Attractions and Places To See around Arlington Heights - Top 15

Arlington Heights offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore extensive forest preserves like Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods), which has almost 13 miles of paved trails for riding, woodlands, and wetlands. Lake Arlington provides a 1.8-mile paved trail for walking, running, biking, and rollerblading, along with fishing and sailing opportunities. For more structured routes, you can find running trails, easy hikes, and road cycling routes in the surrounding area.

Yes, the area boasts several natural features and scenic viewpoints. The Delaware Water Gap viewpoint offers incredible views of the Delaware River and is a great stopping point before the mountain summit. You can also visit Sunfish Pond, a beautiful natural lake, or explore Eureka Creek, which features small waterfalls within a rhododendron jungle. The Appalachian Trail section near Arlington Heights also provides various great viewpoints of the river and surrounding landscape.

For a journey into the village's past, visit the Arlington Heights Historical Museum, spread across three historic buildings including the Müller House and a replica 1830s log cabin. The Arlington International Racecourse, while no longer hosting live races, remains an iconic symbol of the community's equestrian heritage. Additionally, several Historic Homes, such as the Allen Home (1849) and MacNab Home (1861), are recognized as historical landmarks.

Absolutely. The Metropolis Performing Arts Centre is a state-of-the-art venue hosting diverse live performances, including theater, concerts, and comedy. For a unique cultural experience, the Mitsuwa Marketplace offers authentic Japanese cuisine, specialty items, and a bakery. The Downtown Arlington Heights area itself is a vibrant cultural hub with independent shops, diverse dining, and a lively entertainment district.

Families can enjoy a variety of activities. Many local parks, such as Evergreen Park with its jungle gym, and Recreation Park with a playground and outdoor swimming pool, offer great spaces for kids. Lake Arlington is perfect for walks, biking, and fishing. For indoor fun, Arlington Lanes provides a classic bowling experience. The Arlington Heights Historical Museum also offers an engaging look into the past for all ages.

Yes, there are several easy hiking options. The 1.8-mile paved trail around Lake Arlington is ideal for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Many local parks, including North School Park and Pioneer Park, offer shaded walking paths. For dedicated easy hikes, you can explore routes like the 'Council Rock and Lookout Rock' or 'ForEvergreen Preserve Loop' found in the easy hikes guide for the area.

For longer biking routes, the Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods) offers nearly 13 miles of paved trails. Additionally, the road cycling guide for Arlington Heights features routes like the 'Lenape Lake – Old Mine Road loop' and the 'Witmers Lake – Coal Pocket loop,' providing options for moderate to difficult long-distance rides.

Yes, the Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods) is an excellent spot for wildlife viewing, notably featuring an elk pasture. The extensive woodlands and wetlands within Busse Woods also provide habitats for various other local wildlife. The Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds area, with its scenic views around ponds and through woods, can also offer opportunities to observe local fauna.

The Arlington Heights Memorial Library is nationally recognized as an important community building and a hub for educational programs and events. It offers extensive resources, including books, digital materials, and even tools, serving as a valuable community asset.

The best time to visit trails and outdoor attractions in Arlington Heights generally depends on your preferred activity. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and biking, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is ideal for water-based activities at Lake Arlington and enjoying outdoor concerts at North School Park. Even in winter, some trails, especially paved ones like those at Lake Arlington or Busse Woods, can be enjoyed for walking or cross-country skiing, weather permitting.

Many parks and trails in Arlington Heights are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods) is a popular choice for walking dogs on its extensive paved trails. It's always a good idea to check specific park regulations before visiting, but generally, the numerous green spaces and trails offer great opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with your canine companion.

Downtown Arlington Heights offers a charming blend of small-town feel and urban amenities. You'll find independent shops, diverse dining options ranging from sophisticated choices like Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant to casual spots like Hey Nonny, known for its farm-to-table fare. The area also features cafes with sidewalk seating and a lively entertainment district, with Harmony Park serving as a notable social scene.