Schaumburg Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Schaumburg, Illinois with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Schaumburg

Schaumburg is a bustling city located in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicagoland in Illinois, United States. This vibrant city is known for its impressive shopping centers, amazing dining destinations, and rich history. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, Schaumburg has something special to offer. In this travel guide, we’ve compiled a list of top attractions, things to do, and tips to make your visit to Schaumburg unforgettable.

List of Places to Visit in Schaumburg

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Schaumburg’s rich history dates back to the 1800s when German immigrants first settled in the area. Here are some of the cultural attractions to explore during your visit:

  • Schaumburg Historic District: Take a stroll through downtown Schaumburg and admire the historic buildings that date back to the late 1800s and early 1900s.
  • Heritage Farm: Learn about Schaumburg’s farming history at this 3.3-acre farmstead that features a barn museum, garden, and farmhouse.
  • Trickster Art Gallery: This contemporary indigenous art space celebrates Native American art, culture, and history.

Natural Attractions of Schaumburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Schaumburg boasts of a plethora of natural attractions, from gorgeous parks to tranquil lakes. Here are some of the top outdoor attractions to visit in Schaumburg:

  • Schaumburg Bike Park: This popular park features a challenging mountain biking trail, making it a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts.
  • Busse Woods Forest Preserve: Covering an impressive 3,700 acres, this forest preserve features hiking and biking trails, fishing, and even a model airfield.
  • Spring Valley Nature Center and Heritage Farm: A popular spot for bird watching and nature enthusiasts, Spring Valley Nature Center offers hiking trails, a butterfly garden, and a scenic lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Schaumburg

Schaumburg offers a range of biking and walking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top trails include:

  • Salt Creek Greenway Trail: A 27-mile trail stretching from Busse Woods in Schaumburg to the Brookfield Zoo.
  • Poplar Creek Trail: This beautiful trail passes through several nature preserves, woodlands, and parks in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago.
  • Paul Douglas Forest Preserve: This massive nature preserve spans 1,250 acres and features miles of scenic biking and hiking trails.

Best Things to Do in Schaumburg: Activities and Tours

Looking for exciting things to do in Schaumburg? Here are some of the best activities and tours to check out:

  • LEGOLAND Discovery Center: Located in Woodfield Mall, this indoor amusement park delights visitors of all ages with its interactive LEGO displays, rides, and attractions.
  • Schaumburg Boomers Stadium: Catch a minor league baseball game at this family-friendly stadium.
  • Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament: Watch knights joust while enjoying a delicious medieval feast at this unique dinner theatre.

Week-Long Itinerary for Schaumburg

Day 1: Visit the Schaumburg Historic District and Trickster Art Gallery.

Day 2: Explore the natural attractions like Busse Woods Forest Preserve and the Spring Valley Nature Center.

Day 3: Spend your day biking through the Salt Creek Greenway Trail or the Poplar Creek Trail.

Day 4: Go shopping at Woodfield Mall, the largest mall in Illinois.

Day 5: Enjoy family-friendly fun at LEGOLAND Discovery Center.

Day 6: Watch a baseball game at the Schaumburg Boomers Stadium.

Day 7: Indulge in a Medieval Times dinner show.

Food and Drink Scene of Schaumburg

Must-Try Dishes

Schaumburg has a diverse food scene with a wide range of cuisines to choose from. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Chicago-style pizza: Head to Lou Malnati’s or Giordano’s for a slice of the city’s famous deep-dish pizza.
  • Bratwurst: Schaumburg’s German heritage is celebrated through its delicious bratwurst. Visit Schnitzel Platz for an authentic experience.
  • Italian beef: Try Portillo’s famous Italian beef sandwich during your visit.

Local Beverages

Want to try some of Schaumburg’s local drinks? Here are a couple of recommendations:

  • Brewmaster’s Pub: This popular pub serves a wide selection of craft beer from local and national breweries.
  • IKEA Restaurant & Cafe: You can enjoy Swedish-inspired coffee and snacks at the IKEA Restaurant and Cafe.

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

Schaumburg has a range of accommodation options. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for luxury, there’s something for everyone. Here are some top hotel recommendations:

  • Hyatt Regency Schaumburg Chicago: This hotel is conveniently located near top attractions like Woodfield Mall and LEGOLAND Discovery Center.
  • Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Schaumburg: This hotel offers cozy rooms and is located near the popular Schaumburg Boomers Stadium.
  • Extended Stay America - Chicago - Schaumburg - I-90: This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable amenities for longer stays.

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

Looking for something to bring back home from Schaumburg? Here are a couple of recommendations:

  • Woodfield Mall: You can find a wide range of souvenir items at this massive mall, including local products and American brands.
  • Chocolate: Try the handmade chocolates at Blommer Chocolate Factory made using traditional techniques.

Local Culture and Customs of Schaumburg

Schaumburg has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its art, food, and festivals. Some of the popular cultural events are:

  • Septemberfest: This annual festival takes place over Labor Day weekend and features live music, food vendors, and carnival rides.
  • Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo: This popular event brings together comic book enthusiasts, artists, and industry insiders from across the country.

Best Time to Visit Schaumburg

The best time to visit Schaumburg is from May to October when the weather is warm and pleasant. The summer months of June through August are the busiest, so plan accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Schaumburg

Do:

  • Tip your servers and bartenders.
  • Keep an open mind and embrace Schaumburg’s cultural diversity.
  • Respect wildlife and nature while exploring the city’s parks.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural habitats.
  • Be loud or disruptive in residential areas.
  • Underestimate the traffic during rush hour.

Safety and Health

Safety in Schaumburg

Schaumburg is a safe city, but it’s always best to take precautions when traveling. Here are some safety tips:

  • Always lock your car and keep valuables out of sight.
  • Walk in well-lit and populated areas at night.
  • Avoid leaving personal items unattended in public spaces.

Health in Schaumburg

Schaumburg has several medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, for any medical needs.

Getting to Schaumburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Schaumburg

  • Chicago O’Hare International Airport: Located about 12 miles from Schaumburg, this airport services many national and international flights.
  • Chicago Midway International Airport: Located about 40 miles from Schaumburg, this airport serves mainly domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Schaumburg

  • Schaumburg Regional Airport: This airport offers daily bus service to and from Chicago.

Other Options

  • Rideshare services: Uber and Lyft are popular transportation options in Schaumburg.
  • Renting a car: Renting a car is the best option for travelers who want to explore Schaumburg and its nearby attractions.

How to Get Around in Schaumburg

Schaumburg has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and trains. You can buy day passes or single-ride tickets for the buses and trains. Taxis and rideshare services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Schaumburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some popular nearby attractions and excursions include:

  • Chicago: Explore the Windy City’s famous attractions like Navy Pier, Willis Tower, and the Art Institute of Chicago.
  • Illinois Railway Museum: Take a nostalgic trip back in time by visiting this museum dedicated to the history of railways in Illinois.
  • Lincoln Park Zoo: This popular zoo is home to over 1,000 animals from around the world.

Conclusion

Schaumburg is a vibrant city known for its rich culture, natural beauty, and bustling shopping centers. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, there’s always something new to discover. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip to Schaumburg and make unforgettable memories.

Schaumburg welcome sign Schaumburg welcome sign Lakeside at the Prairie Center for the Arts Lakeside at the Prairie Center for the Arts Schaumburg Boomers Stadium Schaumburg Boomers Stadium Woodfield Mall Woodfield Mall