Things To Do
in Round Lake

Round Lake is a beautiful small village located in Lake County, Illinois, just northwest of Chicago. Known for its picturesque lake and welcoming community, it offers a variety of recreational activities and events throughout the year. The village is characterized by its lush parks, friendly local shops, and charming residential neighborhoods.

Visitors can enjoy both natural beauty and small-town hospitality in this quaint lakeside destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Lake
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll around Round Lake Beach, enjoying the scenic views and fresh air. Grab breakfast at a local café where you can enjoy pancakes and coffee.

afternoon
:

Visit the Round Lake Area Park District for a picnic lunch, followed by an afternoon of kayaking or paddleboarding on the lake.

evening
:

Dine at a lakeside restaurant and enjoy the sunset over the water, followed by a relaxing evening walk along the shoreline.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Culture
morning
:

Begin the day with a visit to the Round Lake Area Historical Society to learn about the village's history. Stop by a local bakery for fresh pastries.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Grayslake Farmers Market to sample local produce and artisan goods. Spend the afternoon at a nearby nature reserve for hiking or birdwatching.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a popular steakhouse, followed by a visit to local bars for live music or trivia night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$10
🍕Pizza Slice$3
Coffee$4
🥗Salad$8
🍺Domestic Beer$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly community atmosphere.
  • Affordable dining and accommodation options.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some attractions may require a car to access.
  • Weather can be extreme in winter.

Places to Visit in Round Lake

Visit one of these nice places.

Round Lake Beach

Capture the beauty of the lake with its serene waters and surrounding greenery, perfect for sunrise and sunset shots.

Old Village Hall

This historic building offers a picturesque backdrop, especially during the fall when the surrounding trees are vibrant with color.

Grayslake Nature Preserve

A scenic area with trails and wetlands, ideal for wildlife photography, particularly during spring and summer.

Culinary Guide

Food in Round Lake

Round Lake offers a delightful culinary scene featuring local flavors and diverse dining options that cater to various tastes.

Round Lake Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Lake Perch

A local favorite, this dish features fresh lake perch, lightly breaded and fried, served with a side of tartar sauce.

Must-Try!

Chicago-style Deep Dish Pizza

This iconic dish is a must-try, loaded with cheese, toppings, and a thick crust, perfect for sharing.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Grayslake Farmers Market

Open during the summer months, this market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts in a vibrant outdoor setting.

Round Lake Street Fair

Held annually, this event features food trucks and local vendors serving everything from barbecue to ethnic cuisine.

Climate Guide

Weather

Round Lake experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s °F (24-30°C). Fall (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, while winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall. Spring (March to May) sees a gradual warming, with blooming flowers and mild weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

A friendly greeting or a simple 'hello' goes a long way in community interactions.

Respect for Nature

Visitors are encouraged to follow 'Leave No Trace' principles while enjoying outdoor spaces.

Quiet Hours

Be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas during evening hours.

Safety Guide

Safety

Round Lake is generally a safe community, but visitors should remain aware of their surroundings, especially at night. It is advisable to keep valuables secured and to travel in groups when exploring unfamiliar areas. Local law enforcement is responsive and visitors can contact them in case of emergencies.

Tipping in Round Lake

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Culture

It is customary to tip service staff 15-20% in restaurants. Tipping is also appreciated for taxi drivers and hotel staff.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, while cash is still preferred at some local markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers and various outdoor events. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying nature.

Summer

Warm temperatures and sunny days make it perfect for beach activities, picnics, and outdoor concerts.

Fall

The area transforms with beautiful fall foliage, making it a picturesque time for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures may lead to snow, providing opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Round Lake at Night

Round Lake's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, featuring a mix of bars, pubs, and occasional live music events. Local establishments often host trivia nights, karaoke, and open mic events, creating a friendly atmosphere for socializing. While not a bustling city, the community vibe offers an inviting setting for residents and visitors alike to unwind after a day of activities.

Hiking in Round Lake

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Grayslake Trail

This scenic trail offers a mix of wooded areas and open fields, perfect for hiking and biking, with a length of approximately 5 miles.

Lake County Forest Preserve

Features numerous trails through natural landscapes, offering varying levels of difficulty and beautiful views of local flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Round Lake by plane.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

Located approximately 40 miles southeast of Round Lake, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Round Lake is moderately walkable, with many local amenities within walking distance, particularly in the downtown area. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and parks are easily accessible, making it suitable for leisurely strolls. However, some attractions may be spaced out, so having a car can be beneficial for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Many young families are drawn to Round Lake for its parks, schools, and community activities.

Retirees

The village also has a significant retiree population, attracted by the quiet lifestyle and community resources.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in the area with local leagues and a strong community following.

Soccer

Soccer attracts many youth and adult players, with several teams and leagues operating in Round Lake.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Round Lake is generally light, especially compared to urban areas. Public transportation options include Metra trains and buses that connect to nearby cities, making it accessible for commuters and visitors. While driving is common, the area is manageable for walking and biking, particularly in residential zones.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Round Lake.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, with some even having dedicated menus.

Gluten-Free Options

Several eateries provide gluten-free alternatives, ensuring that diners with dietary restrictions can enjoy a meal.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Round Lake is facilitated by several clinics and hospitals nearby, including the Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, which offers comprehensive medical services. Local urgent care facilities are also available for non-emergency situations. Residents generally have access to quality healthcare, making it a safe place for visitors.

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