Highland Park Travel Guide

Explore Highland Park, Illinois with our comprehensive travel guide featuring information on cultural attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food and drinks, where to stay and local culture and customs.


Highland Park Tour Guide: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Located on the North Shore of Chicagoland, Highland Park is a suburban city in Lake County, Illinois. Known for its picturesque neighborhood, thriving art scene, and outdoor activities, Highland Park is a popular destination among tourists. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through the top attractions, things to do, places to stay, and more!

List of Places to Visit in Highland Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in exploring the history and rich culture of Highland Park, these museums and historical places are a must-visit.

  • (1) Highwood Historical Society Museum
  • (2) Highland Park Historical Society Museum
  • (3) Ravinia Festival Association
  • (4) The Art Center – Highland Park

Natural Attractions of Highland Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Highland Park offers plenty of outdoor activities and scenic views, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

  • (1) Rosewood Beach
  • (2) Heller Nature Center
  • (3) Skokie River Nature Preserve
  • (4) North Shore Ravine Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Highland Park

A great way to explore the beautiful landscapes of Highland Park is by hiking or biking on these scenic trails.

  • (1) Green Bay Trail
  • (2) North Shore Bike Path
  • (3) Highland Park Bike Trail

Best Things to Do in Highland Park: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re traveling solo or with family and friends, Highland Park has plenty of things to do for everyone.

  • (1) Ravinia Music Festival
  • (2) Botanic Gardens
  • (3) Highland Park Players
  • (4) Highland Park Poetry

Week-Long Itinerary for Highland Park

Below is a suggested 7-day itinerary for exploring Highland Park.

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Highwood Historical Society Museum
Day 2 Explore Rosewood Beach and the Skokie River Nature Preserve
Day 3 Spend the day at Ravinia Music Festival
Day 4 Discover the natural beauty of Heller Nature Center
Day 5 Go on a bike ride on the Green Bay Trail
Day 6 Try local foods at the Highland Park Farmer’s Market
Day 7 Visit the Art Center - Highland Park and the Highland Park Players show

Food and Drink Scene of Highland Park

No trip is complete without exploring the local food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages in Highland Park.

Must-Try Dishes

  • (1) pizza from D’ Agostino’s Pizzeria
  • (2) BBQ from Ravinia Q Restaurant
  • (3) Pierogis from Andrzej Grill

Local Beverages

  • (1) Wine from Ravinia Wine Cellar
  • (2) Milkshakes from Dairy Queen
  • (3) Beer from The Toadstool Pub

Where to Stay in Highland Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

If you’re looking for a comfortable stay in Highland Park, these accommodations are worth checking out.

  • (1) Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel
  • (2) Hilton Garden Inn
  • (3) The Highland Inn

What to Buy in Highland Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs and local products to bring home!

  • (1) Artwork from The Art Center - Highland Park
  • (2) Wine from Ravinia Wine Cellar
  • (3) Book from The Book Stall

Local Culture and Customs of Highland Park

Highland Park has a unique culture that’s worth exploring. Some interesting local customs include:

  • (1) Shaking hands is the most common form of greeting.
  • (2) Proper attire is expected at high-end restaurants and theaters.
  • (3) Tipping 15-20% in the service industry is customary.

Best Time to Visit Highland Park

The best time to visit Highland Park is during the summer when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities are in full swing. Keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, and prices for accommodations and attractions may be higher.

Do’s and Don’ts of Highland Park

Make the most out of your trip to Highland Park by following these do’s and don’ts.

Do:

  • (1) Respect the local customs and culture.
  • (2) Practice good traveler etiquette.
  • (3) Take advantage of free outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • (1) Litter in public areas.
  • (2) Engage in loud or disruptive activities, especially at night.
  • (3) Be disrespectful to locals or fellow travelers.

Safety and Health

It’s essential to prioritize safety and health during your trip to Highland Park.

Safety in Highland Park

Highland Park is a generally safe city, but take standard safety precautions such as

  • (1) Avoiding unlit or isolated areas
  • (2) Keeping your belongings safe
  • (3) Being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Highland Park

Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest information on recommended vaccinations and travel health advisories.

Getting to Highland Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Highland Park

The nearest airports to Highland Park are:

  • O’Hare International Airport (ORD) 16 miles
  • Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) 35 miles

Bus Stations Near Highland Park

Highland Park is located near the following bus stations:

  • Highland Park – Metra Station
  • Downtown Highland Park – 2nd Street

How to Get Around in Highland Park

Getting around Highland Park is easy, with the following transportation options:

  • (1) Public bus
  • (2) Taxis and rideshare services
  • (3) Bicycle rental.

Where to Go Next from Highland Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time to explore, these nearby cities and destinations are worth checking out.

  • (1) Chicago, IL
  • (2) Milwaukee, WI
  • (3) Lake Geneva, WI
  • (4) Lake Michigan

Conclusion

Highland Park is an excellent destination for travelers looking to experience art, nature, and culture. With its beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and lively local culture, there’s something for everyone in Highland Park. Plan your trip today and enjoy all this charming city has to offer!