Glen Ellyn Travel Guide

Discover the top things to do and see in Glen Ellyn, from natural attractions and outdoor adventures to cultural landmarks and must-try dishes. Plan your trip to this charming Chicagoland suburb with our comprehensive travel guide.


Glen Ellyn is a charming suburb located in the Western Suburbs of Chicago. This town is rich in history and culture, providing visitors with a unique and enjoyable experience. From beautiful outdoor spaces to fascinating museums and cultural landmarks, there are numerous things to see in Glen Ellyn. If you’re planning a visit to this lovely suburban town, here’s our guide to help you make the most out of your trip.

Introduction to Glen Ellyn

Glen Ellyn is a village in DuPage County, located 23 miles west of Chicago’s downtown area. This peaceful town has a population of over 27,000 people and is known for its stunning natural surroundings, charming historic architecture, and vibrant culture. Glen Ellyn is a perfect destination because it has something to offer to every visitor.

List of Places to Visit in Glen Ellyn

Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Glen Ellyn, whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or just want to explore unique attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Stacy’s Tavern Museum

Stacy’s Tavern Museum is a living history museum that offers visitors the chance to experience life in the 1840s. This site includes two historic buildings, the Glen Ellyn Historical Society’s museum house, and a charming Lombard Cottage.

Glen Ellyn Historical Society

The Glen Ellyn Historical Society is a great place to explore the area’s past with a fascinating collection of artifacts and historical documents. Guided tours are informed and highly recommended to learn all the anecdotes about the village.

DuPage County Historical Museum

DuPage County Historical Museum is a comprehensive museum packed with interesting displays that will transport you back in time to DuPage County. Here you can also appreciate the works of local artists and learn all about the history of this region.

Natural Attractions of Glen Ellyn: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lake Ellyn Park

Lake Ellyn Park is a beautiful public park located in the heart of Glen Ellyn. This park is ideal for picnics, walking and exploring nature. You can also spend the afternoon fishing, canoeing, or enjoying a leisurely stroll around the lake while taking in the breathtaking views.

Prairie Path

Prairie Path is a long-standing bike and hiking path that spans over 11 miles throughout Glen Ellyn. The path is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including lush trees and bushes, making it an ideal place for people who enjoy outdoor activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Glen Ellyn

Here are some of the most popular hiking and biking trails in Glen Ellyn:

  • Illinois Prairie Path - A 61-mile trail that crosses several counties, from Cook County to Kane County.
  • Great Western Trail - A 17-mile trail that travels from Villa Park to Sycamore.
  • Blackwell Forest Preserve - A 1,350-acre preserve with 9 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Best Things to Do in Glen Ellyn: Activities and Tours

Glen Ellyn Farmer’s Market

The Glen Ellyn Farmer’s Market is a weekly market that occurs every Sunday throughout the summer months. This market offers visitors the opportunity to shop for fresh produce and local goods while enjoying live music and entertainment.

Art in Glen Ellyn

Glen Ellyn has a community of artists who showcase their work throughout the town. Visit the Gallery and studios owned by local artists to see the wonderful pieces of art they have created.

Week-Long Itinerary for Glen Ellyn

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long visit to Glen Ellyn:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the DuPage County Historical Museum
Day 2 Enjoy a serene hike up Prairie Path
Day 3 Indulge in Glen Ellyn Farmer’s Market
Day 4 Discover local art and culture in Glen Ellyn
Day 5 Kayaking in Lake Ellyn
Day 6 Explore Glen Ellyn’s history
Day 7 Visit Blackwell Forest Preserve

Food and Drink Scene of Glen Ellyn

The food and drink scene of Glen Ellyn is a haven for any food lover. The town prides itself on having a wide variety of eateries, each offering unique dishes and drinks.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Potato Soup - A heartwarming soup with rich and creamy potatoes cooked up deliciously.
  • Ellyn Sausage - This dish has locally sourced Italian sausage links that are infused with mozzarella cheese and then grilled over live flames.
  • Blackened Tilapia Tacos - A must-try dish with a taco shell combined with blackened tilapia and coleslaw.

Local Beverages

  • Solemn Oath Brewery - A modern brewery that brews traditional beers like American Pale Ale.

Where to Stay in Glen Ellyn: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Visitors have a range of accommodation options to choose from, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guest houses.

  • Crowne Plaza - A luxury hotel in Glen Ellyn with a spa and wellness center.
  • Budgetel Inn and Suites Glen Ellyn - A budget-friendly option located a short distance from the Main Street and other popular spots in Glen Ellyn.

What to Buy in Glen Ellyn: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Glen Ellyn Mugs - The village has various mugs that have the picturesque scenic views of Glen Ellyn.
  • T-Shirts and Apparel - Glen Ellyn also has trendy t-shirts and other apparel that celebrates the culture and beauty of the village.

Local Culture and Customs of Glen Ellyn

Glen Ellyn is a vibrant community with welcoming people and a diverse range of cultures. Visitors are expected to show respect towards the locals and their traditions.

Best Time to Visit Glen Ellyn

The best time to visit Glen Ellyn is during the summer months, from June to August. During this season, visitors can enjoy all the outdoor adventures and the farmer’s market events that Glen Ellyn has to offer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Glen Ellyn

Do:

  • Rent a bike to explore the beautiful routes or download a guide map to make the most of the trails
  • Taste the local beer while appreciating the charming landscapes of Glen Ellyn.

Don’t:

  • Litter the beautiful natural surroundings when exploring the community.
  • Publicly display inappropriate behavior, such as public smoking or drinking.

Safety and Health

Safety in Glen Ellyn

Glen Ellyn is home to friendly and helpful locals; it is incredibly safe, with low crime rates.

Health in Glen Ellyn

Visitors need to take the necessary health precautions. Properly hydrate, sunscreen, and keep mosquito repellent at all times to avoid bug bites.

Getting to Glen Ellyn: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors to Glen Ellyn can use various modes of transportation to get around

Airports Near Glen Ellyn

  • Chicago O’Hare International Airport - 15.4 miles away from Glen Ellyn.
  • Chicago Midway International Airport - 22.9 miles away from Glen Ellyn.

Bus Stations Near Glen Ellyn

  • Metra Union Pacific West Line Station - Located in downtown Glen Ellyn.

Other Options

  • Ride-Sharing Services - Uber and Lyft operate within the limits of Glen Ellyn.

How to Get Around in Glen Ellyn

Visitors can get around using the following modes of transport:

  • Rent Bikes
  • Glen Ellyn Taxi Services
  • Rent a Car

Where to Go Next from Glen Ellyn: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Glen Ellyn is surrounded by charming towns and lovely natural areas. Here are other nearby destinations and excursions you can visit:

  • Chicago - A city full of exciting experiences, located only 28 miles away from Glen Ellyn.
  • Morton Arboretum - A vast 1,700-acre botanical garden with trees, flowers, and other plant life.

Conclusion

Glen Ellyn is a beautiful suburban town in the western suburbs of Chicago and is the ideal destination for those who want to experience a relaxing atmosphere and explore the beautiful scenery. This comprehensive travel guide hopefully helps guide visitors to best enjoy everything that Glen Ellyn has to offer.