Welcome to La Grange, Illinois – a charming village located in Cook County, just 13 miles west of downtown Chicago. La Grange offers a perfect blend of historic architecture, vibrant cultural scene, delightful dining options, and beautiful parks. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a nature enthusiast, La Grange has something to offer for everyone. With several streets of boutique shopping and dining right by the train station, downtown La Grange is a great place for an afternoon trip. Plus the area is very family-friendly as it features an old-timey cinema and a playground with a splash pad!
Transportation
From Chicago Via Public Transportation
If you are coming from Chicago, hop on the BNSF Metra train at Union Station. From here it is a 31-minute train ride to La Grange Road or Stone Avenue. Both stations are located downtown and feature outdoor shelters, but in the colder months, it is worth remembering that the train station building is only open from 5 am to 12:45 pm.
Pace Bus 330
On top of the Metra access, Pace Bus 330 also runs right through downtown, connecting La Grange with its neighboring communities. The line, which terminates at O’hare’s Blue Line station, runs daily, however, Saturday and Sunday schedules may see fewer buses.
Via Car
If you’re driving, La Grange is accessible via Interstate 294, Interstate 55, and U.S. Route 34. It is a 27-minute drive from Chicago to La Grange. If you do decide to drive, there is free parking located within the downtown.
Shopping in Downtown La Grange
The Darling Shop is this fun bright pastel color store featuring fashion accessories, knick knaks, and more. I love looking at their stickers and notepads!
Vintage and Modern collide at Whisper Me Home. The shop also features unique La Grange-themed gifts like pillows and candles.
Blerds Underground is a comic book shop right downtown. With a large selection, you will likely find the comics you love to follow.
Fair Game is a local chain that features shelves of unique board games, along with D&D products and Magic Cards.
Plus this location is more than just a store! It is also a venue that features events like “Open Painting Night” on Wednesdays, as well as other gaming events.
Ok, so this store is kind of on the edge of downtown. It is located at the Stone Grove Avenue Metra stop and is about an 11-minute walk from the La Grange stop. However, Vintage Charm brings pastels that meet a vintage vibe which makes it worth the walk. The shop features apparel and home goods.
Activities
Nestled in the heart of this historic village, the theater offers a timeless experience for movie enthusiasts of all ages. Step inside and be transported to a bygone era with its vintage marquee, elegant decor, and cozy seating. From Hollywood blockbusters to indie gems, La Grange Classic Cinemas screens a diverse selection of films, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Plus, on Tuesday they offer $5 showings!
On the outskirts of Downtown, you will find a playground, splash pad, and soccer fields at Gordon Park.
For my artistically inclined readers, you can get your craft on at Ceramic Art Cafe, where you can find the perfect ceramic to paint, and then paint it! This studio has all the supplies you need to create a masterpiece. One thing to remember is that once they put your creation in the kiln there will be a bit of a wait before you can come back for your art. Ceramic Art Cafe is only open Friday- Sunday as of right now, and has a $10 studio fee.
Paint on canvas with step-by-step instructions at Bottle & Bottega. Events are offered throughout the week. Prices start at $35.
Can you find your way through puzzles and clues to solve the game in 60 minutes or less? Find out at Just Escape Room. This La Grange location features 3 rooms to choose from including The Secret and The Attic. Prices per person start around $34.
Dining, Treats & Drinks in La Grange
With several flavors to choose from, Tate’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Shop offers a delicious ice cream treat! Treat yourself to a scoop of nostalgia with their handcrafted, creamy delights, served in a charming, vintage atmosphere. From classic flavors like vanilla bean to unique creations like salted caramel pretzel, Tate’s offers a scoop for every palate.
If you are seeking a local restaurant check out Santiago’s Mexican Restaurant. It was a good family restaurant with nice staff and great drinks. Dinner plates start at $11.
Q-BBQ is a local chain that offers quick flavorful BBQ. Sandwiches start around $8. I usually go for the pulled pork sandwich. It is also a good place to either pick up food or get delivered.
For a burger or a chicken sammy, check out Mak’s House La Grange . This fun and vibrant restaurant offers great food with a lively atmosphere.
Grab a big slice of pizza at Nonna’s Good Life. Try their flavor of the day for $4.99.
Walkability
Downtown La Grange is a very walkable area that extensively features sidewalks and crosswalks. One quirk I would like to mention is that the downtown does contain a train line and two major roads. The train tracks can be particularly impactful on your day as the line does service freight, If you thought waiting for a freight train passing by while in your car is tough, try waiting for one as a pedestrian!
There are shopping, dining, and activities on both sides of the train tracks, so you may find yourself crossing them a few times.
Know Before You Go to La Grange Park
The train station is closed in the afternoons, so if you are searching for a public restroom, the library is located at W Cossit Ave and (South La Grange Rd.)
I would also suggest planning out your day. Everything in this guide is walkable from the La Grange Road Train station, however, places may be farther from each other, as this covers the stone ave. train stop as well.
One last thing to remember is that boutique stores often have unique hours and do not open until 10 am or later. I always suggest making a downtown trip an afternoon activity, 12 pm- 4 pm to ensure that most activities are open.
You always make these little towns sound so fun and exciting, making me want to jump in the car and head off to a fun adventure!