Things To Do
in DeKalb
DeKalb is a vibrant city located in the state of Illinois, United States. It is known for being the home of Northern Illinois University, a prominent public research university. With a mix of urban amenities and a small-town feel, DeKalb offers a diverse range of cultural attractions and recreational activities for residents and visitors alike.
The city's rich history, friendly community, and beautiful parks make it a desirable place to live and visit.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful campus of Northern Illinois University to admire its architecture. Enjoy a coffee from a local café while strolling through the serene grounds.
Explore the DeKalb County History Center to learn about the rich history of the area. Grab lunch at a local diner and savor some classic American cuisine.
Relax at the Ellwood House Museum for a guided tour of this historic mansion. Cap off the night with dinner at a cozy restaurant downtown.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike at the nearby Kishwaukee River Forest Preserve. Breathe in the fresh air as you take in the scenic views along the trails.
Visit the DeKalb Farmers Market to check out local produce and handmade goods. Enjoy a picnic lunch with fresh finds from the market in a local park.
Attend a community event or concert at the Egyptian Theatre for a taste of local culture. Grab dinner at a food truck or casual eatery nearby while soaking up the atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Strong sense of community and friendly residents.
- Access to quality education through Northern Illinois University.
- Variety of outdoor recreational opportunities including parks and trails.
- Rich cultural events and festivals celebrating local heritage.
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields.
- Dependence on nearby larger cities for entertainment and shopping.
- Potential for harsh weather conditions, particularly in winter.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
- Higher crime rates compared to some neighboring areas.
Best Activities in DeKalb
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy fishing for bass, crappie, catfish, and more at Shabbona Lake State Park. The park also offers opportunities for boating and birdwatching.
Hoppe Park features scenic trails that are perfect for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Explore the picturesque countryside of DeKalb by cycling along the Prairie Path, which offers peaceful and scenic routes for all experience levels.
Tours
Uncover the best of DeKalb with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in DeKalb
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a beautiful view of nature and greenery, along with opportunities for scenic photography.
Provides a panoramic view of the Northern Illinois University campus and surrounding area, ideal for capturing stunning photographs.
Food in DeKalb
DeKalb Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A gigantic burger topped with a special sauce and served at Fatty's Pub & Grille, a popular local sports bar.
Must-Try!
Delicious deep-fried fritters made using local sweet corn, available at the Corn Fest held annually in August.
Unique Experiences
Get to know DeKalb better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local delicacies, located in Van Buer Plaza.
Regular gatherings of food trucks offering diverse street food options including tacos, BBQ, and gourmet sandwiches at Open Space Park.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In DeKalb, it is important to be mindful of people's personal space and avoid standing too close or touching others without permission.
DeKalb is a diverse community, so it's important to show respect and appreciation for people of different cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and lifestyles.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in DeKalb, so it's important to use 'please' and 'thank you', and to greet others with a friendly demeanor.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of DeKalb with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in DeKalb
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in DeKalb, United States, especially in service industries such as restaurants, bars, and hotels. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill for good service, although the exact amount may vary depending on the quality of service and personal discretion.
In DeKalb, United States, payment for goods and services is primarily done through cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods. It is common for businesses to accept all major credit cards, and contactless payment options are also gaining popularity. Additionally, online and mobile payment platforms are widely used for e-commerce and bill payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into DeKalb.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit DeKalb, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It's perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the natural attractions in the area.
Summer in DeKalb brings warm weather and plenty of outdoor events and festivals. It's a popular time for visitors to enjoy the sunshine and take part in various activities.
The fall in DeKalb is characterized by beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures. It's an ideal time for hiking and enjoying the scenic landscapes.
Winter can be cold in DeKalb, but it's a great time for winter sports and enjoying the snow-covered landscapes. Visiting during the winter offers a different perspective of the area's beauty.
DeKalb at Night
Hiking in DeKalb
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful forested area offering a variety of hiking trails, scenic views, and outdoor activities, located within a few hours' drive from DeKalb.
A local park with a network of trails through wooded areas, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature right near DeKalb.
Known for its stunning canyons and waterfalls, this popular state park offers multiple hiking trails and breathtaking vistas.
Adjacent to Starved Rock, this park features rugged topography, including canyons and trails, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
A serene forest preserve offering trails along the Kishwaukee River, suitable for hiking and enjoying the wetlands and woodlands.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into DeKalb through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach DeKalb by plane.
Located approximately 65 miles east of DeKalb, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world and serves as a major hub for international travel.
Located about 70 miles east of DeKalb, Midway is another major airport serving Chicago, primarily focusing on domestic flights but with some international service.
Located approximately 100 miles northeast of DeKalb, this airport serves Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and offers several international destinations.
Situated about 45 miles northwest of DeKalb, this airport offers limited international flights and primarily serves domestic destinations.
Located roughly 30 miles east of DeKalb, this airport primarily serves general aviation but is near several commercial options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in DeKalb, primarily consisting of individuals of European descent.
A significant population group, representing individuals of various Latin American backgrounds.
A vital demographic group including individuals of African descent.
Comprising individuals from various Asian backgrounds, including but not limited to South Asian, East Asian, and Southeast Asian.
This group includes individuals who identify with more than one racial category.
A smaller demographic group representing the indigenous peoples of North America.
A very small demographic group representing individuals from Pacific Islander backgrounds.
The Soul of DeKalb
Discover the essence of DeKalb through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in DeKalb, especially at the high school and collegiate levels, with a strong local following.
Basketball is widely played in DeKalb, with numerous programs available for youth and adults, as well as support from local schools.
Soccer has been growing in popularity in DeKalb, with increasing participation in youth leagues and local clubs.
Baseball remains a traditional sport in DeKalb, with local leagues and school teams participating in the sport.
Volleyball is popular in DeKalb, particularly among high school students and in community recreational leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting DeKalb.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries provide diverse vegetarian and vegan menu items, such as the veggie fajitas at Taxco Mexican Cuisine.
Several restaurants offer gluten-free dishes, like the gluten-free pizza at O'Leary's Restaurant & Pub.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of DeKalb with these cultural adventures.
