Things To Do
in Glen Ellyn
Glen Ellyn is a charming, family-friendly village in DuPage County just west of Chicago. It blends a walkable downtown with tree-lined neighborhoods and easy access to nature. Lake Ellyn and the College of DuPage campus offer scenic getaways within the town, while nearby Morton Arboretum and other DuPage preserves provide regional flavor.
Overall, Glen Ellyn feels welcoming, safe, and well-suited for a relaxed Midwest weekend or a longer suburban stay.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through downtown Glen Ellyn, visiting local cafés for a hearty breakfast. You can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while checking out unique shops and boutiques. Don’t miss a visit to the Glen Ellyn History Center to get a glimpse of the village's heritage.
Spend your afternoon at Lake Ellyn Park, where you can enjoy a picnic by the lake or rent a paddleboat for a fun time on the water. The park offers scenic walking paths that are perfect for a leisurely nature walk. Consider visiting the nearby Glen Ellyn Farmers Market to pick up some fresh local produce.
As the sun sets, head to one of Glen Ellyn's cozy restaurants for dinner, perhaps trying out some local specialties. After your meal, take a walk through the charming downtown area, illuminated by the soft glow of street lamps. Conclude your evening with a visit to the Village Theatre for a relaxing performance.
Kick off your day with a trip to the Morton Arboretum, where you can explore stunning landscapes and diverse plant collections. Enjoy breakfast at the arboretum café, and be sure to grab a map to navigate its extensive grounds. Don’t forget to check out the Children’s Garden for some interactive fun.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into the arboretum’s trails and exhibits, perhaps joining a guided tour to learn more about the local flora. Feel free to take your time, enjoying the tranquility of nature and discovering unique plant species. Stop by the gift shop to pick up souvenirs that celebrate the beauty of the region.
After a fulfilling day in nature, head back to Glen Ellyn for a relaxed evening. Try a local brewpub for dinner, where you can enjoy craft beers paired with delicious food. Consider winding down at the Glen Ellyn Cinema, catching the latest blockbuster or an indie film.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or drink at cafe | $3-6 |
| 🛍️Clothing item | $20-60 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night (mid-range) | $100-180 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Chicago with easy access to major attractions
- Family-friendly suburbs with safe neighborhoods and good schools
- Strong local parks and nature preserves
- Quiet, walkable downtown with dining options
- Limited nightlife within Glen Ellyn itself
- Can be traffic-prone during peak commuting hours
- Some services require a short drive to neighboring towns
- Weather can be hot in summer and cold in winter
Places to Visit in Glen Ellyn
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic lake with a wooded shoreline and reflective water, ideal for sunset portraits.
Historic street with charming storefronts, lampposts, and seasonal displays.
Modern and traditional buildings with landscaped courtyards suitable for architectural shots.
Open farmland and woodland trails offering rural textures and wildlife photography.
Food in Glen Ellyn
Glen Ellyn Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thinly sliced beef on a crusty roll with au jus, widely available at casual eateries around Glen Ellyn.
Must-Try!
Chicago-area specialty with a thick crust and hearty toppings, available at local pizzerias.
Menu items drawing from DuPage County farms at select restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering locally grown produce, baked goods, and prepared foods.
Nearby markets with a mix of street-food vendors and artisanal goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for appointments and reservations; punctuality is valued in the Midwest.
Maintain a respectful tone in neighborhoods and parks; keep voices moderate and lines orderly.
Glen Ellyn tends to be courteous and family-friendly; greet with a smile and hold doors for others.
Safety
Tipping in Glen Ellyn
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., tip about 15-20% at restaurants; tip bartenders for each drink; tip hotel staff for services received.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common in many places.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with humidity; stay hydrated, seek shade, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage; great for scenic walks and photo opportunities. Pack a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Cold with possible snowfall; dress in layers and prepare for icy conditions. Indoor activities and cozy dining are common.
Mild temperatures with blooming trees; expect rain showers. Perfect time for park visits and outdoor photography.
Glen Ellyn at Night
Hiking in Glen Ellyn
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail section suitable for day hikes and easy walks, connecting with other segments.
Open farmland and woodland trails near Wheaton that are great for wildlife viewing.
Forest preserves with varied terrain and longer hiking options nearby in Warrenville.
Airports
How to reach Glen Ellyn by plane.
Major international airport about 25-30 miles from Glen Ellyn; accessible by car or rail.
Secondary major airport about 25-30 miles away; good for domestic flights.
General aviation airport in nearby Wheaton/Warrenville area; useful for private flights and charters.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents are families seeking safe neighborhoods, good schools, and community activities.
Many residents commute to Chicago or the western suburbs for work.
Proximity to College of DuPage brings a student presence and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in schools and community leagues; many facilities available.
Youth and adult leagues; local parks and schools host regular games.
Outdoor leagues and pickup games in parks and school fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Glen Ellyn.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for veggie bowls, salads, and meat-free pastas. Most places can accommodate substitutions or daily specials.