Des Plaines Elks Club is a bar in Des Plaines, IL. Open: Mon, Wed, Sun Closed; Tue, Thu 4:00 – 11:00 PM; Fri–Sat 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM. Phone: (847) 824-1526. Average rating is 4.4 stars from 188 reviews. Website: https://www.elks.org/lodges/home.cfm?LodgeNumber=1526.
Des Plaines Elks Club
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Exterior view of the Des Plaines Elks Club building.
4.4 188 reviews Today 4:00 – 11:00 PM

Brotherhood, Good Food, and Cold Drinks Await

Des Plaines Lodge 1526 opens its doors to the public every Saturday for great eats, genuine community, and prices that make sense.

About Us

Outdoor gathering at Des Plaines Elks Club with people enjoying the evening.
Outdoor gathering at Des Plaines Elks Club with people enjoying the evening.

At 495 Lee Street, the Des Plaines Elks Club Lodge 1526 has been doing things the old-fashioned way: good food, fair prices, and a room full of people who actually know your name. With a 4.4-star rating across nearly 200 reviews, this isn't hype. Regulars come back because the kitchen delivers and the bar staff treats you right.

The Elks have been one of America's largest and most active fraternal organizations since 1868, and Lodge 1526 carries that tradition forward right here in Des Plaines, Illinois. The membership is a mix of longtime locals, veterans, and community volunteers who show up not just for the events, but because this place genuinely matters to them.

Saturdays the lodge opens to the public, which means anyone can walk through the door, grab a seat, and see what the buzz is about. First-timers often leave as members. The combination of warm, genuine people, honest cooking, and a packed calendar of fun events has a way of doing that.

What We Offer

The kitchen at Lodge 1526 punches well above its weight. Expect hearty, home-style plates at prices that feel like a throwback in the best possible way. Whether it's a Friday fish fry, a weekend special, or a weeknight dinner, the food is made to satisfy, not to impress Instagram.

The bar is a proper one. Cold beers, mixed drinks, and friendly bartenders who keep the conversation going. Events rotate throughout the year and include everything from holiday dinners and live entertainment to community fundraisers and member appreciation nights.

Membership in the Elks opens up even more: access to private events, a network of lodges across the country, scholarship programs, and the chance to volunteer on causes that directly help Des Plaines families and veterans. Public visitors are always welcome on Saturdays, and membership inquiries are encouraged any time.

Gallery

Take a look at our space and what we have to offer

What Our Customers Say

Don't just take our word for it - hear from our satisfied customers

Click to Rate & Review This Business ✍️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2 months ago
"Warm, genuine people, great food, reasonable prices, fun events. Become a member today! (Open to the public on Saturdays.)"
— Kathy Fern
⭐⭐⭐⭐
3 months ago
"Good bar, great service, food was good too"
— Marc Jach
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4 months ago
"Great food, at great prices. Always a good time there."
— Kathie Burrus
⭐⭐
2 years ago
"I went yesterday for dinner with friends. I ordered the king prime rib. I must say it was the worst prime rib I have ever had. It was dry, tuff and tasted like it was reheated. I have been a member for 14 years. I have seen many changes especially in the prices of food and drinks."
— Stu Mile
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
a year ago
"Great food and happy hour, drink specials 4 to 6. Friendly people, great place for conversation."
— douglas Zorn

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a member to visit the Des Plaines Elks Club?

Not on Saturdays. The lodge opens its doors to the public every Saturday, so anyone can come in, enjoy the food and bar, and get a feel for the place. Other days are typically reserved for members and their guests.

How do I become a member of Lodge 1526?

You can start the process by visiting the lodge on a Saturday or going to elks.org and searching for Lodge 1526. Membership requires that you be a U.S. citizen and believe in God. A current member sponsors new applicants, and the process is straightforward.

What kind of food does the Des Plaines Elks Club serve?

The kitchen serves hearty, home-style American food at very reasonable prices. Specials rotate regularly, and the Friday fish fry is a local favorite. Reviewers consistently call out the food quality and value.

Where is the Des Plaines Elks Club located?

The lodge is located at 495 Lee Street in Des Plaines, Illinois 60016. It's easy to find and has on-site parking.

What kinds of events does Lodge 1526 host?

The event calendar includes holiday dinners, live entertainment, community fundraisers, member appreciation nights, and more. Events change throughout the year, so checking in with the lodge directly or via elks.org is the best way to stay current.

Does the Elks Club support veterans or charitable causes?

Yes. The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks has a long history of supporting veterans, offering scholarships to local students, and funding community programs. Lodge 1526 participates in those national initiatives while also supporting Des Plaines neighbors directly.

What are the hours for the Des Plaines Elks Club?

Saturday hours are open to the public. For current hours on other days, it's best to contact the lodge directly or check the lodge page at elks.org/lodges under Lodge Number 1526.

Hours of Operation

Open Now · Closes at 11:00 PM
Monday Closed
Tuesday Today 4:00 – 11:00 PM
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 4:00 – 11:00 PM
Friday 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Saturday 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Sunday Closed

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