In the 1920s truck farming became an important industry, with the town supplying most of the world's commercial flowers, particularly roses and carnations. The industry died after farmers realized it was wiser to grow flowers in more temperate southern climates.
In 1955 Ray Kroc built the first of many McDonald's restaurants in Des Plaines. As business boomed so did the number of McDonald's restaurants in town—the 1,000th franchise is on Oakton Street, and the 2,000th was built in Des Plaines in 1972.
Visitor Centers
Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce & Industry 1401 Oakton St. Des Plaines, IL 60018. Phone:(847)824-4200
Things to Do
Des Plaines History Center