1 Day 4 Ways: Live Like a Local in Lemont
Whether your family has called Lemont home for generations or you’ve just discovered Lemont Downtown, we want to make it your home for a day. If you’re ready to learn a little local history, support small businesses, and gather your own impression of the Limestone-town, this is the itinerary for you.
If you’re traveling in from Downtown Chicago, skip the traffic: Metra’s Heritage Corridor Line is offering increased service on Saturdays through September 3rd. When you arrive at Lemont Station, you’ll find that most places are well within walking distance and bike-share rides are available at the stop and throughout Lemont Downtown.
8:00 AM: The Early Bird Catches the Worm at Lemont Quarries. start your day here.
Stop by the nearby birding shop, Wild Birds Unlimited, the day before to pick up a pair of binoculars and anything else you may need for a day of birding.
Just as the sun rises, you’ll want to find a cozy spot along the Heritage Quarries and I&M Canal and look out for wildlife. This area was once a thriving center for Limestone quarries that shaped Chicago’s architecture but as the mines closed and quarries filled back with water, nature took its rightful place. For a full insight into birding, check out our Beginner’s Birding Guide.
Hot Tip: Install an app, like Merlin, to recognize bird calls so you can easily identify what species are around you.
10:00 AM: Take the long way around with the historic lemont walking tour app.
Whether you’ve lived in Lemont your entire life or you’re simply visiting for the day, the Historic Lemont App features three tours: The Everything, The Highlights, and Village of Faith. Developed by Lemont High School Student, Amelia Dunkin, the app features audio, visual, and step-by-step guidance on the interwoven history of Lemont with that of the American Midwest. Learn something new and stay for a while.
What To See: The Stonecutters Mural by Digs on Canal that was recently refinished in 2021 but originally painted in 1975.
Details: Download the app on your App Store here.
11:00 AM: Take a Tour of the LAHS Museum and Old Stone Church
The history of Lemont starts with the very stone from which the Lemont Area Historical Society and Museum are built. The Old Stone Church has been standing for over 140 years with breathtaking stained glass and wooden church pews and organs that rest perfectly atop the balcony.
Hot Tip: The tour is 1-hour and involves 2 flights of stairs. If you’re unable to make it up the stairs, a video of the upstairs portion is available to view in the lobby. The minimum recommended age for the tour is 7 years old.
Details: Located at 306 Lemont Street, Lemont, IL.
2:00 PM: Discover a local landmark - Nick’s Tavern for lunch
Without a doubt, Nick’s Tavern is the best place to grab a delicious burger and classic Chicago-style hot dog. Nick’s is open daily at 11 AM with events throughout the year.
Hot Tip: Chat up with the locals to find out what else they think you should discover during your stay.
Details: Located at 221 Main Street, Lemont, IL
4:00 PM: Browse through vintage treasures at Mabel’s Market.
Mabel’s Market owner, Sommer, is a bit of the glue that holds Lemont Downtown together. If you’re in search of re-purposed furniture or home goods, you’ll want to make room to take home something treasured and unique.
Hot Tip: Plan your trip around the Market on Canal to meet an entire host of local vendors and small businesses. The event happens each May and September and is hosted by Mabel’s Market.
Details: Located at 307 Canal Street, Lemont, IL
6:00 PM: Dine at La Dolce Vita
Built in 1871, stepping through the doors of La Dolce Vita is like stumbling upon a rustic restaurant in Italy with all of its elegant charms. Everything here is delicious but we love the special touch of a Chef’s Daily Menu and fresh organic ingredients.
What To Order: Start with the Burrata al Pomodoro (burrata with lush tomatoes with pesto, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar glaze) and Melazane Al Forno (Eggplant baked in a rich tomato sauce with cheese)
Hot Tip: Reservations are available for 2+ guests any day of the week. Call ahead if you’ll have a larger group.
Details: Located at 107 Steeple Street, Lemont, IL.
