There are some fun shops, as well as farmers markets and winter markets going on. Visit the former home of U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant, spend an afternoon at one of ten nearby golf courses, or maybe a full day at one of the two wineries in town. I would recommend Northbrook to anyone looking for a peaceful environment. Oak Park has a vibrant downtown with plenty of attractions for suburban families. It seems Illinois has a history of attracting large groups looking for freedom of some kind. I know what you're thinking, a beach in Chicago? 16 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. To enjoy the great outdoors, you can always take a stroll through the Willowbrook Wildlife Center. When searching for the best places to live in Illinois, there is a 4/5 chance you will come across the name Wheaton. Though firmly a Midwestern town, its often referred to as the New England of the Midwest, thanks to its distinctive architecture. It's especially desirable to families. Its mix of a city and suburban environment make it a great location for anyone. Send heirloom and handmade gifts home from your trip through Amish country, and youre sure to be a hit. Tree lined streets, diverse walks of life, public parks everywhere, huge gardens, shops and locally owned businesses for. Current Resident: 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. There are not many facilities to attend, however, everything should be good for the family people. 2. 44 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars. Our real estate brokerages: Neighborhoods.com, Neighborhoods Home Source, Inc. CA BRE # 02003453 | (855) 744-2846. Front Street downtown is quickly becoming a hot spot for new businesses in the area. 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. Some of the best-ranked public schools in America with an enviable ranking of 9/10; one of the state's lowest unemployment rates (5.40 per cent); sixth . The Fox River Trolley Museum is a cool place to visit in St. Charles. It features a carnival, live entertainment, food vendors, beer garden, and so much more. Here are the 10 most beautiful and charming small towns to visit across the state. As beautiful as the large city of Chicago is the smaller towns that share the best of what rural Illinois has to offer. As kids and teens, we rode our bikes all over, and there are stop signs on every corner so kids can safely walk everywhere. It has a 4.5 overall guest rating based on 1363 reviews. Lake Forest is also on the shore of Lake Michigan, about 30 miles north of Downtown Chicago. In particular, the Cold Stone Creamery makes delicious ice cream and cakes. Meanwhile, in Arthur, The Great Pumpkin Patch awaits with 300+ varieties of squash and gourds grown on-site, plus a variety of baked goods to snack upon while admiring the farms llamas, exotic chickens and other animal residents. Featured Review: Current Resident says I love where I live. Since opening in 2009, Purple Pig has established itself as one of the best restaurants in the city. Did you know that Woodstock's ENTIRE downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places? It's also one of the more diverse suburbs. After grabbing a bite, its easy to find some great entertainment. Truly authentic upscale Italian restaurant and bar located in the heart of the North Shore in Winnetka's Hubbard Woods district. The area is. Former Resident: There is a nice sense of community in Glencoe. Two covered bridges, which sit just a smidgen outside of Princetons city limits. $96,500.0. According to the most recent census, Chicago makes up about a quarter of the population of Illinois. 93 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. The schools are top-notch, too. It is a convenient location in regards to restaurants, grocery stores, coffee shops, fitness studios and so forth. It has it all, award-winning craft beer, notable chefs, and excellent service. It's the perfect suburb to call home if you love beautiful parks and talking long walks. Thats a big city with a big draw. It's often connected with the neighboring town River Forest, which is also a great suburb. 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!). Heard of it? The dining in Downer's Grove is some of the best in all of Chicago. Not only that, but Aurora is also a favorite among outdoor lovers. Aledo, IL. You'll find loads of high-end boutiques, electronics stores, specialty stores, and more. Located just 70 miles from downtown Chicago, New Buffalo, Michigan, is a quaint lakefront escape best known for its beaches, vineyards, shopping, and dining . While Joseph Smith and other prominent founding members havent called the city home since the late 1840s, its still easy to take a trip to the past with help from an array of historical reenactors, who show off blacksmithing techniques and brick-making (you can take one home as a souvenir). The town was founded in the 19th century and attracts a large number of artists and their wealthy patrons. Located 25 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, Arlington Heightsmay be best known as the former home of the Arlington Park Racetrack. We trust the leadership of the school explicitly: the NYT had an article during COVID about its swift and masterful pivot to online learning. Entrance Fee. In the summertime, locals can often be found catching a Slammersbaseball game at DuPage Medical Group Field, located right in downtown Joliet. Boston has been "lit" ever since Paul Revere looked for lantern light in the tower of the Old North Church way back in 1775. Easy access to Chicago, or by driving via Sheridan Rd to Lake Shore Drive or Edens expresssway. No matter your age youll feel nostalgia and the beauty to be found in simple living when you visit. Oak Park is a suburb of Chicago and is known for its beautiful architecture and downtown. Neighborhoods.com does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of information or assume any liability for its use. The historic, quaint jewel of northwest Illinois. The area surrounding Chicago ishome to a number of suburbswith their own urban feel and lively downtowns. The downtown is quaint, with some excellent shopping and fine dining opportunities if you're looking for things to do in Illinois. Each August there is a Civil War re-enactment during Heritage Days. City in Illinois,. Featured Review: Current Resident says Lots of nature, packed with families and senior citizens, large property sizes, and only about a hour away from the heart of Chicago. Yes, the entire downtown is on the National Register of Historic places, and that hasnt changed (try exploring it on a self-guided walking tour), but there are plenty of interesting places to swerve, too. I have moved from this place 3 or 4 years ago, but still remember my childhood memories I had always cherished and do not forget it. Read 20 reviews. Elmhurst takes our pick for the best balance between entertainment, dining, and shopping. Elmhurst College has a reputation as a progressive liberal arts school, and the reputation spills over into town. Instead, its bustling with wineries, galleries, ghost tours and even some gnarly snowboarding slopes. Galena. LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton. (847) 634-0100. St. Charles is a great day trip from Chicago. Playlist; Program Schedule; . Why You Need This All-Access Design Program. 55 S Main Street. . David Wilson/Flickr. Nearby is Shawnee National Forest and many huntsmen come here in season for turkey, goose, and bear hunting. Even with its density, there's still a sense of community in Printers Row. Select Dates for Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown River North, opens new tab. Featured Review: Parent says We switched our children to CJDS when the other private school they were at was not meeting our needs or expectations. There are not many facilities to attend, however, everything should be good for the family people. 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. Check out one of the prime lookout spots for seeing bald eagles when they spend the winter in the area. I wouldn't change it for anything! Always willing to help and encourage. Purple Pig. Elmhurst is known as a fantastic place to receive a public liberal arts education. Being literally in the shores of Lake Michigan is fantastic. Old meets new at Modern Theatre, which first opened in 1876 and underwent a rebuilding in 2010, keeping the original faade. There you have our top 10 picks for the best suburbs of Chicago with downtowns. Facebook. You can also enjoy stand-up comedians and live music while dining here. Check out the Mermaid House, a former hotel visited by Charles Dickens, who later name-dropped it in American Notes. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. There are plenty of cool suburbs of Chicago, but which have the best downtowns? Did you know that the first designated historic district in Illinois is Long Grove? The city of Elmhurst boasts more than 40 unique dining options. Downtown Aurora overlooks the Fox River, and it's the last Metra stop on the BNSF line. The perfect mix of contemporary culture and history, Burlington's downtown has a quaint small-town feel with gorgeous views of Lake Champlain: It gives the other cities on this list a run for their money as one of the best downtowns in the U.S. Geneva has some fantastic dining options in addition to its riverfront. It's also only a block away from the lake. You can learn more about that process here. 10 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Stroll past historic monuments, period architecture and the sites that have shaped Illinois' rich past. Pro Tip: Here are eight other things to do in Mitchell. Galena. You will also love the little shops and restaurants in town. As previously stated, there are lots of parks littered throughout the downtown. 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. 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. Let us know which one we missed in the comments. They have Concept Young Scholars mentoring program at this school. 166 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. Q101. The appeal of these towns is a simpler way of life. We just moved from Chicago to Lake Forest and absolutely love it. The neighborhood is beautiful, the schools are great, and the activity and nightlight is exceptional. St. Charles has a lot going on, including two theaters, great restaurants, and lots of boutique shops. Check out the Midsummer Music Festival if youre travelling in June. Photograph: Neal O'Bryan. 22. costhedog 1 yr. ago. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House - Naperville. Mount Carroll. But in the interest of picking just one and answering the above question, we'd have to go with Galena. 6 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. The best time to visit Mitchell is when the new murals are completed each year, typically in the fall. As with all Chicago suburbs, Oak Park has a lot of fine dining options. Read on to learn our picks for the top10 best suburbs of Chicago with downtowns. Nearby Wheaton is known as a more conservative and traditional college town. Memorial Park is home to the city's annual Taste of Wheaton festival. Charles Perkins, director of planning and community development, told the Daily Heraldthat the influx in activity in downtown Arlington Heights is a result of a strategic long-term plan that is finally taking shape. The affluent suburb is also known for its beautiful homes, plus you can take the Metra train right to Downtown Lake Forest. 3,625. Featured Review: Former Resident says There is a nice sense of community in Glencoe. Read more on how this ranking was calculated. Galena has a gorgeous downtown area, with some excellent restaurants, bakeries, and candy shops for you to choose from. youtubeembedcode.com/en/ Wedding cake? You will also love the little shops and restaurants in town. Downtown of Galena, Illinois . If youre into interesting history, it doesnt get better than Nauvoo. Every fall,downtown Downers Grovealso hosts an annualarts festival that's a popular event among locals and visitors. My family chose to live here for those two exact. Former Resident: I grew up in Winnetka as did my mom. Also,the extensive Metra train lines can help suburban homeowners get in and out of the city without developing a bad case of road rage. Everyone lives their days with enthusiasm, and crime rates are extremely low. Burlington is also naturally scenic. 3. The food is fantastic, the neighborhood is friendly,Only gripe here is that houses are way too overpriced.. Current Resident: Libertyville is a great place to start a family as it has a great school system, good people, and a nice downtown area. Here Are 20 Essential Items, According to a Profesh Traveler. 10 Chicago Suburbs with the Best Downtowns- https://www.youtube.. Travel is my life and writing about it is a dream. Ranked on the list of 100 Best Small Town Getaways are Alto Pass and Jonesboro. It has a very historic feel, as Lebanon is one of the oldest towns in Illinois. Locals love baseball and the town has the distinction of having the largest Little League program in the country. During the summer months, RiverEdge Parkand Millennium Plazahost locally and nationally recognized artists. . 9 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. It also has a lot of entertainment options. Here you will uncover candlelight displays that shine a light on all of Galena's best features. You can't beat a quaint suburb with a stellar downtown filled with great restaurants and entertainment. Galena also has sprawling golf courses, luxurious spas, and some of the best skiing in all of the state. Featured Review: Current Resident says Vibrant, diverse, beautiful, historical architecture drama, and still upcoming. Nearby Starved Rock State Park may steal the spotlight from Ottawa, but its well worth trekking into town after youve finished your hike. There are lots of fun things to do in the downtown area. Every year for Labor Day weekend, Buffalo Grove Days is hosted, which actually is located a block away from my house which makes it easy for me to walk and meet up with my friends or family. Where to stay: The River House: sleeps 6. Featured Review: Former Resident says Overall, good. Capri of Downer's Grove is one of the most famous in the area. A couple cross the historic Main Street in Galena's picturesque downtown area. 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. The best antipasti, pizzas and pasta. Even though Vernon Hills is a great place to raise families and send kids to school, there are still a few things the suburb could work on improving like diversity, affordability, and the housing market. Read 128 reviews. In the warmer months, enjoy your theater experience . Always willing to help and encourage. Its a wonderful town. Fashionistas, renowned designer shops and boutiques await you. Proud of its traditions and community covenant, the atmosphere here isnt like your typical college town. Read 48 reviews. In June 2017, the Village Council adopted a new Comprehensive Planfor the development of Downers Grove over the next 15 to 20 years. Talking about my experience, it was pretty good. Read 30 reviews. Lisle has a small-town feel but is close to larger suburbs and retail areas as well as about 30 mins from downtown Chicago. If you want a little more history, be sure to visit the American Farm Heritage Museum and Hills Fort, aimed at preserving agricultural history. We've lived around the world, and I feel so fortunate to live here. AHOY! It is directly next to Lake Michigan making it the perfect place for the. Former Resident: Overall, good. You can take in the latest Hollywood offerings at the Lake while enjoying live performances at the Oak Park Festival Theatre. The neighborhood is very tight nit and there is even a Facebook group for the moms of western springs to give recommendations and warnings about things occurring around town. 8. Old Towne Pub Geneva is an excellent spot if you're looking for fantastic food as well as drinks and beer. I wish there was a bit more diversity and a younger population so kids could have more fun with other kids. 676 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. You can enjoy beautiful walks along the river here as well. 116 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. The neighborhood is calm and silent. Free outdoor concerts, summer vintage car shows, and the Wine and Cultural Arts Festival, make Wheaton a small town cultural mecca. They focus on science and technology. Private, and two Parochial schools- all in town! It is a very safe and welcoming neighborhood. #3 Best Places to Live in Illinois.. Naperville. 985 Green Bay Rd., Winnetka. https://yatzyregler.se/no/. It has been a wonderful experience for all of us. Read 150 reviews. You get quick answers from the Village when you call and the streets are always in great shape when there is a snow storm. . Everyone here says hello and knows one another. Best Restaurants in Lincolnshire. Market Research It's a celebration involving both food and drink. Discover more cool places to visit in the Chicago area by signing up to our newsletter here. (Technically, Printers Row is the area bordered by Ida B. It is attractive enough to bring tourists from all over, who love to stroll through downtown. Wilmette. There's an outstanding balance of locally-owned stores, high-end boutiques, and traditional offerings. Downtown Boston, Massachusetts. The historic downtown district, with the courthouse, lift bridge and Main Street, takes you back through Minnesota's 166-year history. From there, take a walk through Heritage Canyon, which is home to pioneer-era structures such as a one-room schoolhouse and a covered bridge. Out of all the best suburbs of Chicago with downtowns, Geneva has the best riverfront. 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