Mount Prospect Travel Guide

If you're planning to visit Mount Prospect, our comprehensive travel guide has everything you need to know about the top attractions, hiking trails, food and drink scene, where to stay and how to get there along with do's and don'ts.


Introduction to Mount Prospect

Mount Prospect is a picturesque village located in the Northwest Suburbs area of the Chicagoland region, in the state of Illinois in the Midwest of the United States of America, North America. Known for its vast green areas and scenic hiking trails, Mount Prospect is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The village is home to a blend of cultural and historic landmarks, shopping centers, and a popular food and drink scene.

List of Places to Visit in Mount Prospect

Mount Prospect offers a wide range of attractions to explore. Here is a list of the top places to visit in Mount Prospect.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mount Prospect Historical Society: This museum celebrates the rich history of the village and its occupants.
  • Korean War Memorial: A poignant memorial in honor of Korean War veterans with a beautiful park surrounding it.

Natural Attractions of Mount Prospect: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Melas Park: A serene park with recreational facilities that include baseball and soccer fields, sand volleyball courts, and more.
  • Randhurst Village: A charming open-air mall featuring eateries, boutiques, and trendy shops.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mount Prospect

  • Des Plaines River Trail: A 31.4-mile trail that offers scenic views of the Des Plaines River and plenty of picnic spots along the way.
  • Busse Woods Trail: A 7.5-mile trail that includes a portion of the Ned Brown Forest Preserve.

Best Things to Do in Mount Prospect: Activities and Tours

  • Mount Prospect Farmers’ Market: A place to explore the authentic and fresh farm produce and baked goods.
  • Mount Prospect Public Library: A library that hosts a series of events to promote reading habits among the residents.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mount Prospect

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Mount Prospect Historical Society Museum
Day 2 Explore Melas Park
Day 3 Spend a day at Busse Woods Trail
Day 4 Attend a farmers’ market at Northwest Central Park
Day 5 Enjoy the Shopping at Randhurst Village
Day 6 Visit Korean War Memorial and the area surrounding it
Day 7 Visit local library and relax while reading the books

Food and Drink Scene of Mount Prospect

Mount Prospect’s food scene has a wide range of delicacies that will leave your mouthwatering. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicago-Style Pizza: This deep-dish pizza style is unique to the Chicagoland area.
  • Italian Beef Sandwich: A slow-cooked roast beef sandwich served with special gravy and giardiniera.

Local Beverages

  • Goose Island Beer Company: A craft brewery based in Chicago that produces a variety of beer styles.
  • Wine and Spirits of Mount Prospect: This liquor store offers an impressive selection of wine, beer, and spirits.

Where to Stay in Mount Prospect: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Extended Stay America - Chicago - O’Hare: A budget-friendly hotel with free breakfast and Wi-Fi.
  • Holiday Inn Mount Prospect - Chicago: A modern hotel with an indoor pool and fitness center.

What to Buy in Mount Prospect: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Chicago Apparel: A store specializing in Chicago-themed clothing and accessories.
  • Chicago Gourmet Popcorn: A popcorn store that sells unique flavors like Chicago-style popcorn and cheese & caramel mix.

Local Culture and Customs of Mount Prospect

Mount Prospect is a multicultural village with a diverse population. Being respectful to various cultures and religions is a part of their tradition.

Best Time to Visit Mount Prospect

The best time to visit Mount Prospect is during spring and fall. The weather is pleasant, and the fall foliage is a sight to behold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mount Prospect

Do:

  • Respect the cultural diversity of Mount Prospect.
  • Take care of the natural areas while hiking or exploring nature.

Don’t:

  • Litter in natural areas.
  • Ignore the outdoor fun and adventure opportunities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mount Prospect

Mount Prospect is a safe village when it comes to crime statistics. However, take standard safety precautions while traveling.

Health in Mount Prospect

The village has well-equipped health facilities, including clinics and hospitals. In case of an emergency, dial 911.

Getting to Mount Prospect: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mount Prospect is easily accessible via various transportation options.

Airports Near Mount Prospect

  • O’Hare International Airport.
  • Midway International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Mount Prospect

  • Greyhound Bus Lines.

Other Options

  • The Metra rail system, suburban buses, and taxis are also available in the village.

How to Get Around in Mount Prospect

Renting a car is the best option to explore Mount Prospect. An Uber or Lyft can also be an affordable option.

Where to Go Next from Mount Prospect: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Arlington Heights: This nearby suburb is home to racing horse tracks, a renowned theater, and various restaurants and cafes.
  • Ravinia Festival: A summer festival in Highland Park featuring world-class musicians and artists.

Conclusion

Mount Prospect is a charming village with a rich cultural and natural heritage. From outdoor adventures to unique cuisine, Mount Prospect offers something for everyone. So, plan your visit to Mount Prospect and experience the hidden gem of Chicagoland.