Beecher Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and stay in Beecher, Illinois. Explore natural attractions, cultural landmarks, hiking routes, local food and drink spots, and more with our comprehensive travel guide.


Are you planning a trip to the South Suburbs of Illinois? Don’t miss out on Beecher, a charming village that offers a mix of history, nature, and small-town charm. In this travel guide, we’ll show you the best places to visit, things to do, and local delights to try in Beecher.

Introduction to Beecher

Beecher is a village located in Will County, Illinois, in the South Suburbs of the Chicago metropolitan area. Originally settled by German immigrants in the mid-1800s, Beecher has a rich history and a vibrant community. The main street, Dixie Highway, is lined with historic buildings and small businesses. The village is also surrounded by prairies, forests, and wetlands, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Beecher

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Beecher Mausoleum: This beautiful and unique mausoleum, built in 1914, is located in the middle of a cornfield and known as the “world’s only monument to the living dead.”
  • Beecher Community Museum: Learn about the history of Beecher and the surrounding area, from the first settlers to the present day. The museum is housed in a historic building that was once a German Evangelical church.
  • St. Luke’s Catholic Church: This beautiful church, built in 1899, is a landmark of Beecher’s downtown and its stained glass windows and artwork are a must-see.

Natural Attractions of Beecher: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve: This 900-acre preserve offers hiking trails, fishing lakes, and picnic areas. Don’t miss the beautiful views of the prairies, woods, and wetlands.
  • Plum Creek Nature Center: Learn about the flora and fauna of the region at this nature center, which also offers interactive exhibits and educational programs.
  • Indiana Dunes National Park: Take a short drive to Indiana and visit this stunning national park, which features 15 miles of sandy beaches on Lake Michigan, sand dunes, wetlands, and forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Beecher

Beecher is surrounded by natural areas that offer great opportunities for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Goodenow Grove Loop Trail: A 3.3-mile loop trail that takes you through woods, prairies, and wetlands. You can also fish at Whalon Lake.
  • Thorn Creek Trail: This 22-mile trail runs through Cook County and passes through Beecher. It offers scenic views of the creek and woods.
  • Calumet-Sag Trail: This 26-mile trail runs through the South Suburbs and connects several parks and forest preserves. It’s great for biking and hiking.

Best Things to Do in Beecher: Activities and Tours

  • Beecher Farmers Market: Held every Saturday from June to October, this farmers market features fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and live music.
  • Kean Avenue Murals: Take a stroll along Kean Avenue and admire the colorful murals that depict the history and culture of Beecher.
  • Will County Fair: If you’re visiting in August, don’t miss the Will County Fair, which offers carnival rides, live music, and agricultural exhibits.

Week-Long Itinerary for Beecher

Day 1: Visit the Beecher Mausoleum and the Beecher Community Museum. Day 2: Hike the Goodenow Grove Loop Trail and have a picnic at Whalon Lake. Day 3: Take a day trip to Indiana Dunes National Park. Day 4: Bike the Thorn Creek Trail and have lunch at one of the local cafes. Day 5: Explore the Kean Avenue Murals and visit St. Luke’s Catholic Church. Day 6: Visit the Plum Creek Nature Center and attend a nature program. Day 7: Go to the Will County Fair and try some local food and drinks.

Food and Drink Scene of Beecher

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beecher Ham and Cheese: This local specialty, also known as “Beecher Bologna,” is a type of sausage that is famous in the region. It’s made from a blend of pork, beef, and spices, and is often served with cheese and crackers.
  • Fried Chicken: Beecher has several restaurants that serve delicious fried chicken, including White Fence Farm and Culver’s.
  • Pizza: Beecher has several pizzerias that serve classic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, as well as thin-crust and tavern-style pizza.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Try the locally brewed beer at Evil Horse Brewing Company in Crete, just a few miles from Beecher.
  • Wine: Visit the Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards and Winery in nearby Homewood, which offers tastings, tours, and a full restaurant.

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

Beecher is a small village and doesn’t have many lodging options. However, there are several hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts in the surrounding area, especially in nearby towns like Crete, Monee, and Homewood. Some of the best options include:

  • La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Chicago - Monee: This hotel is located in Monee, just a few miles from Beecher. It offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and free breakfast.
  • Victorian Rose Garden Bed & Breakfast: This charming bed and breakfast is located in nearby Crete and features beautiful gardens, cozy rooms, and a full breakfast.
  • Homewood Suites by Hilton Orland Park: This extended-stay hotel is located in Orland Park, about 15 miles from Beecher. It offers spacious suites with a kitchen and free breakfast.

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

  • Beecher Bologna: Bring home some of the famous Beecher Bologna to share with your friends and family.
  • Local Honey: Beecher is surrounded by farmland and has several beekeepers who produce delicious honey.
  • Handmade Crafts: Visit the Beecher Farmers Market or the local shops to find unique and handmade crafts, like pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Beecher

Beecher has a strong sense of community and values its German heritage. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and often gather for events and festivals, like the Will County Fair and the Farmers Market. Beecher is also known for its agricultural traditions and farm-to-table cuisine.

Best Time to Visit Beecher

The best time to visit Beecher is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the trees and flowers are in bloom. The Farmers Market is open from June to October, so consider visiting during that time to try some fresh local produce. The Will County Fair is held in August and is a great opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Beecher

Do:

  • Try the local food, like Beecher Bologna and fried chicken.
  • Explore the natural areas, like Goodenow Grove and Indiana Dunes National Park.
  • Attend the local events and festivals, like the Beecher Farmers Market and the Will County Fair.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural areas and parks.
  • Be disrespectful to the local culture or customs.
  • Ignore safety and health guidelines, especially when hiking or biking in the natural areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Beecher

Beecher is generally a safe and quiet village. However, it’s always a good idea to take basic safety precautions, like locking your car and not leaving valuables in plain sight. When hiking or biking in the natural areas, be aware of your surroundings and follow the trail rules and guidelines.

Health in Beecher

Beecher has several medical facilities and clinics, including the Advocate Medical Group and the Franciscan Health St. James Hospital. However, it’s always a good idea to bring any necessary medications or first-aid supplies with you when traveling.

Getting to Beecher: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Beecher

The closest airport to Beecher is Midway International Airport, which is about 38 miles away. O’Hare International Airport is also an option, but it’s about 55 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Beecher

The Greyhound bus station is located in Chicago, about 36 miles from Beecher. There are several bus routes that connect Chicago and the South Suburbs.

Other Options

The best way to get around Beecher and the surrounding areas is by car. There are several car rental companies at the airports and in nearby towns. You can also use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.

How to Get Around in Beecher

Beecher is a small village that is easy to navigate on foot or by car. However, if you want to explore the natural areas or nearby towns, you’ll need a car. There are also several bike rental options in the Chicago metropolitan area.

Where to Go Next from Beecher: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Beecher is a great base for exploring the South Suburbs and the Chicago metropolitan area. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Chicago: Take a day trip to the Windy City and explore its museums, parks, and landmarks.
  • Starved Rock State Park: This beautiful park, located about 80 miles from Beecher, offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views of the Illinois River.
  • Galena: This charming town, located about 160 miles from Beecher, offers historic architecture, art galleries, and wineries.

Conclusion

Beecher may be a small village, but it offers a lot of things to do and see for visitors. From its natural areas and hiking trails to its local food and culture, Beecher has something for every traveler. Use this guide to plan your trip and make the most of your visit to South Suburbs, Illinois.