Wood Dale Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and stay in Wood Dale, a charming suburb in the Chicagoland area of Illinois. Get information on transportation, nearby destinations, and local culture and customs in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Wood Dale

Located in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicagoland, Wood Dale is a quaint and charming suburb in Illinois. Surrounded by natural beauty and rich history, Wood Dale is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and families alike. With a vibrant food and drink scene, along with various cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone in Wood Dale.

List of Places to Visit in Wood Dale

Here are some of the must-visit attractions in Wood Dale:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Wood Dale Grove Forest Preserve – a natural oasis with hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views.
  • Wood Dale Historical Society Museum – offers a glimpse into the history and heritage of Wood Dale and the surrounding area.
  • The Kellar House – a historic landmark with a fascinating backstory. Built in the late 1800s, this house was originally a family residence before being turned into a funeral home, and then a museum that showcases antique furnishings, clothing, and even a hearse.

Natural Attractions of Wood Dale: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Itasca Country Club – offering well-manicured golf courses, tennis courts, and other recreational amenities.
  • Maple Meadows Golf Course – another golf course with stunning views of the natural surroundings of Wood Dale.
  • Salt Creek Greenway Trail – a great spot for hiking, biking, and exploring the beauty of nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wood Dale

Wood Dale is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a range of hiking and biking trails. Here are some popular routes:

  • Illinois Prairie Path – considered one of the first rail-trails in the US, this trail offers a flat route through parks and forests, making it a great option for biking.
  • Salt Creek Trail – a scenic path suitable for both hiking and biking that runs along the Salt Creek and offers various beautiful views.
  • Kiwanis Park Trail – a less strenuous path suitable for those who want to enjoy a scenic walk.

Best Things to Do in Wood Dale: Activities and Tours

  • The Edge Ice Arena – a year-round indoor ice-skating rink that offers public skating, figure skating, hockey, and more.
  • Pool Party at the Wood Dale Water Park – Beat the summer heat by cooling off at the Wood Dale Water Park, featuring a variety of water activities for all ages.
  • Chicago O’Hare International Airport Runway Tour – Just a short drive away, experience a unique tour of the world’s third-busiest airport, Chicago O’Hare International Airport.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wood Dale

Here’s an itinerary for a week-long stay in Wood Dale:

Day Places to Visit
1 Wood Dale Grove Forest Preserve
2 Wood Dale Historical Society Museum
3 Salt Creek Trail, Itasca Country Club
4 Edge Ice Arena, Wood Dale Water Park
5 Chicago O’Hare International Airport Runway Tour
6 Maple Meadows Golf Course, Kiwanis Park Trail
7 The Kellar House

Food and Drink Scene of Wood Dale

Wood Dale has an array of dining options for food lovers. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Vienna Hot Dogs - a classic Chicago style hot dog.
  • Italian Beef - an Italian-American sandwich made with thin slices of seasoned roast beef, served on Italian style bread.

Local Beverages

  • Chicago craft beer - Chicago breweries create diverse and delicious craft beer.
  • Chicago-Style Martini - a vodka-based cocktail that comes with little pepperoncini peppers and a slice of pizza as a garnish.

Where to Stay in Wood Dale: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some options for places to stay in Wood Dale:

  • Courtyard Chicago Wood Dale/Itasca - a modern hotel with amenities like a fitness center and an indoor pool & spa.
  • Extended Stay America - Chicago - Wood Dale - O’Hare - Offering budget-friendly and long-term options for travelers.
  • Cozy private cottages - Another option for short term stays with all the necessities expected in comfortable housing accommodations.

What to Buy in Wood Dale: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the souvenirs and local products to bring back from Wood Dale include:

  • Classic Chicago memorabilia - Don’t forget to pick up some classic Chicago memorabilia like Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, or items highlighting other Chicago landmarks.
  • Chicago-style hot dogs - Chicago hot dogs are a staple; you can bring back Chicago-style hot dogs.
  • Craft beer - From local breweries in Wood Dale, craft beer is a good choice for adults.

Local Culture and Customs of Wood Dale

Wood Dale, similar to Chicago, is famous for its diverse cultures and ethnicities. Always respect the local traditions and customs, such as dining etiquette and proper formal wear.

Best Time to Visit Wood Dale

The best time to visit Wood Dale is in the warm weather months from May to September when the temperature is mild, and there are plenty of outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wood Dale

Do:

  • Do try classic Chicago dishes.
  • Do attend outdoor festivals and events in Wood Dale.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or disrespect nature.
  • Don’t forget to tip the service staff if services are satisfactory.

Safety and Health

Safety in Wood Dale

Even though Wood Dale is considered safe, it is still a good practice to stay alert while out and about.

Health in Wood Dale

Wood Dale’s health facilities are well-maintained, and healthcare services are readily available to all.

Getting to Wood Dale: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Wood Dale

  • Chicago O’Hare International Airport is only 5 miles away from Wood Dale.
  • Chicago Midway International Airport is an hour’s drive away from Wood Dale.

Bus Stations Near Wood Dale

  • Wood Dale Metra Station - a popular option in Wood Dale’s downtown area and providing several convenient and affordable public transport options to travel in and around Wood Dale.

Other Options

  • Car rentals - Many car rental services offer affordable daily or weekly rates with a pick-up and drop-off location near the Wood Dale area.
  • Taxi - Cabs service is widely accessible and affordable in Wood Dale.

How to Get Around in Wood Dale

Wood Dale is bike-friendly and has many trails suitable for hiking, biking, and walking. However, renting a car might be more convenient if you plan on exploring the area.

Where to Go Next from Wood Dale: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some destinations easily accessible from Wood Dale:

  • Schaumburg - Known for Woodfield Mall, a massive shopping and dining experience.
  • Chicago - Famous for its iconic landmarks like Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), Navy Pier, The Art Institute, and more.
  • Lombard - Just a few miles south of Wood Dale lies another great suburban town with plenty of shopping, dining, and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Wood Dale is a hidden gem that has so much to offer. From its natural beauty and outdoor adventures to its rich history and vibrant culture, Wood Dale is an ideal year-round destination for travelers and visitors of all ages. So, come explore Wood Dale and create unforgettable memories that you will cherish for a lifetime.