Things To Do
in Vernon Hills
Vernon Hills is a quiet suburban village in Lake County, just north of Chicago. It blends convenient shopping and family-friendly neighborhoods with easy access to forest preserves and lakes. The area centers around Hawthorn Mall and a network of parks that suit outdoor lovers and daily commuters alike.
Visitors often appreciate the relaxed pace, reliable amenities, and proximity to Chicago’s urban attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at the lush and scenic Century Park. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you take in the vibrant colors of the flowers and chirping of the birds. Don't forget to stop by the park's pond to watch the ducks swim around.
Head to the nearby Vernon Hills Shopping Center for some retail therapy. Wander through a variety of shops and indulge in a casual lunch at one of the many eateries. Be sure to try some local specialties as you recharge for the rest of the day.
Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at a cozy local restaurant. Enjoy the warm ambiance as you savor a meal made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, consider catching a movie at the nearby cinema for a relaxing evening entertainment.
Begin your morning with a visit to the Vernon Area Public Library, where you can dive into a good book or attend a morning workshop. The library often hosts events that cater to all ages, so check the schedule for something interesting. It’s a perfect spot to connect with the community while indulging in learning.
After a stimulating morning, make your way to the nearby North Shore Center for the Performing Arts. Check out any ongoing exhibits or performances that inspire you. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café as you ponder over the artistic experiences you just had.
In the evening, enjoy a show at the North Shore Center, whether it be a play, concert, or dance performance. The vibrant atmosphere and talented performers will leave you enchanted. Wrap up the night with dessert at a quaint local bakery.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🧺Groceries per week for 2 | $60-120 |
| 🏠Rent for 1 bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,600-2,300 |
| 🚊Monthly public transit pass | $60-110 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close access to Chicago without the bustle of downtown
- Strong shopping and dining options around Hawthorn Mall
- Abundant parks, trails, and family-friendly activities
- Good public services and safe neighborhoods
- Limited nightlife within Vernon Hills itself
- Car dependency is common for reaching some attractions
- Traffic can be heavy on major routes during rush hours
- Housing costs are typical for suburban Chicago, not ultra-low
Places to Visit in Vernon Hills
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture the modern mall architecture with golden-hour lighting and reflections on glass facades.
A scenic lake with a pier and wooded backdrop—excellent for tranquil landscape photography and sunset shots.
Wooded river views, wildflowers in season, and varying light along the trail corridors.
Food in Vernon Hills
Vernon Hills Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick, buttery crust with chunky tomato sauce and a generous layer of cheese; widely available at local pizzerias around Hawthorn Mall.
Must-Try!
Slow-roasted beef on a crusty roll with au jus; a Chicago staple found at delis and diners in nearby towns.
A classic combination of mustard, onions, relish, sport peppers, and tomatoes on a poppy seed bun.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, baked goods, and prepared foods; a great place to taste local flavors during the warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings, holding doors, and quiet conversations in shared spaces are appreciated. Queuing for stores and services is common and expected.
Keep public areas clean; dispose of trash properly and respect park rules and signage.
Safety
Tipping in Vernon Hills
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is customary for good service. For counter-service or quick-serve, tipping is optional. Gratuities are common for guided services and rideshares.
Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Cash is commonly accepted as well; many places offer mobile payment options.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming trees; good time for outdoor photography and park visits, with occasional rain.
Warm to hot days with humidity; thunderstorms are possible; great for lake and trail activities, early mornings are ideal for photos.
Colorful foliage and crisp air; perfect for scenic walks and golden-hour photography in forest preserves.
Cold with potential snow; indoor attractions and cozy dining options are popular; dress in layers and plan for shorter daylight hours.
Vernon Hills at Night
Hiking in Vernon Hills
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal woodland and river views with well-marked paths suitable for day hikes and wildlife photography.
Unique peat bog and boardwalk trails offering a distinctive wetland landscape perfect for nature photography.
Mature forest with rolling terrain and scenic overlooks—great for long, peaceful hikes.
Multiple interconnected trails along rivers and lakes—ideal for longer day trips and cycling.
Airports
How to reach Vernon Hills by plane.
Major international hub about 20-25 miles from Vernon Hills; accessible by car or public transit via Metra/CTA routes and express roadways.
Another large airport in Chicago, roughly 40-50 miles away by ground travel; typically used for domestic flights and regional connections.
Private and charter-friendly airport located closer to the northwest suburbs; serves general aviation and limited commercial services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of suburban families with good schools and safe neighborhoods.
Commuters to Chicago and surrounding suburbs seeking a balance of city access and suburban living.
A growing mix of cultural backgrounds contributing to a varied local community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely enjoyed sport in schools, clubs, and community centers across the area.
High school and community leagues contribute to local sports culture in autumn.
Growing in popularity with youth leagues and adult recreation teams.
Several public and private courses in the broader Lake County area offer scenic rounds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vernon Hills.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for clearly labeled vegetarian dishes, emphasize salads, grain bowls, veggie burgers, and sides; ask for dressings and sauces to be prepared without meat-based stock.