If you're looking for a short jaunt out of Chicago (but don't have a whole lot of time, or the desire to comb the entire Midwest countryside), then Long Grove is a great bet for you.

First settled in the 1800s, Long Grove has retained its old-fashioned charm, as many buildings date back to the mid-19th century. The town's covered bridge is a great emblem for Long Grove, exemplifying its rustic look. But there's a lot more here than handsome old architecture.

The success of Long Grove's turn-of-the-century shopping environment is not just luck. After World War II, when the Village began taking shape, a need to preserve the historic value of the district was recognized. As a result, the first Historic District in Illinois was created in 1960 by Village ordinance.

The town's shopping district history dates back to the 1940s, when the first of many antique shops opened. There are also more than 90 boutiques selling clothing, crafts, artwork, home furnishings, homemade foodstuffs, and an abundance of collectibles, keepsakes and gifts.

Stop by the Long Grove Confectionery to watch chocolatiers swirl fudge and dip strawberries. Lunch and snack options include the cheap Peppermint Stick, popular for hot fudge sundaes; Seasons of Long Grove for fancy buffet-style lunches; and the Pond View, great for a little breakfast with the ducks.

Long Grove is a great place to visit for a break from the hustle of the general Chicago lifestyle. Its a wonderful way to slow down for a day or afternoon; meander through old shops, take in the "slower" feeling of times gone by, and let the stresses created by the Loop work-week take a back seat for once. Have fun!

Directions

To get to Historic Long Grove from the Loop, get yourself on I-290 West to I-294 North to I-90 West OR take I-90/94 and stay on I-90 to 53 North.

Go to the end of 53 and take the west exit, which will put you on Lake-Cook Road. Go to the traffic light (Rte 53/Hicks Road) and turn right. Go to the second light and turn left onto Old McHenry Road and into the village. The Municipal Archer parking lot will be on your right. Have fun!!