Des Plaines/Arlington Hts Corridor - Elk Grove Village, IL

Located in Cook County, Illinois, stands the village of Mount Prospect, a part of Des Plaines and Arlington Heights. Originally, this area was founded by Native Americans. When Americans came to the area, they began to clear the land and made it a farming village. After the railway was introduced in 1850, the area became known for specialized farming. Stores opened over time, leading to further development. The area has become known for diverse retail and professional businesses.

A few museums dot the local area including the Mt. Prospect Historical Society Museum, which preserves the history of this village. Locals may have to travel for artist events, as no ongoing events are held in Mt. Prospect.

Most restaurants in the neighborhood nestled themselves in distinct locations separate from one another, although most can be found around South Elmhurst Road. For an unusual day trip to an old 1880s restored general store, head to Capannari Ice Cream on South Pine Street. The ice cream shop has unique flavors, like black liquorice or mocha, that make the perfect treat on an afternoon out and about in the village of Mt. Prospect.

For a taste of delicacies and unique dishes, head to Retro Bistro. Made popular on television programs, this restaurant serves dishes such as mushroom strudel, red and golden beet salad and escargot puff pastries. Locals return for the high-end food and fast, friendly service.

For another interesting restaurant to try, head to Ramen Misoya Chicago on South Busse Road. This shop creates real, Japanese-style ramen and miso soup, so you get a taste of authentic Asian cuisine. Ramen, a kind of noodle in broth, has become the staple dish here, and locals return for the friendly servers along with rapid service.

At night, locals head out to Pap's Ultimate Bar and Grill on South Elmhurst Road for karaoke, to watch the big game or to spend time out with friends. For those interested in live music, you can head to Player's Pub & Grill on South River Road. Live bands play most weekends on one of the various decks at the bar.

Several transportation options are available to residents in Des Plaines/Arlington Hts. Corridor, but traveling by car may still be the best way to get around town. The Wisconsin North Central Line services the northeast side of the town, while the Chicago Transportation Authority and Regional Transport Authority also provide train and bus services, respectively. A one-way bus ticket through Metra Rail, which also provides train services, costs $1.25.

Uber does service the area. In Downtown Chicago, hailing a cab causes no trouble, but in the residential neighborhoods in the Arlington Heights Corridor, it's near impossible unless you call for a taxi in advance. In the residential areas, parking remains free at most locations and residences have driveways. Those looking for a highway have a few options. Illinois Route 58 and Illinois Route 83 border the neighborhood, while State Route 14 runs diagonally from Mt. Prospect to Des Plaines.

There are few biking lanes, so riders must use sidewalks or keep up with traffic on the roads. The streets can become congested, so riders are safest on residential roads. Those wishing to walk can find many sidewalks, although shops and venues may be too far away to walk to comfortably.

Lion's Park and Sunrise Park stand in the immediate area. Sunrise Park backs up to Weller Creek and is found on West Sunset Road. Lions Park, located between East Shabonee Trail, East Lincoln Street and South Emerson Street also serves the area.

Sunrise park provides access to a soccer field, playground and walking path. Lion's Park provides similar services. At both, you can enter for free and take leashed pets for walks.

Neither park has published annual activities, although private groups may hold them there. Patrons enjoy the freedom to visit and picnic at the parks while their children and pets play.

Residents expect to pay $1,066 per month for a one-bedroom residence in this neighborhood. The area has a higher-than-average cost of living. Locals expect to pay 29 percent more to live in this neighborhood compared to the rest of the state. Gas prices vary, but they tend to be around 6 percent higher than the national average.

A one-way ticket on public transportation through Metra Rail costs $1.25 and can cost as much as $4.50 depending where you're headed. Expect to pay around $4.50 for a pint of beer at a local pub or bar.

Locals head to North Elmhurst Road when they want a day out to shop. Randhurst Village provides access to multiple big-name stores like Old Navy and Charming Charlie's.

For fashionable women's clothing and jewelry, make your way to East Euclid Avenue and AZ Unique Boutique, Inc. The upscale consignment shop carries well-known and indie brands. Locals return for great prices, discounts and gently used items.

Play It Again Jan's Resale Shop Extraordinaire, Inc. on South Arlington Heights Road in nearby Elk Grove sells everything from furniture to gently used clothing items. Locals love that furniture and large purchases can be delivered for fair prices, and they return for the inviting atmosphere.

Complete your grocery shopping at the Randurst Shopping Center, which features a Costco and Cost Plus World Market. Residents also have access to a Walmart Supercenter in the surrounding area. Several farmers markets run throughout the year, but only a name-brand service, Fresh Thyme Farmers Market, runs year-round.

Jarosch Bakery has satisfied the cravings of Chicago residents for 50 years with an assortment of cakes and pastries. From specialty holiday treats to wedding cakes, you'll find amazing treats for every occasion (or just stop in for fresh-baked bread or a delectable cupcake).