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Discover the Charm of Old Town, Chicago

Explore Old Town, Chicago - a blend of historic charm, vibrant culture, and culinary delights in the heart of the Windy City.

Old Town in Chicago is a vibrant neighborhood filled with historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and a lively entertainment scene, making it a must-visit for tourists. Enjoy its rich culture and diverse offerings.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to Old Town

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

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Chicago, Old Town, Illinois, US

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    Getting There

    Public Transport - Train

    From Arlington Heights train station, take the Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line towards Chicago. Trains run frequently, so check the schedule for the next departure. The journey to the Ogilvie Transportation Center in downtown Chicago takes about 50 minutes. Once you arrive at Ogilvie, follow the signs to the city streets.

    Public Transport - Bus

    You can also take the PACE bus #696 from the Arlington Heights area to the Des Plaines train station. From there, catch a Metra train on the Union Pacific Northwest Line towards Chicago. Once you arrive at Ogilvie Transportation Center, follow the signs to exit and head towards Wells St. to connect to local buses or walk to Old Town.

    Walking

    If you are near the Arlington Heights downtown area, you can walk to the Arlington Heights Metra station, which is located at 45 W Northwest Hwy. From there, take the train as described above. The walk to the station is about 10-15 minutes depending on your starting point.

    Rideshare

    You can use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft to get to Old Town directly. Simply request a ride from your current location in Arlington Heights and enter 'Old Town, Chicago' as your destination. This option is convenient if you prefer not to navigate public transport.

    Local tips

    Visit during the weekend for the best local markets and street fairs.
    Try to catch a show at The Second City for a taste of Chicago's comedy scene.
    Explore the unique boutiques along Wells Street for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
    Take a guided walking tour to learn about Old Town's rich history and architecture.

    Discover more about Old Town

    Old Town is a captivating neighborhood in Chicago that perfectly blends history with modern charm. Known for its well-preserved Victorian-era buildings, this area offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich architectural heritage. Walking through the tree-lined streets, you’ll encounter an array of unique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes, creating an inviting atmosphere to explore. The neighborhood is particularly famous for its array of local eateries, ranging from upscale dining to casual bistros, serving everything from traditional Chicago deep-dish pizza to contemporary cuisine. One of the highlights of Old Town is the iconic Second City comedy club, where you can catch some of the best improv and sketch comedy performances in the country. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Old Town Triangle Historic District, which showcases the area's artistic roots and community spirit. Additionally, the neighborhood hosts various events throughout the year, including art fairs and street festivals, making every visit a unique experience. Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs, enjoying a meal, or soaking in the local culture, Old Town promises an enriching experience for all travelers.

    A brief summary to Old Town

    Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

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    Discover Arlington Heights: A charming suburban escape with rich history, vibrant culture, and easy access to Chicago's urban allure.

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