Things To Do
in Cicero

Cicero is a town located in the state of Illinois, United States. It is a suburb of Chicago and has a diverse population. The town has a rich history, with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas.

Cicero offers its residents a variety of amenities, including parks, schools, and shopping centers.

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Cicero's Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a peaceful walk at Cicero Creek Park, enjoying the fresh air and scenic views. Bring a picnic breakfast to enjoy by the water.

afternoon
:

Visit the local Cicero Farmer's Market to sample fresh produce and handmade goods. It's a great opportunity to interact with local vendors and learn about the community.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a cozy dinner at a family-owned restaurant. Enjoy some traditional American cuisine while reflecting on your day's adventures.

day 2
Family Fun
morning
:

Spend the morning at the Cicero Community Center where family-oriented activities are often hosted. Join in on sports or craft events for kids of all ages.

afternoon
:

Head to a nearby amusement park for thrilling rides and games. This is a perfect way to enjoy some family bonding time and make great memories.

evening
:

Dine at a family-friendly pizzeria and let everyone choose their own toppings. It's a delicious way to wrap up a fun-filled day.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Cicero has a rich cultural diversity, contributing to a vibrant community atmosphere.
  • The town is located close to Chicago, providing residents easy access to urban amenities and job opportunities.
  • Cicero has various parks and recreational facilities, promoting outdoor activities and family-friendly environments.
  • The area offers a range of dining options and local businesses, contributing to a lively economy.
  • Cicero faces challenges with crime, which can affect safety and community perception.
  • Public transportation options may be limited compared to larger urban areas, making commuting more difficult for some residents.
  • The town has experienced economic fluctuations, which can impact job stability and local businesses.
  • Some areas may face issues with aging infrastructure, necessitating repairs and upgrades.

Best Activities in Cicero

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Bicycling on the Salt Creek Trail

Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Salt Creek Trail, which offers a beautiful route through nature and is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Cicero Community Park

Visit Cicero Community Park for activities like walking, picnics, and sports, providing a great space for outdoor relaxation and recreation.

Fishing at Hawthorne Park District

Hawthorne Park District offers fantastic fishing opportunities, allowing visitors to spend a relaxing day by the waterside.

Tours

Uncover the best of Cicero with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Cicero

Visit one of these nice places.

Morton Park

Beautiful park with stunning views of the Chicago skyline and the surrounding area.

Hawthorne Works Museum

Former industrial complex with historic buildings and a water tower offering unique photo opportunities.

Cermak Woods

Scenic forest preserve with nature trails and picturesque spots for photography.

Food in Cicero

Cicero's food scene represents a diverse mix of flavors, showcasing the area's cultural influences. From traditional American classics to international delights, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Cicero Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chicago-style deep-dish pizza

Indulge in the iconic deep-dish pizza at Giordano's, known for its thick crust, generous layers of cheese, and chunky tomato sauce.

Must-Try!

Italian beef sandwich

Savor the juicy and flavorful Italian beef sandwich at Al's Beef, a local favorite, with perfectly seasoned meat and a crusty roll dipped in au jus.

Jibarito

Experience the Puerto Rican-inspired jibarito at Cafecito, featuring crispy fried plantains instead of bread, layered with meat, cheese, and garlic-flavored mayo.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Cicero better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Maxwell Street Market

Explore the diverse food stalls offering everything from Mexican street food like tacos and elotes to Polish sausages and fresh-cut fries.

Weather

The climate in this area is characterized as humid continental. This means it experiences four distinct seasons, including cold winters and warm to hot summers. During winter months, temperatures often drop below freezing, with snowfall being common. January tends to be the coldest month, while summer months, particularly July, can bring temperatures well into the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with occasional spikes, especially during spring and early summer when thunderstorms can occur. Overall, the region experiences a blend of weather patterns that contribute to its diverse seasonal changes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In Cicero, United States, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversation.

Use polite language and manners

Politeness and using courteous language are valued in Cicero, so it is essential to use 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions.

Respect diversity and inclusivity

Cicero is a diverse community, so it is important to respect and embrace different cultural backgrounds, traditions, and beliefs.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Cicero with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in Cicero, a suburb of Chicago, has been a concern for residents and visitors alike. The area has faced challenges with crime, particularly in certain neighborhoods, which has led to heightened awareness and community efforts focused on improving safety. Local law enforcement works to address crime rates through community policing initiatives and crime prevention programs. The town has been actively involved in promoting neighborhood watch programs and engaging residents in safety awareness campaigns. While certain areas may experience higher crime rates, there are segments of the community that enjoy a sense of security, bolstered by local resources and community engagement. Public safety also encompasses emergency services, which are generally reliable within the town. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and participate in local safety initiatives to foster a safer environment for everyone.

Tipping in Cicero

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is a common practice in the service industry in Cicero, United States. It is customary to tip waitstaff, bartenders, taxi drivers, and other service professionals. The standard tipping rate is generally 15-20% of the total bill.

Payment

Payment for goods and services in Cicero, United States is commonly done using cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment apps. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and cash is widely used for smaller transactions. Mobile payment apps such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also increasingly popular.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cicero.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

In spring, you can expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying the scenic beauty of Cicero.

Summer

Summer brings warm weather perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking, picnicking, and water activities on the nearby lakes.

Fall

Fall in Cicero features beautiful foliage, cooler temperatures, and harvest festivals. It's a great time for nature walks and exploring the local farms.

Winter

Winter is cold in Cicero, with the possibility of snow. It's a good time for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains.

Cicero at Night

The nightlife offers a variety of experiences that cater to different tastes and preferences. For those who enjoy live music and dancing, there are local bars and clubs that often feature Latin music and dance floors where patrons can salsa the night away. Some venues have regular live performances showcasing genres ranging from rock to jazz, allowing music enthusiasts to enjoy a night out. There are also sports bars where locals gather to watch their favorite teams on big screens while enjoying pub fare and drinks. For a more relaxed evening, there are cozy neighborhood bars that provide a laid-back atmosphere ideal for catching up with friends over a cold beer or a cocktail. Overall, while it may not have the bustling nightlife scene of a major city, it offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with a mix of cultural and local flavors that provide plenty of options for an enjoyable evening out.

Hiking in Cicero

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Indiana Dunes National Park

Located about 45 minutes from Cicero, this national park features sandy beaches, forests, and an extensive trail system along the shores of Lake Michigan.

Starved Rock State Park

Approximately an hour and a half away, Starved Rock offers stunning canyons, waterfalls, and hiking trails with scenic views along the Illinois River.

Turkey Run State Park

Around two hours from Cicero, this park features rugged canyons, hiking trails, and picturesque views of the Sugar Creek.

Kankakee River State Park

Located about an hour south of Cicero, it offers trails along the Kankakee River and through diverse ecosystems for hiking enthusiasts.

Chain O'Lakes State Park

This state park, about an hour away, has a network of trails that wind through wetlands and woodlands, ideal for those looking to hike and enjoy nature.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Cicero through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Cicero by plane.

O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

Located approximately 18 miles northeast of Cicero, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the United States and serves as a major hub for international and domestic flights.

Midway International Airport (MDW)

Situated around 8 miles east of Cicero, Midway primarily serves domestic flights but also offers international service to various destinations.

Chicago Executive Airport (PWK)

Located about 22 miles north of Cicero, Chicago Executive is a general aviation airport that caters to private and business flights, with some international connections.

Gary/Chicago International Airport (GYY)

Approximately 30 miles southeast of Cicero, this airport provides limited commercial airline services and is primarily used for regional and private flights.

Walkability

Walkability in Cicero can be characterized by a mix of urban and suburban features, with a focus on accessibility and neighborhood connectivity. The landscape features a variety of residential areas, parks, and local businesses, which can contribute to a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere in certain parts. The presence of sidewalks and street infrastructure is important for walking, and various neighborhoods may differ in their walkability scores. Areas near public transportation, such as bus routes or train stations, typically enhance walkability by providing residents with options for commuting without a car. Community features like schools, parks, and grocery stores also influence walkability, as they encourage foot traffic and daily activities within walking distance. Social amenities, such as restaurants and shops, add to the vibrancy of the community and encourage walking. Overall, while some regions may offer a welcoming pedestrian environment, other parts might be less walkable, particularly if they are more vehicle-centric or lack the necessary support for pedestrian traffic. Efforts to improve walkability, such as better sidewalk maintenance, added crosswalks, and traffic calming measures, can enhance the experience for walkers and foster a more connected community.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Latino or Hispanic

Cicero has a large population of Latino or Hispanic residents, making up a significant majority of the community.

White (Non-Hispanic)

The White (non-Hispanic) demographic represents a smaller portion of Cicero's population compared to Latino or Hispanic residents.

Black or African American

This group comprises a minority within Cicero but contributes to the community's diversity.

Asian

Asians represent a small percentage of the population in Cicero, reflecting broader trends in the region.

Other Races

This category includes individuals who identify as multiracial or belong to other racial/ethnic groups, representing a small segment of the population.

The Soul of Cicero

Discover the essence of Cicero through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a popular sport in Cicero, with numerous local leagues and school teams participating in competitions.

Soccer

Soccer has a strong following in Cicero, with many youth leagues and community events promoting the sport.

Baseball

Baseball is a traditional favorite in Cicero, featuring local teams and recreational leagues for players of all ages.

Football

American football is widely played in Cicero, with local high school teams drawing significant community support.

Volleyball

Volleyball is enjoyed recreationally in Cicero, with facilities available for both indoor and beach volleyball.

Traffic

Situated near Chicago, the traffic in this area can be quite congested, particularly during peak commuting hours. Major roads and highways, such as Interstate 55 and the Stevenson Expressway, often experience heavy volume as commuters travel to and from the city. Local streets may also see significant traffic due to residential areas and businesses, contributing to delays. Public transportation options like buses and trains provide alternatives, but they can also be crowded during rush hour. The mix of commercial vehicles, local traffic, and commuters adds to the complexity of navigating the roads. Overall, patience and planning are key when traveling through this region, especially during busy times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cicero.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian & Vegan

Several eateries like Naansense and Maple N Jams offer extensive vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring plant-based eaters have ample choices.

Gluten-Free

Many restaurants in Cicero accommodate gluten-free diets, with dishes like gluten-free pizza at local pizzerias and gluten-free bread options for sandwiches.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Cicero with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Cicero provides residents with access to a combination of public and private medical services. The town is situated near Chicago, which enhances its healthcare resources and options. Local healthcare facilities include clinics, urgent care centers, and hospitals that offer a variety of services ranging from primary care to specialized treatments. Many residents also seek care from nearby healthcare institutions in Chicago, which feature larger hospitals with more advanced facilities and specialized care. Cicero has a diverse population, which is reflected in the healthcare services available. There are bilingual healthcare providers and resources aimed at addressing the needs of the community's Hispanic population. Public health initiatives are also present, focusing on preventive care, vaccinations, and health education programs. Access to healthcare can vary, with some residents facing challenges such as transportation issues or lack of insurance. However, various community health programs and local organizations aim to bridge these gaps by providing resources and support for individuals seeking medical care. Overall, the healthcare landscape in Cicero is shaped by its proximity to urban healthcare systems, community needs, and ongoing efforts to improve health access for all residents.

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