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Neighborhood Guides

Get to Know Arlington Heights

Posted on January 4, 2023   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Sidney Madden

Sidney Madden

Gregory Berger holding a drink at Arlington Heights' Kahala Koa Tiki Bar.

Gregory Berger at Arlington Heights' Kahala Koa Tiki Bar. (Betsy Berger/Provided)

Fans could soon find themselves trekking to the former Arlington racetrack for games. Established as a railroad town in the 1800s and later home to German farmers, there is plenty to do around the northwest burb — just ask Arlington Heights resident (and City Cast Chicago fan) Gregory Berger, who came through with the recs.

Something to eat: “Go to Jimmy D’s District for a beer and a burger. Try the Mac Daddy Burger (with the boom boom sauce), the chili, or a wide selection of starters and sliders. Kitty-corner from the racetrack, the bar seems excited by the idea of the Bears in Arlington Heights!”

Something to drink: “Take a trip to the Hawaiian Islands — in the northwest suburbs. Kahala Koa Tiki Bar has excellent tropical cocktails, kitschy island décor, and a great collection of vintage tiki mugs and glassware. Beware the number of skulls on the cocktail menu, which indicates the strength of the drinks. This place doubles as a pizza joint, and don’t miss the garlic knots with your cocktail.”

Something to see: “If you miss No. 34, head to Payton’s Hill at Nickol Knoll Golf Club where Walter Payton ran hills as part of his training!”

Something to do: “Visit Mitsuwa, the Japanese superstore featuring grocery items from across Asia, a bakery, bookstore, food court, and more. Plus, Arlington Heights has not one but two Metra stations: Arlington Park, near the possible Bears stadium, and downtown Arlington Heights. Stroll around downtown for the indie shops, boutiques, brunch spots, bars, and bakeries.”

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