La Grange Travel Guide
Explore the best of La Grange with this travel guide. Discover top attractions, hiking/biking routes, food, accommodation options, and nearby destinations.
- Introduction to La Grange
- List of Places to Visit in La Grange
- Hiking/Biking Routes of La Grange
- Salt Creek Greenway Trail
- Cook County Forest Preserve Trails
- Best Things to Do in La Grange: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for La Grange
- Food and Drink Scene of La Grange
- Where to Stay in La Grange: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- The Palmer House Inn
- Best Western Plus
- What to Buy in La Grange: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of La Grange
- Best Time to Visit La Grange
- Do’s and Don’ts of La Grange
- Safety and Health
- Getting to La Grange: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in La Grange
- Where to Go Next from La Grange: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to La Grange
Located in the Western Suburbs of Chicagoland, La Grange is a charming village in Cook County, Illinois. It is a suburban gem that offers a blend of natural beauty and urban amenities. With a population of approximately 15,000, La Grange is a close-knit community that caters to visitors of all ages.
List of Places to Visit in La Grange
La Grange has a lot to offer visitors, from natural attractions to cultural destinations. Here are some of the top places to visit in La Grange:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
La Grange Area Historical Society
This museum showcases the history and heritage of La Grange. It features exhibits, programs, and events that highlight the community’s evolution over time. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.
Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
Located in nearby Oak Park, this museum is the former home and studio of the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. It is a National Historic Landmark that showcases Wright’s innovative design concepts.
Natural Attractions of La Grange: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Denning Park
This lovely park has a playground, picnic area, and a walking trail. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of La Grange.
Salt Creek Park District
This park district spans across several suburbs, including La Grange. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. There are also a number of picnic areas and playgrounds.
Hiking/Biking Routes of La Grange
La Grange offers some great hiking and biking opportunities. Here are some of the top routes:
Salt Creek Greenway Trail
This biking trail runs for 25 miles and offers scenic views of Salt Creek. It passes through several suburbs, including La Grange.
Cook County Forest Preserve Trails
This network of trails in the Forest Preserves of Cook County offers a variety of terrain, from wooded trails to hills and open meadows. There are dedicated bike and hiking trails throughout the park, as well as equestrian trails.
Best Things to Do in La Grange: Activities and Tours
Farmer’s Market
This weekly market is held from May through October. It offers fresh produce, artisanal foods, and crafts from local vendors.
La Grange Business Association Train Station Tours
This tour takes visitors through the La Grange Metra Station, which is a historic landmark. It provides an insight into the history of trains and their impact on La Grange.
Week-Long Itinerary for La Grange
Here is a sample itinerary for a week in La Grange:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit La Grange Area Historical Society |
| 2 | Hike or bike along Salt Creek Greenway Trail |
| 3 | Visit Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in Oak Park |
| 4 | Explore the outdoors at Salt Creek Park District |
| 5 | Tour the La Grange Metra Station |
| 6 | Attend the Farmer’s Market |
| 7 | Relax and enjoy Denning Park |
Food and Drink Scene of La Grange
La Grange offers a variety of dining options, ranging from upscale restaurants to casual cafes and bars. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
Pork Chop at Palmer Place
This dish is a standout at Palmer Place, a local pub that has been around for over 80 years. The Pork Chop is juicy and flavorful.
Deep Dish Pizza at Billy Bricks Wood Fired Pizza
This pizzeria offers delicious deep-dish pizza with toppings that range from classic to gourmet.
Local Beverages
La Grange Craft Brewery
This microbrewery offers a variety of handcrafted beers, made with local ingredients. It also has a tasting room that offers flights and pints.
Wine at Vino e Birra
This wine bar offers a variety of wines, including local and international varieties. It also has a small bites menu.
Where to Stay in La Grange: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
La Grange has several accommodation options, ranging from hotels to guesthouses. Here are some top choices:
The Palmer House Inn
This historic bed and breakfast is located downtown and offers beautifully decorated rooms and a gourmet breakfast.
Best Western Plus
This modern hotel offers spacious rooms and a variety of amenities, such as a fitness center and indoor pool.
What to Buy in La Grange: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
La Grange has several unique shops and boutiques that offer a range of products. Here are some ideas for souvenirs and local products:
The Scottish Shop
This shop specializes in Scottish products, such as kilts, tartan scarves, and jewelry.
Tenzing Himalayan Gift Shop
This shop offers handmade crafts and products from Nepal and Tibet, such as prayer flags, singing bowls, and pashmina shawls.
Local Culture and Customs of La Grange
La Grange is a friendly and welcoming community that values tradition and heritage. Visitors should respect the local customs and observe the laws and regulations.
Best Time to Visit La Grange
The best time to visit La Grange is in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the foliage is beautiful. Summer can be hot and humid, and winter can be cold and snowy.
Do’s and Don’ts of La Grange
Do:
- Explore the outdoors at Salt Creek Park District.
- Visit the La Grange Area Historical Society.
- Try the local craft beer at La Grange Craft Brewery.
Don’t:
- Litter in public spaces.
- Ignore the local traffic laws.
- Interrupt or disrespect local customs and traditions.
Safety and Health
Safety in La Grange
La Grange is a safe community, but visitors should take normal precautions, such as keeping valuables locked up and being aware of their surroundings.
Health in La Grange
La Grange has several medical facilities that provide quality healthcare services. Visitors should have travel insurance and take basic health precautions, such as washing hands and drinking bottled water.
Getting to La Grange: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near La Grange
The nearest airport to La Grange is Chicago Midway International Airport, which is about 10 miles away. The O’Hare International Airport in Chicago is about 20 miles away.
Bus Stations Near La Grange
The nearest bus station to La Grange is the La Grange Metra Station, which provides access to local and regional destinations.
Other Options
La Grange is easily accessible by car, bike, or foot. The village is small and compact, making it easy to navigate.
How to Get Around in La Grange
La Grange offers several transportation options, such as:
- Metra trains and buses.
- Taxis and ride-sharing services.
- Biking and walking.
Where to Go Next from La Grange: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
La Grange is conveniently located near several popular destinations, such as:
- Chicago, for a big-city experience.
- Oak Brook, for upscale shopping and dining.
- Naperville, for outdoor activities and cultural attractions.
Conclusion
La Grange offers a unique blend of natural attractions, cultural destinations, and urban amenities. Visitors can explore the outdoors, learn about the village’s history, and indulge in local food and drink. With a variety of accommodation options, La Grange is a great destination for a weekend getaway or a longer stay.