The City recognized that the theatre’s restoration could serve as a catalyst for downtown revitalization and economic development. The City recently completed renovations on the historic Des Plaines Theatre. The potential for this space is exciting and builds on the momentum we’re seeing in our downtown. In 2022, the City purchased 620 Lee Street (including the Leela Arts Building on the second floor.) To make the site more marketable to potential tenants, the City has begun demolition and building upgrades. Wahl Jewelers, the Sugar Bowl, Square Deal Shoes and The Choo Choo Restaurant have chosen the Des Plaines downtown as their home for years.ĭes Plaines City Council is linking the historic with the modern and taking an active role in transforming underutilized gems to revitalize the downtown in alignment with the City’s comprehensive plan. Iconic buildings like the Des Plaines Theatre, Masonic Temple (Leela Arts Building), Brown’s Department Store (Dotombori), and the bank building (formerly Huntington) are Des Plaines landmarks. Since the 1870s, Miner and Ellinwood streets have been at the center of commerce in Des Plaines.
Downtown Des Plaines has a rich heritage and offers residents, business owners and visitors, unique shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
