Things To Do
in Des Plaines
Des Plaines is a city located in Cook County, Illinois, United States. It is a vibrant community known for its diverse population, historic downtown area, and excellent schools. The city offers a range of recreational opportunities, including parks, golf courses, and a popular water park.
Des Plaines is conveniently located near Chicago, providing residents with easy access to big-city amenities and attractions.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $75
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Lake Opeka. Enjoy a relaxing stroll or rent a paddleboat to take in the scenic views.
Head to the River Trail Nature Center for an afternoon of hiking and wildlife spotting. The center features educational exhibits and a peaceful atmosphere.
Enjoy dinner at a local favorite restaurant, known for its delicious Italian cuisine. Afterward, catch a movie at a nearby theater to wind down.
Begin with a visit to the Des Plaines Conservation District. Walk through the wooded trails and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Have a picnic lunch at the scenic Lake Park, where you can relax by the water. After your meal, explore the park's playground and sports facilities.
Wrap up your day with some live music at a local venue. Savor the vibrant atmosphere and meet new people.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Good access to transportation options, including proximity to highways and O'Hare International Airport.
- A variety of recreational parks and outdoor activities available for residents.
- A diverse community with a mix of cultural events and activities.
- Strong school systems and educational opportunities for families.
- Affordable housing compared to other areas in the Chicago metropolitan region.
- Higher property taxes compared to some surrounding areas.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options for younger residents.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
- Some areas may experience more crime than others, requiring awareness.
- Weather can be harsh in winter, with cold temperatures and snowfall.
Best Activities in Des Plaines
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy fishing, paddle boating, and picnicking in a beautiful lakeside setting.
Explore the scenic trail for walking, running, and biking alongside the Des Plaines River.
Tours
Uncover the best of Des Plaines with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Des Plaines
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the Des Plaines River and surrounding area.
Scenic park with lake views and green spaces, perfect for photography.
Features picturesque walking trails and opportunities for capturing natural landscapes.
Food in Des Plaines
Des Plaines Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Chicago-style sandwich featuring thinly sliced seasoned roast beef, dripping with juices, on a dense Italian-style roll
Must-Try!
A thick, hearty pizza pie covered in rich tomato sauce, layered with cheese and various toppings, served in many pizzerias across Des Plaines
Unique Experiences
Get to know Des Plaines better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Offering a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and food stalls, this market is a great place to sample local delights and handmade treats
Every Friday, food trucks gather to offer a wide array of street food options, from gourmet tacos to BBQ delights, providing a fantastic opportunity to taste different cuisines
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Des Plaines, it is important to respect personal space and avoid getting too close to others, especially when in public places or in line.
When meeting someone in Des Plaines, it is customary to greet them with a handshake and make eye contact. It's also important to use titles such as Mr., Mrs., or Dr. when addressing someone until familiarity is established.
Des Plaines is a diverse community, and it is essential to show respect for people from different cultural backgrounds, religions, and beliefs. Being open-minded and tolerant is highly valued.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Des Plaines with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Des Plaines
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in the service industry in Des Plaines, United States. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants, cafes, and bars. Tipping is also expected for services such as hairdressing, taxi rides, and hotel accommodations.
Payment in Des Plaines, United States, is typically made through credit or debit cards, cash, or mobile payment apps. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular. It is important to note that sales tax is not usually included in the displayed prices and will be added to the total at the time of payment.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Des Plaines.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Des Plaines, with blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures. It's perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Summer brings warm weather and a lively atmosphere to Des Plaines. Visitors can look forward to outdoor events, festivals, and abundant greenery.
Fall is a picturesque time to visit Des Plaines, as the foliage transforms into beautiful autumn colors. The weather is crisp, and it's a great time for scenic drives and outdoor outings.
Winter in Des Plaines can be cold, but it also offers a charming winter wonderland ambiance. Visitors can enjoy winter sports, holiday festivities, and cozy indoor activities.
Des Plaines at Night
Hiking in Des Plaines
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large forest preserve featuring numerous hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and picturesque views along the Salt Creek.
A scenic trail that runs along Salt Creek, providing a peaceful hiking experience with access to nature and various parks along the way.
A network of trails in parks around Elk Grove Village offering well-maintained paths for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
A vast system of preserved natural areas with numerous hiking trails, picnic spots, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Located a bit farther away, this trail system offers extensive hiking options through wooded areas, lakes, and hills, ideal for all skill levels.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Des Plaines through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Des Plaines by plane.
Located in Chicago, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world and a major hub for numerous airlines.
Also located in Chicago, Midway serves as a secondary airport and is particularly known for Southwest Airlines operations.
Located in Wheeling, just northwest of Des Plaines, this is a general aviation airport that caters primarily to private and corporate flights.
Located in Gary, Indiana, this airport serves as a secondary airport for the Chicago metropolitan area and is primarily for regional flights.
Situated in Rockford, Illinois, this airport serves both passenger and cargo flights and is about an hour's drive from Des Plaines.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
51.6% of the population identifies as White.
18.6% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino.
8.6% of the population identifies as Black or African American.
20.7% of the population identifies as Asian.
Approximately 0.5% of the population identifies with other races.
The Soul of Des Plaines
Discover the essence of Des Plaines through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular indoor sport in Des Plaines, with various leagues and programs available for all ages at local community centers and schools.
Widely played among youth and adults, with numerous clubs and leagues fostering participation in this globally loved sport.
A traditional American pastime, with many youth leagues and recreational teams active during the spring and summer seasons.
High school football games draw significant community support, with local teams competing in various leagues.
With easy access to rinks, ice hockey is a favored sport, featuring youth leagues and adult recreational leagues.
Popular in both indoor and beach settings, with local clubs offering leagues and open play for players of all skill levels.
Numerous public courts are available, and local clubs often host tournaments and clinics for tennis enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Des Plaines.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Des Plaines offer vegetarian and vegan choices, with options ranging from hearty salads to plant-based burgers and innovative meat-free creations
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can explore a range of gluten-free dishes at select eateries, including gluten-free pizza and pasta, ensuring a diverse dining experience
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Des Plaines with these cultural adventures.
