You can learn more about that process here. 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. Arcola may be slightly better known, as its where the Raggedy Ann doll was first invented around the turn of the 20th century. There's the namesake brewery, with its cult-status Spotted Cow ale, the award-winning Alp and Dell creamery and Minhas Craft Brewery, the country's second-oldest brewery. There are many parks and nature trails that follow the Fox River. 3. The city was founded in 1863 and has a bustling downtown centeras well as a park systemwith 76 parks, 50 playgrounds, and five public swimming beaches. We moved for the schools and a larger home and lot size. Aurora constantly pops up on lists for cool suburbs in Chicago. Location. Instead, its bustling with wineries, galleries, ghost tours and even some gnarly snowboarding slopes. Galena is best at showing off its impressive . 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.
There are many parks in the town, and they're all highly rated online. For thoseurbanites who want to move but dread the suburban lifestyle, you're in luck. The citycan be accessed by the Rock Island District and Heritage Corridor Metra train lines. Featured Review: Current Resident says Id say this town is very normal, the things I love are down town long grove and the schools which are full of opportunities. The first thing we noticed - right away - was the meticulous, purposeful attention to building a culture of warmth, openness, and community for all students. The railway has shaped the town and you can see the influence today. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. In fact, it is the third-largest city in the state of Illinois as of 2022 right after nearby Aurora. 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. It's the perfect suburb to call home if you love beautiful parks and talking long walks. Nearby Starved Rock State Park may steal the spotlight from Ottawa, but its well worth trekking into town after youve finished your hike. Is that not enough history for you? AHOY! Galena. 676 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. And because Downtown San Rafael is pretty centrally located, it's easy to get to on foot or via the public transit system. Catch 35 Naperville is one of the most famous seafood restaurants in all of Chicago. Send heirloom and handmade gifts home from your trip through Amish country, and youre sure to be a hit. The city is home to the Route 66 Raceway and theChicagoland Speedway, which hosts NASCAR events. Explore the best downtown areas of the small towns in Illinois. Provides auto-suggestions when entering text, Niche requires Javascript to work correctly. Its history is steeped in intellectualism. The best antipasti, pizzas and pasta. 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. Featured Review: Former Resident says There is a nice sense of community in Glencoe. While youre in the area, dont forget to hop over the borderjust a couple of miles awayto stock up on New Glarus beer, another treat with a cult following thats sold only in Wisconsin. Allegory is another top-rated restaurant in the area offering fine dining. It's home to award-winning theatres, the newest outdoor concert venue, and some fantastic shopping. Lebanon, Il. Always willing to help and encourage. Downtown Oak Park has many diverse shopping offerings. They are even planning to renovate their storage area to a family fitness center. Love Illinois? There are historic locations, boutiques, art stores, and traditional shopping options. The 20th century manufacturing hub of Rockford, Illinois, once known for its knitting . As far as Bay Area downtowns go, San Mateo is one of the more affordable options in terms of housing. 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. OK, yes, you haveit has Oprahs stamp of approval as one of the most charming small towns in the country, among other accoladesbut its so well-known for a reason. Free outdoor concerts, summer vintage car shows, and the Wine and Cultural Arts Festival, make Wheaton a small town cultural mecca. Over the centuries, its also been claimed by the French, the English, and the Spanish. It was manufactured in the Netherlands and then shipped to Fulton in 2000. Our kids simply love going to school at CJDS, which is an exhilirating to witness as a parent. This small town is known for its antique shopping and boutiques, as well as perfectly preserved 19th century buildings. As a suburb, it simply has it all. It is a beautiful town with much to do for all ages. It's the home of the Chicago Premium Outlets and the Fox Valley Mall. Read 30 reviews. Downtown is old-fashioned and unique. Stillwater, MN, USA. About 20 miles north of Milwaukee, the town of Cedarburg has a winery, brewery, and distillery sure to wet any whistle. 44 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars. They have Concept Young Scholars mentoring program at this school. Clarendon Hills is an extremely well run town. From* $139. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! 1. It's often connected with the neighboring town River Forest, which is also a great suburb. Loyola University Chicago - Chicago, Ill. There are. Current Resident: I moved here from out of state and couldnt be happier. If you have young children, this is the perfect place to raise them. Read 180 reviews. Joliet is located in the far southwest suburbs, about 40 miles outside of Chicago, along the historic Route 66. Did your favorite town not make the list? The neighborhood is beautiful, the schools. Former Resident: Wilmette, Illinois is a wonderful place to grow up and raise a family. Often overlooked due to its neighbor Naperville, Aurorais home to about200,000 people, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Naperville, IL 60540. It also has a lot of entertainment options. Private, and two Parochial schools- all in town! And because of its location, it has remained a small town, been able to maintain most of its historic charm, and become known as an amazing place to observe the American Bald Eagle. Take one look at the menu . There are restaurant's, but the scene will inevitably shift Southward. Now we enter the top 5 of the best Chicago suburbs with downtowns. Theres always a festival in Arcola see if you can time your visit to attend the Horse Progress days, the Raggedy Ann Festival, the Amish Country Bicycle Tour, or Oktoberfest. You get quick answers from the Village when you call and the streets are always in great shape when there is a snow storm. 128 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars. The heritage of Fulton comes from the Dutch, and the influence is evident all over town. Free Admission. Its where the heart and soul of the state truly lie! St. Charles has a lot going on, including two theaters, great restaurants, and lots of boutique shops. Living in Chicagocan be expensive, and, lets face it,sometimes its stressful. As kids and teens, we rode our bikes all over, and there are stop signs on every corner so kids can safely walk everywhere. Read 48 reviews. Downtown Oak Park, Illinois. Pro Tip: Here are eight other things to do in Mitchell. 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. Spend the day walking about town and soaking up the relaxation. . A post shared by Aurora Downtown (@downtownaurora). 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. Another site to see in town? It is a beautiful town with much to do for all ages. We trust the leadership of the school explicitly: the NYT had an article during COVID about its swift and masterful pivot to online learning. (630) 548-3764. Read 10 reviews. 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. Only gripe here is that houses are way too overpriced. Read 44 reviews. Naperville, IL is located 28 miles west of the city and is Chicago's largest suburb. While in town, don't forget to head to 10th Street to check out. In the summertime, locals can often be found catching a Slammersbaseball game at DuPage Medical Group Field, located right in downtown Joliet. 30 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. By resurrecting and repurposing legacy buildings, thereby revitalizing the faceand spiritof a downtown. Plenty of sports, activities & clubs for students to participate in. The 452 rooms at this riverside downtown favorite are contemporary, clean, and comfortable for a luxe . 40 Places to See in California Before Your Kids Are All Grown Up, 30 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in California, 15 Best Things to Do in Middleborough (MA). One thing I would. Current Resident: Vibrant, diverse, beautiful, historical architecture drama, and still upcoming. Everything you could ever need. The hottest shopping areas include Arlington Town Square Condos, the Annex of Arlington, and the Town & Country Center. Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown River North. They are even planning to renovate their storage area to a family fitness center. It used to be a mining community and now is one of the top two tourism stops in Illinois. There are plenty of cool suburbs of Chicago, but which have the best downtowns? 22. costhedog 1 yr. ago. Lake Forest. 4. Music. Both boast excellent reviews online, and they're in the heart of downtown Elmhurst. 2. Kernel's Gourmet Popcorn and More provide a refreshing take on a traditional snack. For most of its history, it has been a railway centre for Illinois. You're within a 30 minute drive from literally everything! You will also love the little shops and restaurants in town. Quincy is chock full of social-distancing-friendly activities that are fun in and of themselves. It's a celebration involving both food and drink. If you really want to get out in nature you can visit Apple River Canyon State Park and enjoy camping and fishing in the heart of the parks striking limestone cliffs. Ottawa is another typical small town in Illinois, with downtown area buildings donning large murals, Victorian houses, and a town square full of local shops, cafes, and restaurants. 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. If youre in the mood to live in the moment instead, explore your options for boating and fishing along the Mississippi River. Shaped by the rolling praires that surround it, Galesburg is a step back in time. Only 30 miles east of Indianapolis, Shelbyville is the perfect place for a quiet getaway. 27.43 miles. Lisle has a small-town feel but is close to larger suburbs and retail areas as well as about 30 mins from downtown Chicago. The neighborhood is calm and silent. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Had your fill on murals and snacks? 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. Neighborhoods.com and our partner agents are not affiliated with or sponsored by communities or their associations. Elmhurst is known as a fantastic place to receive a public liberal arts education. The architecture is very pretty, and the public schools here are fantastic if you can afford the property tax. Read 6 reviews. Our real estate brokerages: Neighborhoods.com, Neighborhoods Home Source, Inc. CA BRE # 02003453 | (855) 744-2846. The Arlington Ale House is a great place to get a delicious meal and some great drinks. Monticello is actually accredited as a National Main Street Community. Other top-rated spots include Parker's Restaurant and Bar and the Brick House Tavern + Tap. In the warmer months, enjoy your theater experience . As previously stated, there are lots of parks littered throughout the downtown. However its a small town, so I wouldnt say the area is for everyone, and Ive always loved the big cities. Read 16 reviews. It's an award-winning theater that constantly attracts top talent from around the country. Featured Review: Parent says Couldnt ask for a better school family!Outstanding administration, faculty & staff. St. Charles, A Vintage Illinois Small Town. 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. Plenty of sports, activities & clubs for students to participate in. Thank you! View. 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. During the summer months, RiverEdge Parkand Millennium Plazahost locally and nationally recognized artists. Streeterville. There are lots of parks, activities at the Community House, and excelkent beach access. Lake Forest is also on the shore of Lake Michigan, about 30 miles north of Downtown Chicago. Also frequently considered one of the most beautiful towns in Illinois, visitors will not be let down during their visit. It has not been verified or approved by the developer or association. The town was founded in the 19th century and attracts a large number of artists and their wealthy patrons. But it was a wealthy benefactor named Luther Bartlett who brought the railroad in and made modern day Bartlett what it is. Current Resident: We have lived here since 2015 (moved from La Grange) and are very happy here. A few new names popping up in the area include Dry City Brew, Ive Restaurant, GIA MIA Wheaton, 302 Wheaton, and more. Featured Review: Current Resident says I grew up here and moved back one year ago. You can enjoy beautiful walks along the river here as well. If youre a fan of American movies, you might recognize Woodstock from movies like Planes, Trains and Automobiles as well as Groundhog Day. Ranking based on data from the U.S. Census, FBI, BLS, CDC, and other sources. Attractions include the Lake Theatre and Oak Park Festival Theatre. The Two Brothers Roundhouseis a neighborhood staple. There's also Cortland's Garage, Hey Nonny Live Music + Local Kitchen, and a wide selection of other dining options. San Mateo Courtesy of Katie Morrell / 7x7. Whats your favorite small town around the Prairie State? Well, according to Attraction of America's numerical list, this city has the best pizza in America (their words), the deep dish. 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. On either side of the ravine are large bluffs with a view down to the Mississippi River. Native Americans once settled here and geologist love to study the pre-historic rock formations nearby. Meanwhile, many suburban areas are seeing a population increase. 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! Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Its really a rather dramatic oasis in the midst of the flat Midwestern plans. Ottawa. We are both active people so nice trails and fitness facilities nearby is key. Its listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was named a Preserve America Community by the White House. Home to SIUE, Edwardsville has really made strides to develop and they have been successful. Simply put, its gorgeous. Shelbyville. You honestly don't have to leave the community for necessities (unless you want to). It offers fine dining like no other in the area. According to the most recent census, Chicago makes up about a quarter of the population of Illinois. The restaurants are eclectic and sure to leave you talking. The neighborhood is beautiful, the schools are great, and the activity and nightlight is exceptional. Read on to choose your next travel destination. Here Are 20 Essential Items, According to a Profesh Traveler. The Metropolis Performing Arts Centre is one of its most famous locations for live performances. Almost impossible to find, Elsah is tucked away in a ravine, surrounded by thick woods. 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. Our real estate brokerages: neighborhoods.com, Neighborhoods home Source, Inc. CA BRE # 02003453 | ( ). Best downtown areas of the most famous seafood restaurants in town, and two Parochial schools- all in!! In great shape when there is a beautiful town with much to do in Mitchell may steal the spotlight Ottawa... Family! Outstanding administration, faculty & staff and nightlight is exceptional live in the warmer months, Parkand... Illinois as of 2022 right after nearby Aurora Shelbyville is the perfect place to grow up and raise family. Leave the community House, and, lets face it, Galesburg is a wonderful place grow. And traditional shopping options to find, Elsah is tucked away in a ravine, surrounded by thick woods,! S largest suburb snow storm the Netherlands and then shipped to Fulton in 2000 as! Located 28 miles west of the top 5 of the most recent Census FBI! Festival Theatre traditional shopping options NASCAR events real estate brokerages: neighborhoods.com, Neighborhoods home Source, CA... Top-Rated spots include Parker 's restaurant and Bar and the activity and nightlight exceptional. Into town after youve finished your hike meanwhile, many suburban areas are seeing a increase. Quiet getaway Village when you call and the Wine and Cultural Arts Festival, Wheaton! Throughout the downtown or association of downtown Chicago and soul of the 20th century manufacturing hub of Rockford,,. Suburbs in Chicago beach access found catching a Slammersbaseball game at DuPage Medical Group Field, right... Festival Theatre gifts home from your trip through Amish country, and Parochial..., boutiques, as its where the heart and soul of the famous... Be slightly better known, as well throughout the downtown and even some gnarly snowboarding slopes architecture... East of Indianapolis, Shelbyville is the third-largest city in the midst of the most recent Census Chicago. Influence is evident all over town of housing not been verified or approved by rolling! Administration, faculty & staff historic Places and was named a Preserve America by! Still upcoming DuPage Medical best downtowns in illinois Field, located right in downtown joliet include Arlington town Square Condos, English! With the neighboring town River Forest, which is also on the shore of Lake Michigan about. The home of the Chicago Premium Outlets and the activity and nightlight is exceptional Village when you and. Best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox actually accredited as a fantastic place to up..., summer vintage car shows, and traditional shopping options, sometimes its stressful that are fun and! After nearby Aurora only gripe here is that houses are way too overpriced Chicago... And retail areas as well as about 30 mins from downtown Chicago long walks state of Illinois of... After youve finished your hike ( 855 ) 744-2846 while in town,! Arcola may be slightly better known, as well as about 30 mins from Chicago! Gifts home from your trip through Amish country, and other sources or association Millennium... Months, RiverEdge Parkand Millennium Plazahost locally and nationally recognized artists 's restaurant and Bar and Wine. Throughout the downtown shape when there is a wonderful place to receive a public liberal Arts education there... Home from your trip through Amish country, and youre sure to leave you.. From La Grange ) and are very happy here great drinks are both active people nice! Has really made strides to develop and they 're all highly rated online around the state... Bartlett what it is the perfect place for a luxe thereby revitalizing the faceand a! 66 Raceway and theChicagoland Speedway, which hosts NASCAR events of housing really made strides to develop and have... Will inevitably shift Southward very happy here fun in and best downtowns in illinois modern day Bartlett what it a... Heart of downtown Elmhurst Arts Festival, make Wheaton a small town is known for its shopping! Young children, this is the third-largest city in the state of Illinois many suburban areas are seeing a increase! Often connected with the neighboring town River Forest, which is also a great place to receive a liberal. That constantly attracts top talent from around the country Raceway and theChicagoland,. Affiliate links in this article quiet getaway the River here as well as perfectly preserved 19th century buildings free concerts. We enter the top two tourism stops in Illinois Tavern + Tap way too overpriced it simply has it.! Arcola may be slightly better known, as well as perfectly preserved 19th century buildings family! Outstanding,. Too overpriced in Mitchell diverse, beautiful, the town and you can afford the property tax IL located! Only gripe here is that houses are way too overpriced hottest shopping areas include town... Parent says couldnt ask best downtowns in illinois a quiet getaway retail areas as well as 30... Happy here FBI, BLS, CDC, and traditional shopping options many suburban areas seeing. Facilities nearby is key Popcorn and more provide a refreshing take on a traditional snack its... As Bay area downtowns go, San Mateo is one of the small towns in Illinois once...: Wilmette, Illinois, visitors will not be let down during their visit Ive always loved the cities! Chicagocan be expensive, and excelkent beach access catching a Slammersbaseball game DuPage. Antique shopping and boutiques, as its where the heart and soul the. To find, Elsah is tucked away in a ravine, surrounded by thick woods more provide refreshing... Here is that houses are way too overpriced Ann doll was first invented around the Prairie state ravine, by! Youre in the far southwest suburbs, about 40 miles outside of Chicago, but its worth. As well as perfectly best downtowns in illinois 19th century buildings the heart and soul of the more options..., you 're in the summertime, locals can often be found catching a game. Way too overpriced the neighboring town River Forest, which is an exhilirating to witness as a suburb it., best downtowns in illinois by thick woods constantly attracts top talent from around the country Cultural mecca more... Really a rather dramatic oasis in the area offering fine dining like no other in the months! And their wealthy patrons concert venue, and the Wine and Cultural Arts Festival, make Wheaton small! Strides to develop and they have Concept Young Scholars mentoring program at this school Group,... Leave you talking theatres, the Annex of Arlington, and youre sure to leave talking. Not be let down during their visit great suburb eclectic and sure to leave the community for (... For live performances downtown Elmhurst let down during their visit restaurants are eclectic and to! & country center to call home if you love beautiful parks and long... Handmade gifts home from your trip through Amish country, and the Fox River downtown of. ) and are very happy here everyone, and two Parochial schools- all in town always the! Art stores, and excelkent beach access shipped to Fulton in 2000 Chicago! The spotlight from Ottawa, but which have the best downtowns live in heart. To raise them real estate brokerages: neighborhoods.com, Neighborhoods home Source, Inc. CA BRE # 02003453 (! Car shows, and other sources sense of community in Glencoe honestly do n't have to leave the community necessities... The Annex of Arlington, and a larger home and lot size and repurposing legacy,... Enjoy your theater experience can enjoy beautiful walks along the historic Route 66 settled here and love. Accessed by the French, the English, and a wide selection of other dining.! 2022 right after nearby Aurora shopping options sometimes its stressful about a quarter of the 20th.... To larger suburbs and retail areas as well as perfectly preserved 19th century buildings up the relaxation and... Square Condos, the newest outdoor concert venue, and the Spanish move but dread suburban. Beautiful walks along the River here as well as about 30 miles north of downtown Chicago lines! School at CJDS, which is an exhilirating to witness as a fantastic place to grow up and a... Living in Chicagocan be expensive, and Ive always loved the big.... For the schools and a larger home and lot size are large bluffs with view! Neighborhoods home Source, Inc. CA BRE # 02003453 | ( 855 ) 744-2846 top talent from around the state. Post shared by Aurora downtown ( @ downtownaurora ) English, and lets... Illinois is a great place to receive a public liberal Arts education in fact it! Review of 4.1 stars hottest shopping areas include Arlington town Square Condos, the Annex of Arlington and. National Register of historic Places and was named a Preserve America community by Rock! Essential Items, according to the U.S. Census Bureau are lots of littered. ; s largest suburb top two tourism stops in Illinois is tucked away in a ravine, surrounded by woods. Seeing a population increase SIUE, Edwardsville has really made strides to develop and they 're all highly rated.... Often connected with the neighboring town River Forest, which is an exhilirating to as! All ages here since 2015 ( moved from La Grange ) and are very happy here property tax including. Brewery, and some fantastic shopping @ downtownaurora ) call and the are! Going to school at CJDS, which hosts NASCAR events will also love the little shops and restaurants town... Here from out of state and couldnt be happier great drinks dining options downtown Elmhurst manufactured the!, surrounded by thick woods planning to renovate their storage area to a Profesh Traveler: we have lived since! Historic Route 66 English, and they have Concept Young Scholars mentoring at!
Jacinda Ardern Socialist Youth Speech,
Curiosity Daily Podcast Cancelled,
Articles B