The Barrington center point is approximately 5 miles northwest of Harper College and 6 miles northeast of Pinstripes.
Barrington, Illinois, lies just over one hour northwest of Chicago by car or train. The town's relative proximity to Lake Michigan means it is subject to the same frigid, wet winters that Chicago endures. If you love cross-country skiing, then winter here will delight and inspire you. Barrington boasts thousands of surrounding acres of pristine nature preserves that are ripe for cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowboarding.
If you don't relish temperatures below freezing, then plan your trip to Barrington during the warmer months to make the most of the network of hiking trails. Summer temperatures typically top out on the mid-80s, so these months offer the perfect time to get out in the great outdoors. Some of the neighboring towns also host street festivals from Memorial Day through July Fourth and into early fall. Themes range from strawberry festivals to arts festivals to events at local wineries.
The much-anticipated Barrington Art Festival takes place each year in downtown Barrington over Memorial Day weekend. During this two-day event, more than 130 artisans of all mediums display their work for sale (and admiration). If you plan to travel to Barrington over this weekend to take part in the fun, be sure to book your hotel well in advance. Take advantage of these events by traveling to Barrington any time from mid-summer through fall.
Score great discounts and convenience at the Quality Inn in nearby Hoffman Estates. If you're an AAA member, you'll get a great rate on a good all-around hotel room. The Quality Inn's guest rooms are known for their comfy beds and handy amenities such as in-room microwaves and fridges. Free breakfast, free newspapers, and a 24-hour business center sweeten the deals you'll find at this Barrington-area hotel.
The Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Schaumburg, IL offers some of the best discounts for military and government officials. Here, you'll enjoy cozy suites, which are perfect for families and groups of friends, without sacrificing essential amenities. Guests that require accessible amenities, such as roll-in showers and spacious bathrooms, will find them here.
Downstairs, the breakfast area feels just like home with its wood-paneled cabinets and brick fireplace and seating area. In fact, you might never want to leave after taking advantage of the hotel's indoor pool, fitness center, and free breakfast. It's a solid choice for a value hotel near Barrington. Just be sure to show your military ID upon check-in to secure a reduced rate.
The Hilton Garden Inn Hoffman Estates features all the comforts you've come to expect from this reliable chain hotel brand. Guests will recognize the layout of its lobby, which opens into a restaurant and lounge on one side and a seating area flanked by a customer service desk on the other. You will also find a convenience store in the lobby corner, in case you forget any essentials or need to grab a snack. The downstairs lounge area is so welcoming, you'll see plenty of guests hanging out there throughout the day and evening.
The affordable and varied hot morning breakfast menu is a favorite among returning guests, with waffles and omelets made to order. If you can't muster out of your room, just order quick and courteous room service. The Hilton Garden Inn Hoffman Estates also features a fitness center and indoor pool, plus a business center. This value hotel offers top-flight service for its business and personal events with spacious meeting rooms, audiovisual services, and even on-site catering.
Hiking, fishing, and golfing aren't the only activities that draw visitors to Barrington. Check out the Barrington History Museum, located in a historic Victorian home on Main Street, to take a look back at the city's past. You can watch live blacksmithing demonstrations on Saturdays and view ongoing exhibits of period clothing. Barrington also boasts a local movie theater, coffee shop, restaurants, and bars. You'll even find high-end, big-city amenities, such as holistic exercise studios and organic food (straight from neighboring farms), close at hand.
Despite its small size, Barrington Village Center boasts about 170 retailers, some of which have been in business for more than 20 years and have developed a local fan following. These boutique shops often hold sidewalk sales in the warmer months, so you can make a day of it in downtown Barrington. Locals swear by the weekly Farmer's Market, which takes place each Thursday. Start your day in Barrington picking out produce at the Famer's Market, then head over to brunch downtown, followed by a little shopping. Round out a fun-filled day with a walk through the Historic District and Citizens Park. Hike, bike, or walk your dog through the 781-acre Cuba Marsh Forest Preserve.
Whatever you do during your visit, Barrington will certainly charm you. You might just want to stay a while! Fortunately, it has a selection of hotels of all types to serve as your home base.
Below are reviews of the city of Barrington, IL from an actual visitor's perspective.
Calm area with a lot of good restaurants.
Calm area, about 15 min. from a lot of good restaurants.
Francesca's for dinner! Ambrosia for breakfast!
Many stores and great restaurants were very close.