How to Explore Downtown Elgin on Small Business Saturday
November 17, 2019
Would you like to make supporting “Small Business Saturday” a family affair? Start showing your kids the importance of shopping local while they’re young with this family-friendly itinerary around vibrant and historic Downtown Elgin.
GETTING HERE: Elgin is located about 40 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, and sits along the banks of the Fox River. Elgin is served by the Metra’s Milwaukee District West line, and the main “Elgin” stop is located on Chicago Street, just a few blocks walk from most of the spots listed here.
HISTORY: Elgin was founded in 1835 and is now home to more than 112,000 people, making it one of the largest cities in Illinois. It was home to the Elgin Watch Company (you can still see “Elgin” clocks in Chicago’s Union Station, as well as on the Tower Building in Downtown Elgin) and the city is known for its historic architecture and many beautiful homes from the Victorian era. It has five historic districts, including several within walking distance of downtown.
Whatnots & Whimsies
WHERE TO SHOP: More than 40 local businesses and restaurants are participating in Small Business Saturday. You can head to Elgin Antiques & Uniques, State Street Market Shops or Whatnots & Whimsies to introduce your children to some of the treasures of yesteryear and get them excited about all things vintage. At Rediscover Records, they can see (and hear) real live LPs – and learn about life before music was stored in “the Cloud.”
WHERE TO SNACK: Stop one of downtown Elgin’s locally owned coffee shops, such as the Blue Box Café or Viator Coffee for a pick-me-up drink or pastry. Children will love the popcorn at Mama Lee’s Gourmet Popcorn and the delicious retro treats at Cook’s Sweet Boutique.
WHERE TO PLAY: Once your kids are all shopped out, you can head to the Gail Borden Public Library’s impressive main branch. The Youth Center features an aquarium, a daily craft, a great open play area and beautiful views of the Fox River. The library also sells a variety of gently used books, games and movies at fantastic prices. Or, bundle up and check out the new playground equipment at Festival Park. You’ll also want to stop by Escapde 360 where you can purchase tickets to their new Santa themed escape room that’s fun for the whole family!
WHERE TO EAT: Downtown Elgin offers a number of casual, family-friendly choices for a meal, including pub food at Elgin Public House, sushi at Mr. Hibachi, pizza at Danny’s on Douglas, and Mexican restaurants including El Faro and Las Gorditas de Don Angel. Check this list for Small Business Saturday specials and other restaurant choices, too.
WHEN TO COME BACK: Anytime during the holiday season! Your family will find a downtown decorated for the holidays along a riverfront full of history and charm, and a range of restaurants and shops offering unique experiences you won’t be able to replicate online. If you shop on Small Business Saturday be on the lookout for special deals and be sure to return to do all your holiday shopping.
Thank You to Our Guest Blog Writer, Tara Burghart.
How to Explore Downtown Elgin on Small Business Saturday
November 17, 2019
Would you like to make supporting “Small Business Saturday” a family affair? Start showing your kids the importance of shopping local while they’re young with this family-friendly itinerary around vibrant and historic Downtown Elgin.
GETTING HERE: Elgin is located about 40 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, and sits along the banks of the Fox River. Elgin is served by the Metra’s Milwaukee District West line, and the main “Elgin” stop is located on Chicago Street, just a few blocks walk from most of the spots listed here.
HISTORY: Elgin was founded in 1835 and is now home to more than 112,000 people, making it one of the largest cities in Illinois. It was home to the Elgin Watch Company (you can still see “Elgin” clocks in Chicago’s Union Station, as well as on the Tower Building in Downtown Elgin) and the city is known for its historic architecture and many beautiful homes from the Victorian era. It has five historic districts, including several within walking distance of downtown.
Whatnots & Whimsies
WHERE TO SHOP: More than 45 local businesses and restaurants are participating in Small Business Saturday. You can head to Elgin Antiques & Uniques, State Street Market Shops or Whatnots & Whimsies to introduce your children to some of the treasures of yesteryear and get them excited about all things vintage. At Rediscover Records, they can see (and hear) real live LPs – and learn about life before music was stored in “the Cloud.”
WHERE TO SNACK: Stop one of Downtown Elgin’s locally owned coffee shops, such as the Blue Box Café or Viator Coffee for a pick-me-up drink or pastry. Children will love the popcorn at Mama Lee’s Gourmet Popcorn and the retro candy at Cook’s Sweet Boutique.
WHERE TO PLAY: Once your kids are all shopped out, you can head to the Gail Borden Public Library’s impressive main branch. The Youth Center features an aquarium, a daily craft, a great open play area and beautiful views of the Fox River. The library also sells a variety of gently used books, games and movies at fantastic prices. Or, bundle up and check out the new playground equipment at Festival Park. You’ll also want to stop by Escapde 360 where you can purchase tickets to their new Santa themed escape room that’s fun for the whole family!
WHERE TO EAT: Downtown Elgin offers a number of casual, family-friendly choices for a meal, including pub food at Elgin Public House, sushi at Mr. Hibachi, pizza at Danny’s on Douglas, and Mexican restaurants including El Faro and Las Gorditas de Don Angel. Check this list for Small Business Saturday specials and other restaurant choices, too.
WHEN TO COME BACK: Anytime during the holiday season! Your family will find a downtown decorated for the holidays along a riverfront full of history and charm, and a range of restaurants and shops offering unique experiences you won’t be able to replicate online. If you shop on Small Business Saturday be on the lookout for special deals and be sure to return to do all your holiday shopping.
Thank You to Our Guest Blog Writer, Tara Burghart.
