Things To Do
in Hickory Hills

Hickory Hills is a charming suburban community located in Cook County, Illinois, just southwest of Chicago. Known for its close-knit neighborhoods and family-friendly atmosphere, it offers a blend of urban and rural experiences. The city features beautiful parks, recreational facilities, and a diverse range of dining options.

Hickory Hills is an excellent base for exploring the vibrant culture and attractions of the greater Chicago area.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Hickory Hills
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Hickory Hills Park District for a morning walk or jog surrounded by nature. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, indulging in fresh pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Hickory Hills Community Center, participating in various recreational activities or attending a local event. Take a leisurely stroll through the nearby parks.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant that specializes in American cuisine, followed by a relaxing evening at a local pub or lounge for drinks and live music.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Chicago
morning
:

Take a short drive into Chicago and start your day at Millennium Park, exploring its iconic sculptures and gardens. Grab breakfast at a nearby diner.

afternoon
:

Visit the Art Institute of Chicago or take a boat tour along the Chicago River to see the stunning skyline. Enjoy lunch at a famous deep-dish pizza restaurant.

evening
:

Return to Hickory Hills and unwind at a local wine bar or craft brewery, enjoying the evening ambiance and sampling local brews.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza Slice$3.00
Coffee$4.00
🍔Burger$10.00
🍽️Dinner for Two$50.00
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of parks.
  • Close proximity to Chicago's cultural attractions.
  • Diverse dining options reflecting a multicultural community.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to nearby Chicago.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Fewer entertainment options within the immediate area.

Places to Visit in Hickory Hills

Visit one of these nice places.

Hickory Hills Park

A scenic park with beautiful walking trails, lush greenery, and a small pond, perfect for nature photography.

Community Center Murals

Colorful murals depicting local history and culture make for vibrant backdrops.

Millennium Park (Chicago)

Just a short drive away, the park features iconic landmarks like the Cloud Gate sculpture, ideal for stunning urban photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hickory Hills

Hickory Hills offers a diverse array of dining options that reflect its multicultural community. You can find everything from classic American fare to international cuisine, making it a delightful location for food lovers.

Hickory Hills Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Deep-Dish Pizza

A Chicago staple, this dish features a thick crust filled with layers of cheese, toppings, and a chunky tomato sauce.

Must-Try!

Italian Beef Sandwich

A flavorful sandwich made with thinly sliced seasoned roast beef, served on a long Italian roll and often topped with giardiniera.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hickory Hills Farmers Market

A seasonal market offering fresh local produce, homemade goods, and artisanal products.

Food Trucks at Community Events

Various food trucks pop up during local festivals, offering a variety of street food options from tacos to gourmet sandwiches.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hickory Hills experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures frequently reaching the 80s and 90s °F. Spring and fall offer moderate temperatures with beautiful foliage and blooming flowers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting People

A friendly smile and a polite greeting are common; shaking hands is standard in formal situations.

Respecting Personal Space

People generally value personal space, so maintain a comfortable distance in conversations.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated, especially for social gatherings and appointments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hickory Hills is generally considered a safe place to live and visit, with low crime rates compared to urban areas. Always exercise standard safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and not leaving valuables in plain sight. It’s advisable to avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Hickory Hills

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Culture

It is customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants, and rounding up is appreciated in bars.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is handy for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather, blooming flowers, and various outdoor festivals, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine create a lively atmosphere, perfect for enjoying parks and outdoor dining.

Fall

The foliage turns vibrant with fall colors, offering picturesque landscapes and comfortable weather for exploring.

Winter

Cold and snowy, winter brings a quiet charm, with opportunities for indoor activities and holiday events.

Nightlife Guide

Hickory Hills at Night

Hickory Hills features a laid-back nightlife scene with a few cozy bars and pubs. Live music events and trivia nights are popular, making it a great spot for socializing with friends. For a more vibrant experience, residents often travel to nearby Chicago for its bustling nightlife, which includes clubs, lounges, and a variety of entertainment options.

Hiking in Hickory Hills

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Salt Creek Trail

A picturesque trail perfect for hiking and biking, offering scenic views of the creek and surrounding nature.

Busse Woods

Located a short drive away, this expansive forest preserve features trails, lakes, and abundant wildlife, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Hickory Hills by plane.

Midway International Airport

Located approximately 20 minutes from Hickory Hills, Midway offers domestic and international flights, making it a convenient gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hickory Hills is reasonably walkable, with many neighborhoods featuring sidewalks and paths. However, some areas may require a car for longer distances or to reach specific destinations. Parks and community centers are generally accessible by foot, promoting an active lifestyle.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Hickory Hills is home to many families, drawn to its safe environment, parks, and schools.

Young Professionals

With its proximity to Chicago, Hickory Hills attracts young professionals seeking a suburban lifestyle while commuting to work.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

A favorite pastime among locals, with many community leagues and pickup games available.

Soccer

Youth soccer leagues thrive in Hickory Hills, promoting community participation and engagement.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hickory Hills can become congested, especially during rush hours when commuters travel to and from Chicago. Public transportation options include buses that connect to the Chicago Transit Authority, offering convenient travel to the city. It's advisable to check traffic conditions and plan accordingly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hickory Hills.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some eateries provide gluten-free alternatives, especially in larger restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Hickory Hills has access to several healthcare facilities, including clinics and hospitals within a short driving distance. Emergency services are available, and residents can easily reach specialized care in nearby Chicago. It's advisable for visitors to have health insurance or travel medical insurance during their stay.

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