Niles Travel Guide

Discover the best of Niles, Illinois with this comprehensive tourist guide. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, find everything you need to know before planning your trip.


Introduction to Niles

Located in the northwestern suburbs of Chicagoland, Niles is a small yet vibrant village in Illinois. Known for its strong cultural roots and diverse community, it offers a unique experience for tourists looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. This comprehensive tourist guide will help you discover the best of Niles, from its culturally important attractions to its natural wonders and exciting activities.

List of Places to Visit in Niles

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Niles boasts a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its impressive collection of museums and historical sites. Some of the top attractions that should not be missed include:

  • Leaning Tower of Niles: Built-in 1934, this iconic tower is a smaller replica of the Pisa Tower in Italy. It stands at 94 feet tall and has become a beloved symbol of the village.
  • Niles Historical Society and Museum: Learn about the history of Niles and its early settlers in this charming museum that features exhibits, artifacts, and photographs from the past.
  • Ernest Hemingway Museum and Birthplace: Located in Oak Park, just a short drive from Niles, this museum celebrates the life and works of one of America’s most famous writers, Ernest Hemingway.

Natural Attractions of Niles: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For nature lovers, Niles has plenty of outdoor attractions to explore, from scenic trails to viewpoints that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

  • Dam Number 4 Woods East: This 60-acre park features scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground for kids. It also offers a chance to spot wildlife such as deer and foxes.
  • North Branch Trail: This 20-mile bike and hiking trail follows the scenic North Branch of the Chicago River and offers stunning views of the surrounding flora and fauna.
  • Tam O’Shanter Golf Course: Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at this beautiful 18-hole course that features rolling terrain, manicured greens, and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Niles

One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of Niles is by hiking or biking along its many trails. Here are some of the top routes that you should consider trying out:

  • Des Plaines River Trail: This 60-mile trail stretches from Lincolnshire to Riverside and offers a scenic route that is perfect for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.
  • North Branch Trail: As mentioned earlier, this trail is perfect for exploring the natural beauty of Niles and offers plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife.
  • Niles Bike Path: This 2.5-mile trail runs through the heart of Niles, offering a convenient and scenic route for both hikers and bikers.

Best Things to Do in Niles: Activities and Tours

Aside from its museums and natural attractions, Niles offers plenty of exciting activities and tours for tourists of all ages. Whether you are interested in shopping, dining, or high-adrenaline adventures, there is something for everyone. Some of the top things to do in Niles include:

  • Niles Escape Room: Put your problem-solving skills to the test at Niles Escape Room, where you will find yourself locked in a room and tasked with solving clues and riddles to escape.
  • MB Financial Park at Rosemont: Located just a short drive from Niles, this entertainment complex features a variety of attractions, including a comedy club, a bowling alley, and an indoor skydiving center.
  • Shops at Niles: Shopaholics will find plenty of shopping opportunities in Niles, including the Shops at Niles, a large shopping mall that features over 70 stores and restaurants.

Week-Long Itinerary for Niles

If you are planning to visit Niles and want to make the most of your time, consider following this week-long itinerary that covers all the top attractions and activities:

Day 1: Arrival and Sightseeing

  • Check into your hotel and explore the Niles Historical Society and Museum to learn about the village’s rich heritage.

Day 2: Natural Attractions

  • Spend the day exploring the stunning natural beauty of Niles by hiking or biking along the Des Plaines River Trail or the North Branch Trail.

Day 3: Cultural Attractions

  • Visit the Leaning Tower of Niles and the Ernest Hemingway Museum and Birthplace to get a glimpse of the village’s unique cultural offerings.

Day 4: Shopping

  • Spend the day shopping at the Shops at Niles, a sprawling mall that features a variety of stores and restaurants.

Day 5: Adventure and Fun

  • Get your adrenaline pumping at the Niles Escape Room or try your hand at indoor skydiving at MB Financial Park at Rosemont.

Day 6: Golf

  • Take a break from the excitement of the past few days and enjoy a round of golf at the Tam O’Shanter Golf Course.

Day 7: Departure

  • Check out of your hotel and head home, taking with you memories of a fun and exciting week in Niles.

Food and Drink Scene of Niles

No visit to Niles is complete without sampling some of its delicious local cuisine. Whether you are looking for a quick snack or a fine dining experience, there is something for everyone here. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lou Malnati’s pizza: For a true taste of Chicago, head to Lou Malnati’s for their famous deep-dish pizza.
  • Italian beef sandwich: This classic Chicago sandwich features roast beef, Giardiniera, and Italian bread and can be found at Portillo’s or Buona Beef.
  • Chicago-style hot dog: A hot dog topped with mustard, onions, a pickle, relish, peppers, and a dash of celery salt, this iconic dish is a must-try when in Chicago.

Local Beverages

  • Goose Island Beer: This local brewery offers a variety of beers, including their famous Goose IPA.
  • Jupiter Outpost coffee: If you are a coffee lover, be sure to visit Jupiter Outpost, a local coffee shop that offers a variety of blends and roasts.

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

Niles offers plenty of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the top choices that you should consider:

  • Holiday Inn Express and Suites Niles: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, a free breakfast buffet, and a fitness center.
  • Staybridge Suites Glenview: If you are looking for a more upscale option, Staybridge Suites Glenview is a great choice. This hotel offers modern suites with kitchens, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.
  • Airbnb: For a more authentic and personalized experience, consider renting an Airbnb in Niles or nearby suburbs.

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

When in Niles, be sure to bring home some souvenirs and local products to remember your trip by. Here are some of the top choices:

  • Leaning Tower of Niles souvenir: You can find plenty of souvenirs featuring the iconic Leaning Tower of Niles, including t-shirts, magnets, and postcards.
  • Chicago-style popcorn: Get a taste of Chicago with some Garrett Popcorn, which comes in a variety of flavors such as cheese, caramel, and butter.
  • Local craft beer or wine: Bring home some of the local beer or wine to share with friends and family back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Niles

Respect for cultural diversity is an important aspect of the Niles community. Visitors should be mindful of local customs and traditions, such as:

  • Greeting people with a handshake or a nod.
  • Avoid talking about politics or religion unless you have established a close relationship with your conversation partner.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites, such as churches or mosques.

Best Time to Visit Niles

The best time to visit Niles is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities are in full swing. Spring and fall months are also great options when the weather is milder, and fall foliage is at its peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of Niles

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
  • Explore the natural and cultural attractions of Niles.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful to people from different backgrounds or religions.
  • Litter or damage public property.
  • Engage in illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Niles

Niles is generally a safe village, but visitors should still keep a few things in mind to ensure their safety:

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places like train stations or shopping malls.
  • Keep your belongings secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.
  • Use caution when driving, especially during winter months when snow and ice can make roads slippery.

Health in Niles

Visitors to Niles can enjoy access to quality healthcare facilities and services, including several hospitals and clinics such as: -Niles Family Health Center -Presence Saint Francis Hospital -Northwest Community Healthcare.

Getting to Niles: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Niles

The closest airport to Niles is O’Hare International Airport, which is located approximately 6 miles away and is accessible by taxi or public transportation.

Bus Stations Near Niles

Greyhound Bus Lines operate in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago. The closest station to Niles is the Park Ridge Station, which is a few miles from the village and can be reached by taxi or public transportation.

Other Options

Niles is well-connected to other suburbs and neighborhoods in Chicago through the use of public transportation, including buses, trains, and taxis.

How to Get Around in Niles

Navigating Niles is relatively easy thanks to the availability of different modes of transportation such as bikes, buses, and taxis. Visitors can also choose to explore the village on foot or rent a car if they prefer.

Where to Go Next from Niles: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Located in the heart of the Midwest, Niles offers easy access to several other cities and attractions, including:

  • Chicago: Just a short drive or train ride away, Chicago is a vibrant city that offers a plethora of cultural attractions, dining options, and exciting activities.
  • Milwaukee: Located approximately 90 miles north of Niles, Milwaukee is a charming city known for its impressive museums, scenic lakefront, and lively nightlife.
  • Lake Geneva: This picturesque lake town is a popular summer destination and offers plenty of outdoor activities, boutique shopping, and fine dining.

Conclusion

Niles, Illinois, may not be as well-known as some of its neighboring suburbs, but this charming village has a lot to offer in terms of culture, nature, and excitement. Whether you are interested in exploring its museums and historical sites, enjoying its natural beauty, or trying out some of its local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Niles. Use this comprehensive tourist guide to plan your trip and make the most of your visit to this exciting Midwestern destination.