Things To Do
in North Chicago
North Chicago is a city located in Lake County, Illinois, United States. It is home to the Great Lakes Naval Training Center, a major military installation. The city has a diverse population and a rich history dating back to the 1800s.
North Chicago offers a variety of amenities for residents and visitors, including parks, shopping areas, and cultural attractions.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $75
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at North Avenue Beach with a refreshing walk along the shore. Enjoy the scenic views and relax with a coffee from a nearby café.
Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo, known for its beautiful landscapes and free admission. Spend time walking through the grounds and observing the animals.
Head to a local restaurant for dinner, enjoying Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. Follow this with a stroll along the waterfront for stunning sunset views.
Explore the picturesque paths of Lincoln Park. Take in the fresh air and visit the Conservatory to admire various plant species.
Head to the Chicago History Museum to delve into the city's rich past. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase significant moments in Chicago.
Dine at a trendy eatery in the area, experiencing innovative local cuisine. Wind down with a visit to a local theater for a live performance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Lake Michigan and various recreational opportunities
- Diverse community with a rich cultural heritage
- Access to public transportation including Metra trains and buses
- Affordable housing options compared to nearby cities like Chicago
- Growing number of local businesses and restaurants
- Higher crime rates compared to national averages
- Limited access to high-quality public schools
- Economic challenges with some areas experiencing disinvestment
- Potential for harsh weather conditions, especially winters
- Public amenities and services may be less comprehensive than larger cities
Best Activities in North Chicago
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Attend concerts and events at the country's oldest outdoor music festival.
Enjoy activities such as walking, cycling, and picnicking along the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline.
Explore the extensive gardens, nature trails, and beauty of the Chicago Botanic Garden.
Tours
Uncover the best of North Chicago with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in North Chicago
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic trail along Lake Michigan with beautiful views of the city skyline.
Offers panoramic views of the city and Lake Michigan from the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center.
Home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture with stunning reflections of the city skyline.
Food in North Chicago
North Chicago Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indulge in a thick, decadent pizza pie with a buttery crust and generous layers of cheese and chunky tomato sauce, often topped with a variety of ingredients. Recommended establishments: Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, Giordano's
Must-Try!
Savor a classic all-beef hot dog nestled in a poppy seed bun and adorned with yellow mustard, chopped onions, bright green relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. Recommended establishments: Portillo's, Superdawg Drive-In
Enjoy a savory sandwich featuring thinly sliced, seasoned roast beef on a hearty Italian roll, often served with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera. Recommended establishments: Al’s Beef, Johnnie’s Beef
Unique Experiences
Get to know North Chicago better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market is a hub for authentic street food, offering a variety of ethnic dishes, including Mexican tacos, Polish sausages, and more. It’s a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking a lively atmosphere and diverse flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In North Chicago, it's important to respect personal space and maintain an appropriate distance when interacting with others.
Politeness and good manners are valued in North Chicago, so using 'please' and 'thank you' is important in interactions.
North Chicago is a diverse community, so being open-minded and respectful of different cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs is essential.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of North Chicago with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in North Chicago
Ensure a smooth experience
In North Chicago, it is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and taxi drivers. The standard gratuity is around 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in North Chicago is commonly made using credit or debit cards, but cash is widely accepted as well. Most businesses, including restaurants and shops, also accept mobile payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into North Chicago.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit North Chicago, with pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities.
Warm temperatures ideal for outdoor events, festivals, and enjoying the nearby lake.
Beautiful foliage, cooler temperatures, and harvest festivals make Fall a great time to visit North Chicago.
Cold weather with opportunities for winter sports, holiday events, and festive decorations.
North Chicago at Night
Hiking in North Chicago
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A series of connected lagoons surrounded by a trail that is ideal for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
A peaceful nature preserve featuring trails through diverse habitats, perfect for hiking and exploring local flora and fauna.
A large forest preserve with miles of hiking trails, offering beautiful views of forests, lakes, and rivers.
Famous for its stunning canyons and waterfalls, this park provides hiking trails with breathtaking views and scenic overlook.
This preserve features a 9.5-mile loop trail that meanders through wooded areas and along scenic views, including beautiful waterfalls.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into North Chicago through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach North Chicago by plane.
Located 17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world and serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
Situated about 10 miles southwest of downtown Chicago, Midway is a major airport serving domestic flights and some international destinations.
Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, approximately 70 miles north of Chicago, this airport handles both domestic and international flights.
About 30 miles southeast of downtown Chicago, this smaller airport offers limited commercial flights and is primarily used for general aviation.
RFD is located about 80 miles northwest of Chicago and serves both passenger and freight services, with some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Individuals of European descent, constituting a significant demographic group.
Individuals of African descent, representing a substantial portion of the population.
Individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin, including various cultural backgrounds.
Individuals of Asian descent, including various nationalities and ethnicities.
Individuals identifying with two or more racial groups.
Individuals who do not fall under the primary racial categories, including those of Middle Eastern or Pacific Islander descent.
The Soul of North Chicago
Discover the essence of North Chicago through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a popular sport in North Chicago, with many youth and adult leagues available, as well as local school teams competing at various levels.
Football is widely played in North Chicago, with local high school teams, community leagues, and recreational play among residents.
Soccer has gained popularity in North Chicago, with numerous youth leagues and teams participating in regional competitions.
Baseball remains a traditional pastime in North Chicago, with various local teams and leagues for children and adults.
Softball is a popular recreational sport in North Chicago, especially among adults, with many leagues and tournaments organized throughout the year.
Ice hockey is favored in North Chicago, particularly with access to local rinks and youth hockey programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting North Chicago.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
North Chicago boasts a growing number of restaurants and eateries that cater specifically to vegetarians and vegans. Many establishments offer plant-based alternatives and creative dishes that cater to these dietary preferences.
Visitors with gluten-free dietary needs will find numerous restaurants and cafes in North Chicago that provide dedicated gluten-free menus or adapt their dishes to accommodate gluten restrictions, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for all guests.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of North Chicago with these cultural adventures.
