Things to Do in Long Grove, IL

Designated as one of Illinois' premier historic village districts, Long Grove's downtown core is a living, walkable piece of history where 19th-century storefronts house galleries, boutiques, and artisan shops. The architectural character of the district — with its brick facades, wooden signs, and covered bridge centerpiece — is itself a curated open-air cultural experience.

Long Grove is celebrated throughout Chicagoland for its vibrant annual festivals, most notably the Art & Wine Festival held in the historic village, which draws artists, craftspeople, and wine enthusiasts from across the region. The festival grounds in the village center serve as Long Grove's premier outdoor cultural venue, transforming the streets into an open-air arts celebration.

The annual Long Grove Strawberry Festival, one of the longest-running community festivals in the Chicago suburbs, transforms the village into a celebration of community, music, and local culture each June. The festival grounds along the historic village streets serve as a beloved communal performance and gathering space that defines Long Grove's cultural calendar.

Scattered throughout the historic village district, Long Grove's independently owned gallery and studio spaces showcase the work of local painters, jewelers, glass artists, and ceramic artists in intimate storefront settings. Browsing these creative spaces on a weekend afternoon is a quintessential Long Grove experience that residents recommend to every newcomer.

Preserving the rich heritage of one of Illinois' most distinctive communities, the Long Grove Historical Society maintains archives, photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of this remarkable village from its agrarian roots to its rebirth as a cultural destination. Residents and newcomers alike find pride and context in learning Long Grove's unique story.

A cozy, independently spirited café nestled in the historic village district, this local gathering spot draws morning regulars and afternoon browsers with its warm atmosphere, quality espresso drinks, and the kind of unhurried pace that feels rare in the suburbs. Sitting here with a latte while watching the village come alive is a quintessential Long Grove moment.

During morning hours, Long Grove's beloved Buffalo Creek Brewing transforms into a relaxed coffee destination where locals fuel up before a trail walk or village stroll, enjoying craft-roasted brews in the same warm taproom space that hosts evening crowds. The dual identity of this spot makes it a genuine anchor of daily community life.

Beyond its legendary chocolates, Long Grove Confectionery's café counter serves specialty hot drinks, mochas, and seasonal lattes that pair perfectly with their artisan confections. It's a sweet and caffeinated ritual that residents and village visitors have built into their Long Grove routines.

For residents who prefer their fitness outdoors, the Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve trail network offers a premier natural fitness environment with well-maintained paths ideal for trail running, cycling, and power walking through restored prairies and woodlands. Many Long Grove residents consider this their daily gym, and for good reason.

The Long Grove Park District anchors community wellness through organized recreational programming, seasonal sports leagues, fitness classes, and outdoor events that bring residents of all ages together. Its commitment to accessible, community-centered activity makes it an essential part of Long Grove family life.

Serving the Long Grove community with premium fitness amenities including pools, tennis courts, group fitness studios, and spa services, this full-service athletic club is where residents pursue serious wellness goals in a well-equipped, professional environment. Its comprehensive offerings make it a top choice for Long Grove families prioritizing health.

A cluster of boutique wellness offerings in and around Long Grove's community serves residents seeking yoga, pilates, and mindfulness practices in intimate studio settings led by experienced local instructors. These small-scale, community-rooted studios reflect Long Grove's broader commitment to quality of life and holistic well-being.

Stretching across hundreds of acres within and around Long Grove, Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve offers miles of trails through restored prairies, woodlands, and wetlands that make it a sanctuary for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers. Locals treasure it for its quiet beauty and accessibility as a true backyard wilderness.

At the heart of Long Grove's identity is its iconic covered bridge — one of the last remaining covered bridges in Illinois — which frames a picturesque landscape that residents and visitors photograph in every season. The surrounding green space and creek create a tranquil natural respite right in the village center.

The winding stretch of Old McHenry Road through Long Grove is beloved by cyclists, joggers, and Sunday drivers for its canopied tree lines, rolling landscape, and views of historic barns and farmsteads. This scenic corridor captures the pastoral character that defines Long Grove's singular identity among Chicago suburbs.

A community-centered green space maintained by the local park district, Jewett Park serves as a gathering hub for Long Grove families with open lawns, picnic areas, and seasonal programming that builds neighborhood bonds. It's the kind of park where kids grow up playing and parents linger on weekend afternoons.

A charming neighborhood park tucked within Long Grove's residential landscape, Camelot Park offers playgrounds, open fields, and shaded walking paths that make it a favorite for young families and dog walkers. Its quiet, well-maintained grounds reflect the care Long Grove residents take in their community spaces.

More than just a chocolate shop, this iconic Long Grove destination doubles as a beloved café where locals stop in for light bites, specialty drinks, and of course, world-class handcrafted chocolates and confections. The aroma alone draws visitors in, and the friendly small-town atmosphere keeps them coming back.

A beloved Long Grove institution nestled in the historic village center, The Chessboard Inn offers an intimate dining experience with a menu rooted in classic American and European cuisine. Locals cherish it for its warm ambiance, attentive service, and the kind of timeless charm that makes every dinner feel like a special occasion.

Long Grove's own craft brewery and taproom, Buffalo Creek Brewing is a destination for beer enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, offering small-batch ales and lagers brewed on-site alongside a rotating menu of shareable bites. The warm, rustic interior and knowledgeable staff make this a proud local landmark in the village.

Tucked into the heart of the historic village district, the Village Tavern is where locals unwind over craft beers, burgers, and pub fare in a setting that feels authentically rooted in Long Grove's community spirit. The lively yet laid-back vibe makes it a perfect lunch or evening hangout year-round.

A local staple for hearty grilled fare and a relaxed atmosphere that draws families and friends alike for celebratory dinners and weekend gatherings. Residents appreciate the consistent quality, generous portions, and the friendly staff who treat regulars like neighbors.

A popular breakfast and brunch destination in Long Grove that draws a loyal morning crowd with its extensive egg dishes, fluffy pancakes, and fresh ingredients. Families, couples, and solo diners all find comfort in the bright, welcoming space and consistently satisfying menu.

An anchor of the Long Grove village shopping experience for decades, the Long Grove Confectionery is a destination candy and gift shop renowned for its handcrafted chocolates, seasonal confections, and beautifully packaged gifts. Visitors drive from across Chicagoland specifically to browse its shelves, and locals count it among the village's most irreplaceable treasures.

The walkable collection of independent boutiques and specialty shops lining Old McHenry Road in Long Grove's historic district is unlike anything else in the Chicago suburbs — a pedestrian-friendly village where you might find handcrafted jewelry, imported goods, artisan gifts, and seasonal décor all within steps of each other. Shopping here feels like a weekend destination, not an errand.

A charming seasonal destination in the village, the Apple Haus offers locally produced apple wines, ciders, fresh-pressed juice, and orchard-themed gifts that embody the agricultural heritage Long Grove celebrates. It's the kind of specialty shop that makes residents proud to bring out-of-town guests.

A beloved specialty boutique in the historic village district carrying curated home décor, seasonal gifts, and one-of-a-kind finds that reflect the spirit of Long Grove's craft and artisan community. Locals return with every season for new inventory that makes gift-giving feel personal and thoughtful.