Spend a Day in Historic La Grange, Illinois

Welcome to La Grange

La Grange is rich in history and maintains a strong sense of community. The village features historic homes, a traditional downtown business district, schools, parks, and public transportation—all the modern conveniences of an urban community—while preserving the authenticity envisioned by its founding father, Franklin Dwight Cossitt, who envisioned a community that combines urban accessibility with suburban tranquility. La Grange, Illinois, was officially incorporated in 1879 and quickly became a sought-after place to live due to its proximity to Chicago, beautifully planned streets, and architectural style.

The La Grange historic district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its concentration of late 19th-century and early 20th-century architectural styles, which are represented in residential neighborhoods and civic buildings surrounding downtown. A stroll through the village’s historic district offers a display of its well-preserved architecture and a glimpse into its storied past. 

Downtown La Grange

Downtown La Grange is anchored by the La Grange Village Hall (53 South La Grange Road). Built in 1900, it was designed in the Georgian Revival style and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The La Grange Theatre (80 South La Grange Road), which opened in 1925, was transformed from a stage to a movie theatre in the 1940s, sat vacant for years, and reopened fully restored in 2022. Its interior is still adorned with painted ceilings and ornate designs.

The Stone Avenue Station (701 West Burlington Avenue) has undergone several renovations and modernizations. After a village-wide commitment to restoring the historic structure, the 900-square-foot station, with its heavy, bold stone arches, gabled roofs, and detailed woodwork, now dazzles with as much charm as it did when it was completed in 1901.

The La Grange Area Historical Society offers a self-guided walking tour that includes commentary on the history and style of many historic village buildings, representing a variety of architectural styles by notable designers, including Frank Lloyd Wright, J.C. Llewellyn, E.H. Turnock, and J.N. Tilden. 

Things to do While You’re in La Grange

La Grange is a rich and diverse community in Chicago's near-west suburbs. Whether history buff, foodie, or shopaholic, La Grange, you’ll be glad you visited.

Events 

Throughout the year, the La Grange Area Historical Society, La Grange Business Association, local not-for-profits, schools, and businesses host a variety of festivals, fun runs, and special events, including the La Grange Summer Carnival, West End Art Festival, Hometown Holidays, and the beloved La Grange Pet Parade—held annually for over 75 years and counting!—that bring the community together and offer visitors a reason to return.

Dining Out

A vibrant culinary destination, La Grange offers over 50 food service establishments with restaurant options that cater to every palate and every occasion. 

For date nights, Fourteensixteen, an industrial-chic spot with a seasonal menu of farm-to-table specialties and craft cocktails, sets a perfect tone. Or try The Elm, a modern dining experience with creative dishes and shareable small plates in a stylish atmosphere. Lucca’s Pizzeria & Ristorante delivers authentic Italian dishes and thin-crust pizzas in a cozy, romantic setting.

Casual favorites in town range from Swanson’s Deli, a beloved local spot serving hearty sandwiches and deli classics, and Blueberry Hill Breakfast Cafe, where homemade breakfast fare (think stacks of fluffy scratch-made pancakes) is served in a warm, friendly atmosphere, to Milkstop Cafe, a cozy family-owned neighborhood bistro with a menu of creative dishes and classic cocktails. Try the quesabirria with adobo-braised goat and beef from Slagel Family Farm. Stop by  Maks House to watch a game with a tasty burger or a plate of wings tossed in housemade garlic parmesan, sweet BBQ, Korean BBQ, or classic buffalo sauce. Maks' hidden dining garden, the hideout, brings an urban vibe to the suburbs.

Daring diners looking for interesting International flavors don’t need to head into Chicago. Kama Bistro, a big hit in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood, offers a modern twist on Indian cuisine at their flagship location in downtown La Grange with bold flavors and inventive dishes made fresh from scratch and customized to your taste. Marco’s Kitchen, a must-visit for adventurous foodies, delivers a fusion of Mediterranean and European influences in an intimate Art Deco space. Aodake Ramen crafts tasty Ramen with rich broths and fresh ingredients served in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Woow Japanese Restaurant delights with chef-inspired rolls, sashimi, and all-you-can-eat sushi with a touch of elegance.

For more information on these spots and all the dining destinations of La Grange, check this out!

Shopping 

Downtown La Grange is a shopper’s paradise, with a mix of unique boutiques and specialty shops, vintage finds, and a weekly farmer’s market in the warmer months.

Boutiques & Specialty Stores

For those looking to add stylish lighting fixtures to their home, Hortons Home Lighting combines functional design with stunning aesthetics, making it a go-to for home decorators and renovators. The Darling Shop is a treasure trove of unique gifts, stylish apparel, charming accessories, and Taylor Swift merch—perfect for finding something to make someone special smile. At Veni Vidi Val, find an eclectic mix of trendy fashion, statement pieces, and lighthearted items that reflect a vibrant, modern aesthetic. Perfect for anyone seeking quality and sustainability in their self-care routine, Mion Artisan Soap is dedicated to natural skincare, specializing in handcrafted, eco-friendly soaps, lotions, and bath products. Another unique shop, Four Sons Mercantile is a family-owned men’s lifestyle boutique that mixes great clothing with gifts for your guy. Take your time and browse, or relax on the vintage-inspired outdoor patio. 

Treasure hunters love La Grange’s antique shops and vintage stores which offer endless nooks to discover one-of-a-kind items and hidden gems. Pop in and out of shops, including The Hope Chest, for vintage treasures along with one-of-a-kind home decor, accessories, clothing, and gifts before you take on La Grange’s antique, vintage, home decor, and furniture mecca—two-story Jackson Square Mall at 112 East Burlington Avenue. 

Don’t miss the weekly La Grange Farmers Market held along Harris Avenue near Village Hall on Thursdays from May to October. You’ll find fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts from local vendors and area farmers.

Family Fun

La Grange is a great destination for families, offering activities and local attractions for kids and parents.

Parks & Recreation

Gordon Park (Ogden Avenue & Tilden Avenue) offers miles of walking and jogging paths and a butterfly garden. The park also has playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. Sedgwick Park (10th Avenue & 48th Street) covers more than 20 acres and includes two basketball courts, four baseball fields, and three soccer fields. Many seasonal events are hosted here.

Focus on Family

A popular indoor play area that is perfect for younger children, Waterlemon Kids provides a safe and engaging environment for climbing, jumping, and exploring. Relax with a coffee while your little ones enjoy imaginative play on their own. The La Grange Theatre offers movies all ages can enjoy—and luxury heated recliner seats and free refills on popcorn and fountain drinks seal the deal. Just Escape Room is an exciting spot for kids and families with fun activities and opportunities to create memories together. For families that love games of any variety, Fair Game  offers a wide selection of board games, card games, and tabletop role-playing games. The shop hosts events and workshops that foster community and creativity.

Getting There

Located approximately 13 miles west of downtown Chicago, La Grange is easily accessible by car, taking approximately 35 minutes via I-55 S or I-290 W. Metra’s BSNF line commuter rail operates daily from Chicago’s Union Station to La Grange’s historic Stone Avenue Station, with increased options on weekdays during rush hour and regular weekend service.

Meet Us in La Grange!

La Grange is a charming village that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern conveniences, creating a destination that feels both timeless and innovative. Whether exploring its historic downtown, indulging in its vibrant dining scene, shopping for buried treasures, or enjoying family-friendly activities, La Grange has something to offer everyone.

Find out more about everything La Grange offers at visitoakpark.com.