Itasca Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Itasca with this travel guide featuring attractions, accommodations, and transportation options.


Introduction to Itasca

Nestled in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicagoland, Itasca is a charming village in DuPage County, Illinois. Despite being a small town, Itasca offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and relaxation.

Visitors can explore various museums, parks, hiking trails, and boutique shops. The village is also home to some of the best restaurants and wineries in the region, making it an ideal place to indulge in food and drinks.

Here’s a comprehensive tour guide to Itasca that covers all the essential information you need to make your trip unforgettable.

List of Places to Visit in Itasca

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Itasca Historical Depot Museum

Located in a restored Chicago and North Western railway depot, this museum showcases the history of Itasca and its railway heritage through exhibits of photographs, collections, and railway artifacts.

Fischer Farm

This historical site was once the homestead of one of the first settlers in Itasca, Frederick Fischer. The site features a museum in the 1920s farmhouse, a barn, and an agricultural garden.

Natural Attractions of Itasca: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Spring Brook Nature Center

This nature center sits on a 1,800-acre park and features trails that wind through woods, wetlands, and prairie. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including foxes, coyotes, and deer.

Salt Creek Greenway Trail

This 27-mile trail winds through several DuPage County communities, including Itasca. Visitors can hike, bike, or jog along the trail, which offers breathtaking views of the Salt Creek.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Itasca

Itasca Nature Center: Loop Trail

This 1.6-mile trail traverses woods, wetlands, and paved paths around the nature center. The trail is easy to navigate and is ideal for families with kids.

Spring Brook Trail

This 2.3-mile loop trail is moderately trafficked and offers stunning views of Spring Brook.

Best Things to Do in Itasca: Activities and Tours

Wine Tasting at Lynfred Winery

Lynfred Winery offers wine enthusiasts an opportunity to sample award-winning wines. The winery is located in a picturesque setting and has a cozy tasting room.

Golf at Medinah Country Club

This exclusive and private country club offers three challenging courses, including the world-renowned Course One, where major golf championships have been held.

Week-Long Itinerary for Itasca

Day 1: Visit the Itasca Historical Depot Museum and Fischer Farm.

Day 2: Spend the day exploring Spring Brook Nature Center and Salt Creek Greenway Trail.

Day 3: Sample wines at Lynfred Winery.

Day 4: Play golf at Medinah Country Club.

Day 5: Take a cycling tour through the village and its surrounding countryside.

Day 6: Visit the boutique shops and sample the local cuisine in downtown Itasca.

Day 7: Relax at one of the many parks in the village.

Food and Drink Scene of Itasca

Must-Try Dishes

Beef Brisket: BBQ’d Productions

This Itasca restaurant serves some of the best brisket in the Chicago area. The restaurant offers mouth-watering, slow-smoked meat that’s cooked to perfection.

Local Beverages

Craft Beer: Church Street Brewing Company

The Church Street Brewing Company offers a wide variety of craft beers, including IPA’s, ales, porters, stouts, and lagers. The brewery also offers tours and tastings.

Where to Stay in Itasca: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hyatt Place Chicago/Itasca

This hotel is located in the heart of Itasca and offers comfortable and spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities, such as a flat-screen TV, mini-fridge, and coffee maker.

Extended Stay America - Chicago - Itasca

This hotel is ideal for those looking for an extended stay in Itasca. Rooms feature a fully-equipped kitchen, workspace, and living area.

What to Buy in Itasca: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Wine: Lynfred Winery

Visitors can purchase their favorite wines from Lynfred Winery’s extensive collection to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Itasca

Itasca celebrates its German heritage with its annual Oktoberfest celebration in September. The festival features authentic German food, music, and beer.

Best Time to Visit Itasca

The best time to visit Itasca is during the summer when the weather is pleasant, and various outdoor activities are available. The village also hosts the Itasca Fest, a three-day event that features music, food, and carnival rides in early July.

Do’s and Don’ts of Itasca

Do:

  • Visit local vineyards and try award-winning wines.
  • Explore the nature trails and parks in Itasca.
  • Attend the annual Itasca Fest.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the parks and trails.
  • Smoke in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Itasca

Itasca is a safe village, and violent crime is relatively rare. Visitors should, however, take precautions against petty theft and should keep their valuables secure.

Health in Itasca

Itasca has several health clinics and pharmacies that cater to visitors’ needs. Visitors should also carry their medication in case of any medical emergencies.

Getting to Itasca: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Itasca

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

Bus Stations Near Itasca

  • Greyhound Bus Station: 630 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607

Other Options

  • Car rentals are available at the airports and in downtown Chicago.
  • Itasca is located near several major highways, including I-90, I-290, and I-355, making it easily accessible by car.

How to Get Around in Itasca

Visitors can get around Itasca by car, bike, or public transportation. The village also has a train station that runs daily service to and from Chicago.

Where to Go Next from Itasca: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Schaumburg

Located just 7.5 miles away from Itasca, Schaumburg is a bustling city that offers many shopping and dining experiences.

Wood Dale

Wood Dale is a nearby town known for its charming neighborhoods and golf courses.

Conclusion

Itasca offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor adventure, history, culture, and relaxation. From hiking and biking to vineyard tours and museum visits, Itasca has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and experience all the wonders of this small village in Illinois.