Things To Do
in Northbrook

Northbrook, Illinois, is a picturesque suburb located just north of Chicago. Known for its lush green spaces and family-friendly atmosphere, Northbrook offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The village boasts a rich history, reflected in its charming architecture and community-focused events.

With access to parks, shopping, and cultural attractions, Northbrook is an ideal destination for both leisure and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Northbrook's Parks
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Meadowhill Park, where you can enjoy a walk or a picnic amidst lush greenery.

afternoon
:

Head to the Northbrook Historical Society to learn about the local history and then visit the Northbrook Court for some shopping.

evening
:

Have dinner at a local favorite, The Cheesecake Factory, which offers a vast menu and delicious desserts.

day 2
Day 2: Art and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Northbrook Public Library for a peaceful morning of reading and exploring local art exhibits.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the Northbrook Park District's Sports Center, where you can engage in various recreational activities.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, famous for its Chicago-style deep-dish pizza.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🏨Hotel Stay (per night)$100-$200
🚌Public Transportation Ticket$2-$5
🍕Pizza Slice$3-$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of parks and activities.
  • Close proximity to Chicago for urban adventures.
  • Rich local history and culture.
  • Less vibrant nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Can be expensive in terms of dining and accommodations.

Places to Visit in Northbrook

Visit one of these nice places.

Northbrook Village Green

A scenic area featuring a pond and well-maintained gardens, perfect for capturing nature shots.

Meadowhill Park

With its expansive green fields and playgrounds, this park offers beautiful landscapes for family photos.

Northbrook Historical Society

The historic buildings and exhibits provide a charming backdrop for photography enthusiasts.

Culinary Guide

Food in Northbrook

Northbrook offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases both traditional American fare and international cuisines.

Northbrook Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Deep-Dish Pizza

A Chicago classic, this thick pizza is made with a buttery crust and layered with cheese and toppings.

Must-Try!

Italian Beef Sandwich

A hearty sandwich featuring thinly sliced beef, simmered in seasoned broth, served on an Italian roll.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Northbrook Farmers Market

A seasonal market that offers fresh produce, homemade goods, and local crafts every Saturday from May to October.

Climate Guide

Weather

Northbrook experiences a typical Midwestern climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging in the 80s °F (27-32 °C). Spring and fall are transitional seasons, featuring mild temperatures and beautiful foliage in the fall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Residents value politeness; a simple 'please' and 'thank you' goes a long way.

Respect for Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance during conversations, as personal space is appreciated.

Punctuality

Being on time for social gatherings and appointments is important in Northbrook's culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Northbrook is a generally safe community, with low crime rates compared to urban areas. It's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and to lock your vehicle and home. Emergency services are easily accessible, and the local police department is responsive and community-oriented.

Tipping in Northbrook

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip restaurant servers 15-20% based on the total bill before tax.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Northbrook, and cash is also welcome at many local establishments.

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 park visits.

Summer

Warm weather allows for outdoor festivals and events, perfect for exploring local culture and cuisine.

Fall

Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage in parks and around the village, along with seasonal harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold temperatures may bring snow, ideal for winter sports, but also cozy indoor activities like visiting cafes and theaters.

Nightlife Guide

Northbrook at Night

Northbrook's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but it has several cozy bars and restaurants that offer a relaxed atmosphere. You can find places like The Brick House, which serves craft beers and cocktails, perfect for winding down after a day of exploring. For those looking for entertainment, occasional live music events and community gatherings are held at local venues.

Hiking in Northbrook

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Des Plaines River Trail

A scenic trail that follows the Des Plaines River, offering beautiful views and a peaceful hiking experience.

Kettle River State Park

Located a short drive away, this park features various trails that wind through forests and wetlands, ideal for nature enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Northbrook by plane.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport

Located about 20 miles south of Northbrook, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Northbrook is quite walkable, especially in residential areas and around the village center. Many neighborhoods are designed with pedestrians in mind, featuring sidewalks, bike paths, and easy access to parks and local shops. However, some areas may require a car for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Northbrook is home to many families, drawn by its excellent schools, parks, and community events.

Retirees

The village also has a significant population of retirees who appreciate the peaceful environment and community resources.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

High school football is especially popular, with local teams drawing significant community support during the fall season.

Hockey

Ice hockey has a strong following, with youth leagues and adult leagues available for players of all skill levels.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Northbrook is generally manageable, with peak hours occurring during the morning and evening commutes. Major roads can become congested, but alternative routes are often available. Public transportation options include bus services that connect to nearby train stations for access to Chicago.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Northbrook.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Northbrook offer vegetarian meals, ensuring diverse options for those with dietary restrictions.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several local eateries provide gluten-free alternatives, especially in pizza and pasta dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Northbrook has access to quality healthcare facilities, including local clinics and hospitals. The area is served by several well-regarded medical institutions, which provide comprehensive care for residents and visitors alike. Emergency services are prompt and accessible, ensuring a high level of healthcare availability.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide