Windy City while enjoying the tranquility of suburban life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown Elmhurst
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at Egg Harbor Cafe, known for its delicious omelets and fresh coffee. After breakfast, visit the Elmhurst Art Museum to view contemporary art exhibits.

afternoon
:

Stroll through Elmhurst City Centre for shopping and lunch at one of the local cafes, such as Pronto's. After lunch, visit the Elmhurst History Museum to learn about the city's rich history.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Tannins Wine Bar, then take a leisurely walk through the Elmhurst Gardens for a relaxing end to your day.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a visit to Wilder Park, where you can enjoy the beautiful gardens and perhaps a picnic breakfast. Then explore the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art.

afternoon
:

Head to the Elmhurst Park District for some outdoor activities, or rent a bike to explore the local trails. Grab lunch at a local favorite, such as The Patio.

evening
:

For your last night, dine at the upscale restaurant, Elmhurst Brewing Company, and enjoy some local craft beers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$8
🥗Restaurant Meal$15
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza Slice$3
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Family-friendly environment with lots of parks and activities.
  • Convenient access to Chicago for day trips and entertainment.
  • Diverse dining options and local markets.
  • Nightlife can be limited compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport options are not as extensive as in Chicago.
  • Winters can be quite harsh with snow and cold temperatures.

Places to Visit in Elmhurst

Visit one of these nice places.

Elmhurst Art Museum

The contemporary architecture of the museum and its surrounding gardens provide great photo opportunities.

Wilder Park

With its beautiful landscapes, flower gardens, and historic buildings, Wilder Park is perfect for capturing nature and history.

Elmhurst City Centre

The vibrant downtown area features charming storefronts and seasonal decorations, ideal for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Elmhurst

Elmhurst offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its diverse community, featuring everything from classic American diners to upscale dining establishments.

Elmhurst Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Italian Beef

A local favorite, this sandwich features thinly sliced beef, cooked in a savory broth, served on a fresh Italian roll.

Must-Try!

Deep Dish Pizza

Chicago's signature dish, this pizza is known for its thick crust and generous layers of cheese and toppings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Elmhurst Farmers Market

Held weekly, this market features local produce, artisan foods, and handmade crafts, providing a taste of the community's best offerings.

Climate Guide

Weather

Elmhurst experiences four distinct seasons. Winters are cold with temperatures often dipping below freezing and snowfall common from December to February. Spring sees gradual warming with blooming flowers and mild rain through March to May. Summers are warm and humid, with highs often reaching the 80s and 90s (°F), while autumn is characterized by cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage from September to November.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Midwestern culture values politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is expected in interactions.

Personal Space

Respecting personal space is important; avoid standing too close to others during conversations.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated in social and business settings; it shows respect for others' time.

Safety Guide

Safety

Elmhurst is generally considered a safe place to live and visit. However, it is always advisable to be aware of your surroundings, particularly in less crowded areas at night. Emergency services are readily available, and local police maintain a visible presence.

Tipping in Elmhurst

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to tip service staff, such as waiters and bartenders, around 15-20% of the total bill.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, and contactless payment options are widely available.

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 visiting local parks.

Summer

Summers are warm and humid, perfect for enjoying outdoor festivals, farmers markets, and dining al fresco.

Fall

Fall brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures, ideal for enjoying scenic walks and local harvest events.

Winter

Winters can be cold and snowy, but the holiday decorations and winter activities in parks offer a festive atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Elmhurst at Night

The nightlife in Elmhurst is more subdued compared to nearby Chicago, but it offers a variety of options including cozy bars, wine lounges, and casual pubs. Local favorites like Elmhurst Brewing Company provide a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying craft beers and socializing. Additionally, some venues host live music and events, adding to the community vibe, making it a great place for a laid-back night out.

Hiking in Elmhurst

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Salt Creek Greenway Trail

This scenic trail runs along Salt Creek, offering a peaceful setting for hiking, biking, and nature walks.

Elmhurst Forest Preserve

Features a network of trails through wooded areas and wetlands, perfect for hiking and observing local wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Elmhurst by plane.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport

Located about 15 miles from Elmhurst, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world, offering domestic and international flights. It's accessible via public transportation, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Elmhurst is generally considered walkable, especially in the downtown area where shops, restaurants, and parks are within a short distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are pedestrian-friendly crossings. However, some areas may require a car to access, especially residential neighborhoods further from the city center.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Elmhurst is home to many families who appreciate the city's excellent schools, parks, and community activities.

Young Professionals

With its proximity to Chicago, Elmhurst attracts young professionals looking for a suburban lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Elmhurst, with many youth leagues and local teams participating in regional competitions.

Soccer

Soccer has gained popularity among youth and adult leagues, with various clubs offering programs and matches throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Elmhurst is generally manageable, although it can become congested during rush hours, particularly near major intersections and highways. Public transportation options include Metra trains and local buses that connect to surrounding areas, making it easy to travel without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Elmhurst.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Gluten-Free Options

Many restaurants in Elmhurst offer gluten-free dishes, making it accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.

Vegan and Vegetarian Choices

Several cafes and restaurants have dedicated vegan and vegetarian menus, ensuring delicious options for plant-based diets.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Elmhurst has several healthcare facilities, including Elmhurst Hospital, which provides comprehensive medical services. There are also numerous clinics and specialized medical practices in the area, ensuring residents and visitors have access to quality healthcare.

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