Although Chicago is the windy city, outside of its borders is a big-city suburb with small-town charm that’s a breezy, vacation-worthy destination in its own right. A short 40-minute drive out of the Second City will take you to a town that values community, live entertainment, and locally owned eateries. This is Arlington Heights, the best and safest place to live in Illinois, according to U.S. News, and the chic Chicago suburb is laced with rooftop spots, piano bars, performing stars, and so much more.
This walkable wonderland has a historic downtown and 58 scenic parks to stroll through. Harmony Park, in downtown Arlington Heights, is home to annual events like the Sounds of Summer concert series and the Harmony Fest. The latter features the Taste of Arlington Heights, where you can relish free concerts and dine on dishes from local restaurants. Nearby Frontier Park is where you can enjoy Movies in the Park, and North School Park is where you can participate in the annual Art Walk and shop for fine, locally crafted art.
Live shows and nightlife in Arlington Heights
Like nearby Elgin, Illinois’ artsy “City In The Suburbs,” Downtown Arlington Heights really delivers when it comes to arts and entertainment. The Metropolis Performing Arts Centre is not only a stage where over 300 audience members can enjoy concerts and theater productions, but it’s also a school of the performing arts (SOPA) and a safe space for diverse local artists and performers. Every year, over 50,000 people watch the hundreds of performances held here, from music concerts to staged productions like “The Wizard of Oz” and “A Christmas Carol.”
Right next door to the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, you’ll find the casual sports bar Arlington Ale House, where, from Thursday through Saturday, you can listen to more live music, catch an open mic night, and, seasonally, enjoy a rooftop view of Downtown Arlington Heights…