Best of DeKalb, IL
The best restaurants, cafés, bars, shops and things to do in DeKalb, IL — mapped and organized by category.
About DeKalb
DeKalb is a city in DeKalb County, Illinois, with a population of 40,290 recorded in the 2020 census. The community derives its name from Johann de Kalb, a decorated Franconian-French war hero who died during the American Revolutionary War.
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Ellwood House Museum
Ellwood House Museum is a Victorian‑style house that was built by Isaac Ellwood, a barbed‑wire entrepreneur, in 1879. The historic home sits on First Street in De Kalb, Illinois.
built as a private home by barbed wire entrepreneur Isaac Ellwood in 1879
View details →Best Hotels in DeKalb
6 places · Where to stay, from budget-friendly to boutique.
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Comfort Inn DeKalb
Comfort Inn DeKalb is a hotel located at 1314 West Lincoln Highway.
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Hampton Inn - DeKalb
Hampton Inn - DeKalb is located at 663 South Annie Glidden Road.
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Red Roof Inn - DeKalb
Red Roof Inn - DeKalb is located at 1212 West Lincoln Highway.
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Holiday Inn Express & Suites
Holiday Inn Express & Suites is located at 1935 DeKalb Avenue.
Best Restaurants in DeKalb
35 places · Where to eat, from neighborhood staples to standout kitchens.
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El Jimador Mexican Grill
El Jimador Mexican Grill serves traditional Mexican dishes at 260 East Lincoln Highway.
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Elwood Steak & Fish House
Elwood Steak & Fish House is a steak house located at 2219 Sycamore Road.
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French Toast Pancake House
French Toast Pancake House is a pancake restaurant located at 831 South 4th Street.
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Jamrah Middle Eastern Cusine
Jamrah Middle Eastern Cusine serves authentic dishes on 2672 DeKalb Avenue.
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Los Rancheros
Los Rancheros is a Mexican restaurant located at 2350 Sycamore Road.
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Noodles & Company
Noodles & Company offers a variety of pasta dishes at 2561 Sycamore Road.
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Thai Pavillion
Thai Pavillion is a Thai restaurant located at 251 East Lincoln Highway.
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The Grove Tavern
The Grove Tavern is an American restaurant located at 204 N 4th St.
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The Junction Eating Place
The Junction Eating Place at 816 West Lincoln Highway offers a casual dining experience in a convenient location.
Best Cafés & Coffee in DeKalb
3 places · Coffee shops, roasters and casual spots to linger.
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Barb City Bagels
Barb City Bagels is a café located at 118 East Lincoln Highway.
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Caribou Coffee
Caribou Coffee is a café located at 2700 Dekalb Avenue that serves coffee shop fare.
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Cast Iron Coffee
Cast Iron Coffee is a coffee shop located at 901 Lucinda Avenue.
Best Bars & Nightlife in DeKalb
2 places · Cocktail bars, pubs and where the night goes.
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Lord Stanley's and Annex
Lord Stanley's and Annex is a bar located at 142 East Lincoln Highway.
Best Things to Do in DeKalb
3 places · Museums, landmarks and the experiences worth your time.
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Ellwood House Museum
Ellwood House Museum is a Victorian‑style house that was built by Isaac Ellwood, a barbed‑wire entrepreneur, in 1879. The historic home sits on First Street in De Kalb, Illinois.
Best Shops in DeKalb
5 places · Independent boutiques, bookstores and places to browse.
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Village Commons Bookstore
Village Commons Bookstore offers a wide selection of books in a relaxed setting.
Best Parks & Outdoors in DeKalb
44 places · Green space, gardens and room to breathe.
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Brooks Park
Brooks Park offers a spacious green area for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities.
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Cortland Park
Cortland Park is a public park that offers outdoor space for residents and visitors.
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Deprin Park
Deprin Park offers a spacious green space for walking, jogging, and family picnics.
Nearby cities to explore
More guides within driving distance of DeKalb.
- Sycamore, IL 13 places
- Genoa, IL 10 places
- Elburn, IL 9 places
- Hampshire, IL 7 places
- Rochelle, IL 35 places
- Village of Campton Hills, IL 16 places
- Sugar Grove, IL 26 places
- Pingree Grove, IL 12 places