Things To Do
in Harwood Heights
Harwood Heights is a small, residential village in Cook County on Chicago’s northwest side, known for its quiet streets, community parks, and close proximity to O'Hare International Airport. The village has a suburban feel with a mix of single-family homes, local shops, and a handful of churches and community institutions that reflect its multiethnic population. While Harwood Heights itself is compact, it’s a convenient base for exploring Chicago’s attractions, nearby forest preserves, and the wider northwest suburban amenities.
Visitors can expect easy access to major highways, short drives to major hospitals and shopping, and a low-key small-town atmosphere with quick routes into the city.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at O'Hare International Airport and take a short drive to your accommodations in Harwood Heights. Settle in and freshen up before heading out to explore the neighborhood. Grab a delightful breakfast at a local café to start your adventure.
Visit the nearby Harwood Heights Park, where you can stroll around scenic walking paths and enjoy the serene environment. Take time to relax by the lake and watch the local wildlife. Lunch can be enjoyed at a quaint eatery, offering classic American fare.
As evening sets in, explore the local dining scene for dinner, featuring everything from Italian to Latin American cuisine. After a satisfying meal, take a leisurely walk around the neighborhood, soaking up the vibrant local atmosphere. Conclude your night with a cozy stop at a local coffee shop.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast in Harwood Heights before heading into the heart of Chicago. Spend the morning visiting renowned attractions such as the Art Institute of Chicago or Millennium Park. Immerse yourself in the local history and art as you take in the iconic sites.
In the afternoon, enjoy lunch in Chicago’s Loop area, famous for its diverse dining options. Afterward, venture to the Field Museum or Shedd Aquarium for an interactive cultural experience. Both attractions offer wonderful insights into history and nature, perfect for a memorable afternoon.
As the sun sets, indulge in a Chicago deep-dish pizza at one of the city's legendary pizzerias. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife with an evening stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk. Wind down with a cocktail at a rooftop bar, taking in stunning city views.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌Single public transit ride (CTA) | $2.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $80-160 |
| 🛒Grocery run (per week, per person) | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, residential atmosphere with close-knit community feel
- Very convenient access to O'Hare Airport and major highways for regional travel
- Close to large forest preserves and outdoor recreation
- Short drive to Chicago’s extensive dining, cultural and nightlife options
- Limited on-site nightlife and cultural attractions within the village itself
- Dependence on a car for many errands and to reach a wide variety of dining and entertainment
- Winter weather can be harsh and occasionally disrupt travel
- Public transit options are less frequent than in central Chicago
Places to Visit in Harwood Heights
Visit one of these nice places.
Lakes, boardwalks and wooded trails provide reflections, wildlife, and seasonal colors — excellent for landscape and nature photography, especially at golden hour.
Close proximity to O'Hare allows for plane-spotting and dynamic sky photos from safe public viewing areas near the airport perimeter or elevated spots nearby.
A short drive into the city provides classic skyline views at Montrose Harbor, North Avenue Beach, or from the Adler Planetarium for dramatic urban panoramas.
Capture small-town Midwestern charm — tree-lined residential streets, local churches, and any seasonal community events with lights, parades, and stalls.
Food in Harwood Heights
Harwood Heights Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pierogi, stuffed cabbage (golabki) and smoked kielbasa are common in local delis and family restaurants — try neighborhood Polish bakeries and parish fundraisers for authentic versions.
Must-Try!
A short drive into Chicago gets you classic deep-dish pizza; locally you can also find tavern-style thin-crust pies at suburban pizzerias.
Traditional breakfasts, meatloaf, pot roast and burgers are staples at local diners and family restaurants around Harwood Heights.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small independent delis and Polish bakeries in and around the village offer fresh pastries, cold cuts, and homemade soups — great for grabbing a quick, authentic bite.
Seasonal farmers markets in neighboring suburbs and Chicago provide fresh produce, prepared foods, and artisanal vendors (check schedules for spring–fall).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Casual greetings (a friendly 'hello' or a handshake) are standard; people value personal space and polite conversation.
Being on time for appointments and reservations is expected; plan for traffic when traveling to meetings or events.
Keep parks and residential areas clean, follow leash rules for dogs, and obey posted signage in preserves and commercial areas.
Safety
Tipping in Harwood Heights
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S. tipping is expected: typically 15–20% of the pre-tax bill at full-service restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, 10–15% for taxis and rideshares, and $1–5 for hotel services depending on assistance.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common. Carry some cash for very small purchases or vendors, but most businesses accept cards. ATMs are available nearby.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and humid with daytime temperatures often in the 70s–80s°F (20s–30°C); ideal for forest preserve walks, outdoor dining, and festivals. Expect mosquitoes near wetlands and bring sunscreen and water for longer outings.
Crisp, pleasant weather and fall foliage (late September–November) make this a great time for hiking and scenic drives. Layered clothing is recommended as temperatures can swing between mild afternoons and cool mornings.
Cold with snow and icy conditions common from December through February; temperatures frequently dip below freezing. Dress warmly, allow extra travel time on snowy roads, and be mindful of shortened daylight for outdoor activities.
Variable weather with warming temperatures, rain showers and budding trees. Trails can be muddy early in the season; bring waterproof footwear and check local trail conditions.
Harwood Heights at Night
Hiking in Harwood Heights
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Large forest preserve with miles of trails, boardwalks around lagoons, and opportunities for birdwatching, cycling and peaceful walks.
Regional trail along the Des Plaines River offering longer runs, bike rides and scenic river views; sections connect several forest preserves and parks.
Trails and paths along the North Branch of the Chicago River and connected greenways provide quieter urban-nature experiences and city skyline views further downstream.
Airports
How to reach Harwood Heights by plane.
About a 10–20 minute drive depending on traffic; the primary international gateway serving Chicago with many domestic and international flights. Ground transportation includes taxis, rideshares, rental cars and public transit (Blue Line from downtown).
Approximately 30–40 minutes by car from Harwood Heights; serves many domestic and some regional flights and is accessible by road or transit from the southwest side of Chicago.
A smaller general aviation and business airport in nearby Wheeling/Prospect Heights, convenient for private flights and some charters.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families and working professionals who commute to jobs across Chicago and nearby suburbs.
The village has a population of long-term homeowners and retirees who value the quiet residential environment.
There is a multicultural mix with noticeable Polish and Hispanic communities reflected in local churches, bakeries and cultural events, along with other ethnic groups typical of Chicago-area suburbs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
NFL fandom is strong across the region — games, tailgates and viewing parties are popular in local bars and homes.
Major-league baseball is a key part of local sports culture; many residents follow either the Cubs (North Side) or White Sox (South Side).
NBA fandom (Chicago Bulls) and community basketball and soccer leagues are common for kids and adults.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Harwood Heights.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at cafés and many restaurants, though traditional Polish/Italian places may be meat-focused; larger supermarkets and city restaurants provide more variety.
Vegan choices are growing but limited in small suburbs — venture into Chicago for many dedicated vegan restaurants and specialty grocery items.
Some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests; specialty breads and gluten-free products are available in larger grocery stores and in the city.
Dedicated halal or kosher establishments are limited in the immediate village; nearby Chicago neighborhoods have more options and specialty markets.