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Des Plaines

Des Plaines, Illinois, United States

Discover Des Plaines, Illinois: Where History Meets Modern Fun Just a stone's throw from the Chicago skyline lies Des Plaines, Illinois, a vibrant city offering a charming blend of history, entertainment, and Midwestern …

#Suburban#Diverse#Historic#Transportation hub#Close to O'Hare International Airport

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Des Plaines.

Top Hotels in Des Plaines

Top Flights to Des Plaines

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Des Plaines.

Tours

Des Plaines History Center Tour

Explore the rich history of Des Plaines through various exhibits and artifacts.

Visit to St. Mary's Catholic Church

An architectural gem, St. Mary's Catholic Church is a must-visit for its beautiful design and serene atmosphere.

Shopping

Shopping at Fashion Outlets of Chicago

A premier shopping destination offering a wide range of high-end and outlet stores.

Randhurst Village Shopping

A modern shopping center with a variety of stores, dining options, and entertainment.

Outdoor

Lake Opeka Park Visit

A beautiful park featuring a large lake where visitors can enjoy picnicking, fishing, and various water activities.

Des Plaines River Trail Hike

A serene hiking trail along the Des Plaines River, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Golfing at Lake Park Golf Course

A well-maintained golf course suitable for players of all skill levels.

Cook County Forest Preserve Adventure

Explore the vast woodlands and enjoy various outdoor activities in the Cook County Forest Preserves.

Location videos

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

From travelers

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Des Plaines.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

58,000

Languages

English, Polish, Spanish

Average weather

Des Plaines

Jan

-1°-9°

Feb

1°-8°

Mar

7°-3°

Apr

14°3°

May

21°9°

Jun

27°15°

Jul

29°18°

Aug

28°17°

Sep

24°13°

Oct

17°7°

Nov

8°0°

Dec

1°-7°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Des Plaines.

What people love

Des Plaines, Illinois, offers several advantages for travelers:

Convenient Location: Des Plaines is located just outside of Chicago, making it a great base for exploring the city while still enjoying a quieter suburban setting.
Transportation: The city is well-connected with public transportation options, including buses and trains, making it easy to get around without a car.
Recreational Opportunities: Des Plaines is home to numerous parks and outdoor spaces where you can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Shopping and Dining: The city has a variety of shopping centers, restaurants, and cafes where you can indulge in shopping and dining experiences.
Historical Sites: Des Plaines has a rich history, with sites such as the Des Plaines History Center and the restored Historic Methodist Campground offering insights into the area's past.
Entertainment: The city has entertainment options such as theaters, museums, and cultural events that cater to a variety of interests.

Overall, Des Plaines provides a blend of convenience, recreational activities, and cultural experiences, making it a worthwhile destination for travelers.

What to know

Des Plaines, located in Illinois, United States, is generally a safe and pleasant city to visit. However, there are a few potential cons to consider:

Weather: Des Plaines experiences all four seasons, including cold winters with snow and ice. Travelers should be prepared for potentially harsh weather conditions depending on the time of year.
Traffic: Like many suburban areas near major cities, Des Plaines can experience traffic congestion, especially during rush hours. Plan your travel times accordingly to avoid getting stuck in traffic.
Limited public transportation: While Des Plaines is served by buses and a Metra rail station, public transportation options may be more limited compared to larger cities. Renting a car may be necessary for convenient travel within the area.
Limited nightlife and entertainment options: Des Plaines is a quieter suburban city, so if you're looking for vibrant nightlife or a wide range of entertainment options, you may need to explore neighboring cities like Chicago.
Distance from major attractions: While Des Plaines offers its own attractions such as the Rivers Casino, if you're interested in visiting popular tourist sites in Chicago, you'll need to account for the distance and travel time between the two locations.

Overall, Des Plaines is a charming city with its own unique appeal, but travelers should consider these factors when planning their trip.

Des Plaines, Illinois, is a city located in Cook County and is a suburb of Chicago. It has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century.

Early History

Native American Inhabitance: The area now known as Des Plaines was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Potawatomi.
Settlement: European settlers began arriving in the area in the early 1800s. The first known settler in what would become Des Plaines was Socrates Rand, who arrived in 1833.

Development and Incorporation

Railroad Influence: The Chicago and North Western Railway reached Des Plaines in the 1850s, which significantly contributed to the town's growth by improving transportation and trade links.
Incorporation as a Village: Des Plaines was officially incorporated as a village in 1869.
City Status: It gained city status in 1925 as the population continued to increase.

20th Century Growth

Post-War Expansion: After World War II, Des Plaines, like many American suburbs, experienced a housing boom and rapid population growth.
O'Hare International Airport: Located nearby, O'Hare International Airport's opening in the 1950s brought economic opportunities and growth to the area.

Notable Events

McDonald's History: Des Plaines is famously home to the first franchised McDonald's restaurant, opened by Ray Kroc in 1955. Although the original building was demolished, a replica now stands as a museum.
Flooding: Due to its location along the Des Plaines River, the city has experienced periodic flooding, which has prompted various flood control measures over the years.

Historical Figures

Ray Kroc: While not a resident, Kroc's opening of the first McDonald's franchise in Des Plaines marks a significant moment in both local and global business history.

Important Landmarks

Des Plaines History Center: This center preserves and presents the history of Des Plaines, offering exhibits and educational programs.
Lake Opeka: A popular recreational area offering boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
Des Plaines Public Library: A key community resource providing educational and cultural programs.

Modern Des Plaines

Today, Des Plaines continues to thrive as a residential suburb with a diverse community. Its proximity to Chicago and O'Hare International Airport makes it a convenient location for residents and businesses alike.

The city maintains a balance of historical preservation and modern living, with numerous parks, schools, and community organizations contributing to its vibrant community life.