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Arlington Heights

Arlington Heights, Illinois, United States

Discover Arlington Heights, IL: A Quintessential American Town Just a stone's throw from the bustling heart of Chicago, Arlington Heights, Illinois, offers a charming escape with its unique blend of small-town charm and …

#Suburban#Family-friendly#Diverse#Close to Chicago#Good schools

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Arlington Heights.

Top Hotels in Arlington Heights

Top Flights to Arlington Heights

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Arlington Heights.

Tours

Visit the Arlington Heights Historical Museum

Explore the rich history of Arlington Heights with a visit to the local museum, showcasing historical artifacts and architecture.

Explore Walkable Sculpture Garden

Enjoy a day surrounded by art in the Outdoor Sculpture Garden featuring works from local and national artists.

Shopping

Shopping at Arlington Heights Shopping Center

A vibrant shopping destination offering a variety of stores from clothing to electronics.

Outdoor

Nature Walk at Lake Arlington

Enjoy a tranquil walk around Lake Arlington, a perfect spot for relaxation and appreciation of nature.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Arlington Heights.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

75,000

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Arlington Heights

Jan

0°-8°

Feb

2°-6°

Mar

8°-2°

Apr

15°3°

May

21°9°

Jun

26°15°

Jul

29°18°

Aug

28°17°

Sep

24°13°

Oct

17°7°

Nov

9°1°

Dec

2°-5°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Arlington Heights.

What people love

Arlington Heights, located in Illinois, United States, offers several benefits for travelers:

Proximity to Chicago: Arlington Heights is conveniently located near Chicago, giving travelers easy access to the city's many attractions, restaurants, and cultural activities.
Recreation opportunities: The area is home to several parks, golf courses, and nature reserves, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Arlington International Racecourse: Horse racing enthusiasts can enjoy races at the historic Arlington International Racecourse, which is located in Arlington Heights.
Shopping and dining: Arlington Heights has a variety of shopping centers, boutiques, and dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. Visitors can explore local shops and restaurants to experience the area's unique offerings.
Cultural attractions: The area boasts cultural attractions such as the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, which hosts a variety of performances including theater productions, concerts, and comedy shows.

Overall, Arlington Heights offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it a desirable destination for travelers looking to explore the Chicago area.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Arlington Heights, Illinois, could include:

Weather: Arlington Heights experiences cold winters with snow and freezing temperatures, which may not be ideal for travelers who prefer warmer climates.
Limited public transportation: While Arlington Heights is served by the Metra commuter rail system, the area may not have as robust public transportation options compared to larger cities, making it more challenging to get around without a car.
Limited nightlife: Arlington Heights is a suburban area, so it may not offer as many nightlife and entertainment options as larger cities like Chicago.
Limited cultural attractions: While Arlington Heights has a few museums and cultural attractions, it may not have as many options compared to larger cities, which could be a drawback for travelers seeking a variety of cultural experiences.
Cost of living: Arlington Heights is considered a relatively affluent area, which could lead to higher prices for accommodations, dining, and activities compared to some other destinations.

Overall, while Arlington Heights offers a charming suburban setting with a sense of community, travelers looking for a bustling urban environment with a wide range of amenities may find it lacking in comparison to larger cities.

Arlington Heights, Illinois, is a suburb of Chicago located in Cook County. Here's a detailed look at its history, significant events, historical figures, and landmarks:

Early History

Settlement: The area that is now Arlington Heights was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Potawatomi. European settlers began arriving in the early 1830s.
Founding: The first known settler was Asa Dunton, who arrived in the area in 1836. His family played a significant role in the early development of the village.

Development and Growth

Naming: Originally known as Dunton after Asa Dunton, the community was renamed Arlington Heights in the 1850s, with "Arlington" possibly chosen because it was a fashionable name at the time.
Railroad: The arrival of the Illinois & Wisconsin Railroad (later the Chicago & North Western Railway) in the 1850s was crucial for Arlington Heights' growth, providing a direct connection to Chicago and boosting the local economy through trade and transportation.

Incorporation and Expansion

Incorporation: Arlington Heights was officially incorporated as a village in 1887.
Population Growth: The village experienced significant growth in the 20th century, particularly post-World War II, as suburbanization expanded and more people moved out of Chicago.

Notable Events and Figures

Arlington Park: The opening of Arlington Park Racetrack in 1927 was a major event. The racetrack became famous for hosting the Arlington Million, the first horse race with a $1 million purse.
Historical Figures: While no single historical figure dominates Arlington Heights' history, the Dunton family is notable for its foundational role.
Fire of 1985: In 1985, a massive fire destroyed the Arlington Park grandstand, but the community rebuilt it, and it reopened in 1989.

Landmarks and Cultural Sites

Arlington Park: Although the racetrack closed in 2021, it remains a significant part of the village's history.
Arlington Heights Historical Museum: This museum complex includes the 1882 F.W. Muller House and other historic buildings, preserving the village's history.
Metropolis Performing Arts Centre: Opened in 2000, this center is a hub for cultural and performing arts in Arlington Heights.

Modern Day

Economy and Demographics: Today, Arlington Heights is a thriving suburban community with a diverse economy. It has maintained its historical character while also adapting to modern needs.
Community and Culture: The village offers a rich array of cultural, recreational, and educational facilities, making it an attractive place for families and businesses.

Arlington Heights continues to be a vibrant community with deep historical roots and a strong sense of identity.