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Community Corner

A Tourist's Guide to Visiting Deerfield

Check out Patch's picks of local hot spot destinations.

One of the great things about living in the Chicagoland area is the easy access to stuff to do. One quick Metra ride (or slightly longer jaunt down the Kennedy) and you're in the middle of a world class city with major museums, restaurants and entertainment. But once you've shown off the Field Museum, knocked around Macy's and hit up Navy Pier, what's left?

Deerfield has plenty of answers to that question. Our fair town itself is no slouch when it comes to entertainment and tourism. Whether you've got one night or several days to spend exploring, this guide should keep you and your guests busy for a while.

Local Kid and Family Picks

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There's no shortage of ways to entertain (or tire out) your littlest visitors. Deerfield has you covered in both inside and outside weather. One way to while away some time is the , a bowling alley with 32 lanes, pool tables, video games, and more hot dogs and soda pop than most kids can handle. Keep an eye on the schedule for cosmic bowling.

If outdoor play is more your style, or if you're looking for ways to burn off all those sodas and hot dogs, head over to . This park is the seat of the local park district, and features a large elaborate outdoor playground, an indoor playground, basketball courts and athletic fields and a skate rink. You can also checkout Ryerson Woods, a 556-acre preserve, that's got miles of trails for visitors to enjoy. 

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If you're looking for a dip to escape the heat, try the pool at the  or Mitchell Pool on Wilmot Road which always seems to be packed these days.

Local History Picks

If you're a tourist, you aren't doing your job unless you stop by a few historical sites. Thankfully, Deerfield has more serious offerings than the world's largest ball of twine or ketchup bottle. The has been sharing the area's history for over 40 years. Families here can experience farm life as it was in 19th century Deerfield, as well as visit a one room school house.

The site also includes the Caspar Ott log house. Built in 1837, the cabin is the oldest surviving building in Lake County, coming in at 174 years old.

Local Restaurant Picks

One of the best ways to get to know a community is through it's stomach. Deerfield offers a number of local favorites that have been in business for decades, and a few originals that have opened within the last few years. But if you'd like to cook for your hosts instead, head to . It runs every Saturday until Oct. 15 this season from 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and has a fantastic selection of fruits, veggies, cheeses and some delicious baked goods. Plus, there's usually some sort of live entertainment for shoppers to enjoy.   

is an institution here, and the yellow shack has been serving up sandwiches to locals longer than any chain sub shop. The ice cream and the "air fried" French fries are not to be missed.

Breakfast spot has the feel of a small town mom and pop restaurant, with dishes like Deerfield French Toast, a granola encrusted take on the old classic.

Those looking for fancier fare might find themselves at , a stylish approach to sushi and Japanese cuisine. Surf and turf entrees are also on the menu here.

For dessert afterwards, head to Love's on Elm. Yes, we know it's in Highland Park but the peanut butter frozen yogurt is to die for. 

Local Shopping Picks

Your guest's hunger satisfied, now might be a good time to hit up the mall or do some window shopping. is the local shopping center. Offerings range from big box stores like and Office Max to clothiers for men, women and children, as well as a number of food court eateries and other restaurants.

Deerfield also has a wide selection of local stores in the village center. Whether on the search for a bathing suit, pair of shoes or something special for someone special (hint hint on Deerfield Road) treat yourself to a souvenir while you're visiting the North Shore. 

Local Nightlife Picks

If, after a day of kid's fun, history lessons and shopping, your guests find themselves in need of libations, Deerfield has that covered as well. If you and your party want to get out of the house and have a few while enjoying a burger and watching the game, sports bar is an excellent option.

Local chain is also known for its made to order burgers, beer selection and stiff pours.

For those in search of fine wines, organic and locally sourced bar food, as well as an excellent beer menu featuring local brewers like Half Acre and Two Brothers, . The relatively newer spot offers an extensive selection of wines by the glass or bottle, as well as a great cocktail list.

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