Top 15 Must-See Attractions and Activities in Cicero, IL

Cicero, named in honor of the renowned Roman consul, is a working-class suburb of Chicago historically recognized for its manufacturing sector. During the 1920s, it served as a hideaway for Al Capone, with several landmarks reflecting that era.

The Western Electric company was a crucial player in Cicero’s industrial growth during Capone’s reign, and one remnant of this expansive complex is a Medieval-style tower located along West Cermak Road. This establishment was pivotal for the production of phone components and electrical products, playing a significant role in the community’s economic landscape and is celebrated for its progressive employment policies and satisfied workforce.

1. Columbus Park

This example of Prairie Style architecture, located northeast of Cicero, was created by the acclaimed landscape architect Jens Jensen (1860-1951). Between 1915 and 1920, Jensen transformed these 144 acres, integrating his vision with the natural beauty of the landscape.

Notable features include a winding lagoon designed to emulate a prairie river, complete with charming cascades and waterfalls crafted from stratified stone. Native vegetation flourishes throughout the park, and a network of stone paths culminate in the “Council Ring,” a circular stone bench designated for storytelling. Additionally, the park encompasses the nine-hole links-style Columbus Park Golf Course.

2. Oak Park Conservatory

This conservatory, situated on a small plot just minutes from Cicero, serves as both a notable piece of local heritage and a botanical showcase. Built in 1929, its impressive Edwardian architecture houses an extensive variety of plant species, many of which are nurtured for public display in Oak Park’s public spaces.

The conservatory features desert species, including several cactus and succulent varieties, as well as bay, fig, date palm, and olive trees. Visitors can also enjoy an array of orchids, rainforest plants, ferns, and exotic fruits such as figs, bananas, lemons, and papayas. The facility hosts a vibrant events program, with highlights including Uncorked, a monthly wine festival featuring local cuisine and live music.

3. St. Mary of Częstochowa

This striking historic church, completed in 1918, stands as a monument in Cicero. The neo-Gothic structure exemplifies the Polish Cathedral style prominent in the Great Lakes region.

Characterized by their grandeur and elaborate embellishments, these Catholic churches, primarily established in the 19th and early 20th centuries, share a common architectural richness with St. Mary of Częstochowa. The church is renowned for its two towering spires that rise 200 feet above the main entrance, capped with crocketed pinnacles. Inside, the communion rail, pulpit, and altars are crafted from Carrara marble, with the main altar featuring a replica of the revered Polish icon, the Black Madonna of Częstochowa. A notable sculptural work outside the church is a depiction of Christ the King by Czesław Dźwigaj, known for the monumental bronze doors at St. Hyacinth’s Basilica in Chicago.

An interesting fact is that Al Capone’s sister, Mafalda, was married in this church in 1930.

4. Hawthorne Works Tower

Prior to its closure in 1983, Cicero was home to a vast factory complex that began operations in 1905, producing telephone equipment and household appliances. At its zenith, the Hawthorne Works employed 45,000 individuals and served as a focal point for pioneering industrial studies during the 1920s.

Notable engineers and statisticians, such as Walter A. Shewhart and W. Edwards Deming, were integral to the operation during this innovative period. Following the factory’s shutdown, the site underwent redevelopment into a shopping center; nonetheless, the iconic castle-like tower, characterized by decorative arrow loops and machicolations, remains a prominent feature of the area. Those interested can explore artifacts and histories from the Hawthorne Works at the Hawthorne Museum located at Morton College.

5. Freddy’s Pizza

This family-operated Italian deli, market, and restaurant located at 1600 61st Ave has been a staple in the neighborhood since 1968. Freddy’s Pizza stands out for its genuine approach, offering a selection of delectable Italian specialties ranging from Neapolitan and Chicago-style pizzas to ravioli, stuffed gnocchi in vodka sauce, and chicken vesuvio.

The deli counter features a wide variety of imported meats and sausages, cheeses, seasonings, olive oils, homemade marinara sauce, and freshly prepared salads and pasta dishes. Additionally, their frozen lemonade and gelato, available in numerous homemade flavors, are always in high demand.

6. Cicero Community Park

This well-maintained neighborhood park serves as a central gathering place for the community. A quaint plaza surrounded by formal flower beds and a pergola enhances the park’s charm. Throughout the summer, a variety of festivals, games, and programs are hosted here, with seasonal carnivals taking place in the southwest corner parking lot.

The holiday season is particularly delightful, showcasing beautiful Christmas lights. The park also features several permanent amenities, including an open skate park, and the pathways are regularly frequented by joggers, families with strollers, cyclists, and dog walkers.

7. West Cermak Road

West Cermak Road serves as a principal thoroughfare through Cicero, extending eastward to McCormick Place, located south of downtown Chicago. This road is home to a multitude of local businesses, particularly eateries, reflecting the vibrant Hispanic community within Cicero, offering a variety of authentic taquerias, Mexican restaurants, bakeries, ice cream parlors, and markets.

Some noteworthy establishments include La Lupita (6539), Indio (6037), La Central (6034), Paleteria Las Delicias De Michoacán (5737), and Taqueria La Guadalupana (5517). Additionally, 4833 W. 22nd Street is historically significant as it was Al Capone’s headquarters in 1924. West Cermak Road also boasts rich early 20th-century architecture, notably the Olympic Theatre (6134), which dates back to 1927.

8. Bobby Hull Community Ice Rink

Named after one of the most celebrated Chicago Blackhawks, the Bobby Hull Community Ice Rink opened its doors in Cicero in 2011. Weather permitting, the rink operates seven days a week throughout the skating season.

Entry fees for open skate sessions are $3 for non-residents and $1 for Cicero residents, while skate rentals are $5 and $1 respectively. Open skate opportunities are available most days, alternating between stick and puck sessions (usually from 10 am to 3 pm) and illuminated evening skating sessions.

9. Hawthorne Park District

While Cicero itself may not host an abundance of public open spaces, the Hawthorne Park District offers a substantial area of greenery. This locale features several amenities, including a well-maintained basketball court, tennis and volleyball courts, and a small swing set for children.

A sizable open field is available for casual sports, picnics, and leisurely walks, bordered by mature trees and including two baseball diamonds situated on the southern side. Convenient free parking is available adjacent to the park district building, where hall rentals are also offered for private events.

10. Portillo’s Hot Dogs

For those in the Chicago area craving indulgent fast food, Portillo’s is a recommended choice. Established in Villa Park in 1963, this second-city staple has recently expanded beyond Illinois. Most of Portillo’s approximately 60 locations are within the state, with one located a short drive west of Cicero on Roosevelt Road in Forest Park.

Renowned for its Chicago-style hot dogs topped with chopped onions, tomatoes, pickles, and a variety of other condiments piled on a poppy seed bun, the menu also features cherished local favorites, such as Italian beef sandwiches and baked mostaccioli pasta.

11. Barrie Park

During winter, this neighborhood park becomes a favorite destination for families due to its exceptional sledding hill. The slope is meticulously maintained throughout the season, and the park, located a few minutes north of Cicero, also includes a small playground, a soccer field, and a baseball diamond.

Barrie Park has an intriguing history as it once housed a manufactured gas plant in the early 20th century. In the late 1990s, hazardous materials were discovered in the soil, prompting a three-year cleanup effort, resulting in the park’s revitalization in 2005.

12. Cicero Marketplace

On the eastern side of Cicero, the expansive Cicero Marketplace features numerous big-box retailers and chain restaurants. Operating since 1995, notable tenants include Target, Home Depot, Sam’s Club, GameStop, and Five Below, among others.

Additionally, various dining options are available, such as IHOP, Sonic, McDonald’s, KFC, Panda Express, and Starbucks. Further north, beneath the shadow of the Hawthorne Works tower, resides another shopping center featuring Foot Locker, Menards, a 14-screen AMC multiplex, and various eateries like Taco Bell, Popeye’s, and Subway.

13. North Riverside Park Mall

Continuing along West Cermak Road will lead you to the extensive North Riverside Park Mall, which features nearly 100 retail establishments and services. Familiar brands including Old Navy, Sephora, H&M, Forever 21, Foot Locker, Victoria’s Secret, Hot Topic, Claire’s, and Kay Jewelers can be found here.

The southern end of the mall is anchored by JCPenney, and food court favorites such as Cinnabon, Dunkin’, Baskin Robbins, and Auntie Anne’s are scattered throughout the premises.

14. Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

For families seeking engaging activities, Urban Air, located next to the mall in North Riverside, offers an extensive selection of attractions beyond a traditional trampoline park. The facility features go-karts, virtual reality games, a climbing wall, a “Sky Rider” zip line, a ropes course, a kid-friendly “Adventure Hub” playground, and bumper cars.

In addition to these offerings, various trampoline park activities are available, including a Wipeout zone, battle beam, dodgeball court, tumble track, and slam dunk area. Visitors can choose from flexible passes that grant access to multiple attractions.

15. Hawthorne Race Course

Located in the southern part of Cicero, the Hawthorne Race Course has been in operation since 1891, making it the oldest family-run racetrack in North America. During the early 20th century, when horse racing was prohibited in Chicago, the facility served as a testing site for aviation pioneers, including Victory Allan Lockheed.

The main track features a notable home stretch that measures 1,320 feet, one of the longest in the United States. Key events to consider include the thoroughbred graded stakes races, such as the Hawthorne Gold Cup Handicap (October), the Illinois Derby (April), and the Sixty Sails Handicap (April). As of the time of this writing, the course was undergoing a $400 million redevelopment aimed at transforming it into a casino and entertainment venue while preserving the historic significance of the track.