Argonne National Laboratory is located in Lemont Township (https://www.lemontdowntown.com/explore), which is situated in DuPage County (https://www.discoverdupage.com/things-to-do/), Illinois. Nearby townships include Darien, Bolingbrook, Woodridge and Willowbrook. We've handpicked a selection of activities to enjoy in the vicinity of Argonne.
Please check the interactive map for all locations via the link (bit.ly/48XBCGW) or the QR code below.
Local Townships
The downtowns of local townships offer a variety of food and leisure places.
Breweries
We recommend the local breweries including these places for thirsty people.
- Skeleton Key Brewing Company
- Miskatonic Brewing Company
- Black Horizon
- Alter Brewing Company
- Pollyanna Brewing Company
- Goldfinger Brewing Company
Restaurants
Bolingbrook
- Mago Grill and Cantina (Mexican): https://maps.app.goo.gl/SHz8ucRYPZGzGSQF, Modern, Aztec-accented spot with creative Mexican cuisine plus cocktails & a lengthy tequila list. Lots of great vegetarian options and freshly made guacamole.
Lemont
- Wooden Paddle (Italian): https://maps.app.goo.gl/5QeWanTownUXoMqh9, Wood-fired pizza, salads, and more.
- Next Mex (Tex-Mex): https://maps.app.goo.gl/n9idNR57VHppGWy88, Tex-Mex and craft cocktails.
- Barrel and Vine (American): https://maps.app.goo.gl/Fe5VtFTKedeTvjB39, New American menu with a creative twist, great cocktails.
Darien
- Chuck's Southern Comforts Cafe & Banquets (BBQ):https://maps.app.goo.gl/oBV2qzmZ8w24T6Pv8, Small-chain outpost serving BBQ, plus some Mexican & Cajun-Creole dishes, in casual environs.
- Chiba (Japanese): https://maps.app.goo.gl/iizCrugGJ8P8YxaJ8, Japanese dining offering standards such as sushi & hibachi dinners.
- Grand Duke’s (Eastern European): https://maps.app.goo.gl/zcU8cjxq2avUJ1Sy, Homestyle Eastern European dishes, beer & a vodka bar, presented in old-world environs.
Westmont
- Neat Kitchen + Bar (American): https://maps.app.goo.gl/gAMzqGWYqLy6p4gw, Restaurant & bar serving New American cuisine & craft beers in a trendy space with wood partitions.
- Dolce Restaurant & Wine Bar (American Italian): https://maps.app.goo.gl/mvE4w5zJkVyE3WBA8, Relaxed, brick-lined eatery serving pasta, pizza & local produce plus ample wine & cocktails.
- Uncle Bub’s (BBQ): https://maps.app.goo.gl/cbArS8kq6jVpTvrC6, Roadhouse-inspired counter-service barbecue spot with a hot-sauce wall & a limited bar.
Downers Grove
- The Foxtail (Mediterranean++): https://maps.app.goo.gl/N68NTYpSciYt75mq9, Stylish, contemporary mainstay providing a Mediterranean-inspired menu & an extensive drinks list.
- Bar Chido (Mexican fusion): https://maps.app.goo.gl/sVoymdx53mH2ceTA8, Modern Mexican with great cocktails.
- Gia Mia (Italian): https://maps.app.goo.gl/nnkiBbe1NG9UjVgz7, Wood-overn pizza, great salads, pastas and small plates.
- Pierce Tavern (American): https://maps.app.goo.gl/rZdaP4c1iKD77QQP6 Hip pub & diner with an atmospheric brick-walled interior serving burgers, pizzas, & light bites.
Food to try in the area
Deep-Dish Pizza: When in Chicago, sampling the city's famous deep-dish pizza is a must. Head to a local pizzeria and indulge in the thick, cheesy goodness.
- Zazzo’s https://maps.app.goo.gl/NeepMqJY3rzg46DF7
- Giordano’s (Willowbrook) https://maps.app.goo.gl/78hvJpMPFSULuUzJ8
- Giordano’s (Downers Grove) https://maps.app.goo.gl/mjMmgWfUx4JsrAsn9
- Lou Malnati's https://maps.app.goo.gl/e7vztKGDsQAGt6fv8
Chicago-style Hot Dogs: Try a classic Chicago-style hot dog with all the traditional toppings, including mustard, onions, relish, pickles, tomatoes, sport peppers, and celery salt.
- Portillo's (Bolingbrook) https://maps.app.goo.gl/3hhWVWuRxE6F4iXJ9
- Scooby's Hot Dogs https://maps.app.goo.gl/e6Y76vCyHPNxPrkf8
- Jimmy's Dog House https://maps.app.goo.gl/webeJVWSTAnMqG1UA
Italian Beef Sandwich: Savor the flavors of a Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich, featuring thinly sliced, seasoned beef served in a roll and often dipped in au jus.
- Maxwell's Beef: https://maps.app.goo.gl/eJmDcyzaH1LTyVXD8
- Buona: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JVdajpGzkxSAep6f9
- Nino's Italian Beef and Hotdogs: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hwkGPYz7jAjvnJ9a8
Chicago-Style Popcorn: Mix of caramel and cheese popcorn, a local favorite often found at popular popcorn shops.
- Wells Street Popcorn: https://maps.app.goo.gl/UVV391om5YfP9crR8
- O'hare Airport: Garrett’s, Nuts on Clark
More: Explore Eater Chicago, e.g., Where to Eat in Suburban Chicago
Grocery
There are plenty of grocery options around the Argonne including
- Target
- Walmart
- Jewel-Osco
- ALDI
- Pete's Fresh Market
- Meijier
- Whole Foods
- Costco Wholesale
- Shop & Save Market (Try the Polish Deli section!)
- Brookhaven Market
Trails
The Waterfall Glen is a beautiful 9–11 mile trail that surrounds the Argonne National Laboratory.
You can enjoy the half-mile hiking at the I&M trail that connects the Lemont Downtown to the Lemont Quarries and the Forge.
For other trail options, please visit the Dupage County webpage https://www.dupageforest.org/things-to-do/recreational-activities/trails.
Visiting Chicago
Experience the vibrant city of Chicago, just 24 miles away from Argonne National Laboratory, by exploring its iconic landmarks, rich cultural scene, and renowned cuisine. Known for its architectural marvels, such as the Willis Tower and Millennium Park's Cloud Gate, Chicago is a city that beautifully combines tradition with modernity. Delve into the world-class museums, like the Art Institute of Chicago, or take a stroll along the picturesque Lake Michigan shoreline. In January 2024, embrace the winter charm by ice skating at Millennium Park or enjoying the city lights against the snowy backdrop. Indulge in Chicago's diverse culinary offerings, from deep-dish pizza to gourmet dining.
Conveniently, you can reach the city by car or take the METRA train from the nearby Downers Grove Station (week days and weekends) or Lemont Station (only week days) to the Chicago Union Station. To help plan your visit, check out the suggested itinerary at https://www.choosechicago.com/articles/itineraries/24-hours-in-downtown-chicago, ensuring you make the most of your time in this dynamic metropolis.
