Located 20 miles outside of downtown Chicago, the northwestern suburb of Mount Prospect boasts an ideal location not too far from the city. With no shortage of places to play including one of the best playgrounds in Chicagoland, the newly renovated downtown with brick-paved streets beckons locals and visitors alike. After visiting, you’ll see for yourself Mount Prospect’s strong sense of community and pride for their village.
We have suggestions on where to eat, play and shop while visiting.
Getting there:
The downtown area is bisected by Illinois Route 83 and U.S. 14 (Northwest Highway). It is a stop on the Union Pacific/Metra Northwest line.
Eat
Capannari Ice Cream
- Address: 10 S. Pine St., Mount Prospect (Open seasonally)
For amazing homemade ice cream, the award-winning Capannari is the spot to visit while in Mount Prospect. In fact, for the past 20 years, Capannari has been the spot for the community to gather. So choose from their standard flavors like Lick-the-Bowl Cake Batter or any of their artisan flavors like Malted Butter Fudge. Relax and enjoy your ice cream at the park next door.
Honey Biscuit
Breakfast or lunch or brunch? Honey Biscuit has you covered whether you’re craving sweet or savory. Don’t leave without trying the honey biscuits, the signature dish.
Hubby’s Dog House
- Address: 208 S. Main St., Mount Prospect
What started as a hot dog cart has expanded to a cute brick-and-mortar spot with specialty hot dogs (named after dogs, of course), Italian beef and sausage, and burgers.
Red Barn Restaurant and Brewery
Housed in a (you guessed it!) red barn, Red Barn Restaurant and Brewery is your go-to to watch the game or to enjoy American comfort food and beer. Make sure to check out the daily specials like half-priced pizza or half-priced burgers.
Central Continental Bakery
- Address: 101 S. Main St., Mount Prospect
The fourth-generation bakery is proud to be a Mount Prospect institution. From cakes and pastries to baked goods and Paczki, you’re bound to find something delicious.
Trezeros Kitchen + Tap
Housed in a historic building, the downtown Italian-American restaurant features scratch pastas, seafood and Neapolitan style pizzas in a warm and inviting space.
Shop
The Glow Place
- Address: 13 E. Prospect Ave., Mount Prospect
Looking for self-care products and unique gifts? Stop by The Glow Place where they are proud to offer eco-friendly and clean alternatives for skin care, hair care, make-up and bath products. Tip: They recycle your used beauty product packaging.
Games Plus
- Address: 101 W. Prospect Ave., Mount Prospect
For games, paints, miniatures and other gaming needs, Games Plus can help you out. Or if you’d prefer to play, craft, or meet other fellow gamers you can hang out at the meeting area. Check the schedule for fun events.
Play
Burning Bush Playground
This playground is a kid favorite and definitely one of the best around Chicagoland. Highlights include tall climbing towers (though not for the faint of heart!), an accessible spinning merry go round, and net structures to climb. Younger kids can enjoy an area just for them. There’s shade available when the need arises. Once kids tire of the playground (if they ever do), there’s a hockey/futsal court, basketball court, table tennis, and so much more!
Ball Factory
From a ball blaster arena and gated toddler and baby areas to a huge play structure and tractor riding area, kids will never want to leave! The on-site cafe will be a godsend when the kids get hangry, and yes parents, there are healthy alternatives like fruit cups and veggie trays.
Playroom Cafe
The bright, clean and airy space invites young kids to play their heart out. The large wooden climbing structure is sure to be a highlight and the adorable pretend play stations are an added bonus. While kids are having fun, parents can sip and chat at the cafe and full-service coffee shop.
Explore
Friendship Park Conservatory
- Address: 395 W. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines
Often called the “hidden gem of the Mount Prospect Park District,” The Friendship Park Conservatory features a three-story atrium, colorful flower beds filled with florals and lush greenery raised from their very own greenhouse. During the cooler months, the conservatory makes for a perfect diversion from the elements. Afterwards, complete your excursion by walking along the trail around the park.
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