Is Mettawa a good place for a quiet getaway?

Yes, it's very peaceful with large estates and nature preserves.

Are there hotels in Mettawa?

No, but there are luxury hotels and B&Bs in nearby Lake Forest and Libertyville.

What outdoor activities are available?

Hiking, biking, and horseback riding on trails and forest preserves.

How far is Mettawa from Chicago?

About 35 miles north, roughly a 45-60 minute drive.

Do I need a car to visit Mettawa?

Yes, public transport is minimal.

Are there restaurants in Mettawa?

Very few; most dining options are in neighboring towns.

Is Mettawa family-friendly?

Yes, with safe streets and nature activities, but limited kid-specific attractions.

What is the closest airport?

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), about 25 miles away.

Mettawa

CityIllinois, United States

Mettawa is a CITY in Illinois, United States.

Mettawa, Illinois, is a serene village nestled in Lake County, offering a peaceful escape from the bustle of nearby Chicago. This affluent community is characterized by sprawling estates, lush woodlands, and winding country roads, making it a haven for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. While Mettawa itself is primarily residential, its proximity to the Des Plaines River Trail and the Lake County Forest Preserves provides ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation. The village's charm lies in its quiet, rural atmosphere, with historic farmhouses and equestrian properties dotting the landscape. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely drive through the scenic countryside, explore the nearby botanical gardens, or venture into the charming downtowns of neighboring towns like Libertyville and Lake Forest for dining and shopping. Mettawa is an ideal base for exploring the natural beauty of northern Illinois while enjoying a luxurious, secluded stay.

Best time to visit Mettawa

Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer (July-August) can be warm and humid but is great for hiking and biking. Winter (December-February) is cold and snowy, ideal for a cozy retreat.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Clear
Temperature: 16°
Feels like: 14°
Humidity: 51%
Wind: 13 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 6 to 17°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

Peak autumn foliage

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

ORD

Chicago O'Hare International Airport

International

40 km away

MDW

Chicago Midway International Airport

International

65 km away

Getting around

"A car is essential for getting around Mettawa, as public transportation is very limited. The village is easily accessible via major highways. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available but may have longer wait times. Biking is popular on the Des Plaines River Trail. The nearest Metra train stations are in Libertyville and Lake Forest, providing connections to Chicago."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available at nearby hotels and cafes in neighboring towns

Local SIM

Local SIM available at O'Hare airport from $10

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very low crime; main risk is wildlife on roads at night.

Night safety

8/10

Very low crime; main risk is wildlife on roads at night.

Transport

7/10

Scam risk

9/10

"Mettawa is an extremely safe community with very low crime rates. The village is patrolled by the Lake County Sheriff's Office. Travelers should exercise standard precautions, such as locking vehicles and not leaving valuables in sight. Wildlife encounters (deer, coyotes) are possible on rural roads, so drive carefully, especially at dawn and dusk."

Police

911

Ambulance

911

Fire

911

Entry and health

Health information

"Healthcare facilities are excellent in the surrounding area, with several major hospitals in nearby Libertyville and Lake Forest. Travelers should ensure they have adequate health insurance, as medical costs in the US can be high. Pharmacies are available in neighboring towns. No special vaccinations are required for travel to Mettawa."

Culture

Local customs

"Mettawa is a quiet, upscale residential community. Visitors should respect privacy and avoid trespassing on private property. Casual attire is fine for outdoor activities, but upscale dining in nearby towns may require smart casual dress. Tipping (15-20%) is customary in restaurants and for services. Greetings are friendly but informal."

English (official)SpanishChineseTagalogVietnameseFrenchArabicKoreanGermanItalianEnglish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Luxury

Meals

$20-40 | a meal at a nearby upscale restaurant

Hotels

$150-300 | luxury hotels in Lake Forest area

Local transport

$50 | rental car per day

Cost notes

Mettawa itself has no hotels or restaurants; costs reflect nearby options.

Timezone

America/Chicago
Local time 21:19

More facts

Population

578

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Village of Mettawa

CityNatureQuietHikingLuxuryRuralFamily-Friendly