Things to do in Arlington Heights
Explore things to do in Arlington Heights, from downtown dining and live performances to parks, lakefront recreation, shopping, and family activities.
Arlington Heights blends a lively, walkable downtown with residential neighborhoods, public parks, shopping districts, and a broad range of places to eat. Visitors can catch live entertainment, browse specialty markets, settle into a café, or explore local restaurants serving everything from casual comfort food to globally inspired dishes. The compact downtown makes it convenient to pair a meal with shopping or an evening performance.
Outdoor time is easy to build into a visit, with a local lakefront, walking paths, recreation spaces, and neighborhood parks offering room to unwind. Families can find active indoor options, while rainy days lend themselves to shopping, fitness, dining, and cultural activities. Whether you have a few hours or a full weekend, things to do in Arlington Heights range from relaxed strolls and budget-friendly outings to dinner and a show—all within the town itself.
Frequently asked questions about Arlington Heights
What are the best things to do in Arlington Heights?▾
Explore the walkable downtown, browse local shopping areas, enjoy a show at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, or spend time outdoors at Lake Arlington. The town offers an easy mix of culture, dining, recreation, and everyday shopping.
What can families with kids do in Arlington Heights?▾
Families can try indoor climbing at First Ascent Arlington Heights or visit a neighborhood park for open-air play. Checking age requirements and session details ahead of time can help with planning.
What are some free or budget-friendly things to do in Arlington Heights?▾
Walking through downtown and relaxing in public green spaces are simple budget-friendly options. Browsing Town & Country Center can also fill part of an afternoon without requiring an admission fee.
What are good indoor activities in Arlington Heights?▾
On a rainy day, browse the international groceries and specialty goods at Mitsuwa Marketplace or fit in an indoor workout at LA Fitness. Indoor shopping areas and cafés offer additional low-key options around town.
Where can I dine during a weekend in Arlington Heights?▾
For a weekend meal, Arlington Heights has casual pubs, cafés, and full-service restaurants. Options include Mexican dishes at Salsa 17, contemporary American cooking at Passero, and pub fare at Peggy Kinnane's Irish Restaurant & Pub.
Things to do in Arlington Heights
Promote your
Business
Get featured and grow your business.
Add your
Event
Share your event with the community.
via Google MapsArlington Ale House
Spacious pub with a roof-top patio featuring multiple TVs, pinball machines, darts & pool.
via Google MapsCarlos & Carlos Restaurant
Long-running, classic fine-dining restaurant serving Italian dishes with French influences.
via Google MapsNorthpoint Shopping Mall
via Google MapsEl Barrio Fresh Market
via Google MapsOakton Street Antique Center
via Google MapsDICK'S Sporting Goods
Sporting goods chain with equipment, apparel & footwear for athletics, outdoor recreation & fitness.
via Google MapsJimmy D's District
via Google MapsBottle & Bottega by Painting with a Twist
Chain of art studios offering easy-to-follow painting classes for groups & individuals.
via Google MapsAtlantis Banquets
Hey Nonny Live Music + Local Kitchen
via Google MapsBar Salotto
via Google MapsArlington Town Square
via Google MapsSurrey Ridge Shopping Center
via Google MapsSCRATCHBOARD KITCHEN
Unfussy eatery with a patio serving sandwiches, bowls & hearty mains, plus coffee & craft cocktails.
via Google MapsMetropolis Performing Arts Centre
Performing arts center with a large theater for a variety of shows, plus classrooms & music studios.
via Google MapsLA Fitness
via Google MapsFirst Ascent Arlington Heights
via Google MapsGatsby’s Pizza and Pub
Convivial, long-standing watering hole with pizza & other pub grub, plus lots of TVs showing sports.
via Google MapsPlanet Fitness
via Google Maps