Things to Do in Barrington, IL

Nestled in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, Barrington, Illinois, is a picturesque village that perfectly balances small-town charm with sophisticated living. Known for its historic downtown, scenic preserves, and strong sense of community, Barrington offers a wide variety of activities for residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, shopper, or culture enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to enjoy year-round.

Barrington is surrounded by lush natural beauty, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Start your adventure at the Barrington Hills Riding Center, where you can explore miles of equestrian trails winding through the countryside. The Crabtree Nature Center, part of the Forest Preserves of Cook County, is another local favorite. With over 1,000 acres of woods, wetlands, and prairies, this scenic area offers walking trails, birdwatching, and educational exhibits on native wildlife.

For hiking or biking, Deer Grove Forest Preserve and Beverly Lake Forest Preserve provide expansive trails perfect for all skill levels. In the winter, many of these paths are converted for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, ensuring outdoor recreation remains a year-round pleasure.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed day outside, Citizen’s Park is a must-visit. This 45-acre park features walking paths, picnic areas, a playground, and the stunning John Larkins Bell Gazebo—an ideal spot for community events or peaceful reflection. It’s also home to the John Larkins Bell Pavilion, a favorite setting for local weddings and outdoor concerts.

Downtown Barrington captures the heart and soul of the community. Lined with brick-paved streets, charming boutiques, and locally owned restaurants, it’s the perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon. Stop by Cook Street Coffee or Egg Harbor Café for a cozy breakfast or brunch before wandering into shops like Norton’s U.S.A., a general store selling American-made goods, or Grassroots, known for stylish clothing and accessories.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at Francesca’s Famiglia, a beloved Italian eatery serving classic dishes in a warm, welcoming setting, or Shakou Barrington, a sleek Asian fusion restaurant that’s ideal for date nights. Afterward, catch a show at the Catlow Theater, a historic 1920s movie house that has been lovingly preserved as a community landmark.

Downtown Barrington also hosts several popular events throughout the year, such as Barrington’s Farmers Market (held weekly from June through October), Cruise Nights featuring classic cars and live music, and the festive Barrington Holiday Festival, where the streets transform into a winter wonderland complete with a tree lighting ceremony.

Barrington’s dining scene is diverse, offering everything from upscale dining to laid-back neighborhood spots. For steak and seafood lovers, L’Eiffel Bistrot & Creperie combines French flair with Midwest hospitality, while PL8 Simply Asian is a standout for its sushi and pan-Asian cuisine. Craft beer fans will love The Onion Pub & Brewery, a local institution with a rustic ambiance, outdoor patio views, and house-brewed beers.

If you’re looking for a relaxing evening, Neoteca offers artisan pizza and fine wine in a cozy atmosphere. For a livelier vibe, head to McGonigal’s Pub, a traditional Irish pub with live music, hearty fare, and plenty of community spirit. It’s the kind of place where locals gather to unwind and visitors quickly feel at home.

Barrington is a family-friendly community with no shortage of things to do for kids and parents alike. The Barrington Area Library isn’t just for reading—it hosts creative workshops, storytimes, and art exhibits. For an active day, Langendorf Park features a water park, tennis courts, playgrounds, and sports fields.

Throughout the year, Barrington celebrates its community spirit with a calendar full of events. The Fourth of July Festival includes a parade, fireworks, and live entertainment. In September, Barrington’s Scarecrow Festival delights families with fall crafts, pumpkin decorating, and a farmers market. And don’t miss Uncork Barrington, a popular summer wine-tasting event that draws visitors from across the region.

Art and music thrive in Barrington, thanks to its active creative community. The Barrington Cultural Arts Center supports local artists and hosts gallery exhibits, performances, and workshops. Music lovers can attend concerts by the Barrington Symphony Orchestra or enjoy live jazz and acoustic sets at local venues like Pinot’s Palette or Big Iron Horse Barbecue, which often feature live weekend performances.

Barrington also celebrates its artistic heritage through the Barrington Art Festival, held annually over Memorial Day weekend. This two-day outdoor event showcases dozens of artists from around the country, offering everything from paintings and photography to sculpture and handmade jewelry.

Shopping in Barrington is an experience in itself. The village boasts a blend of boutique retailers and specialty stores where you can find unique gifts, home décor, and fashion. Browse The Barn at Allen Acres for antiques and vintage finds, or stop into Heads Up Boutique for trendy women’s apparel. Barrington Flower Shop, a local landmark, adds beauty to every occasion with its creative floral arrangements.

If you prefer a larger shopping destination, The Arboretum of South Barrington is just a short drive away. This open-air lifestyle center features popular national brands, fine dining, and entertainment options like iPic Theaters and Pinstripes Bowling & Bistro.

Golfers will find plenty to love in and around Barrington. The prestigious Barrington Hills Country Club and Makray Memorial Golf Club offer beautifully maintained courses and top-tier facilities. Makray, in particular, is open to the public and known for its challenging 18-hole layout and scenic setting. It’s a great spot for golfers of all levels, and the clubhouse restaurant is perfect for a post-round meal.

For fitness enthusiasts, the Barrington Park District offers group classes, sports leagues, and wellness programs year-round. Whether you enjoy tennis, swimming, yoga, or pickleball, you’ll find plenty of ways to stay active.

Each season in Barrington brings its own charm. In spring, the parks and preserves burst into bloom, perfect for picnics and photography. Summer is packed with outdoor concerts, farmers markets, and community festivals. Fall paints the area in vibrant colors, making it the ideal time for scenic drives and pumpkin picking at nearby farms like Goebbert’s Farm & Garden Center. And winter transforms Barrington into a cozy haven, with holiday markets, ice skating, and festive light displays around town.

With its blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and strong community spirit, Barrington offers an exceptional lifestyle that appeals to families, professionals, and retirees alike. Whether you’re strolling through downtown, attending a local concert, or exploring the surrounding preserves, there’s always something to discover.

If you’re ready to make Barrington your home—or simply want to learn more about this charming village—partner with The Rob Morrison Team. As one of the area’s most trusted and knowledgeable real estate teams, they’ll help you find the perfect property to fit your lifestyle. Visit rmorrisonteam.com to start your Barrington home search today.