Things To Do
in Round Lake Beach
Round Lake Beach is a suburban village in Lake County, part of the Chicago metropolitan area, anchored by the scenic Round Lake and surrounding parks. It blends quiet residential neighborhoods with easy access to forest preserves and lakefront recreation. The area is known for family-friendly amenities, outdoor spaces, and convenient road connections to Chicago and beyond.
This region offers a relaxed, affordable base for exploring northwest Cook and southwest Lake County while staying close to the urban core.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the scenic paths at Round Lake Beach. Enjoy the fresh morning air as you take in the beautiful views of the lake, and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Stop by a nearby café for a warm cup of coffee and a light breakfast before embarking on your day’s adventures.
After breakfast, head to the Round Lake Park District for a fun-filled afternoon of recreational activities. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lake further or enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the many parks in the area. Don't forget to take a moment to relax and soak up the sun on the beach.
As the sun begins to set, prepare for an enchanting evening by returning to the beach for a sunset viewing. The vibrant colors reflected on the water create a magical atmosphere, perfect for capturing memorable photos. Afterward, enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, tasting the flavors of the region.
Set out early to explore the picturesque trails of the Lake County Forest Preserves. With a variety of trails to choose from, you can hike through lush woodlands or walk along serene lakeside paths. Take the time to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna as you connect with nature.
Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the beauty of the forest preserves, followed by an adventurous afternoon of cycling or horseback riding on designated trails. The peaceful surroundings and fresh air will invigorate your spirit as you roam through nature. Be sure to keep an eye out for the wildlife that inhabits these lush landscapes.
Head back to Round Lake Beach and unwind at a local brewery or pub, where you can savor craft beers and delicious pub fare. Engage in lively conversation with locals and fellow travelers while enjoying the cozy atmosphere. Cap off the night with some live music or trivia night, if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant | $30-50 |
| 🏨One night in a budget hotel | $70-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-4 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction entrance | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm suburban atmosphere with lake access
- Good value for families and outdoor lovers
- Limited high-end dining options within the immediate area
- Public transit options require connection to Chicago-area networks
Places to Visit in Round Lake Beach
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunrise and sunset over the calm lake with docks, sailboats, and tree-lined shorelines offering peaceful reflections.
Elevated wooden boardwalk through wetlands with boardwalk curves, cattails, reeds, and diverse birdlife.
Open wetlands and prairie habitats with distant treelines and water reflections, ideal for broad landscape shots.
Food in Round Lake Beach
Round Lake Beach Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional Polish dumplings filled with potato and cheese (or savory fillings) often found at ethnic markets and Polish delis in nearby towns.
Must-Try!
A Friday staple in many Illinois communities, featuring battered fish with sides like coleslaw and fries; common at casual eateries within a short drive.
A Midwest classic—thin-sliced beef on a crusty roll with peppers; widely available at local diners and sandwich shops in the area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, dairy, and crafts set up in the village area during warmer months.
Regional markets in neighboring towns (Libertyville, Grayslake, Waukegan) where you can find fresh produce and ready-to-eat snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings with a handshake or friendly hello are typical; conversations are generally calm and courteous in public spaces.
Follow posted park rules, stay on designated trails, dispose of trash properly, and respect quiet hours in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Round Lake Beach
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard 15-20% at sit-down restaurants; rounding up at casual spots is common; tip guides, drivers, and service staff in line with service quality.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for small vendors and farmers markets; mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are commonly supported.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with humidity; great for lakefront activities, outdoor markets, and long evenings outdoors. Stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Colorful foliage and cooler temps; ideal for scenic drives, hikes, and photography of autumn scenery.
Cold with potential snowfall; indoor attractions and nearby Chicago-area venues are good backups; layering is essential.
Mild temperatures with budding landscapes and frequent showers; great for birdwatching and early blooms.
Round Lake Beach at Night
Hiking in Round Lake Beach
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Boardwalk trails through a rare raised bog with birdlife and expansive wetlands.
Scenic river corridor with wooded sections and gentle grade, suitable for day hikes.
Wetland and prairie habitat with accessible trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Round Lake Beach by plane.
Located roughly 33-40 miles from Round Lake Beach; major international hub with extensive connections; reachable by car or train in about 1-1.5 hours.
Approximately 40-45 miles away; serves as a secondary hub with good domestic coverage; reachable by car or public transit.
In Milwaukee, about 70+ miles away; alternative regional option for certain connections and shorter domestic hops.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households with children; suburban neighborhoods with parks and schools.
Commuters who travel to Chicago or nearby business parks for work.
Active senior communities in planned neighborhoods and near green spaces.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Youth and community baseball are common; several parks host leagues and pickup games in season.
Public courts and school gyms host casual games; a staple of local recreation.
Winter venues offer indoor hockey and skating; winter sports remain popular during colder months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Round Lake Beach.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most local eateries offer vegetarian options; use menu keywords like 'vegetarian' or ask for veggie substitutions; many places serve salads, veggie sandwiches, and pasta dishes.