Western Suburbs Travel Guide
Discover the hidden gems of Western Suburbs, Illinois, through this comprehensive travel guide that covers history, culture, food, sightseeing, transportation, and safety.
- Introduction to Western Suburbs
- List of Places to Visit in Western Suburbs
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Western Suburbs
- Best Things to Do in Western Suburbs: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Western Suburbs
- Food and Drink Scene of Western Suburbs
- Where to Stay in Western Suburbs: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Western Suburbs: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Western Suburbs
- Best Time to Visit Western Suburbs
- Do’s and Don’ts of Western Suburbs
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Western Suburbs: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Western Suburbs
- Where to Go Next from Western Suburbs: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Western Suburbs
Nestled in the heart of the Chicagoland, the Western Suburbs of Illinois boast a plethora of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, making them an ideal destination for travelers seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Comprising of towns such as Oak Park, Naperville, and Elmhurst, the Western Suburbs offer a unique blend of old-world charm and modern-day amenities, making it a perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers.
List of Places to Visit in Western Suburbs
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
The Western Suburbs are home to some of the most fascinating museums and historical landmarks in the entire Midwest region. One of the must-visit attractions is the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, the legendary American architect’s former residence, and workplace in Oak Park. Another popular historical site is the Graue Mill and Museum in Oak Brook, showcasing the rich history of wheat farming in the region. The DuPage Children’s Museum in Naperville is a paradise for kids, with over 17,000 square feet of immersive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences.
Natural Attractions of Western Suburbs: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Western Suburbs are also renowned for their natural beauty, with plenty of parks, lakes, and outdoor spaces to explore. The Morton Arboretum in Lisle is a 1700-acre wonderland, featuring over 200,000 species of trees, plants, and flowers. Other popular outdoor attractions include the Naperville Riverwalk, a picturesque trail along the Dupage River, and the Ty Warner Park in Westmont, a 36-acre park filled with walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Western Suburbs
For adventure seekers, the Western Suburbs offer plenty of hiking and biking trails. The Illinois Prairie Path, starting from Wheaton, is a 61-mile rails-to-trail path, showcasing the beauty of the Illinois countryside. The Salt Creek Greenway Trail, starting from Brookfield, is a 36-mile trail that runs along the Salt Creek, providing stunning views of the surrounding woodlands, prairies, and wetlands.
Best Things to Do in Western Suburbs: Activities and Tours
Apart from the museums, historical landmarks, and outdoor spaces, the Western Suburbs offer several other activities and experiences. The Tivoli Theatre in Downers Grove is a classic cinema hall, showcasing indie and foreign films. For food lovers, the Taste of Oak Brook festival, held every summer, is a must-visit, featuring over 30 food vendors, live music, and cultural performances. The Naperville Riverwalk Art Fair, held every spring, is another exciting event, featuring over 140 artists, live music, and food stalls.
Week-Long Itinerary for Western Suburbs
For travelers who want to experience all that the Western Suburbs have to offer, here’s a sample week-long itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, explore Oak Park |
| Day 2 | Hike the Illinois Prairie Path in Wheaton, Visit the DuPage Children’s Museum in Naperville |
| Day 3 | Visit the Graue Mill and Museum in Oak Brook, relax at Ty Warner Park in Westmont |
| Day 4 | Explore the Morton Arboretum in Lisle, bike the Salt Creek Greenway Trail |
| Day 5 | Attend the Taste of Oak Brook festival, watch a movie at the Tivoli Theatre in Downers Grove |
| Day 6 | Visit the Naper Settlement Museum in Naperville, enjoy the Naperville Riverwalk |
| Day 7 | Attend the Naperville Riverwalk Art Fair, indulge in local cuisine |
Food and Drink Scene of Western Suburbs
Must-Try Dishes
The Western Suburbs are a melting pot of different cultures, and that is evident in the varied cuisine available. For a true taste of the Midwest, try the deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s in Oak Brook or the hot dogs at Portillo’s in Downers Grove. For something more exotic, visit the Meson Sabika in Naperville, featuring Spanish Tapas and wine.
Local Beverages
The Western Suburbs boast several breweries and wineries, providing visitors with plenty of options to taste locally brewed beer and wine. Two Brothers Artisan Brewing in Warrenville, Pollyanna Brewing in Roselle, and Alter Brewing in Downers Grove are some of the popular breweries in the region. For wine lovers, visit the Lynfred Winery in Roselle, featuring a wide selection of locally made wines.
Where to Stay in Western Suburbs: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
The Western Suburbs offer several accommodation options, catering to all budgets and travel styles. For luxury seekers, The Drake Oak Brook Autograph Collection in Oak Brook and Le Meridien Chicago-Oakbrook Center in Lombard are excellent options. For mid-range and budget travelers, the Best Western Plus in Naperville and the Comfort Suites in Oakbrook Terrace are great options. For a unique experience, try the local bed and breakfasts such as the Harvey House Bed and Breakfast in Oak Park or the Hampton Inn and Suites in Addison.
What to Buy in Western Suburbs: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
The Western Suburbs are known for their artisanal products, and visitors can take home some unique souvenirs such as handmade candles, pottery, and artwork. Visit the Anderson’s Bookshop in Naperville for locally made books and gift items. The Enchanted Castle in Lombard is a family entertainment center, featuring an array of games, rides, and gift shops.
Local Culture and Customs of Western Suburbs
The Western Suburbs pride themselves on their rich history and culture, from the legacy of Frank Lloyd Wright to the local arts scene. Visitors should dress modestly while visiting religious sites such as the Baha’i Temple in Wilmette or the Sikh Gurdwara in Palatine. Smoking, littering, and jaywalking are not appreciated in public places.
Best Time to Visit Western Suburbs
The Western Suburbs experience four distinct seasons, with the temperate climate making it an ideal destination throughout the year. Summer (June-August) is the most popular season, with several outdoor events and festivals taking place. Fall (September-November) is perfect for admiring the autumn colors and hiking/biking. Winter (December-February) is ideal for indoor activities such as museums and water parks. Spring (March-May) offers a mild climate and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Western Suburbs
Do:
- Try the local cuisine
- Visit the museums and historical landmarks
- Respect the local culture and customs
- Take advantage of the outdoor spaces and parks
Don’t:
- Litter in public places
- Jaywalk or break traffic laws
- Smoke in public areas
- Hesitate to ask for help or directions
Safety and Health
Safety in Western Suburbs
The Western Suburbs are generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, visitors should exercise caution while traveling alone at night and avoid deserted areas.
Health in Western Suburbs
The Western Suburbs have several renowned hospitals and medical centers, providing top-notch healthcare facilities to visitors in case of emergencies.
Getting to Western Suburbs: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Western Suburbs
The O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and the Midway International Airport (MDW) are the nearest airports to the Western Suburbs, located about 25 miles and 20 miles away, respectively.
Bus Stations Near Western Suburbs
The Western Suburbs Transit Authority (WSTA) operates several routes that connect the Western Suburbs with downtown Chicago and neighboring regions.
Other Options
The Metra rail system provides frequent train service to several towns in the Western Suburbs, making it an ideal option for visitors who prefer public transportation.
How to Get Around in Western Suburbs
The Western Suburbs are well-connected with local buses, trains, and taxi services. Visitors can also rent cars from several agencies located in towns such as Oak Brook, Naperville, and Elmhurst.
Where to Go Next from Western Suburbs: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
The Western Suburbs serve as an excellent base for exploring other nearby destinations such as the city of Chicago, the Fox River Valley, and the Kankakee River State Park. The famous attractions such as Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and Wrigley Field are located within an hour’s drive from most Western Suburbs.
Conclusion
The Western Suburbs are an excellent destination for travelers seeking a slice of Midwestern beauty and charm. With a plethora of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, there is something for everyone in the Western Suburbs of Illinois.