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Things To Do In the Northwest Suburbs
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items Explore the best of the Northwest Suburbs with this must-do list featuring scenic parks and mouthwatering local eats. From peaceful nature trails and family-friendly playgrounds to cozy brunch spots and bold global flavors, there’s something for ever...
Map
Sections
4
Outdoor Activities
Restaurants
Other Food & Drinks
Arts & Entertainment
Outdoor Activities
Spring Valley Park in Schaumburg is a hidden gem for all ages. With scenic trails, a nature center, and the interactive Volkening Heritage Farm, there’s something for everyone—from toddlers at Bison’s Bluff playground to adults seeking a peaceful nat...
Spring Valley
The Chicago Botanic Garden is a stunning escape for all ages, with 27 themed gardens, peaceful walking paths, and hands-on fun for kids. Don’t miss **Lightscape** in the winter—an unforgettable, glowing experience through the gardens! 🌿✨
Chicago Botanic Garden
Citizens Park in Barrington is a 45-acre community hub offering something for everyone. Kids can enjoy the playground and splash pad, while families can picnic under shaded pavilions. The park features tennis and basketball courts, and its walking tr...
Citizens Park
The Lake Zurich Farmers Market, held Fridays from 3–7 PM at Paulus Park, is a vibrant community gathering offering over 30 vendors. Visitors can find fresh produce, baked goods, sauces, honey, pesto, spices, cheese, eggs, fresh meat, seafood, and mor...
Lake Zurich Farmers Market
Restaurants
PL8 Simply Asian in Barrington offers fresh, flavorful Chinese cuisine in a sleek, modern space. Standouts like Seven Flavor Chicken and Chong Ching Noodles bring bold, authentic taste, making it a local favorite for elevated comfort food. 🥢
PL8 Restaurant
Hacienda Real in Vernon Hills brings club-like Tulum vibes with lush decor, lively energy, and bold flavors. The star? Their sizzling tableside Tomahawk steak—a showstopping feast worth the hype. 🌴🥩🔥
Hacienda Real
Region Kitchen and Bar in Barrington offers elevated American cuisine in a chic, relaxed setting. Standout dishes include the indulgent Bang Bang Cauliflower, the rich Short Rib with boursin whipped potatoes, and the decadent English Sticky Toffee Pu...
Region Kitchen and Bar
Francesca’s Famiglia in Barrington offers rustic Italian cuisine in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Standout dishes include the creamy Paccheri alla Vodka e Salsiccia, the zesty Pollo al Limone, and the rich Fettuccine with Rock Shrimp. Known for...
Francesca's Famiglia
ChatGPT said: Neoteca in Barrington offers a chic yet cozy ambiance with standout Italian dishes. Their wood-fired pizzas, like the Hot Honey Pepperoni, and house-made pastas such as Spaghetti and Meatballs are crowd favorites. Pair your meal with se...
Neoteca
Enzo & Lucia in Long Grove offers rustic Italian cuisine in a charming Victorian setting. Highlights include the housemade gnocchi in tomato basil sauce, seafood pasta, and veal Marsala. The cozy atmosphere and attentive service make it ideal for...
Enzo & Lucia Ristorante
Chatterbox of Long Grove offers a cozy, rustic setting with a menu full of bold flavors. Popular dishes include the BBQ pork flatbread, prime rib sliders, and loaded fries. With daily specials and a welcoming atmosphere, it's a local favorite for cas...
The Chatter Box of Long Grove
Other Food & Drinks
Buffalo Creek Brewing in Long Grove offers a laid-back atmosphere with a variety of craft beers and rotating food trucks. Enjoy their flagship Marrvelous German ale or the crisp Long Grove Lager while sampling rotating local foodtrucks such as Happy ...
Buffalo Creek Brewing
Shirley's Piano Bar in Barrington offers a cozy, intimate setting with live piano music and a curated selection of handcrafted cocktails. While they don't serve food, guests can enjoy expertly crafted drinks like chocolate martinis and Tito's & t...
Shirley's Piano Bar
Stompin' Grounds Café in Lake Zurich offers a delightful array of handcrafted beverages in a cozy, community-focused setting. Their menu features a variety of drinks, including the popular Honey Bee Latte and the refreshing Iced Vanilla Ella. Each dr...
Stompin' Grounds Cafe
Nékter Juice Bar in Barrington serves fresh, cold-pressed juices and smoothies packed with wholesome ingredients. Favorites include the refreshing Toxin Flush™ and creamy PB&J Smoothie—perfect for a healthy boost anytime!
Nekter Juice Bar
🍺✨ Hidden gem alert! The **Hideaway Brew Garden** in Hoffman Estates is the ultimate outdoor hangout—think cold craft beers, live music 🎶, twinkle lights 🌟, and laid-back vibes all season long. Bring your crew, chill under the stars, and sip the n...
Hideaway Brew Garden
Arts & Entertainment
Lake Zurich’s Rock the Block is a lively downtown street festival held annually on Main Street, offering a vibrant mix of music, food, and community spirit. The event features three live bands, local food vendors, and a beer and wine garden, creating...
Rock the Block | Lake Zurich, IL - Official Website
Jack O'Lantern World in Lake Zurich is a must-see fall attraction for all ages. This immersive experience features over 5,000 hand-carved pumpkins arranged in 17 themed worlds, showcasing the artistry of more than 50 artisans . The ¾-mile trail is st...
Jack O'lantern World