Visiting the Tricoci University Bridgeview campus is always a great choice—whether you’re here for a haircut, facial, or manicure at our student salon. But your appointment doesn’t have to be the only highlight of your day. Conveniently located near Harlem Avenue and 87th Street, the Bridgeview campus is surrounded by restaurants, shops, parks, and family-friendly fun.
If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Bridgeview, IL, we’ve got you covered.
Grab a Bite at Local Bridgeview Restaurants & Cafés
From quick coffee to sit-down meals, there are plenty of Bridgeview restaurants within minutes of campus:
- Al Bawadi Grill – Known for authentic Middle Eastern flavors and wood-fired meats, this local favorite is perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Mama Luigi’s – A family-run Italian restaurant on Harlem Avenue offering pasta, pizza, and classic comfort food.
- Yafa Café – A cozy café serving coffee, pastries, and light bites—great for a quick stop before or after your appointment.
- Babylon Restaurant – Known for Mediterranean flavors and fresh dishes like shawarma, falafel, and kebabs.
- Dulci Mami’s Cafe – Enjoy specialty coffees, sweet and savory crepes, chilaquiles, and a variety of other breakfast and brunch favorites.
- Winner’s Cafe – If your appointment is later in the day, enjoy this casual sports bar atmosphere with bar food, a variety of beers and cocktails, and gaming machines.
- Maple N Jams Café – A local gem for specialty lattes, pancakes, and brunch favorites.
With so many Bridgeview dining options nearby, it’s easy to turn your beauty visit into a full self-care day.
Shop and Stroll – Nearby Shopping & Entertainment
Looking to shop or catch a movie? You’ll find plenty of Bridgeview attractions close by:
- Chicago Ridge Mall – Just two miles from campus, this shopping hub features 130 shops offering fashion, beauty, gifts, books, and lifestyle more, plus an AMC movie theater.
- Harlem Avenue Plazas – Convenient shopping, dining, and other services along Harlem Avenue, offering groceries, boutiques, and everyday essentials.
It’s the perfect way to pair your salon service with errands or leisure.
Coffee & Quick Treats
If you’ve got some time before your appointment, a caffeine boost (or sweet treat) is always a good idea. Check out one of these options:
- Alwatan Bakery – Fresh Middle Eastern breads, savory pies (fatayer), and traditional sweets.
- Lindy’s Chili & Gertie’s Ice Cream – Chili, hot dogs, burgers, and old-fashioned ice cream.
- Vida Boba Cafe – A variety of bubble teas, smoothies, coffee, and Asian-inspired snacks and desserts.
- Andy’s Frozen Custard – For those warmer days, it’s the perfect post-appointment indulgence.
Enjoy the Outdoors – Parks and Green Spaces
Need some fresh air before or after your appointment? Bridgeview’s parks make it easy:
- Founders Park – A community park with walking paths and open space for a relaxing stroll.
- Commissioner’s Park – Family-friendly with playgrounds and sports fields, perfect for kids or some outdoor time.
- Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens: About a 15-minute drive to Palos Heights, this beautiful area features a 1-mile trail around a lake, a waterfall, gardens, and an indoor nature center with animal exhibits. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful walk or kayak trip.
- Swallow Cliff Woods: Famous for its 125-step limestone staircase used for fitness, this spot is about 15 minutes away and offers beautiful walking and hiking trails through the hilly, wooded landscape.
These nearby spots give you a chance to reset and recharge.
Family-Friendly Fun Around Campus
Planning a fun outing with friends or family? These fun Bridgeview attractions have plenty to offer:
- Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Center – A local favorite since 1975 with mini golf, go-karts, arcades, and more.
- SeatGeek Stadium – Home of Chicago Fire FC soccer matches and live concerts. Check the schedule—your appointment might line up with a great event!
- AMC Chicago Ridge 6: Located inside the Chicago Ridge Mall, this movie theater is a convenient option to catch the latest films, about a 10-minute drive from Tricoci’s Bridgeview campus.
Plan Your Visit to Tricoci University – Bridgeview
Bridgeview makes it easy to turn your salon service into a full day of beauty, food, and fun. Whether you’re enjoying a haircut at our student salon or exploring local attractions, there’s always something nearby to enjoy.
Ready to book your next visit? Schedule an appointment at Tricoci University Bridgeview today and discover all that the area has to offer.