As you step off the Metra, and into Downers Grove you are immediately swept up into the hustle and bustle of this cute downtown! With shops and dining, mostly boutique and one-of-a-kind nearly steps away from the train station (on both sides), the adventure begins right away.
Transportation to Downers Grove
From Chicago Via Public Transportation
The Metra journey from Chicago to Downers Grove is about an hour long. If you are coming from Chicago, hop on the BNSF train line at Union Station and take it to Downers Grove Main Street Station. The Downers Grove Train station is in Downtown!
Downers Grove Train Station
The Downers Grove Train Station building is open from 5:30 am – 8 pm. And has public restrooms.
The Pace bus 834, Joliet to Downers Grove stops at this train station on weekdays and Saturdays. This route does not run on Sundays!
Via Car
The drive from Chicago is about 40 minutes or so, depending on traffic. There is parking throughout downtown. However, free parking may be limited depending on when you are going.
Shopping in Downtown
Adorn 51: This is a must-go for any Taylor Swift fan. When I went there was an abundance of T-swift items including Holiday Sweaters and candles! The store also offers other unique gifts and some local merchandise as well including Downers Grove Ornaments.
Greenstar Paperie: If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind cards and stationery this is the store to check out! It had so many fun gifts that had me exclaiming out loud “So cute!” The staff were friendly and excited about the merchandise too!
everlyn jane Botique: This store had both Downers Grove and Chicago items. I really liked the Downers Grove mug and the Chicago necklaces. They make fun souvenirs or unique gifts for locals.
Fair Games: This game shop is more than a store, it’s a community. Not only does this game shop, offers a wide selection of board games for all ages. It also offers a large selection of D&D books and mini figurines.
This location has multiple events happening throughout the week including “Open Painting Night” and “DG: Star Wars Legion Casual Meetup”. Most of these events do have a fee starting around $5.
My Special Toy Store: I am struggling to explain it, but this store just felt like a local, downtown toyshop. Not all downtown toyshops do. It gave me all the feels. They had the cutest holiday merchandise displays upfront. You walked in and there were books and stuffed animals “Squishable” right there. I suppose a 90’s kid’s dream come true. No wonder I was nostalgic!
Activities in Downers Grove
The Paper Peony: Create your own candle at this store with monthly events that teach you the process of candle making. Prices start at $40 for this event.
This store also has cute souvenirs and pre-made (in the store) candles for purchase. So even if you’re not attending an event this is a store worth checking out!
Maple Grove Forest Preserve: Walkable from the train station and downtown, this Forest Preserve offers a small nature (wooded) area that connects to two playgrounds.
Dining, Treats & Drinks
Everyday’s A Sundae: This adorable ice cream shop offers several rotating flavors in a pink-painted dinner. The fun colors of the shop and the delicious ice cream provided happy vibes!
Walkability in and around Downtown Downers Grove
In the downtown area, there were sidewalks everywhere, along with crosswalks. At lights, if you pushed for the walk signal it would provide both audio cues (clicks) and the visual sign as well.
Know Before You Go
I would suggest making this downtown an afternoon trip. If you want to ensure that most of the places are open plan on making this outing from noon to 5 pm. I started my day here around 10 am and was surprised to see that some businesses were closed until 12 pm. However, if you are hoping to go to a specific/individual store I would check their hours, as some shops open as early as 9 am!
I also like to mention that there are public restrooms located in the train station and the library. Both are within walking distance from downtown.
