Things To Do
in Wheaton
Wheaton is a suburb located in the state of Illinois, about 25 miles west of Chicago. It is known for its tree-lined streets, historic downtown area, and well-maintained parks. The community is home to a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees, creating a diverse and welcoming atmosphere.
Wheaton offers a range of amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it a popular place to live for those seeking a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the city.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Wheaton Regional Park. Enjoy a walk through the gardens and perhaps visit the miniature train.
After lunch, head to the Brookside Gardens to appreciate the vibrant flowers and well-maintained paths. Take your time strolling through the conservatories and enjoy some peaceful moments.
As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxing dinner in one of Wheaton’s local eateries. Consider a casual stroll to soak in the charming evening ambiance.
Begin your day at the Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center, where you can explore various art exhibitions. Participate in a workshop to create your own masterpiece.
In the afternoon, check out local galleries featuring works from regional artists. You can also visit the nearby Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission for more artistic displays.
Conclude your day with a live performance at the nearby theater. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that complements the artistic vibe of the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong community feel with a family-friendly environment.
- Good schools and educational opportunities.
- Access to parks and recreational facilities.
- Cultural diversity and various community events.
- Proximity to Chicago provides additional urban amenities and job opportunities.
- Higher cost of living compared to some neighboring areas.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours.
- Cold winters can be a downside for those not accustomed to severe weather.
- Some areas may be perceived as lacking nightlife or entertainment options.
Best Activities in Wheaton
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful gardens and natural landscapes
Enjoy gardens, museums, and outdoor events at this historic estate
Hike or horseback ride through wooded trails and open fields
Try fishing, boating, or picnicking by the lake
Play a round of golf on a scenic course
Tours
Uncover the best of Wheaton with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Wheaton
Visit one of these nice places.
Beautiful garden and park with multiple picturesque spots for photo opportunities
Expansive outdoor space with stunning natural landscapes, perfect for photography
Scenic location with wooded areas and open fields, great for capturing nature shots
Food in Wheaton
Wheaton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Maryland classic, these crab cakes are best enjoyed at Kinchley's Tavern, known for their perfectly seasoned and crispy version.
Must-Try!
Head to Wheezy's for a mouthwatering pit beef sandwich, a local delicacy featuring thinly sliced, slow-roasted beef piled high on a roll.
Try the seasoned fries at Kelsey's Restaurant for a unique blend of flavors that include the iconic Old Bay seasoning that's popular in the region.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Wheaton better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Sunday, local vendors offer fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats, making it a must-visit for food lovers.
For delectable street food, stop by El Pollo Submarine for mouthwatering Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken and flavorful empanadas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Wheaton, it is important to respect personal space and maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others. Be mindful of body language and nonverbal cues to gauge appropriate proximity.
Being punctual is valued in Wheaton, so it is respectful to arrive on time for meetings, appointments, and social events. Tardiness may be perceived as disrespectful.
When in public spaces in Wheaton, observe and follow local etiquette. This includes courteous behavior in restaurants, public transportation, and other communal areas.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Wheaton with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Wheaton
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Wheaton, United States. It is customary to tip service staff such as waiters, bartenders, and taxi drivers. The standard tipping rate is around 15-20% of the total bill.
In Wheaton, United States, payment is commonly made using credit or debit cards. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular. Cash is also widely accepted, but using cards is more convenient in many establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Wheaton.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Wheaton, United States is in Spring when the temperatures are mild and the flowers are in bloom.
Summer is also a good time to visit Wheaton, with warm temperatures and outdoor activities such as hiking and picnicking.
Fall brings beautiful foliage to Wheaton, making it a great time for nature walks and scenic drives.
Winter can be cold in Wheaton, but it offers the opportunity for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding in nearby areas.
Wheaton at Night
Hiking in Wheaton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful preserve featuring trails that wind through forests, prairies, and along the Des Plaines River, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
A serene forest preserve with well-maintained trails ideal for hiking and wildlife observation, offering a peaceful escape from the city.
An extensive living museum of trees and other plants, featuring a variety of trails for hiking, surrounded by stunning landscapes and educational exhibits.
A beautiful park with gardens, walking trails, and historical sites, offering a variety of hiking opportunities in a well-maintained environment.
A natural area with trails meandering through woodlands and wetlands, providing a perfect spot for hiking and discovering local flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Wheaton through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Wheaton by plane.
Located about 30 miles northeast of Wheaton, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world and a major hub for international flights.
Located approximately 40 miles east of Wheaton, Midway offers a range of domestic and international flights.
Situated about 90 miles north of Wheaton in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, this airport provides various international flight options.
Located roughly 75 miles northwest of Wheaton, this airport offers some international services along with regional flights.
Located about 45 miles southeast of Wheaton, Gary Airport offers limited commercial airlines with some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Caucasian demographic group, making up the largest portion of the population in Wheaton.
A significant demographic group in Wheaton, characterized by individuals of Hispanic or Latino descent.
A notable demographic group, representing a considerable percentage of Wheaton's population.
Includes individuals of Asian descent, contributing to the cultural diversity in Wheaton.
Individuals identifying as two or more races, reflecting multi-racial backgrounds.
A smaller demographic group, representing the indigenous populations.
A very small demographic group in Wheaton, representing individuals from Pacific Island nations.
The Soul of Wheaton
Discover the essence of Wheaton through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played in high schools and recreational leagues throughout Wheaton.
Widely played in schools and local leagues, basketball draws significant participation and viewership.
A growing sport with many youth leagues and community programs available for all age groups.
Traditionally popular in Wheaton, baseball has numerous leagues for children and adults alike.
A popular individual and doubles sport with several public courts and local tournaments.
Often pursued individually or in groups, running events such as local 5Ks are common.
Played recreationally and as part of school programs, volleyball enjoys decent participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wheaton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Wheaton's dining scene is accommodating, with many restaurants offering creative and delectable plant-based dishes. Check out Hollywood East Cafe for an extensive vegetarian menu and Everlasting Life for hearty vegan fare.
Those with gluten sensitivities can find satisfying options at Los Chorros, where traditional Salvadoran cuisine meets gluten-free friendly choices, including pupusas and plantain-based dishes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Wheaton with these cultural adventures.