Burbank Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, and stay in Burbank, Illinois! Everything you need to know about this charming Midwestern city in one comprehensive guide.


Burbank, Illinois, is a charming city located in the South Suburbs of Chicagoland. With a population of around 28,000, this Midwestern city offers visitors a number of exciting attractions, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re planning a day-trip or an extended stay, read on for a comprehensive guide to Burbank and everything it has to offer.

Introduction to Burbank

Burbank is a city located in Cook County, Illinois, just southwest of the city of Chicago. Founded in 1922, Burbank is a relatively young city but has a rich history, having served as a hub for the area’s transportation and commerce industries. Today, Burbank is a thriving city that is home to a diverse population of families, young professionals, and retirees.

List of Places to Visit in Burbank

Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s cultural attractions or taking in its natural beauty, Burbank has something to offer everyone. Here are some must-see places to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian Culture: This museum is dedicated to showcasing the vibrant history and culture of Lithuanians around the world. It features a large collection of Lithuanian art, folk costumes, and other artifacts.
  • Chicago Ridge Mall: This shopping mall offers visitors a wide selection of stores and restaurants to explore, including popular chains like Apple, Victoria’s Secret, and Chipotle.
  • The Ford City Mall: Another popular shopping destination, the Ford City Mall features over 100 stores and restaurants, including J.C. Penney, Macy’s, and Target.
  • The Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center: This nature center is a great spot to experience the natural beauty of Burbank and learn about the area’s history and wildlife. It features hiking trails, bird watching areas, and exhibits.

Natural Attractions of Burbank: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Burbank Water Park: This outdoor water park is a fun spot for families to visit during the warmer months. It offers a variety of water attractions, including a lazy river and several water slides.
  • The Campbell Park and Recreation Center: This park is a great place to take a stroll, have a picnic, or enjoy some outdoor sports. It includes a playground, basketball court, and a walking trail.
  • The Underpass Park: This is a small park located underneath the Cicero Avenue viaduct. It’s a lovely spot to relax and enjoy the city’s scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Burbank

If you’re interested in exploring Burbank’s natural beauty on foot or by bike, there are several great routes to choose from:

  • The Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center Hiking Trail: This 2.5-mile trail takes visitors past several small ponds, through forests, and across a creek. It’s a great trail for bird watching and taking in the area’s natural beauty.
  • The Burbank Bike Route: This 8-mile bike route takes visitors through Burbank’s residential areas and provides great views of the city’s parks and natural areas.
  • The Pulaski Road Bike Route: This 10-mile bike route takes visitors through surrounding neighborhoods before returning to Burbank. It’s a great way to see some of the area’s historic and cultural sites.

Best Things to Do in Burbank: Activities and Tours

While there are plenty of natural and cultural attractions to enjoy in Burbank, there are also a few unique activities worth checking out:

  • The Haunted Hometowns Tour: This ghost tour takes visitors to several of the South Suburbs’ most haunted spots, including St. James Cemetery and the abandoned Bachelors Grove Cemetery.
  • The Night At The Races: For a unique night out, check out the Night At The Races event at the Burbank Park District. This event features live horse racing, betting, food, and drinks.
  • The Annual Burbank Fest: Every summer, the city of Burbank hosts a festival featuring live music, food, carnival rides, and games. It’s a great way to experience the city’s vibrant community and culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Burbank

If you’re planning an extended stay in Burbank, here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day 1: Check out the Ford City Mall and grab lunch at the food court.

Day 2: Visit the Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center and take a hike on the nature trails.

Day 3: Explore the Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian Culture and learn about Lithuanian history and art.

Day 4: Take a bike ride along the Pulaski Road Bike Route and explore the surrounding neighborhoods.

Day 5: Spend the day at the Burbank Water Park and enjoy the lazy river and water slides.

Day 6: Join the Haunted Hometowns Tour for a spooky adventure through the suburbs.

Day 7: Visit the Underpass Park and have a picnic lunch before heading to Campbell Park and Recreation Center for some outdoor sports.

Food and Drink Scene of Burbank

Burbank has a diverse range of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Italian Beef Sandwich: This classic Chicago dish is a popular choice at many of Burbank’s restaurants. It consists of thinly sliced beef served on a roll with giardiniera, sweet peppers, and gravy.
  • Deep Dish Pizza: Another Chicago staple, deep dish pizza is a must-try when visiting Burbank. Look for local favorites like Lou Malnati’s or Giordano’s.
  • Pierogi: With a large Lithuanian population, it’s no surprise that pierogi is a popular dish in Burbank. Look for them at local restaurants like Old Warsaw or The New Warsaw.

Local Beverages

  • Goose Island Beer Company: This Chicago-based brewery offers a wide variety of craft beers, including classics like Goose IPA and seasonal options like Summertime Kolsch.
  • Deep Eddy Vodka: This Austin-based distillery produces a variety of flavored vodkas using natural ingredients. Try flavors like grapefruit or lemon for a refreshing summer drink.
  • Joe’s Record Shop: This local record store also serves as a coffee shop and bar. Stop by for a cup of coffee or a cocktail while browsing their vinyl selection.

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

Burbank has a variety of accommodation options to fit any budget. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Best Western Inn & Suites: This hotel is located near the Burbank Water Park and offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
  • Airbnb: With a number of local hosts offering guest rooms and entire apartments for rent, Airbnb is a great option for those looking for a more unique and affordable lodging experience.
  • Dame & Dapper: This boutique bed and breakfast offers stylish rooms and a convenient location near the city’s shopping centers.

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs to bring home from your trip to Burbank, there are several local products worth checking out:

  • Lithuanian Amber Jewelry: Burbank has a large Lithuanian population, and visiting one of the city’s Lithuanian jewelry stores is a great way to bring home a unique and beautiful memento.
  • Chicago Sports Memorabilia: Sports fans will love browsing the selection of Chicago Bears, Blackhawks, and Cubs merchandise available at local sports stores.
  • Chicago Blues Records: With a rich tradition of blues music, Chicago is a great place to find rare and vintage blues records. Head to a local record store like Rolling Stony Records to browse their selection.

Local Culture and Customs of Burbank

Burbank is a welcoming and diverse city, with a strong sense of community. Visitors can expect to encounter friendly residents and a relaxed Midwestern atmosphere. While there are no major cultural events unique to Burbank, the city does have a lively local music scene and hosts a variety of outdoor summer events.

Best Time to Visit Burbank

Burbank experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Burbank for mild temperatures and pleasant weather is during the spring and fall months. However, visitors who prefer warm weather and outdoor activities may prefer to visit during the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Burbank

To help you make the most of your visit to Burbank, here are some things to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Walk or bike the city’s various trails and paths
  • Explore the area’s local history and culture at museums and galleries
  • Try local cuisine like deep-dish pizza and pierogi
  • Check out local nightlife spots like Joe’s Record Shop

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural areas or historical buildings
  • Ignore posted parking or traffic restrictions
  • Be disrespectful or disruptive at public events or gatherings
  • Ignore safety warnings or advice from local authorities

Safety and Health

When visiting Burbank, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety and health. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Burbank

  • Be aware of traffic laws and regulations when driving or walking near busy streets
  • Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or isolated areas at night
  • Follow posted safety guidelines at water parks and natural areas
  • Be aware of local weather conditions, especially during severe storms or tornadoes

Health in Burbank

  • Be aware of the risks of Lyme disease and West Nile virus when spending time outdoors
  • Protect yourself against the sun with sunscreen and appropriate clothing during the summer months
  • Be mindful of local food safety regulations when eating out or purchasing food products
  • Make sure your immunizations are up to date before traveling to Burbank

Getting to Burbank: Transportation Options and Logistics

Burbank is easily accessible by car, bus, or train. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Burbank

  • Midway International Airport: Located just a few miles east of Burbank, Midway is a convenient option for domestic travelers.
  • O’Hare International Airport: Located about 25 miles north of Burbank, O’Hare is a major international airport with flights to destinations around the world.

Bus Stations Near Burbank

  • Greyhound: The closest Greyhound bus station to Burbank is located about 10 miles northeast, in downtown Chicago.
  • Megabus: The Megabus stop in Chicago is located at Union Station, about 11 miles east of Burbank.

Other Options

  • Driving: Burbank is located near several major highways, including Interstate 55 and Interstate 294.
  • Train: The Metra Southwest Service Line offers regular commuter train service between downtown Chicago and Burbank.

How to Get Around in Burbank

While having a car is the most convenient way to navigate Burbank and its surrounding areas, there are several other transportation options available:

  • Public Transit: The Pace Bus serves Burbank and the surrounding suburbs, with several routes that run throughout the city.
  • Taxi/Uber: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Burbank area.
  • Bike Rental: Visitors can rent bikes from several local shops and explore Burbank’s trails and natural areas on two wheels.

Where to Go Next from Burbank: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning a longer trip to the Chicago area, there are several nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Chicago: Just a short drive or train ride away, Chicago offers endless attractions, from world-class museums and theaters to dining and shopping.
  • Indiana Dunes National Park: Located about 50 miles southeast of Burbank, the Indiana Dunes National Park offers miles of picturesque beaches and hiking trails.
  • Starved Rock State Park: Located about 90 miles southwest of Burbank, Starved Rock State Park is a popular destination for hiking, boating, and other outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, Burbank has something to offer everyone. From its natural beauty and cultural attractions to its friendly community and Midwestern charm, it’s a great destination for visitors looking for a unique and memorable experience in the Chicago area. So pack your bags and head to Burbank today!