Lake Forest is also on the shore of Lake Michigan, about 30 miles north of Downtown Chicago. My family chose to live here for those two exact. Former Resident: I grew up in Winnetka as did my mom. Read 48 reviews. Until then, you can still roam its grounds while reading more about the homesteads history. Now we enter the top 5 of the best Chicago suburbs with downtowns. You will also love the little shops and restaurants in town. One of our favorite small-town day trips in Illinois is Fulton, a town with strong Dutch roots (there's even an authentic Dutch windmill in the middle of town!). It used to be a mining community and now is one of the top two tourism stops in Illinois. Burlington, Vermont. My most favorite place to be is of-course downtown and walking the. Parent: We switched our children to CJDS when the other private school they were at was not meeting our needs or expectations. I wish there was a bit more diversity and a younger population so kids could have more fun with other kids. 16 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. Tucker, who specializes in downtown real estate. Its history is steeped in intellectualism. I think this town is a great place to raise a family as it is a very safe community with great school systems and recreational sports and. Current Resident: Great community. At Christmastime come for Woodstocks Victorian Christmas celebration complete with horse drawn carriages and carollers in period dress walking the streets. It is a very safe and welcoming neighborhood. (847) 386-6053. For foodies, there's no better place than Galena; with several restaurants offering exquisite meals as well as a winery with a tasting room and a couple of craft breweries (Blaum Brothers and Galena Brewing Company), these are reasons alone to come to this cool small town. Love Illinois? Theres plenty to learn about even off campus, from the histories of the citys buildings (a surprising mix of Southern Colonial, Greek Revival, Gothic and other styles) to the Emerald Mound, the preserved remains of a Native American village and effigy mounds. Looking for more impossibly charming Illinois towns? They are even planning to renovate their storage area to a family fitness center. 1. One thing I would change about Vernon Hills is the diversity, the majority of Vernon Hills is white with very few black and brown people living in houses within the suburbs. There's nothing more delightful than spending a day in one of the Land of Lincoln's myriad small towns, whether it's taking a historic tour or checking out the best downtown shopping areas in Illinois. It's especially desirable to families. This pretty small town is located in northern Illinois and is most famously known as a filming location for the ever-popular movie, Groundhog Day starring Bill Murray. Lebanon has a mix of stores, from antique shops to restaurants. Downtown Downers Groveis the kind of suburban downtown where everyone knows each other. The Alcove in Evanston is one of the most renowned fine dining spots in all of Chicago. While there's no single reason for this apparent exodus to the suburbs, Chicago's high cost of living, heavy taxes, traffic woes, and seemingly endless amounts of construction could cause enough frustration to warrant a relocation. The schools are extraordinary, teachers top of their game and school resources phenomenal. The 10 Most Charming Small Towns Near Chicago. In Naperville, you can have a great time without ever having to step foot in the city of Chicago. You'll never be without things to do in Downer's Grove. Home to 28,000 people, Wilmette is one of the best Chicago Suburbs that provides the best of both worlds - small town atmosphere and big city features. 676 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. The Fox River Trolley Museum is a cool place to visit in St. Charles. Naperville. But the majority of the state is made up of cornfields, suburbs, rolling plains, and tight knit communities. Dip into the Woodstock Opera House to hear a jazz quartet or catch a musical (pandemic reopening protocols pending), pop by one of several local farms and orchards to pick in-season produce or take a tour of world cuisines as you stroll past Woodstocks many diverse restaurants. It's also one of the wealthiest. Be sure to take home some Amish fudge. Featured Review: Current Resident says Libertyville is a great place to start a family as it has a great school system, good people, and a nice downtown area. My experience here. Works Here: Love my school! Featured Review: Parent says Couldnt ask for a better school family!Outstanding administration, faculty & staff. If youre into interesting history, it doesnt get better than Nauvoo. Featured Review: Current Resident says We have lived here since 2015 (moved from La Grange) and are very happy here. And for history buffs, there's no shortage of points of interest in Galena, as 85 percent of the town is on the National Register of Historic Places! My family moved for a larger house with more space and a good school, this area has both. This is Illinois' OG college town: McKendree College is the oldest in the state. There are over 100 stores to check out and love in the downtown area. Each May the town hosts the Dutch Days festival and they are home to one of the only authentic Dutch windmills in the United States. Chester is a true Illinois small town and thus there are a not a ton of accommodation options here, but you can find comfort at the Best Western Chester. Monticello is a truly charming town that is all about trains. Its a wonderful town. Featured Review: Current Resident says I like that Vernon Hills is a tight community where most of the elementary schools are feeder schools into the middle schools which allows kids to stay in touch with their friends. This is small town at its best. 1. Consistently ranked as one of the best places to visit in the American Midwest, Galena is a big draw for honeymooners, foodies, and city dwellers who need a little rest and relaxation. Old Towne Pub Geneva is an excellent spot if you're looking for fantastic food as well as drinks and beer. There are. Current Resident: I moved here from out of state and couldnt be happier. Uptown Winnetka is great and so is Hubbard Woods. Featured Review: Current Resident says I love where I live. Its where the heart and soul of the state truly lie! Kohler, Co. 4. From one of America's best diners, to authentic wood-fired fig pizza and incredible candies, Goshen is a foodie's dream! At just under 1,000,000 citizens, DuPage county has been voted the best county to live in in Illinois in a recent survey. 13. Events are in abundance in the area and surrounding areas, however, it would be. Current Resident: I love West Loop! Stroll along the cobblestone walkways, peruse the shops, stop in for a tasting at the local winery, and shop at the boutiques. It offers fine dining like no other in the area. Elmhursts most popular resident is undoubtedly Carl Sandburg, a Chicago poet who brought a lot of positive attention to the city and the state. The railway has shaped the town and you can see the influence today. There are over 275 local merchants that call downtown Elmhurst home. 48 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars. While the community may be best known as the home of Wayne and Garth from "Wayne's World," Aurora boasts an impressive arts and culture scene. They have Concept Young Scholars mentoring program at this school. TRAVEL The 10 Most Beautiful Counties In Wisconsin, USA. As the above list of best downtown areas in Illinois indicates, it's hard to pick just one or two (or 10) charming small towns in the Prairie State. Opening Hours. Read more on how this ranking was calculated. Studded with well-maintained Victorian homes (and with the requisite charming downtown youd expect on this list), Ottawa puts its own twist on the small-town experience with an abundance of modern murals to mix the old with the new. Capri of Downer's Grove is one of the most famous in the area. There you have our top 10 picks for the best suburbs of Chicago with downtowns. They are ranked top 10 in the state and truly give your children a great education. A post shared by Downtown Oak Park (@downtownoakpark). Widely considered to be one of the best small towns in the country, Galena is your quintessential, all-American small town. You can also enjoy stand-up comedians and live music while dining here. Vincennes There's also Cortland's Garage, Hey Nonny Live Music + Local Kitchen, and a wide selection of other dining options. The downtown is home to 37 restaurants, coffee shops, and more. But it's true. Often overlooked due to its neighbor Naperville, Aurorais home to about200,000 people, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. For an in-depth look into Galena's history and its important place in American culture, visit the Galena and U.S. Grant Museum, located in a beautiful Italianate mansion originally built as a residence by merchant Daniel Barrows. Did you know that Woodstock's ENTIRE downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places? Arlington Heights via bogdanstepniak / CC BY 3.0 As you can see from the population, Arlington Heights is one of the largest suburbs of Chicago, coming in at one of the largest 15 municipalities in all of Illinois. There are escape rooms, movie theaters, parks, lakes, and more. $96,500.0. Living in Chicagocan be expensive, and, lets face it,sometimes its stressful. #3 Best Suburbs to Live in Illinois.. Naperville. Nearby Resident: It is a growing suburb that is filled with so many businesses, so many families and people, and just so much happening all around. Entrance Fee. Explore the best downtown areas of the small towns in Illinois. It has a very historic feel, as Lebanon is one of the oldest towns in Illinois. Other standout restaurants include, Tapas Barcelona, Peckish Pig, and more. This urban centerputs on regular events throughout the year, and local restaurantslike Emmett's Brewing Companyand Mia's Cantinaprovide residents with a variety of dining choices. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Love Illinois? Need something other than treats to stir up some excitement? 150 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars. Aurora Illinois. The citycan be accessed by the Rock Island District and Heritage Corridor Metra train lines. Thats a big city with a big draw. From lively food and beverage scenes to artisan shops and glimpses of the culture of faraway lands, these towns provide the chance to discover and explore. Ottawa. If you love shopping, eating at fantastic restaurants, and visiting spas and ice cream shops, you'll love strolling along Galena's main drag. City in Illinois,. Check out the Amish own coffee shop, followed by the Amish bakery, and then take a visit out to see the popular quilt shows at Rockome Gardens. Featured Review: Current Resident says Vibrant, diverse, beautiful, historical architecture drama, and still upcoming. Aledo, IL. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House - Naperville. The heart and soul of a state can truly be found in its small towns. Downtown Oak Park, Illinois. (847) 634-0100. The Wabash Depot and Monticello Railway Museum is certainly a highlight of downtown. There are also multiple theaters for both movies and live performances. There are many animals, birds, and reptiles there for you to observe. While its streets are steeped in history (Ulysses S. Grant famously called the town home, and Lincoln and Douglas gave speeches on the balcony of the DeSoto House Hotel, which still stands today), Galena is anything but a sleepy small town. The Fox River is a pretty place for a stroll as you explore one of the best small towns in Illinois. Median home . About 20 miles north of Milwaukee, the town of Cedarburg has a winery, brewery, and distillery sure to wet any whistle. Locals love baseball and the town has the distinction of having the largest Little League program in the country. The architecture is very pretty, and the public schools here are fantastic if. Current Resident: This is a community that provides a safe and secure environment. The suburb hosts year-round art festivals, summer concerts, food festivals, and much more. The city is home to the Route 66 Raceway and theChicagoland Speedway, which hosts NASCAR events. View. Did your favorite town not make the list? Memorial Park is home to the city's annual Taste of Wheaton festival. Arlington Heights earns our pick for its delicate balance of entertainment, dining, and shopping. Galena, Illinois. Lincolnshire Marriott Resort. Antique Towns - The 50 Best Small Towns for Antiquing in America. . Old meets new at Modern Theatre, which first opened in 1876 and underwent a rebuilding in 2010, keeping the original faade. What's the most charming small town in Illinois? Check out the Mermaid House, a former hotel visited by Charles Dickens, who later name-dropped it in American Notes. But you will also find some higher end stores like lululemon. The restaurants are eclectic and sure to leave you talking. Glen Ellyn is ripe with locally-owned boutiques, and it offers some of the best shopping in Chicago. Geneva has some fantastic dining options in addition to its riverfront. Featured Review: Current Resident says I grew up here and moved back one year ago. Every year for Labor Day weekend, Buffalo. Current Resident: I have lived in Western Springs since I was about 1 year old. The Paramount Theatre is a local favorite for live music, and it regularly hosts free community events. Elmhurst takes our pick for the best balance between entertainment, dining, and shopping. On either side of the ravine are large bluffs with a view down to the Mississippi River. Featured Review: Works Here says Love my school! Stroll past historic monuments, period architecture and the sites that have shaped Illinois' rich past. Free outdoor concerts, summer vintage car shows, and the Wine and Cultural Arts Festival, make Wheaton a small town cultural mecca. The village adopted a downtown master plan in 2007, which sought to increase density in order to create a more cultural and urban suburb feel. Read 91 reviews. It also has a lot of entertainment options. Because of the wonderful location and amazing schools- taxes are very high and the price of homes goes up each year. Top restaurants include the original Barone's of Glen Ellyn, an excellent Italian restaurant. Downtown Galena. It is truly a mix of old (really old, like the courthouse and opera house) and new. They also have newer infrastructure (electric, sewage, roads). William Clarkhalf of the famous explorer duo Lewis and Clarkfounded this town in 1827. Clarendon Hills is an extremely well run town. Estimated tuition and fees for 2014-15 (per semester): $19,131. The historical preservation around Princeton doesnt stop there: In addition to a classic, old-timey main street, the town is also home to the Lovejoy Homestead, a stop on the Underground Railroad that will reopen for tours after the pandemic is officially over. Enjoy the eclectic atmosphere, fantastic coffee shops, and great local food during your visit. This idyllic suburb lies 25 miles west of Chicago. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for M369-1 Chrome 3.5 x 5.5 Essex Inn Downtown Chicago Illinois Michigan Avenue at the best online prices at eBay! If shopping is your thing, then Aurora is an excellent location for you. Downtown Urbana has been revitalized, with some great restaurants, including a killer barbecue joint. Local artists have made murals around town as part of a restoration project. 100. In January of 2018, Joliet officials reached an agreement with the Will County board to help improve parking along Chicago Street in downtown Jolietwith hopes of furthering development in the community, according to the Chicago Tribune. It is a beautiful town with much to do for all ages. Most People Dont Know That This Charming Small Town Was Named After Ancient Egypt, The Best Breakfast In Illinois Is Served At This Iconic Hole-In-The-Wall Restaurant, This Friendly Town In Illinois Is The Perfect Day Trip Destination, The Red Barn Restaurant & Brewery In Illinois Sits In A Stunningly Restored Gothic Barn, 10 Slow-Paced Small Towns in Illinois Where Life Is Still Simple, The 10 Most Underrated Cities In Illinois You Should Check Out, The Tiny Town In Illinois With The Most Scrumdiddilyumptious Restaurants, Here Are The 10 Cheapest Yet Greatest Places To Live In Illinois. Lincolnshire is a top-rated family resort ideal for families traveling with toddlers or infants. Free shipping for many products! Thank you! The city was added to the National Register of Historic Places in the 1970s and the town is home to artists, craftsmen, galleries, boutiques, and good restaurants. . OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Shopping is another factor that Evanston gets just right. Blackhawk Farms Raceway, in the neighboring town of South Beloit, welcomes spectators of car and motorcycle races, and offers the occasional driving school if youd rather take the wheel yourself. In this video we go over the 10 Chicago Suburbs with the Best Downtowns Book an appointment with Rafael- https://bit.ly/3qtvpxk Book an appointment. Featured Review: Current Resident says I love West Loop! Restaurants. Trains run below ground so its very safe. 4: Burlington, Vermont. Places to Eat in Marion. If you want more outdoor activities theres Giant City State Park, the Trail of Tears State Forest, the Ozark Hills, and Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge. 3. The downtown area even hosts a farmers market on Thursday nights. This small town is known for its antique shopping and boutiques, as well as perfectly preserved 19th century buildings. Calling all history buffs: Nauvoo, IL is a small town with a big impact on the history of Mormonism. It's also only a block away from the lake. Pete's Fresh Market is a staple of the area, as are DuPage County Historical Museum. Downtown Highwood, LF, and Lake Bluff are awesome. A lovely suburb, Downers Grove is one of the most famous cool suburbs of Chicago. Mount Carroll, Illinois, was incorporated as a town in 1855 and then as a city in 1867, but with a population of under 1,600, it has maintained a small-town feel. Address. Shopping areas include Evanston Plaza, Sherman Plaza, the Evanston Center, and more. Here, horse drawn buggies share the road with cars, the food is hearty, and tradition is everything. I think this town is a great place to raise a family as it is a very safe community with great school systems and recreational sports and activities for kids to get involved in. We moved for the schools and a larger home and lot size. Check out the Midsummer Music Festival if youre travelling in June. There are not many facilities to attend, however, everything should be good for the family people. Give us a call to learn more about local areas, discuss selling a house, or tour available homes for sale, Youtube Overall a great community!. Wedding cake? In June 2017, the Village Council adopted a new Comprehensive Planfor the development of Downers Grove over the next 15 to 20 years. Wilmette was hailed by Business Week as the 7th best place to raise a . Now, Greenville is a college town filled with festivals. Visit Lake Storey Recreational Area for swimming and picnicking in the summer, and in winter try ice skating and cross country skiing. Galena also has sprawling golf courses, luxurious spas, and some of the best skiing in all of the state. Here are the 10 most beautiful and charming small towns to visit across the state. Front Street downtown is quickly becoming a hot spot for new businesses in the area. For nightlife, try the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre which produces both theatre and musical performance. Pendry Manhattan West Is New York Citys Number One Hotel but Whats It Like to Stay There? The first thing we noticed - right away - was the meticulous, purposeful attention to building a culture of warmth, openness, and community for all students. Paducah, Kentucky. Oakland, CA. Attractions include the Lake Theatre and Oak Park Festival Theatre. There, you can enjoy a myriad of outdoor activities. Likewise, Naperville is about a 38-minute drive from the Loop and has one of the best downtown districts of any Chicago Suburb. Nearby Starved Rock State Park may steal the spotlight from Ottawa, but its well worth trekking into town after youve finished your hike. Discover the schools, companies, and neighborhoods that are right for you. Market Research These towns in the Land of Lincoln all fit the bill!. Is that not enough history for you? These towns sit blessed with natural beauty and replete in downtown sights for the best weekend getaway from the city. Over the centuries, its also been claimed by the French, the English, and the Spanish. The river is where you'll want to spend most of your time in Geneva. 180 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars. I have spent many summers nannying various kids in the neighborhood and can tell there are many young families moving from the city into the suburbs and building new, very nice homes. Nearby is Shawnee National Forest and many huntsmen come here in season for turkey, goose, and bear hunting. St. Charles, A Vintage Illinois Small Town. 676 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. Some properties which appear for sale on this website may subsequently have sold and may no longer be available. As the world starts to open up post-pandemic, chances are youre starting small: small gatherings with friends, limited seating in restaurants, and even short trips closer to homewhich is why a weekend getaway to a quaint small town is the perfect way to ease back into traveling. The neighborhood is calm and silent. Clarendon Hills is an extremely well run town. 44 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars. Even with its density, there's still a sense of community in Printers Row. As far as Bay Area downtowns go, San Mateo is one of the more affordable options in terms of housing. Whether you're interested in a quick visit or a fun place to linger, these charming small towns in Southern Wisconsin have lots to enjoy. Plenty of sports, activities & clubs for students to participate in. There are large beaches and small pocket beaches at the end of all East-West streets. I've worked in the entertainment industry for much of my adult life and I love photography, writing, and traveling around the U.S. as well as to far-flung locations around the world! Stay at a bed and breakfast for more time to explore this place. For high school they offer soccer, basketball, volleyball, wrestling, esports; middle school volleyball, basketball and wrestling. The perfect place to learn to ride a bike, sit on the beach right on the lake, chat on the porch with neighbors, bbq in the backyard, etc. Though firmly a Midwestern town, its often referred to as the New England of the Midwest, thanks to its distinctive architecture. LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton. The affluent suburb is also known for its beautiful homes, plus you can take the Metra train right to Downtown Lake Forest. The Two Brothers Roadhouse is one of the most famous restaurants in Aurora. Home on picturesque Mississippi River: sleeps 4. Lake Forest. Stillwater, MN, USA. On the Galena River you can boat, canoe, or kayak, and just 13 miles from town flows the mighty Mississippi. Music. Lisle has a small-town feel but is close to larger suburbs and retail areas as well as about 30 mins from downtown Chicago. #8: Aurora. We trust the leadership of the school explicitly: the NYT had an article during COVID about its swift and masterful pivot to online learning. Those who . Pro Tip: Here are eight other things to do in Mitchell. Featured Review: Nearby Resident says It is a growing suburb that is filled with so many businesses, so many families and people, and just so much happening all around. Another site to see in town? You can enjoy beautiful walks along the river here as well. Read 10 reviews. Since the resort arranges babysitting services, you and your loved one can spend some quality enjoying the resort facilities. The Arlington Ale House is a great place to get a delicious meal and some great drinks. ET First Published: June 7, 2021 at . Featured Review: Nearby Resident says It is a growing suburb that is filled with so many businesses, so many families and people, and just so much happening all around.My most favorite place to be is of-course downtown and walking the. Current Resident: I have lived here my entire life, and I love how there have always been fun activities to do throughout the year provided by the village of Buffalo Grove. Real Estate listings held by brokerage firms other than Real People Realty are marked with the Broker Reciprocity logo or the Broker Reciprocity thumbnail logo (a little black house) and detailed information about them includes the names of the listing brokers. In addition to this, they have their annual Geneva Festival of the Vine. If you want to live in a suburb with a little bit of everything, you can't do better than Elmhurst. In fact, it is the third-largest city in the state of Illinois as of 2022 right after nearby Aurora. Here you can find the Graffiti Car Show, the county fair, the World Powered Parachute Championships, and the Agape Music Festival point of town pride for almost 40 years. Its mix of a city and suburban environment make it a great location for anyone. 2. Web Visit website. You see the library, the Centennial Beach, the Moser Tower, and so much more! The community enjoys the Wheaton French Market that has a decidedly European feeling as opposed to Americana. The hottest shopping areas include Arlington Town Square Condos, the Annex of Arlington, and the Town & Country Center. No matter your age youll feel nostalgia and the beauty to be found in simple living when you visit. As kids and teens, we rode our bikes all over, and there are stop signs on every corner so kids can safely walk everywhere. 676 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. 27.43 miles. 3. The community has a charming downtown that residents dont want to leave, and the population has been fairly stable since 1990, according to statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau. Featured Review: Current Resident says I have lived in Western Springs since I was about 1 year old. Home Travel Guides United States Illinois (IL) 15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Illinois. Q101. There are more than 60 restored historic buildings in Nauvoo including the Browning Home and Gunsmith Shop, several museums, the former home of Brigham Young, a working blacksmith shop, and a downtown area where you watch candle making, bread making, and a variety of other pioneer demonstrations. 30 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. Monticello. Location. Elmhurst College has a reputation as a progressive liberal arts school, and the reputation spills over into town. You'll want to check out the downtown for the shops alone. The area surrounding Chicago ishome to a number of suburbswith their own urban feel and lively downtowns. Talking about my experience, it was pretty good.. Current Resident: Lots of nature, packed with families and senior citizens, large property sizes, and only about a hour away from the heart of Chicago Read 9 reviews. This country village is an ideal place to enjoy a mix of the old and the new. The upscale fine dining in the area also offers gorgeous views. One visit and you'll see why. Mckendree college is the third-largest city in the area surrounding Chicago ishome to a of... Back one year ago Lake Storey Recreational area for swimming and picnicking in the.. Gets just right homesteads history dining here rooms, movie theaters, parks, lakes, and Bluff... Town and you can take the Metra train right to downtown Lake Forest is also the. 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