Midlothian Travel Guide

Read this comprehensive travel guide for Midlothian, a suburb in Chicagoland, Illinois, to discover the best things to do, see, eat, and stay in this beautiful town.


Introduction to Midlothian

Midlothian is a small suburb located in Cook County, Illinois. It is a quiet, peaceful town known for its friendly locals, vibrant community events, and scenic beauty. Midlothian lies in the Chicagoland area and is easily accessible by car, train, or bus. Whether you are interested in history, adventure, or relaxation, Midlothian has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Midlothian

Midlothian has a diverse range of attractions and activities. Here is a list of some of the must-visit places in Midlothian:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Midlothian Historical Society Museum: Discover the rich history of Midlothian through various exhibits, artifacts, and photographs at the Midlothian Historical Society Museum.
  • The Great Midwestern Antique Emporium: This antique emporium is the perfect place for history and antique enthusiasts. It has a vast collection of unique antiques from various time periods.
  • Midlothian Public Library: This modern library provides an excellent space for reading, studying, and exploring. It boasts a diverse collection of books, magazines, and informative resources for all ages.

Natural Attractions of Midlothian: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Midlothian Meadows Forest Preserve: Get in touch with nature and enjoy the scenic beauty at Midlothian Meadows Forest Preserve. Take a leisurely walk or bike and enjoy the fresh air and natural surroundings.
  • Midlothian Park District Splash Pad: A summer favorite, this splash pad is perfect for families with young children. Enjoy playing in the water and the sun during hotter summer days.
  • Midlothian Country Club: If you are a golf enthusiast, this country club is the perfect destination for you. It has a challenging and scenic 18-hole course that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Midlothian

Midlothian has an extensive network of trails and parks that offer a perfect opportunity for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and jogging.

  • Midlothian Biking Trail: This trail runs through the heart of Midlothian and offers a scenic route for bikers to enjoy.
  • Memorial Park: This park is perfect for a quick morning jog or leisurely walk with friends and family
  • Midlothian Meadows Forest Preserve: Enjoy the picturesque views of the forested areas and grasslands as you hike the 1.6-mile trail.

Best Things to Do in Midlothian: Activities and Tours

  • Midlothian Community Farmers Market: This weekly farmers market is a must-visit for foodies. Sample local produce such as fresh fruits and vegetables, artisan cheeses, bread, and honey.
  • Midlothian Park District Annual Car Show: The annual car show is a must-see event for classic car enthusiasts. Admire the wide range of vintage cars and attend various activities planned for the event.
  • Haunted Ghost Walks: Experience the spooky side of Midlothian with a guided ghost tour. Learn about local legends, stories, and hauntings in the town.

Week-Long Itinerary for Midlothian

Day 1: Visit the Midlothian Country Club and play a round of golf. Day 2: Explore the Midlothian Historical Society Museum, the Great Midwestern Antique Emporium, and the Midlothian Public Library. Day 3: Hike the Midlothian Meadows Forest Preserve trail. Day 4: Attend the Midlothian Community Farmers Market and taste the local produce. Day 5: Rent a bike and explore the Midlothian Biking Trail. Day 6: Cool off at the Midlothian Park District Splash Pad and enjoy some family fun. Day 7: Experience the spooky side of Midlothian with a guided haunted ghost tour.

Food and Drink Scene of Midlothian

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rib-eye Steak: Head to Midlothian Country Club for a lip-smacking rib-eye steak.
  • Pretzel Bread with Spinach and Artichoke Dip: This dish is a must-try at the Midlothian Public Library Cafe.
  • Taco Salad: Try the delicious taco salad at Mr. Taco Mexican Restaurant.

Local Beverages

  • Midlothian Brewing Company: This brewery is known for its fantastic craft beers and has a cozy and casual vibe.
  • Fox’s Pizza and Pub: Enjoy a refreshing beer or a cocktail at Fox’s Pizza and Pub, a popular local hangout.

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

  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Chicago-Midlothian: This hotel features an indoor pool and modern amenities, making it a perfect choice for families.
  • Motel 6 Harvey, IL: A budget-friendly option with free Wi-Fi and convenient location
  • Midway Inn & Suites: A cozy and convenient stay with essential amenities for business and casual travelers.

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

  • Antiques: Get a unique souvenir from the Great Midwestern Antique Emporium.
  • Local Produce: Head to the Midlothian Community Farmers Market for fresh and locally-sourced produce.

Local Culture and Customs of Midlothian

Midlothian has a diverse and friendly community. The locals are known for their welcoming attitude and hospitality towards visitors. Be sure to greet people with a smile and engage in friendly conversations.

Best Time to Visit Midlothian

The best time to visit Midlothian is during the summer months of June through August. The weather is warmer, and numerous outdoor events take place during this time, such as the Midlothian Park District Splash Pad and the farmers market.

Do’s and Don’ts of Midlothian

Do:

  • Visit local attractions such as the Midlothian Historical Society Museum and the Midlothian Meadows Forest Preserve.
  • Attend local events and festivals such as the Annual Car Show.
  • Try the local cuisine, especially the rib-eye steak and taco salad.
  • Engage with the friendly locals.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public areas.
  • Be rude or disrespectful to locals or other visitors.
  • Ignore the safety regulations at outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.

Safety and Health

Safety in Midlothian

Midlothian is a safe town overall, with low crime rates. However, it is always important to be vigilant and practice common sense safety precautions, such as locking your doors and staying in well-lit areas at night.

Health in Midlothian

Midlothian has adequate medical facilities to cater to health emergencies. The nearby Advocate Christ Medical Center provides world-class medical services and facilities.

Getting to Midlothian: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Midlothian

Midlothian is located approximately 24 miles from Chicago O’Hare International Airport and about 18 miles from Chicago Midway International Airport. Both airports offer public transport options such as trains and buses, which connect to Midlothian Town.

Bus Stations Near Midlothian

Midlothian has no operational bus station. However, the nearby Harvey Transportation Center provides various bus transportation routes.

Other Options

Midlothian is connected to the rest of Chicagoland via Metra trains. The Midlothian Rock Island Metra line connects Midlothian to downtown Chicago.

How to Get Around in Midlothian

The town of Midlothian is small and easily navigable on foot. For long-distance travel, public transport options such as Metra train and buses are available.

Where to Go Next from Midlothian: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Chicago: Indulge in the bustling city life of Chicago, located just a few miles from Midlothian.
  • Frankfort: Visit the charming village of Frankfort, located 20 minutes from Midlothian, and explore its scenic beauty and small-town charm.

Conclusion

Midlothian is a small town that offers something unique for everyone, from its rich historical buildings to its scenic natural beauty. A perfect getaway destination for a weekend or a long stay, Midlothian is truly a hidden gem in the Chicagoland area.