Things To Do
in Hazel Crest

Hazel Crest is a tranquil village located in Cook County, Illinois, offering a suburban feel with a close-knit community atmosphere. The area is known for its lush parks and family-friendly environment, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. With its diverse population and rich local culture, Hazel Crest presents visitors with a unique blend of Midwestern charm.

Just a short drive from Chicago, it serves as a peaceful retreat while still providing easy access to urban amenities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Hazel Crest
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local Hazel Crest Community Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or jog on the trails and take in the fresh air.

afternoon
:

Head to the Southland Center for some shopping and grab lunch at a nearby cafe, where you can try local favorites.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll through the neighborhood to enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the nearby Community Arts Center to explore local art exhibits and possibly participate in a workshop.

afternoon
:

Take a short drive to the nearby Cook County Forest Preserves for hiking and nature observation.

evening
:

Enjoy a movie at a local cinema or visit a bar for some live music to experience Hazel Crest's nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$8
🍕Pizza Slice$3
Coffee$4
🍽️Dinner for Two$40
🏨Hotel (per night)$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Family-friendly environment
  • Proximity to Chicago attractions
  • Rich local culture and community events
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • May lack some urban amenities
  • Public transport options are limited

Places to Visit in Hazel Crest

Visit one of these nice places.

Hazel Crest Community Park

With its scenic landscapes, playgrounds, and walking trails, this park is perfect for capturing nature shots and family portraits.

The Hazel Crest Village Hall

The architecture of the Village Hall offers a beautiful backdrop for photos, especially during the golden hour.

Local Murals

Various murals throughout the village celebrate local culture and history, providing vibrant and colorful photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hazel Crest

Hazel Crest offers a taste of Midwestern cuisine with its variety of local dishes and charming dining spots. Whether you’re in the mood for classic comfort food or unique specialties, you’ll find plenty to satisfy your palate.

Hazel Crest Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Italian Beef Sandwich

A Chicago classic, this sandwich features thinly sliced seasoned roast beef, served on a crusty roll and often topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera.

Must-Try!

Deep-Dish Pizza

Known for its thick crust and layered toppings, deep-dish pizza is a must-try when in the Chicago area.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hazel Crest Farmers Market

Open during the warmer months, this market features fresh produce, local crafts, and food stands, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hazel Crest experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with average highs reaching the upper 80s °F (around 30 °C). Winters can be cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A simple smile and 'hello' go a long way; locals appreciate friendliness and politeness.

Queueing

Always respect personal space and queue properly when waiting in lines at stores or events.

Respect for Community

Being considerate of the community and its residents is important, especially when attending local events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hazel Crest is generally a safe community, but standard precautions should be observed. It's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid poorly lit areas. Emergency services are accessible, and local police are proactive in community engagement.

Tipping in Hazel Crest

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Practices

In restaurants, it's customary to tip between 15% to 20% of the bill, depending on service quality.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and park visits.

Summer

Summer is warm and perfect for enjoying local events, farmers markets, and outdoor dining.

Fall

Fall showcases beautiful foliage, ideal for photography and nature walks, with cooler temperatures.

Winter

Winters can be cold and snowy, but the village often hosts holiday events and winter sports opportunities in nearby areas.

Nightlife Guide

Hazel Crest at Night

Hazel Crest has a relaxed nightlife scene featuring local bars and lounges where residents gather for drinks and live music. While not as vibrant as nearby Chicago, there are options for those looking to unwind after a day of exploration. Local venues often host trivia nights, karaoke, and small performances, appealing to various tastes.

Hiking in Hazel Crest

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pine Ridge Trail

Located just a short drive away, this trail offers a scenic route through wooded areas, ideal for hiking and nature observation.

Old Plank Road Trail

This well-maintained trail stretches for miles and is perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Hazel Crest by plane.

Chicago Midway International Airport

Located about 25 miles from Hazel Crest, this airport provides domestic and limited international flights, making it accessible for travelers to and from the village.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hazel Crest is fairly walkable, especially in the downtown area where local shops, parks, and restaurants are within walking distance. However, some neighborhoods may require a vehicle for access to amenities. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

African American Community

Hazel Crest has a significant African American population, contributing to the rich cultural diversity and traditions in the area.

Hispanic Community

The Hispanic community is also well-represented, adding to the multicultural fabric of Hazel Crest.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is popular among residents, with local courts available for both casual play and organized leagues.

Football

Both American football and soccer have a strong following in the community, with youth leagues and local high school teams.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hazel Crest is generally light, with peak hours during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation options are somewhat limited, but there are bus services connecting to nearby areas and train stations. Driving is the most common way to navigate the village and surrounding regions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hazel Crest.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, with some even providing vegan alternatives.

Gluten-Free Options

Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets; be sure to check menus or ask staff for recommendations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Hazel Crest has access to several healthcare facilities, including clinics and hospitals in nearby communities. Emergency services are reliable, and residents can typically find a healthcare provider within a short drive. It's advisable for visitors to have health insurance while traveling.

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