PATCH PASSPORT: Glenview Serves Up Rich History, Taste of Farm Life and Award-Winning Burgers

Excellent schools, an eclectic mix of dining and shopping and a rich history are just a few things that make Glenview such a great place to call home. Here, check out Patch's newest edition of Patch Passport and take a vacation in your own backyard!

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ATTRACTIONS

No need to travel down South to get a feel of the old country. Wagner Farm, located at the corner of Lake and Wagner Roads, is one of the few working farms left in the area.

German immigrants Johann and Katharina Wagner crossed over to the United States in 1855 and acquired the 91 acres of farmland. The farm was owned and run by members of the Wagner family until 1997 when the farm was saved from developers and officially became a part of the . The farm continues to operate to this day with for all visitors. 

Take a trip back to World War II by visiting the Naval Air Station Glenview Museum at 2040 Lehigh Ave. The station trained more than 30,000 Navy personnel, including 24,000 pilots, during the second world war. Additionally, it hosted all five branches of the military from World War II to the Gulf War. Some famous names that trained at the station include George H.W. Bush, Neil Armstrong, Robert Taylor and Charles Lindbergh. 

The museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., offers 17 interactive and hands-on exhibits in informal learning environments. Exhibits include taking a shopping trip to Dominick’s, caring for your car, pet care, how nature works, doctor visits and much more. This museum, unlike most, does not only teach children the realities of life and responsibility, but gives them the opportunity to experience it on their own level.

Step into historic nature by visiting the park district’s Grove National Historic Landmark, located at 1421 Milwaukee Ave. The Grove consists of 123 acres of ecologically diverse prairie grove land preserved and maintained by the Glenview Park District.

 settled his family into the Grove in 1836 where his nature-loving son Robert grew a variety of plant and animal specimen collections. The Grove was designated at a national historic landmark in 1976 and has since offered tours including a tour of the restored 1856 Gothic Revival House, performing pioneer chores in the authentic Log Cabin and visiting the Wetland Greenhouse. 

Glenview History Center

Residents and visitors can dive into Glenview's past at the Glenview History Center, 1121 Waukegan Rd. The old house, which was built in 1864, was dedicated to the center in 1967 and has since been restored, maintained and furnished to reflect what the home looked like in 1860-1890. Visitors can read testimonials of longtime Glenview residents who moved to town in the late 1890s, at a time when Glenview consisted of gravel roads and wooden sidewalks.

WHERE TO EAT

Glenview's history isn't just found in the museum. Family-owned and operated restaurant has two locations in town and has been around for over 60 years. Jack and Bebe Hackney were the first to sell burgers and beer on their back porch in Glenview during the Prohibition. By 1942, after the restaurant was sold to Jim and Kitz Masterson, Hackney's on Harms became a hot spot for World War II soldiers. Hackney's has continued their family tradition and well-known restaurant and is enjoyed by diners from all over Illinois. Make sure to try their famous, original french fried onions when you stop in.

More of Glenview's history can be found at the Glenview House, 1843 Glenview Rd. established in 1878, the three-story establishment was once a tavern, community center, event venue and meeting center. The third floor burned down in 1923 but the tavern has remained intact for more than100 years. The establishment recently underwent while also keeping the historic charm. This spot is known for its extensive beer selection, whiskey lounge and full menu.

 features a variety of restaurants to satisfy anyone's taste. Try one of 1,230 tap handles of domestic, imported and craft beer at the . Have the or try a yummy treat at

If you plan on stopping by Glenview during the warm weather seasons, make sure to visit the Glenview Dairy Bar for some The establishment, located at 1015 Harlem Ave., was opened in 1955 and has two ordering windows with outdoor seating only. No matter what your sweet tooth is craving, the Dairy Bar is sure to hit the spot. 

Known for their authentic family recipes, Lalo's Mexican restaurant offers a large variety of meals that go far beyond the standard tacos and salsa. Lalo's has locations throughout Illinois and opened up shop in Glenview at 1432 Waukegan Road offerings all sorts of dishes such as enchiladas, burritos, quesadillas and more.  

WHAT TO BUY

Find anything your heart desires at the Glen Town Center with a wide selection of well-known stores like  and Dick's Sporting Goods alongside one-of-a-kind boutiques like and  

Bird and nature lovers should make a stop at the Wild Birds Unlimited Nature Shop, 1460 Waukegan Rd. Patrons will find a variety of options on how to make a backyard into a birdfeeding habitat.     

Located at 1047 Waukegan Rd., Lyzart Gallery offers a uniquue gallery of photos, paintings, jewelry and home dining decor from local artists. In addition to specialty gifts, art classes are available for those aspiring artists looking to begin a career. 

Old items destined for the trash have become items of desire at The Cat's Meow, 1814 Glenview Road. This is a well-known spot for those looking for a truly unique gift with a large selection to choose from. 

UPCOMING EVENTS

Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon visitors can come experience an original at Wagner Farm, 1510 Wagner Road. Chef demonstrations and exhibits on sustainable living are available each week. 

Bearfoot in the Park Free Outdoor Concerts 

The Glenview Park District offers free outdoor concerts for music lovers throughout the middle of August. The remaining bands include R Gang and Teen Band Fest. 

Grove Fest 

Take a step back to the old Glenview days at Grove Fest on Oct. 2. The event includes live folk music, hayrides and outdoor dining with hearty and delicious food. 

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