Whether you’re a suburban regular or just looking for a new adventure outside the city, the lively Chicago suburbs of Arlington Heights, Mount Prospect, Palatine, and Park Ridge offer a delightful mix of entertainment, nature, and more.
Ready to discover your next day-trip destination? Read on for a trusted guide to the very best of these charming communities.
Arlington Heights: Artsy Vibes and Good Times
Arlington Heights, just 25 miles northwest of Chicago, is full of energy that rivals the big city setting. The Metropolis Performing Arts Centre is your go-to for a night of live theater, comedy shows, and amazing musicals with impressive local talent. This vibrant venue is perfect for when you want that “night out” feel without the downtown trek. With staged concerts like Mary Poppins, A Christmas Carol, and more, this is fun for the whole crew.
If art is your jam, head to the Arlington Heights Memorial Library, which regularly hosts art exhibits and author events that draw everyone from bookworms to art enthusiasts. It's a perfect spot to soak up creativity and learn in a cozy, laid-back setting. Don’t miss must-attend events like story and song time, Wednesday Fun Night, LEGO Club, the holiday bookmobile, and much more.
When the sun’s shining, make your way to Lake Arlington. With paddle boats, kayaks, swan boats, and sailboats for rent, trails for strolling, and plenty of space to stretch out and unwind, it’s a perfect outdoor escape.
When July rolls around, Frontier Days takes over Recreation Park for five days of festivities, featuring carnival rides, a petting zoo and pony rides, face painting, a pie-eating contest, food stalls, arts and crafts, a 1/4 Mile Kids Dash, a July 4th parade, and live music. This is truly a favorite event you won’t want to miss.
Mount Prospect: A Quaint Village with Endless Appeal
Mount Prospect combines small-town charm with big experiences. Head to Randhurst Village for an all-in-one destination with top shops, restaurants, and entertainment at the AMC Theatre. This open-air mall has everything from popular retail stores to unique dining options, making it an ideal choice for a day out shopping or grabbing a bite to eat.
History buffs, this one’s for you! For a touch of local history, the Mount Prospect Historical Society offers fascinating exhibits and guided tours to learn about the area’s roots and see artifacts from its early days. The society brings history to life, especially during summer, with its Youth Programs. These hands-on programs invite kids to step into the past and experience what daily life was like in earlier times.
From learning traditional crafts to trying on historical clothing and even baking treats and playing games the old-fashioned way, these programs are designed to be both fun and educational.
Lions Recreation Center is a local hotspot where fun and fitness collide. Whether you're up for a game of hoops, hoping to swim some laps, or want to jump into a dance class, Lions has it all. The center’s indoor pool is a favorite year-round, especially with its open swim times.
In the summer, check out the sprawling outdoor space at Lions Park, perfect for a friendly soccer match. Lions Park also hosts the much-anticipated Summer Concert Series, featuring live music every week. For winter, the Mount Prospect Ice Arena at Nicholas Sportsplex is a local gem offering public skating sessions for all ages — a fun way to embrace the colder months.
Palatine: Festival Feels and Scenic Trails
Palatine has an easygoing vibe and tons of options for the outdoorsy and artsy at heart. Deer Grove Forest Preserve is a must-see if you’re craving fresh air. With nearly 2,000 acres of scenic trails and picnic spots, it’s ideal for hiking, biking, or simply relaxing in nature. And when the wildflowers are in bloom, it transforms into a dreamy setting for photos and wildlife spotting.
The local theater scene is alive and well at Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center, where you can catch everything from musicals and dance to comedies. The cozy venue adds a touch of hometown charm to every show.
If you’re in town on a Saturday, swing by the Palatine Farmers’ Market for fresh produce, handmade goods, and delicious snacks at the Palatine Train Station Parking Lot. Plus, in August, the thrilling Palatine Street Fest fills the town with live music and fantastic food, making it a summer must-see.
The Falcon Park Recreation Center is where fun takes flight. This lively spot has something for every young adventurer, from action-packed kids’ clubs to exciting sports programs that keep the energy high. With spaces for indoor games, an indoor gymnasium, synthetic turf fields, volleyball courts, and seasonal events that bring out creativity and teamwork, it’s the ultimate spot for everyone to dive into new experiences.
Park Ridge: Movie Nights and Art Festivals
Park Ridge is a suburb with a classic charm and some seriously cool spots to explore. Start at the Pickwick Theatre — an Art Deco gem that’s been around since 1928. Catching a movie here is like stepping back in time, and the theater shows both new and classic films, giving you that unique mix of nostalgia and excitement.
Nature enthusiasts, head to Wildwood Nature Center for a scenic escape with trails, ponds, and even a few animal friends to meet along the way. Over at Centennial Park, the splash pad is the perfect spot to cool down in summer, while the playground and sports fields offer fun activities year-round.
When the snow falls, Centennial Park transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland, with its centerpiece — the famed Centennial Sled Hill — stealing the spotlight. When the snowflakes start flying, locals grab their sleds, bundle up, and head straight for the hill to catch the thrill of the season.
As you can see, from scenic parks and theaters to lively festivals and sledding hills, each suburb is packed with personality and plenty of things to enjoy. There’s always something fun just around the corner.
Our trusted local real estate team at GetBurbed is ready to help you start your next adventure. Reach out today to explore the real estate scene in Arlington Heights, Mount Prospect, Palatine, and Park Ridge.
