Things To Do
in Frankfort Square
Frankfort Square is a bustling urban hub in the Midwest that blends historic charm with modern culture. The square features a grand limestone plaza, a shaded park, and frequent street performances that enliven the streets year-round. Just steps away, visitors find boutique shops, cozy cafes, and riverfront trails perfect for a relaxed stroll.
Its convenient proximity to a major city makes Frankfort Square an ideal base for both city explorations and easy day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey by checking into a cozy local inn in Frankfort Square and unpacking at leisure. Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee at a nearby café while reviewing a map of the area. Take a relaxed stroll through the central square to soak in the small-town charm.
Join a friendly local guide for an introductory walking tour through the historic district, learning about early settlers and architectural highlights. Pop into the local visitor center to pick up brochures and insider tips for the week ahead. Stop for lunch at a family-owned deli serving hearty sandwiches and homemade soup.
Graze on gourmet pizza or pasta at a popular Italian bistro illuminated by warm string lights. Wander back through the square as shops close, enjoying the gentle glow of street lamps. End the night with a scoop of artisan ice cream while listening to a busker’s guitar performance.
Set out on foot to discover century-old brick storefronts and vintage street signs that tell the story of Frankfort Square’s founding. Browse art galleries and antique shops that showcase local craftsmanship. Pause at a landmark fountain to snap photos and chat with friendly shopkeepers.
Indulge in a classic American lunch at a 1950s-style diner complete with jukebox tunes. Continue your journey by visiting restored heritage buildings and learning about their transformation over time. Sample locally made pastries at a charming bakery tucked into an alleyway.
Attend a storytelling session at the historic community theater, where actors recount tales of pioneer days and ghostly legends. Sip a glass of regional wine during intermission. After the show, meander through lantern-lit streets and greet fellow visitors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🥗Meal for two in mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🚕Taxi 1-way | $8-15 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom in city center | $1,600-2,200 |
| 💡Utilities (monthly, 1-bedroom) | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Highly walkable and compact for a short visit
- Vibrant dining scene with diverse options
- Easy access to parks, riverfronts, and cultural venues
- Proximity to Chicago allows day trips and further exploration
- Parking can be challenging and expensive in busy periods
- Popular areas can feel crowded on weekends
- Some upscale areas may be pricey for travelers on a tight budget
- Weather can be unpredictable in spring and fall
Places to Visit in Frankfort Square
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour light over the limestone plaza, capturing long shadows and early-morning activity.
Statues, columns, and city views make for classic architectural photography with a sense of place.
Waterfront vistas, bridge silhouettes, and reflections during early morning or evening walks.
A curated loop of sculptures and murals around the square, ideal for color and texture contrasts.
Food in Frankfort Square
Frankfort Square Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A robust double-patty burger served on a toasted bun with caramelized onions, pickles, and a house sauce at several neighborhood diners.
Must-Try!
Flaky salmon with a bright lemon-pepper glaze, often paired with roasted vegetables and a herb bump from local markets.
A vegetarian-friendly skillet featuring seasonal vegetables, quinoa or polenta, and a savory herb-infused sauce.
A hot dog topped with mustard, onions, relish, peppers, and a pickle spear, available at many casual spots around the square.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts—great for sampling snacks and picking up picnic ingredients.
A lively stretch with diverse vendors offering pretzels, tacos, ethnic bites, and quick-fix comfort foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly hellos are common; keep conversations polite and respectful. Walkers often stay to the right on sidewalks and escalators to allow others to pass.
Respect orderly lines, especially at markets and transit stations. Patience and courtesy go a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Frankfort Square
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, tip restaurant servers 15-20% of the bill before tax. For counter service or takeout, tips are optional but appreciated if service was good. For taxis and rideshares, 10-15% is customary.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, with contactless payments common. Cash is still handy for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm days with humidity and occasional thunderstorms. Pack water, wear sunscreen, and take advantage of outdoor concerts and farmers markets in the evenings.
Pleasant temperatures with colorful foliage. Perfect for outdoor strolls along the Riverwalk and early sunset photography.
Cold with possible snow. Indoor museums and cafés are great, and festive light displays brighten the evenings.
Milder weather with seasonal blooms. Great for outdoor markets, park picnics, and gallery hopping.
Frankfort Square at Night
Hiking in Frankfort Square
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive wooded trails in Palos Park with varying difficulty, ideal for day hikes and nature photography.
Popular forest preserve with lakes and loop trails suitable for all levels, especially in spring and fall.
Stretch of dunes and Lake Michigan shoreline offering long beach hikes, dune climbs, and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Frankfort Square by plane.
Major international hub about 20-25 miles from Frankfort Square, offering extensive domestic and international flights and a wide range of transit options into the city.
Secondary airport serving many domestic routes, typically closer to downtown Chicago and well-connected by public transit and rideshare services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents work in nearby business districts and enjoy quick access to dining and cultural venues.
Parks, schools, and community programs attract families seeking a balanced urban-suburban feel.
A portion of the population engages in arts, education, and local creative entrepreneurship.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple pastime in local gyms and parks; community leagues and pickup games are common.
Local parks host leagues and casual tosses during warmer months.
Outdoor fields and indoor centers attract recreational teams and friendly matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Frankfort Square.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most spots offer veggie-forward mains, grain bowls, and dairy-free options. When in doubt, ask for vegetarian proteins like beans, lentils, or tofu, and check for cross-contamination if needed.