Des Plaines

Des Plaines is a city in Cook County in northeastern Illinois, located about 17 miles (27 km) northwest of Chicago and near O'Hare International Airport. The river of the same name flows through the city limits and shapes the landscape with its banks and surrounding green spaces.

A steam-powered mill was built here in 1852, followed by the first train station two years later, which attracted settlers. The community was officially incorporated in 1869 and grew quickly due to its proximity to the railroad and Chicago.

The name comes from the river that French explorers called after the American sycamore trees growing along its banks in the 18th century. Today visitors find a suburb with many parks and green spaces where families barbecue, walk, and play sports, while the downtown area shows small shops and restaurants.

Several highways connect the city to the region, including I-90 and I-294, while Metra trains offer regular connections to Chicago. Most facilities and parks are easily reachable on foot or by car.

Ray Kroc opened his first McDonald's restaurant here in 1955, marking the start of the worldwide franchise system. The original building still exists as a museum and attracts visitors wanting to learn more about the beginnings of the fast-food industry.

Location: Cook County

Inception: 1852

Elevation above the sea: 196 m

Shares border with: Mount Prospect, Chicago, Elk Grove Village, Park Ridge, Rosemont, Glenview

Website: http://desplaines.org

GPS coordinates: 42.03389,-87.89972

Latest update: December 12, 2025 23:50