Things To Do
in Highland Park

Highland Park, located in Illinois, is a charming suburban community known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant cultural scene. The city features beautiful parks, historic architecture, and a lively downtown area filled with shops and restaurants. Highland Park is also home to a diverse population and hosts various events throughout the year, making it a great destination for visitors.

With its proximity to Lake Michigan, residents and tourists alike enjoy outdoor activities and stunning waterfront views.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown and Lakefront
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, followed by a stroll along Central Avenue to explore the unique shops and boutiques.

afternoon
:

Visit the Highland Park Historical Society to learn about the city's rich history, then head to the nearby Rosewood Beach for a picnic lunch by the lake.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant offering farm-to-table dishes before enjoying a sunset walk along the beach.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike at the nearby Ravinia Park, where you can enjoy beautiful trails and scenic views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Ravinia Festival and experience live music or explore the Chicago Botanic Garden, taking in the stunning floral displays.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with dinner at a cozy bistro and catch a local theater performance at the Highland Park Playhouse.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$20
Coffee$5
🍔Burger$15
🍽️Dinner for Two$70
🏠Monthly Rent (1BR)$1,800

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and parks
  • Rich cultural and historical sites
  • Family-friendly activities and events
  • Higher cost of living compared to nearby areas
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours

Places to Visit in Highland Park

Visit one of these nice places.

Rosewood Beach

A scenic spot with stunning views of Lake Michigan, perfect for capturing sunsets and nature.

Chicago Botanic Garden

A beautiful garden featuring diverse plant collections and landscapes, ideal for capturing vibrant floral photography.

Ravinia Park

A historic music venue with picturesque grounds, often hosting concerts that make for great candid shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Highland Park

Highland Park offers a delightful culinary scene featuring a mix of local favorites and international cuisines. From cozy cafés to upscale dining, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Highland Park Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chicago-style Deep Dish Pizza

A must-try, this iconic pizza features a thick crust filled with cheese and topped with a rich tomato sauce.

Must-Try!

Italian Beef Sandwich

Tender, seasoned beef served on a crusty roll, often topped with giardiniera and served with a side of au jus.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Highland Park Farmers Market

Held weekly, this market features fresh produce, local artisan goods, and delicious street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Highland Park experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C), while winters are cold, often dipping below freezing. Spring and fall bring mild temperatures and beautiful foliage, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Residents appreciate polite greetings and friendly interactions; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is expected.

Respecting Personal Space

Maintain a comfortable distance during conversations, as personal space is valued.

Environmental Awareness

Be mindful of recycling and waste disposal, as locals prioritize sustainability.

Safety Guide

Safety

Highland Park is generally considered a safe community, but it's always wise to remain vigilant, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas and be aware of your surroundings. Emergency services are readily available, and local police maintain a strong presence.

Tipping in Highland Park

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip service staff 15-20% in restaurants, and rounding up for taxis is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, carry cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy blooming flowers and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Expect warm weather and bustling beaches, ideal for swimming and picnics.

Fall

Witness beautiful autumn foliage, making it a great time for hikes and outdoor photography.

Winter

Cold weather brings snow, providing opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Highland Park at Night

Highland Park has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of options ranging from cozy pubs to upscale bars. Local breweries serve craft beers, while wine bars offer extensive selections for connoisseurs. Live music venues like Ravinia Park attract crowds for summer concerts, and there are also casual lounges where you can unwind after a long day.

Hiking in Highland Park

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Skokie Lagoons

A scenic area with trails for hiking and biking, surrounded by lagoons and wildlife.

Des Plaines River Trail

A long trail that follows the Des Plaines River, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach Highland Park by plane.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport

Approximately 30 miles from Highland Park, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Highland Park is a walkable city with a well-planned layout. Downtown is particularly pedestrian-friendly, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and parks all within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many residents enjoy walking or biking to nearby destinations.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Highland Park attracts many families due to its excellent schools, parks, and family-oriented activities.

Young Professionals

An influx of young professionals is evident, drawn by the vibrant community and proximity to Chicago's job market.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Highland Park has a strong football culture, with local high schools featuring competitive teams and community support.

Baseball

Baseball is popular in the region, with local leagues and youth teams fostering a love for the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Highland Park can vary, with congestion typically occurring during rush hours. The city has a decent public transportation system, including Metra trains connecting to Chicago and bus services for local travel. However, many residents prefer using personal vehicles for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Highland Park.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Highland Park offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, clearly marked on menus.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options can be found at various eateries, with some specializing in gluten-free menus.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Highland Park is robust, with several medical facilities and a hospital in nearby communities. Local clinics offer various services, and many healthcare providers accept insurance plans. Emergency services are efficient, ensuring quick response times in case of urgent medical needs.

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