Getting to Elmhurst
By Train
The Metra UP West to Aubourn/Chicago stops in Elmhurst. This Metra station has a Pilots Pete trackside, giving you the option to warm up and fuel up for the day. Plus it also has a bus stop for Pace buses 309
By Bus
309 goes from the Elmhurst Metra Station to Oak Park. This bus also makes several stops along Elmhurst’s downtown.
By Car
This near-west suburb is about a half an hour drive from Chicago. There is a free 4-hour parking garage in the downtown area.
Shopping
The Uptown Shop is a large gift shop featuring unique Knick knacks and finds.
Turn the page of your next favorite comic at Gem Comics. This store has quite a selection from Archie Comics to DC, Marvel, and more.
Discover local merchandise at Bread & Butter Home. This home goods store has an industrial flair.
So you have seen the Queen’s Gambit? I have not. However, if you’re new to chess or a long-time pro, It’s Good To Be King has all your chess needs.
Looking for a fun self-care store? Get Bazzy. This store had bath bombs galore, nail polish, and face care.
Find your next board game at The Gaming Goat. This location has a second space for a clubhouse experience with gaming events coming soon!
Activities in Elmhurst
Participate in an interactive game night out at Elmhurst Escape Room. Their rooms include Save Sherlock and The Adventure’s Tavern.
Watch a new movie on the big screen at Classic Cinemas York Theatre.
Experience the local past at Elmhurst History Museum. Their top floor and consistent exhibit focuses on the history of Elmhurst. It features school artifacts, park district items, and more. We enjoyed the interactive map of Elmhurst throughout time! This museum also offers a rotating exhibit on their main floor, usually with a Chicagoland local flair. When I went the exhibit was Chicagoland Lost Department Stores.
Check out what’s on display at Elmhurst Art Museum. This museum has revolving exhibits and events for the whole family.
Wilder Park Conservatory offers the chance to walk among flowers no matter the season. In the summer Wilder Park also has beautiful gardens outside. Plus Wilder Park offers a playground, walking paths, community events, and so much more.
Dining, Treats & Drinks
Featuring unique flavors like Mango Lassy Hello Donut is a treat you don’t want to miss out on. We loved the Mango Lassy donut and the s’more! The donuts were light and fluffy with the perfect amount of sweetness.
Hamburger Heaven is a classic old-school walk-up window diner. In the summer they have retro outdoor seating. Their burgers are so good and the butterscotch shake was delicious!
Fitz’s Pub is a friendly local Irish Pub. Their Irish Nachos (loaded waffle fries) were great and paired nicely with a drink. Read more about our visit here.
Enjoy Happy Hour (s) on weekdays from 3 pm-6 pm at Ella’s Italian Pub. Their Happy Hour menu includes Chorizo Stuffed Dates, Soppressata Meatball Slider and Ella’s House Pie.
Walkability in Elmhurst
Elmhurst is very walkable with sidewalks and crosswalks everywhere. However, the downtown can feel fairly sprawling as most shops and dining options are on N. York Street. My advice is to be prepared to get some steps in when you explore this downtown.
Also, note that everything in this guide is walkable from the train station, however, some places may be a bit farther than others.
Know Before You Go
Elmhurst’s Public Library is located near Wilder Park and Elmhurst Art Museum. This is a good place to warm up or cool off and use a public restroom if need be.
Even if you are planning on driving to Elmhurst, be prepared to get a lot of walking in. If possible I always suggest making sure you have a water bottle or snacks on hand.
I would also suggest planning out your day, as although walkable, some of these places can be spread out from each other.
Oh my gosh a butterscotch shake! I need to try that! Elmhurst here I come…this summer, to cold now for a shake 😉