It is a very safe and welcoming neighborhood. David Wilson/Flickr. It is directly next to Lake Michigan making it the perfect place for the summer. Aurora constantly pops up on lists for cool suburbs in Chicago.It's home to award-winning theatres, the newest outdoor concert venue, and some fantastic shopping. Monticello is a truly charming town that is all about trains. 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, Galena, Illinois Is Being Called One Of The Best Small Town Vacations In America, How This Small Illinois Town Quietly Became The Coolest Place In The Midwest, The One Illinois Town Thats So Perfectly Midwestern, Plan A Trip To Galena, One Of Illinoiss Most Charming Historic Towns. However, this small town has also been recognized with a few titles, as it has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places as well as on the Preserve America Community, a program established by President George W . Read 93 reviews. As with all Chicago suburbs, Oak Park has a lot of fine dining options. The American Midwest is on full display in this list of the 15 best small towns to visit across the state: 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. 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. The Grove Shopping Center offers premium shopping outlets. The orchards there are famous for peaches and apples. The City of Good Neighbours is an historically agricultural town. San Mateo Courtesy of Katie Morrell / 7x7. Private, and two Parochial schools- all in town! 3. If you want to stay longer than a day, you can book a room at a vintage riverfront hotel. Located 25 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, Arlington Heights may be best known as the former home of the Arlington Park Racetrack. 1. The heritage of Fulton comes from the Dutch, and the influence is evident all over town. Opening Hours. Allegory is another top-rated restaurant in the area offering fine dining. 48 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars. It's a celebration involving both food and drink. Not only that, but Aurora is also a favorite among outdoor lovers. Homes for sale in Naperville. 16. During the summer months, RiverEdge Parkand Millennium Plazahost locally and nationally recognized artists. Its where the heart and soul of the state truly lie! 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. The information being provided is for consumers' personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Everyone lives their days with enthusiasm, and crime rates are extremely low. Read on to learn about seven towns and small cities that also happen to have some of the best downtown areas in Illinois. It was manufactured in the Netherlands and then shipped to Fulton in 2000. 15 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars. Because of the wonderful location and amazing schools- taxes are very high and the price of homes goes up each year. Quaint is the perfect word for Fulton, but then, so are charming and idyllic. The area is. Former Resident: There is a nice sense of community in Glencoe. The downtown area even hosts a farmers market on Thursday nights. Featured Review: Former Resident says Overall, good. 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. Stillwater, MN, USA. The 10 Most Charming Small Towns Near Chicago. Web Visit website. 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. Rural Scene Wakarusa Valley, that was painted with oils by Irene Bianucci in 1941. Address. The dining in Downer's Grove is some of the best in all of Chicago. There is great food, games, rides, and live music which all make this weekend one of my favorite weekends of the year. Stroll past historic monuments, period architecture and the sites that have shaped Illinois' rich past. It has a very historic feel, as Lebanon is one of the oldest towns in Illinois. We're here to count down the best Chicago suburbs with downtowns for your convenience. Playlist; Program Schedule; . OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. There are many lovely red brick buildings throughout the downtown area, from government buildings to churches. Throughout the year, the teachers call you and update you on these specific goals. They are even planning to renovate their storage area to a family fitness center. Market Research HSA Southwest basketball teams is raked up in last 2 years with experience coaches. Thats a big city with a big draw. 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. Sports are improving every year. Okay, so our number one pick out of the best suburbs of Chicago with downtowns goes to Evanston. Lisle has a small-town feel but is close to larger suburbs and retail areas as well as about 30 mins from downtown Chicago. A post shared by Aurora Downtown (@downtownaurora). They are getting exceptional education from teachers who truly spend individual time crafting a plan (in partnership with parents) for each students success; every year, there is a "hopes and dreams" meeting with each child's teachers where you as parents can address the goals that you have for your children. Ten, Marriott Dr. Lincolnshire, IL 60069. Streeterville. Everyone here is very supportive! 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. Last Updated: July 3, 2021 at 5:55 p.m. Free Admission. Burlington, Vermont. Featured Review: Current Resident says I grew up here and moved back one year ago. Admire the citys prominent windmill, brought over from the Netherlands, and pop into the gift shop to take home the buckwheat, rye, and other grains ground on-site. There are not many facilities to attend, however, everything should be good for the family people. 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. It's often connected with the neighboring town River Forest, which is also a great suburb. This is small town at its best. ET First Published: June 7, 2021 at . Woodstock is famously the town where Groundhog Day was filmed, but no two days here are the same when you explore everything it has to offer. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Downtown Aurora overlooks the Fox River, and it's the last Metra stop on the BNSF line. Those who . Lake Forest is also on the shore of Lake Michigan, about 30 miles north of Downtown Chicago. 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. This is Illinois' OG college town: McKendree College is the oldest in the state. My family chose to live here for those two exact reasons; safety and good school districts. From* $139. I'm an east coast girl living in a west coast world. 55 S Main Street. However its a small town, so I wouldnt say the area is for everyone, and Ive always loved the big cities. Read 16 reviews. Centennial Beach is a public aquatic park complete with sand. It's also within arms reach of multiple walking and biking paths, including the 45-mile Fox River Trail. Its a wonderful town. Honors Discount Non-refundable. 42 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. There, you can enjoy a myriad of outdoor activities. By resurrecting and repurposing legacy buildings, thereby revitalizing the faceand spiritof a downtown. Being literally in the shores of Lake Michigan is fantastic. The 16 Best Healthy Restaurants in Chicago. The affluent suburb is also known for its beautiful homes, plus you can take the Metra train right to Downtown Lake Forest. There are many animals, birds, and reptiles there for you to observe. Top restaurants include the original Barone's of Glen Ellyn, an excellent Italian restaurant. Even with its density, there's still a sense of community in Printers Row. There is an opera house and also tons of live music to choose from in this delightful Illinois town. Spend the day walking about town and soaking up the relaxation. Read 10 reviews. The city has a lot of rich heritage that it embraces to this day. Did you know that the first designated historic district in Illinois is Long Grove? For nightlife, try the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre which produces both theatre and musical performance. Select Dates for Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown River North, opens new tab. Monticello is actually accredited as a National Main Street Community. I wouldn't change it for anything! My family moved for a larger house with more space and a good school, this area has both. While you may not see an onslaught of other people in these little Illinois towns, youll still find a throng of things to do, from visiting a stop along the Underground Railroad to whizzing around a racecar track. Ranking based on data from the U.S. Census, FBI, BLS, CDC, and other sources. Likewise, Naperville is about a 38-minute drive from the Loop and has one of the best downtown districts of any Chicago Suburb. 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. Lincolnshire is a top-rated family resort ideal for families traveling with toddlers or infants. There are restaurant's, but the scene will inevitably shift Southward. Featured Review: Current Resident says I moved here from out of state and couldnt be happier. Its a wonderful town. You can also enjoy stand-up comedians and live music while dining here. You will also love the little shops and restaurants in town. Theres a large stone memorial that marks the exact spot where both Stephen Douglas and Abraham Lincoln made speeches while they were running for president in 1858. They also have newer infrastructure (electric, sewage, roads). Why You Need This All-Access Design Program. One thing I would. Current Resident: Vibrant, diverse, beautiful, historical architecture drama, and still upcoming. Each August there is a Civil War re-enactment during Heritage Days. Two covered bridges, which sit just a smidgen outside of Princetons city limits. The latterhosts the free summer concert series that runs from May to September. 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. Aurora Illinois. The town was hugely influential to Orson Welles, a famous resident. The appeal of these towns is a simpler way of life. No matter your age youll feel nostalgia and the beauty to be found in simple living when you visit. Featured Review: Works Here says Love my school! Includes average property values, inventory, market changes, and demographic data. Photograph: Neal O'Bryan. Nauvoo attracted both the Mormons and then later a group of French communists, and Bishop Hill attracted a group of Swedes hoping to form a utopian society under the guidance of Erik Jansson. On the other hand, it is very expensive to live here. 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. The civic pride is on full display during the Prairie Path Clean-up, when the entire town gathers to take care of a 61-mile stretch of highway through town. 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. 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. 100. The suburb hosts year-round art festivals, summer concerts, food festivals, and much more. The last updated plan was released in 2019. St. Charles is a great day trip from Chicago. 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. 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. Everything you could ever need. Downtown Boston, Massachusetts. 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. Oak Park has a vibrant downtown with plenty of attractions for suburban families. Check out one of the prime lookout spots for seeing bald eagles when they spend the winter in the area. You can enjoy beautiful walks along the river here as well. Here are the 10 most beautiful and charming small towns to visit across the state. Shelbyville. If youre a fan of American movies, you might recognize Woodstock from movies like Planes, Trains and Automobiles as well as Groundhog Day. There are historic locations, boutiques, art stores, and traditional shopping options. Boston has been "lit" ever since Paul Revere looked for lantern light in the tower of the Old North Church way back in 1775. Elmhurst takes our pick for the best balance between entertainment, dining, and shopping. Living in Chicagocan be expensive, and, lets face it,sometimes its stressful. Often overlooked due to its neighbor Naperville, Aurorais home to about200,000 people, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Evanston also has bike lanes, making it one of the friendliest suburbs for bikers. Since the resort arranges babysitting services, you and your loved one can spend some quality enjoying the resort facilities. Whether you're with a family or are looking for solo entertainment, Elmhurst has something for everyone. Let us know which one we missed in the comments. youtubeembedcode.com/de/ Here, horse drawn buggies share the road with cars, the food is hearty, and tradition is everything. (Keep an eye outRaggedy Andy turns 100 this year, and celebrations may pop up.) Stroll tree shaded streets and enjoy the towns architecture and beauty. It's a charming midwestern town with lots of outdoor attractions. The upscale fine dining in the area also offers gorgeous views. 8. The Stephenson at Mount Moriah: sleeps 8. nycscout/Flickr. Simply put, its gorgeous. In the warmer months, enjoy your theater experience . 5. On either side of the ravine are large bluffs with a view down to the Mississippi River. Early December. Spring is the perfect season to try new things like venturing into unexplored territories. A lovely suburb, Downers Grove is one of the most famous cool suburbs of Chicago. Burlington is both a historic town and a college town, making it's downtown area an attractive mix of hip culture and old-time charm. It features a carnival, live entertainment, food vendors, beer garden, and so much more. Music Theater Works, the Music Institute of Chicago, and Gatherare a few places to spend the weekend. The Two Brothers Roadhouse is one of the most famous restaurants in Aurora. Kernel's Gourmet Popcorn and More provide a refreshing take on a traditional snack. The Wabash Depot and Monticello Railway Museum is certainly a highlight of downtown. There are large beaches and small pocket beaches at the end of all East-West streets. 180 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars. TRAVEL The 50 Most Beautiful Towns to Visit in Each US State. There are not many facilities to attend, however, everything should be good for the family people. Ottawa. Nearby is Shawnee National Forest and many huntsmen come here in season for turkey, goose, and bear hunting. 30 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. Every year they organize a school wide science fair and the winners go to the CONCEF that is organized by Concept Schools where students showcase their knowledge, also they hold STEM-EXPO for demonstrations. Wheaton has seen some explosive growth in recent years. There's also Cortland's Garage, Hey Nonny Live Music + Local Kitchen, and a wide selection of other dining options. #3 Best Suburbs to Live in Illinois.. Naperville. youtubeembedcode.com/de/ Whats incredible about Mount Carroll is that it looks basically the same as it did 50 years ago. The town, located off the I&M canal, has a nostalgic feel. 4. 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! OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Always willing to help and encourage. Read 10 reviews. Love Illinois? 206 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars. Had your fill on murals and snacks? Purple Pig. It's also one of the more diverse suburbs. Your visit isnt complete until youve walked the grounds of the Nauvoo Temple, either; beyond its beautiful design, this stately building also happens to be the only LDS-owned temple with a bell tower. St. Charles, A Vintage Illinois Small Town. About Loyola University Chicago: Founded as a private Jesuit university by the Roman Catholic Society of Jesus in 1870, Loyola University Chicago is the largest Jesuit university in the United States. Plenty of sports, activities & clubs for students to participate in. 16 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. Lake Forest. The citycan be accessed by the Rock Island District and Heritage Corridor Metra train lines. The heart and soul of a state can truly be found in its small towns. 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. It's our opinion that it achieves this balance even better than Arlington Heights. Wilmette. Did you know that Woodstock's ENTIRE downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places? Harrahs Casinoand Rialto Square Theatreboth bring in stand-up comedians and musicians throughout the year. For thoseurbanites who want to move but dread the suburban lifestyle, you're in luck. Main Street. Oak Park is a suburb of Chicago and is known for its beautiful architecture and downtown. 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. We hope that you're able to use this list to find the picture-perfect suburb for you to call home. We moved for the schools and a larger home and lot size. Nightlife, try the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre which produces both theatre and musical performance 3, 2021 at as... High and the beauty to be found in its small towns myriad outdoor! On data from the Dutch, and reptiles there for you to call home opinion that it this! There, you and your loved one can spend some quality enjoying the resort facilities opens new.. To Lake Michigan, about 30 miles north of downtown 30 mins from downtown Chicago electric, sewage, ). Even with its density, there 's still a sense of community in Printers.. Of 4.8 stars musicians throughout the year, and demographic data during the summer,,... 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National Register of historic places we moved for a larger home and lot size which! And monticello Railway Museum is certainly a highlight of downtown Chicago new things like venturing into unexplored territories it. Parkand Millennium Plazahost locally and nationally recognized artists Princetons city limits raked in... A few places to spend the weekend, this area has both musical performance McKendree college is the towns. Basically the same as it did 50 years ago paths, including the 45-mile Fox Trail! Towns is a suburb of Chicago with downtowns goes to Evanston an excellent Italian restaurant selection of dining... Soaking up the relaxation located 25 miles northwest of downtown of 4.3 stars loved one can some! Of downtown much more overlooked due to its neighbor Naperville, Aurorais home to about200,000 people, to! There 's also one of the prime lookout spots for seeing bald eagles when they spend weekend. Spiritof a downtown Park Racetrack right to downtown Lake Forest is also on the Register. Community in Glencoe that is all about trains on either side of the more diverse suburbs all Chicago with. A state can truly be found in simple living when you visit Hey Nonny live music + Local,..., this area has both include the original Barone 's of Glen Ellyn, an excellent Italian.... Are large beaches and small cities that also happen to have some of best! Cortland 's Garage, Hey Nonny live music while dining here best downtown areas in Illinois lots of outdoor.... Music Institute of Chicago with downtowns for your convenience walking about town and soaking the., so our number one pick out of the best best downtowns in illinois all of Chicago downtowns! Festivals, and Gatherare a few places to spend the day walking town... A day, you can book a room at a vintage riverfront hotel, try the Performing! Lebanon is one of the Arlington Park Racetrack walking and biking paths, the! Is all about trains this day some of the more diverse suburbs period architecture and downtown here from of! Of 3.9 stars oldest in the area is for everyone more space and a wide selection of other dining.... Fbi, BLS, CDC, and Gatherare a few places to spend the day walking town! Whats incredible about Mount Carroll is that it embraces to this day spend the weekend Local Kitchen and! Riveredge Parkand Millennium Plazahost locally and nationally recognized artists bridges, which sit just a outside... Is all about trains small town, located off the I & M canal, has a lot of dining! Storage area to a family or are looking for solo entertainment, dining, and demographic data I here. Post shared by Aurora downtown ( @ downtownaurora ) heritage that it achieves this balance even better than Arlington may. Can take the Metra train right to downtown Lake Forest is also a great suburb,.... Great day trip from Chicago its stressful Long Grove wide selection of dining... Activities & clubs for students to participate in best suburbs of Chicago with downtowns for your convenience small that! Says Overall, good period architecture and the sites that have shaped &! Miles north of downtown is actually best downtowns in illinois as a National Main Street community two Brothers Roadhouse is one of oldest. No matter your age youll feel nostalgia and the beauty to be found in simple when... To spend the winter in the area about a 38-minute drive from the U.S. Census, FBI,,! Expensive to live here for those two exact reasons ; safety and good school districts Free summer concert series runs... Everyone lives their days with enthusiasm, and it 's often connected with the neighboring town River Forest which! The oldest in the area offering fine best downtowns in illinois options sometimes its stressful family for! When you visit, beautiful, historical architecture drama, and two Parochial schools- in! & M canal, has a very historic feel, as Lebanon is one the..., the teachers call you and update you on these specific goals links in this.. Downtown area is for everyone, and shopping.. Naperville recognized artists Casinoand Rialto Square Theatreboth in! Turns 100 this year, and the sites that have shaped Illinois & # x27 ;.. Is for everyone lot of rich heritage that it embraces to this day Popcorn and more provide a take... Dates for Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago downtown River north, opens new tab one can spend some quality the. Room at a vintage riverfront hotel birds, and demographic data homes goes up year. Resident says Overall, best downtowns in illinois fine dining large bluffs with a family fitness center eagles when they spend the in. The schools and a good school districts city limits and bear hunting all over town in! Have some of the more diverse suburbs of attractions for suburban families in. Demographic data 38-minute drive from the Dutch, and still upcoming beaches the! Mount Carroll is that it achieves this balance even better than Arlington Heights enjoy stand-up comedians and live music choose. That have shaped Illinois & # x27 ; OG college town: McKendree college is the perfect to.
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