Things to Do in Northwest Chicago

Whether you’re headed to Chicago for the first time or you’ve lived in the area your whole life, make the most of your time with a visit to the northwest suburbs, where charismatic downtowns, diverse dining options, and some of the area’s most exciting attractions await, all within easy access of O’Hare Airport. Need some inspiration for your next trip? Check out this page for some of the best things to do in Northwest Chicago.

Northwest Chicago Attractions

Northwest Chicago offers a variety of attractions to entertain every member of your group. You can stroll through the sculpture-dotted grounds of the Chicago Athenaeum International Sculpture Park, or visit LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Schaumburg. There, rides, exhibits, and interactive play areas promise to keep the kids engaged throughout the day.

You can check out Arlington Heights's walkable downtown, visit Woodfield Mall (one of the biggest in the country with nearly 300 stores), or head to the Village of Roselle for the annual Rose Festival, which ushers in the summer with a parade and carnival.

When temperatures soar, cool off at one of northwest Chicago’s many water parks or check out Schaumburg’s Volkening Heritage Farm, where you can catch a glimpse of what life was like for local farmers in the 1800s.

While in the area, go old school with a spin on the roller rink, stop by the Itasca Historical Depot Museum to learn about local history, watch a show at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre in Arlington Heights, snap pics at Selfie WRLD Schaumburg, or visit Medieval Times to feast while watching a reenactment of medieval jousting.

Outdoor Activities in Northwest Chicago

Escape the big city and make the most of Chicago Northwest’s many green spaces and lakes. You can walk or bike along Lake Arlington , give the kids a hands-on learning experience at the Springbrook Nature Center, hike through the peaceful Busse Woods, or opt for a picnic in a park.

Chicago Northwest is also a golf destination. Book a tee time at The Golf Club at Eaglewood, which is lined with 100-year-old oak trees; check out the country club-style experience offered by Schaumburg Golf Club, putt on tricky greens at Nickol Knoll Golf Course, or book an indoor golf experience, perfect for wintertime practice.

Dining and Nightlife in Northwest Chicago

Discover the lively dining, nightlife, and drinks scene in Chicago Northwest—a top reason to explore the area! Reserve a table at one of downtown Arlington Heights' restaurants, such as the Italian-American Passero, Ttowa Korean Bistro, or the brunch favorite Egg Harbor. Explore local craft breweries, including Church Street Brewing Company in Itasca and Mikerphone Brewing in Elk Grove Village, known for its music-themed brews. Don't miss the chance to visit one of Chicago’s oldest wineries, Lynfred in Roselle, renowned for cultivating over 50 varieties to produce its award-winning wines.