Plan a Solo Weekend in the Elgin Area!
Getting Started
As a travel writer, I’m frequently exploring destinations. Sometimes my husband joins me, but more often than not, I’m on my own. This means I travel solo quite often.
I’m part of a growing demographic of solo female travelers, especially older women. I’m in my 50s, and so many of my friends are also heading out on their own. Single, married, in a committed relationship – doesn’t matter. We’re hittin’ the road.
When I’m looking for a solo adventure, I don’t have to look far. I’ve been a fan of Elgin since moving there a decade ago. I don’t live there any more, but I’m only twenty minutes away, which makes for an easy getaway.
Because I travel by myself so often, I’m frequently asked if I’m concerned about safety. Not in Elgin! According to a survey conducted by GOBankingRates, Elgin is the number one safest and most affordable city to live in the USA.
If you’re ready for your own solo Elgin adventure, here’s an ideal weekend itinerary filled with arts, culture, and great food.
Plan your Stay!
See Elgin Area Accommodation Options
Begin your stay by checking into Sonesta Select in West Dundee. It’s just north of I-90, making it a convenient home base. It’s also got a pool and fitness center, although you won’t be spending much time at the hotel.
Day 1
Morning
Your first adventure is the Downtown Elgin Market. More than a farmers market, this weekly event showcases local producers and artisans, and you can even browse with an adult beverage in hand.
If the weather doesn’t cooperate or you’re in town when the market’s closed for the season, visit Gail Borden Public Library. More than just a haven for book lovers, there are also exhibits, and don’t miss the reading room overlooking the Fox River.
After the market, walk a block to Grove Avenue for dinner at Kubo Sushi and Sake Lounge. Owned by a brother and sister team from California, since 2018 they’ve been serving authentic dishes with a “Cali twist.” Kris studied cooking in Japan and for the first six months, all he made was rice. If you’re not a sushi fan, they’ve got teriyaki, tempura, noodles, and more.
Cap the night with a cocktail at Martini Room. There’s live music on Fridays, so you can be serenaded as you sip on your Smoking Gun, an award-winning drink featuring smoked rosemary.
Day 2
Morning
Begin your day with a flight – a coffee flight! – at Eastside Café Coffee and Wine Bar in East Dundee. At this adorable coffee shop and boutique, you can pair your morning beverage with a pastry or a quiche, and if you’re feeling feisty, you can add a shot of Black Walnut Cream from Michigan’s Round Barn Winery. Allow time for shopping, because owner Kate’s filled the shop with wines and lots of coffee- and wine-related items.
After breakfast, stroll Main Street in East and West Dundee, sister towns straddling the Fox River. Favorite shops include Around the Corner Candy, which is a trip back in time, and The Half Full Nest Vintage Market. This antique store has treasures in every nook and cranny. Plan to stay awhile, because you could get lost in all the goodies.
Afternoon
Lunch along the river at bleuroot. This farm-to-table restaurant works with local producers. Dining options are available for vegetarians, vegans, and for those who are gluten-free.
Next you’ll drive south to Elgin. Your first stop is the Elgin History Museum for a look at the area’s past. The building itself dates back to 1856, and inside are exhibits telling the stories of the Elgin Watch Company, the Elgin Road Race, and the city’s one-time status as the dairy capital of the country. It’s located in the Elgin Historic District, and you can’t miss the beautiful “painted lady,” a stunningly well-kept Victorian, across the street.
I’m the daughter of an artist, and one of my favorite things about Elgin is its art scene. They even have a Public Art Plan, which started in 2017. Works include murals, sculptures, and wrapped utility boxes. There are several pieces along the Fox River Trail, and if you went to the market the night before, you’ll have seen some of them. For more art, stop into Side Street Studio Arts. The gallery is an integral part of Elgin’s arts community.
Evening
For dinner, walk a couple blocks to Elgin Public House. Since 2006, this downtown favorite has been serving elevated pub grub. Burger options include Angus, Wagyu, and a “Quad,” which is a blend of bison, wagyu, elk, and boar.
Wrap up your day with a show at ECC Arts Center. Elgin Community College’s theater brings performers in from all over and are as varied as a USO salute, ballet, jazz, and a Bing Crosby tribute.
Day 3
Morning
For your last solo morning, treat yourself to a late morning and breakfast at Alexander’s Café. They’ve got all the comfort food specialties you’d expect, like country fried steak, biscuits and gravy, and skillets. They’ve also got chilaquiles and chipotle benedicts if you want to spice it up.
Afternoon
Walk it off with a trip to Lords Park. It’s been around since 1893 when the Lord family presented it to the City of Elgin. During the summer months, you can visit their farm zoo and see elk, whitetail deer, and even bison.
Also in the park is the Elgin Public Museum. It’s the only natural history museum in the Fox River Valley, and admission is only $2.
With its vibrant arts, local boutiques, and delicious food, Elgin is a perfect place for a solo getaway.
