International visitors need a US visa or ESTA.

Is the lake open for swimming?

Yes, but there are no lifeguards; swim at your own risk.

Yes, at Long Lake Park or nearby outfitters.

Are there hiking trails?

Yes, at Hastings Lake Forest Preserve and Rollins Savanna.

What is the nearest airport?

Chicago O'Hare (ORD) is about 40 miles south.

Yes, with an Illinois fishing license.

Are there restaurants on the lake?

Limited; most dining is in Grayslake or Round Lake.

Is the area pet-friendly?

Yes, but dogs must be leashed in parks.

Long Lake

CityMinnesota, United States

Long Lake is a CITY in Minnesota, United States.

Long Lake, Illinois, is a serene lakeside community in Lake County, offering a peaceful retreat from Chicago's bustle. The centerpiece is the 1.5-mile-long Long Lake, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Surrounding parks like Hastings Lake Forest Preserve provide hiking trails and birdwatching. The area blends suburban comfort with natural beauty, featuring charming local eateries and seasonal farmers' markets. In winter, ice fishing and cross-country skiing take over. Its proximity to the Chain O'Lakes State Park makes it a gateway for water sports enthusiasts. Long Lake is ideal for families and nature lovers seeking a quiet, outdoor-focused getaway with easy access to urban amenities.

Best time to visit Long Lake

May to September for warm weather and water sports. July and August are peak with crowds and higher prices. September offers pleasant temperatures and fewer visitors. Winter (December-February) is quiet for ice fishing and snow sports.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Overcast
Temperature: 18°
Feels like: 15°
Humidity: 58%
Wind: 22 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Condition: Overcast
High: 19°
Low: 10°
Average: 14°
Rain: 22 mm

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Fall foliage, hiking

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

ORD

Chicago O'Hare International Airport

International

64 km away

MDW

Chicago Midway International Airport

International

80 km away

Getting around

"Car is essential as public transit is limited. Pace Bus routes connect to Grayslake and Waukegan. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) are available but sparse. Biking is popular on local roads. The nearest Metra train station is in Grayslake (3 miles) for Chicago access."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available at cafes and libraries in nearby towns

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Grayslake stores from $10

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe area; transport limited at night.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe area; transport limited at night.

Transport

7/10

Scam risk

2/10

"Long Lake is very safe with low crime. Petty theft can occur near parking lots; lock vehicles. Be cautious on icy roads in winter. Lake activities require life jackets; check weather before boating. Wildlife like deer and raccoons are common; do not feed them."

Police

911

Ambulance

911

Fire

911

Entry and health

Health information

"No specific health risks; standard travel insurance recommended. Nearest hospitals are in Grayslake (Advocate Condell Medical Center) and Libertyville. Pharmacies include CVS and Walgreens in nearby towns. Carry insect repellent for ticks in wooded areas. Tap water is safe to drink."

Culture

Local customs

"Midwestern friendliness prevails; greet strangers with a smile. Casual dress is fine, but swimwear is for beaches only. Tipping 15-20% at restaurants is standard. Quiet hours after 10 PM in residential areas. Respect private lakefront property."

English (official)SpanishChineseTagalogVietnameseFrenchArabicKoreanGermanItalianEnglish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$15 | average restaurant meal ~$15

Hotels

$100-150 | nearby hotels range $100-150/night

Local transport

$2 | local bus ride ~$2

Cost notes

Most visitors stay in Grayslake or Libertyville; Long Lake has limited lodging.

Timezone

America/Chicago
Local time 20:03

More facts

Population

1,800

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: City of Long Lake, Long Lake, Лонг-Лейк

CityLakeNatureFamily-FriendlyHikingFishingKayakingWinter Sports