Cicero Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more. Start planning your trip to Cicero with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Cicero

Cicero is a charming suburb of Chicago in Illinois, with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Located in the midwestern United States of America, Cicero is known for its natural beauty, diverse cuisine, and friendly locals. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums and historical sites, hiking and biking, or simply relaxing in a cozy hotel, Cicero has something to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Cicero

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The Hawthorne Works Museum: This museum showcases the history of the Cyclone Fence Company, which was once the largest employer in Cicero. Visitors can explore the interactive exhibits and artifacts to learn more about the company’s impact on the town and the region.

  2. The Cicero Historical Society: This historical society has a mission to preserve and share the history of Cicero. Visitors can see exhibits related to the town’s historical figures, architecture, and events. They also conduct walking tours of the town.

  3. St. Mary of Czestochowa Church: This beautiful church is a landmark of Cicero. Built in 1902 by Polish immigrants, the church is an architectural gem. Visitors can attend mass or simply admire the stained-glass windows and the ornate interior.

Natural Attractions of Cicero: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Burnham Park: This peaceful park is perfect for a family picnic or a solo stroll. It has a playground, baseball fields and swimming pool for kids to enjoy.

  2. Forest Preserve District of Cook County: This popular district offers a myriad of outdoor adventures and activities. Some of the most popular places to visit in the district include the Salt Creek Trail, Des Plaines River Trail, and the St. Andrews Golf and Country Club.

  3. Cicero Swamp Nature Preserve: This is a sprawling wetland preserve that is listed on the National Register of Natural Landmarks. Visitors can explore the preserved ecosystem, comprising of marshes, woods, ponds, and prairies.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cicero

  1. The Salt Creek Trail: This 27.3-mile trail provides a scenic route for hikers, bikers and cross-country skiers to explore the natural beauty in the Des Plaines River corridor.

  2. The Des Plaines River Trail: This 56-mile trail is nearly all paved, perfect for a long bike ride or a walk with a stroller. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to soak up the scenic Midwest views and wildlife sightings.

Best Things to Do in Cicero: Activities and Tours

  1. Chicago Food Planet Food Tours: Enjoy a walking tour of Cicero’s vibrant food scene with this fun tour. You’ll be able to sample some of the best local dishes and learn about the history behind the town’s amazing culinary history.

  2. Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise: This cruise provides a unique view of Chicago and its architecture. Enjoy the highlights of the city, including the Willis Tower, the John Hancock Center, and the Chicago River.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cicero

Day 1: Explore the Hawthorne Works Museum, followed by lunch at one of the many delicious restaurants in Cicero’s main strip.

Day 2: Enjoy the morning at Burnham Park, followed by a walking tour of Cicero’s historic landmarks.

Day 3: Take a hike or bike ride along the Salt Creek Trail.

Day 4: Take a day trip to nearby Chicago to explore the iconic landmarks and tourist hotspots, such as Navy Pier or The Magnificent Mile.

Day 5: Visit the Forest Preserve District of Cook County to enjoy some outdoor adventures, such as bird watching, horseback riding, or golfing.

Day 6: Go on a Chicago Food Planet Food Tour to experience the culinary scene of Cicero.

Day 7: Relax at your hotel or explore some of the local shops before departing Cicero.

Food and Drink Scene of Cicero

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pizza: Cicero is home to many popular pizza joints, featuring both Chicago-style pizza and thin-crust varieties. From classic deep dish, to pan, to tavern-style pizzas, you can find any variation of this iconic hometown dish here.

  2. Italian Beef Sandwiches: Originating in Chicago, this sandwich features thinly sliced, seasoned roasted beef piled on an Italian roll and topped with giardiniera or sweet peppers.

  3. Hot Dogs: The famous Chicago-style hot dog comes with yellow mustard, onion, sweet pickle relish, dill pickle spear, tomato, and celery salt on a poppy seed bun.

Local Beverages

  1. Goose Island Beer Company: This popular brewery was born in Chicago and provides visitors with a unique Chicago beer experience. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery and try some of the freshest brews Chicago has to offer.

  2. Malört: This iconic Chicago shot is infamous for its bitter taste. Though considered an acquired taste, Malört is a rite of passage when it comes to drinking in Chicago.

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

  1. Budget: Bishops Hall Bed and Breakfast. This historic bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms and an authentic Midwest experience at an affordable price.

  2. Mid-Range: Best Western Hawthorne Terrace. The Best Western is a centrally located hotel in Cicero, with clean rooms and a host of modern amenities.

  3. Luxury: The Peninsula Chicago. This chic and elegant hotel in the heart of the city is the ultimate in luxury accommodations.

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

  1. Chicago Sports Merchandise: This includes Chicago Bears, Chicago Cubs, and Chicago Bulls T-shirts, caps, and memorabilia.

  2. Regional Food Gifts: Take home some Chicago-style pizza or an Italian beef sandwich kit to enjoy with family and friends.

  3. Local art: Stop into one of the local galleries or shops and take home a unique, one-of-a-kind piece of Cicero art.

Local Culture and Customs of Cicero

Cicero is a proud majority Latinx community, with a history rooted in immigration. Visitors should be prepared to hear Spanish being spoken, smell the aromas of traditional Mexican cooking and taste traditional Latinx flavors.

Best Time to Visit Cicero

The best time to visit Cicero is during the summer, when you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors in full bloom and take advantage of all the local events and festivals. May – May, culminating the Mexican celebration of Cinco de Mayo before spiraling into summer, is an especially festive time in town.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cicero

Do:

  1. Do try the local cuisine, specifically the classic Chicago-style deep dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches.

  2. Do explore Cicero’s natural wonders, including the nearby Forest Preserve District of Cook County.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t underestimate the crowds, especially during peak times or events.

  2. Don’t forget to try at least one shot of Malört as a rite of passage into the Chicago drinking culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cicero

Cicero is generally a very safe town, with a low crime rate. Visitors should be cautious at night and take care when traveling alone.

Health in Cicero

Cicero is home to many reputable medical facilities, including the Advocate Health Care facility in Oak Lawn. Visitors should ensure they have health insurance coverage when traveling to the area.

Getting to Cicero: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cicero

The major airport nearest to Cicero is Chicago Midway International Airport, which is a 15-minute car ride away. The airline services by Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and more.

Bus Stations Near Cicero

Cicero is accessible via Greyhound and Megabus services, which operate in nearby Chicago.

Other Options

Cicero is accessible via the Metra commuter rail system, with several stations throughout the town and surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Cicero

Visitors can rent a car, take a taxi, or use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft to get around the town. Walking and Biking is recommended for certain places in the early hours of the day.

Where to Go Next from Cicero: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Chicago: The iconic Windy City with all its attractions, museums, and breathtaking architecture is just a short drive away from Cicero.

  2. Sheridan: For outdoors lovers, head North to Lake Michigan to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery, sandy beaches and stunning views.

Conclusion

Cicero in Illinois offers something for everyone, from the historical sites to the natural beauty of the region to the iconic Chicago cuisine. Start planning your trip today to experience all the wonders of Cicero.

St. Mary of Częstochowa St. Mary of Częstochowa