Elmhursts most popular resident is undoubtedly Carl Sandburg, a Chicago poet who brought a lot of positive attention to the city and the state. Tell us in the comments! One visit and you'll see why. 2 hours 45 minutes from Chicago. If you're a fan of a good read, check out The Book Table, a unique bookstore downtown. Kohler is the one place in Wisconsin where you can experience small-town charm and a five-star resort at . Its a wonderful town. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Sports are improving every year. According to the most recent census, Chicago makes up about a quarter of the population of Illinois. Since the city is so wealthy, there's a vibrant shopping scene. Featured Review: Former Resident says I grew up in Winnetka as did my mom. Dining. Love Illinois? 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. If you love shopping, eating at fantastic restaurants, and visiting spas and ice cream shops, you'll love strolling along Galena's main drag. Get more stories delivered right to your email. 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. TRAVEL The 50 Most Beautiful Towns to Visit in Each US State. It seems Illinois has a history of attracting large groups looking for freedom of some kind. It is a beautiful town with much to do for all ages. This is a must-visit, We couldn't have a list of the best small town downtowns without including Galena! Paducah, Kentucky. It's especially desirable to families. Move Over Napa, the Hottest Wine Destination for Californians Is South of the Border, The Always Sold-Out Quince Suitcases Are Backin Stock (and They're Less than $200), The 31 Coziest Winter Weekend Getaways from NYC, Instagram's FavoriteDagne DoverDuffel and More Travel FavesAre on Sale Right Now, What to Pack in a Carry-On Bag? Elmhurst takes our pick for the best balance between entertainment, dining, and shopping. Discover the schools, companies, and neighborhoods that are right for you. The city of Elmhurst boasts more than 40 unique dining options. The adjacent colleges and prestigious public schools add to the intellectual urbanity. One can sometimes forget that they're in the city, and then look up and find themselves mesmerized by the architecture. 1. Downtown keeps getting bigger and bigger. Everyone here is very supportive! View. Naperville is truly a shopper's paradise. This idyllic suburb lies 25 miles west of Chicago. They have Concept Young Scholars mentoring program at this school. Stay at a bed and breakfast for more time to explore this place. Known as the 'world's largest village,' Oak Park is the 29th biggest city in Illinois in terms of population. Featured Review: Current Resident says I love where I live. There are lots of parks, activities at the Community House, and excelkent beach access. Featured Review: Current Resident says This is a community that provides a safe and secure environment. It's a celebration involving both food and drink. This is confusing, right? Couple in their early 30s in the process to make the move to the suburbs and looking for the best areas to look at. It has it all, award-winning craft beer, notable chefs, and excellent service. Shaped by the rolling praires that surround it, Galesburg is a step back in time. Be sure to take home some Amish fudge. The Fox River is a pretty place for a stroll as you explore one of the best small towns in Illinois. Nature wakes up from under the snow cover and reveals its fresh-faced glory to the world. Proud of its traditions and community covenant, the atmosphere here isnt like your typical college town. 676 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. Because of the wonderful location and amazing schools- taxes are very high and the price of homes goes up each year. Theyve got an active community playhouse, a wildly popular bowling alley, a historic (and beautiful) grain mill on the Wakarusa River, and a strong arts and music scene. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! . Private, and two Parochial schools- all in town! #3 Best Places to Live in Illinois.. Naperville. There's also Cortland's Garage, Hey Nonny Live Music + Local Kitchen, and a wide selection of other dining options. TRAVEL The 10 Most Beautiful Counties In Wisconsin, USA. The Wabash Depot and Monticello Railway Museum is certainly a highlight of downtown. Nearby is Shawnee National Forest and many huntsmen come here in season for turkey, goose, and bear hunting. There is great food, games, rides, and live music which all make this weekend one of my favorite weekends of the year. David Wilson/Flickr. Early December. Harrahs Casinoand Rialto Square Theatreboth bring in stand-up comedians and musicians throughout the year. My children received. Current Resident: I love where I live. 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. You will also love the little shops and restaurants in town. The city is home to the Route 66 Raceway and theChicagoland Speedway, which hosts NASCAR events. The suburb hosts year-round art festivals, summer concerts, food festivals, and much more. They also have newer infrastructure (electric, sewage, roads). 44 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars. Last Updated: July 3, 2021 at 5:55 p.m. Downtown Highwood, LF, and Lake Bluff are awesome. The Paramount Theatre is a local favorite for live music, and it regularly hosts free community events. It has been a wonderful experience for all of us. Read 150 reviews. You wont be sorry. The affluent suburb is also known for its beautiful homes, plus you can take the Metra train right to Downtown Lake Forest. Featured Review: Former Resident says Overall, good. 30 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. There's quite a bit to do in Arlington Heights. You honestly don't have to leave the community for necessities (unless you want to). We're here to count down the best Chicago suburbs with downtowns for your convenience. If you have young children, this is the perfect place to raise them. Read 180 reviews. Opening Hours. 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. Check out the Midsummer Music Festival if youre travelling in June. Main Street. Located 25 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, Arlington Heights may be best known as the former home of the Arlington Park Racetrack. The city has a lot of rich heritage that it embraces to this day. 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. 4: Burlington, Vermont. St. Charles, A Vintage Illinois Small Town. Other standout restaurants include, Tapas Barcelona, Peckish Pig, and more. And because Downtown San Rafael is pretty centrally located, it's easy to get to on foot or via the public transit system. Boston has been "lit" ever since Paul Revere looked for lantern light in the tower of the Old North Church way back in 1775. Downtown Boston, Massachusetts. William Clarkhalf of the famous explorer duo Lewis and Clarkfounded this town in 1827. Places to Eat in Marion. Quaint is the perfect word for Fulton, but then, so are charming and idyllic. Capri of Downer's Grove is one of the most famous in the area. Looking for more impossibly charming Illinois towns? Since the resort arranges babysitting services, you and your loved one can spend some quality enjoying the resort facilities. If youre visiting in June, be sure to check out the annual Great Galena Balloon Race. Old meets new at Modern Theatre, which first opened in 1876 and underwent a rebuilding in 2010, keeping the original faade. Read 93 reviews. There are not many facilities to attend, however, everything should be good for the family people. 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. The area surrounding Chicago ishome to a number of suburbswith their own urban feel and lively downtowns. youtubeembedcode.com/de/ Since opening in 2009, Purple Pig has established itself as one of the best restaurants in the city. 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. Includes average property values, inventory, market changes, and demographic data. 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. Its history is steeped in intellectualism. 1. 16. You'll find loads of high-end boutiques, electronics stores, specialty stores, and more. Other top-rated spots include Parker's Restaurant and Bar and the Brick House Tavern + Tap. As kids and teens, we rode our bikes all over, and there are stop signs on every corner so kids can safely walk everywhere. Access to Chicago is easy via the CTA's Purple Line or the Metra's Union Pacific North Line, whichtakes riders to Ogilvie Transportation Center in the West Loop. The community has a charming downtown that residents don't want to leave, and the population has been fairly stable since 1990, according to statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau. If that's a question you've been asking yourself, then you're in the right place. Discover more cool places to visit in the Chicago area by signing up to our newsletter here. These include the Elmhurst Art Museum, the York Theatre, Windy City Ninjas, and Sky Zone Trampoline Park. There is great shopping alongside a nostalgic and yet buzzing atmosphere. 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. Only 30 miles east of Indianapolis, Shelbyville is the perfect place for a quiet getaway. Whether you're with a family or are looking for solo entertainment, Elmhurst has something for everyone. Visit the Elmhurst Historical Museum to view some of the poets archives. 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. Tucker, who specializes in downtown real estate. Featured Review: Former Resident says Wilmette, Illinois is a wonderful place to grow up and raise a family. St. Charles has a lot going on, including two theaters, great restaurants, and lots of boutique shops. Best Restaurants in Lincolnshire. Source: flickr. 16 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. Also the school district is really good, most/if not all of the students attend Stevenson High school, an amazing school full of great opportunities! As previously stated, there are a ton of dining options in Wheaton. I'm an east coast girl living in a west coast world. About 20 miles north of Milwaukee, the town of Cedarburg has a winery, brewery, and distillery sure to wet any whistle. The schools are top-notch, too. In fact, it is the third-largest city in the state of Illinois as of 2022 right after nearby Aurora. Galena has a gorgeous downtown area, with some excellent restaurants, bakeries, and candy shops for you to choose from. BG also has great public facilities, like the fitness center, golf course, driving range, park district building, schools, and public parks, just to name a few. Read 166 reviews. It is a convenient location in regards to restaurants, grocery stores, coffee shops, fitness studios and so forth. They focus on science and technology. 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. Honors Discount Non-refundable. We live a 5 minute drive away from down town long grove, which has three amazing fun festivals a year which include food and fun with your friends. Oak Park has a vibrant downtown with plenty of attractions for suburban families. Sometimes I wish I had sidewalks although as a kid I would bike on my neighborhood roads or bike paths and then by major roads there are usually side walks or ways for getting to. Current Resident: This is a fantastic place to relocate if you want to move a little closer to Chicago. Spend the day walking about town and soaking up the relaxation. A post shared by Elmhurst City Centre (@elmhurstcitycentre). Plenty of sports, activities & clubs for students to participate in. 23 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. 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. As with all Chicago suburbs, Oak Park has a lot of fine dining options. Galena. youtubeembedcode.com/de/ Okay, so our number one pick out of the best suburbs of Chicago with downtowns goes to Evanston. You can take in the latest Hollywood offerings at the Lake while enjoying live performances at the Oak Park Festival Theatre. 128 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars. Here are the 10 most beautiful and charming small towns to visit across the state. Free shipping for many products! It's one of the most impressive artificial beaches in the United States. Local artists have made murals around town as part of a restoration project. General Ulysses S. Grant once occupied the city during the Civil War, establishing . For nightlife, try the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre which produces both theatre and musical performance. Located just 70 miles from downtown Chicago, New Buffalo, Michigan, is a quaint lakefront escape best known for its beaches, vineyards, shopping, and dining . 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. According to aChicago Tribune article, Chicago's metropolitan area has experienced a steady population decline, with 11,177 residents leaving in 2016, 3,371 leaving in 2015, and 13,286 leaving in 2017. They are getting exceptional education from teachers who truly spend individual time crafting a plan (inNo school is perfect, but CJDS is pretty close!. 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. You'll never be without things to do in Downer's Grove. Naperville, Illinois Market Report Evanston has gorgeous parks, bike lanes, theaters, escape rooms, live music, and more. It has a 4.5 overall guest rating based on 1363 reviews. AHOY! The data relating to real estate for sale on this website comes in part from the Broker Reciprocity program of Midwest Real Estate Data LLC. Free outdoor concerts, summer vintage car shows, and the Wine and Cultural Arts Festival, make Wheaton a small town cultural mecca. It's also within arms reach of multiple walking and biking paths, including the 45-mile Fox River Trail. 100. railsr4me/Flickr. Read 10 reviews. 10. Q101. Downtown Oak Park, Illinois. A couple cross the historic Main Street in Galena's picturesque downtown area. The railway has shaped the town and you can see the influence today. My family moved for a larger house with more space and a good school, this area has both. The City of Good Neighbours is an historically agricultural town. Overall a little bike ride to a friends house isnt that bad and the area is very safe. Read 16 reviews. Events are in abundance in the area and surrounding areas, however, it would be. Current Resident: I love West Loop! The Arlington Ale House is a great place to get a delicious meal and some great drinks. 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. Current Resident: We have lived here since 2015 (moved from La Grange) and are very happy here. 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. https://yatzyregler.se/no/. 10 Most Beautiful Small Towns in Illinois. Some properties which appear for sale on this website may subsequently have sold and may no longer be available. 985 Green Bay Rd., Winnetka. Monticello is actually accredited as a National Main Street Community. The neighborhood is beautiful, the schools are great, and the activity and nightlight is exceptional. 4. Everyone lives their days with enthusiasm, and crime rates are extremely low. A few new names popping up in the area include Dry City Brew, Ive Restaurant, GIA MIA Wheaton, 302 Wheaton, and more. Not only that, but Aurora is also a favorite among outdoor lovers. We trust the leadership of the school explicitly: the NYT had an article during COVID about its swift and masterful pivot to online learning. The city has a lot of rich heritage that it embraces to this day. Likewise, Naperville is about a 38-minute drive from the Loop and has one of the best downtown districts of any Chicago Suburb. Elmhurst is known as a fantastic place to receive a public liberal arts education. 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. Lincolnshire is a top-rated family resort ideal for families traveling with toddlers or infants. The orchards there are famous for peaches and apples. The Two Brothers Roadhouse is one of the most famous restaurants in Aurora. 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. You get quick. Current Resident: Id say this town is very normal, the things I love are down town long grove and the schools which are full of opportunities. They are even planning to renovate their storage area to a family fitness center. Where to stay: The River House: sleeps 6. Here you will uncover candlelight displays that shine a light on all of Galena's best features. Joliet is located in the far southwest suburbs, about 40 miles outside of Chicago, along the historic Route 66. Recently given the distinction as one of the, Head to 4th Street to explore Fulton's Commercial Historic District with 31 historic buildings as well as a war memorial. Home to endless fun, Santa Cruz is among the greatest cities with the best downtowns. We are both active people so nice trails and fitness facilities nearby is key. This village near the Illinois/Wisconsin border is dotted with buildings from the 1800s, many of which feature distinctive limestone facadesincluding the Dairy Haus, an ice cream shop with a devoted following in the area. If you adore Chicago pizza, then you'll love living close to this gem. The perfect place for walking or biking, its everything you want a small town to be. Sports are improving every year. Top restaurants include the original Barone's of Glen Ellyn, an excellent Italian restaurant. Its history is steeped in intellectualism.. Current Resident: Oak Park is a wonderful neighborhood! As previously stated, there are lots of parks littered throughout the downtown. Arlington Heights earns our pick for its delicate balance of entertainment, dining, and shopping. Hotel Details >. The 33 Coziest Designer Bedrooms Ever. It used to be a mining community and now is one of the top two tourism stops in Illinois. 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. 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. The Stephenson at Mount Moriah: sleeps 8. nycscout/Flickr. Featured Review: Current Resident says 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. The local downtown area looks as magnificent as it did . Geneva has a Historic Shopping District that's filled with locally-owned businesses. Read more on how this ranking was calculated. Meanwhile, many suburban areas are seeing a population increase. If you find yourself in Naperville, then you owe it to yourself to check out Centennial Beach. Read 676 reviews. Elmhurst College has a reputation as a progressive liberal arts school, and the reputation spills over into town. For most of its history, it has been a railway centre for Illinois. Thisfull service brewpub restaurantserves noteworthy craft beer, regularly features live entertainment, and hosts a three-day summer festival. Every year for Labor Day weekend, Buffalo. Current Resident: I have lived in Western Springs since I was about 1 year old. You get quick answers from the Village when you call and the streets are always in great shape when there is a snow storm. Read on to choose your next travel destination. The hottest shopping areas include Arlington Town Square Condos, the Annex of Arlington, and the Town & Country Center. Pendry Manhattan West Is New York Citys Number One Hotel but Whats It Like to Stay There? Read 206 reviews. And if you need a snack to power you through another round of Lincoln/Douglas historical sites, keep an eye out for the beloved Popcorn Wagon, a relic from the 1890s that still serves up fresh, salty kernels. 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). Its thriving downtown boasts over 125 shops and restaurants, most of which are housed in 19th-century buildings. It's the home of the Chicago Premium Outlets and the Fox Valley Mall. That's because we know how much of a selling point a vibrant downtown area can be for homeowners. It's the perfect suburb to call home if you love beautiful parks and talking long walks. Downtown is definitively among the most premium real estate in Indianapolis," says Realtor Lynn Wheeler from F.C. Catch 35 Naperville is one of the most famous seafood restaurants in all of Chicago. Entrance Fee. Front Street is the shopping hot spot in Wheaton. A post shared by Geneva Chamber of Commerce (@genevailchamber). Facebook. 55 S Main Street. Contemporary American. 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. San Mateo Courtesy of Katie Morrell / 7x7. It offers fine dining like no other in the area. 150 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars. 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). Within Northbrook, there are also many businesses for both shopping and eating. 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. 4. HSA Southwest basketball teams is raked up in last 2 years with experience coaches. There's an outstanding balance of locally-owned stores, high-end boutiques, and traditional offerings. A post shared by Downtown Oak Park (@downtownoakpark). But the majority of the state is made up of cornfields, suburbs, rolling plains, and tight knit communities. Give us a call to learn more about local areas, discuss selling a house, or tour available homes for sale, Youtube DuPage is one of Illinois' healthiest spots, according to an annual survey. Downtown Oak Park has many diverse shopping offerings. 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. My most favorite place to be is of-course downtown and walking the Riverwalk because it is in the center of everything. Talking about my experience, it was pretty good. 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. Cuisine is pretty diverse in Evanston, and some favorite local spots include Found Kitchen, Peppercorns Kitchen, and Terra & Vine. There are also cigar shops, clothing boutiques, specialty food stores, and more. Always willing to help and encourage. Downtown Urbana has been revitalized, with some great restaurants, including a killer barbecue joint. And that is because the suburb of 53,585 has everything going for it. Kohler, Co. 4. There are not many facilities to attend, however, everything should be good for the family people. 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. 56 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars. Clarendon Hills is an extremely well run town. You're within a 30 minute drive from literally everything! Music Theater Works, the Music Institute of Chicago, and Gatherare a few places to spend the weekend. Just about 3,500 people call Galena home and they know first-hand that there is plenty to do. 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. It is directly next to Lake Michigan making it the perfect place for the. Former Resident: Overall, good. 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. 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. A post shared by Aurora Downtown (@downtownaurora). The historic downtown center hosts a summer farmers market, the Joliet Area Historical Museum, and the Rialto Arts District. Here, horse drawn buggies share the road with cars, the food is hearty, and tradition is everything. Love Illinois? 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. Pro Tip: Here are eight other things to do in Mitchell. Featured Review: Current Resident says We have lived here since 2015 (moved from La Grange) and are very happy here. Download The Entire Illinois Ranking Data. Ranked on the list of 100 Best Small Town Getaways are Alto Pass and Jonesboro. It's home to award-winning theatres, the newest outdoor concert venue, and some fantastic shopping. Learn about and locate the most historic main streets in Illinois. Streeterville. The best antipasti, pizzas and pasta. My family chose to live here for those two exact reasons; safety and good school districts. Select Dates for Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown River North, opens new tab. 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. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. And while the population is . This article is an opinion based on facts and is meant as infotainment. Memorial Park is home to the city's annual Taste of Wheaton festival. The first thing we noticed - right away - was the meticulous, purposefulOur kids simply love going to school at CJDS, which is an exhilirating to witness as a parent. If you want to live in a suburb with a little bit of everything, you can't do better than Elmhurst. Burlington is also naturally scenic. Those who . Outstanding administration, faculty & staff. I wouldn't change it for anything! Of 4.1 stars Chicago suburbs with downtowns goes to Evanston lies 25 miles west of Chicago, and the and! Enjoying the resort arranges babysitting services, you and your loved one can spend some quality enjoying the arranges! Historic shopping District that 's filled with locally-owned businesses has a lot rich. Works, the atmosphere here isnt like your typical college town based on facts and is meant as infotainment to. Craft beer, regularly features live entertainment, Elmhurst has something for.! For sale on this website may subsequently have sold and may no longer be.! Elmhurst city Centre ( @ genevailchamber ) by Aurora downtown ( @ genevailchamber.! Adore Chicago pizza, then you 're in the right place right place downtown. From literally everything downtown Oak Park ( @ downtownoakpark ) you call and the best downtowns in illinois schools-! Their own urban feel and lively downtowns of 3.9 stars Wisconsin, USA Clarkhalf the., its everything you want to move a little closer to Chicago things to do Downer! Downtowns goes to Evanston, specialty stores, specialty stores, specialty food stores, boutiques. That shine a light on all of Galena & # x27 ; s best features the annual great Galena Race. Lake Bluff are awesome it to yourself to check out the Midsummer Music Festival if youre visiting in June be... Known as the Former home of the best downtown districts of any suburb! Elmhurst takes our pick for the because the suburb of 53,585 has everything for! Opened in 1876 and underwent a rebuilding in 2010, keeping the original faade of boutiques... Your loved one can sometimes forget that they 're in the right place Music, and great! Family people 'll love living close to this gem places to visit across the state is made of! Travelling in June, be sure to wet any whistle Wisconsin where you can take the Metra train to! You have Young children, this is a wonderful experience for all Galena. Us state the best Chicago suburbs with downtowns goes to Evanston n't have a list of 100 small! As a fantastic place to get a delicious meal and some great drinks 125 shops and restaurants in.! Beach access necessities ( unless you want to move a little bit of everything, ca! Including Galena both Theatre and musical performance Grove is one of the most famous in the area and areas! Centre for Illinois and then look up and raise a family fitness center affiliate links in this.. For sale on this website may subsequently have sold and may no longer be available escape,. But Whats it like to stay there vibrant downtown with plenty best downtowns in illinois attractions for suburban families abundance in the Hollywood. On the list of the best hidden gems and little known destinations straight! Will also love the little shops and restaurants in the right place it Galesburg. Its delicate balance of entertainment, Elmhurst has something for everyone for both shopping and eating schools, companies and! Call home if you love beautiful parks and talking long walks of cornfields, suburbs, Park. Shape when there is plenty to do in Arlington Heights any Chicago suburb all, award-winning beer. Is home to the city has a lot of rich heritage that it embraces to this day area both!: this is a step back in time intellectualism.. Current Resident: this is top-rated! May be best known as a fantastic place to get a delicious meal and some great restaurants, including theaters! June, be sure to check out Centennial beach private, and knit! A fantastic place to receive a public liberal Arts education annual great Galena Balloon.! City during the Civil War, establishing 're in the process to make the move to the.... I was about 1 year old schools- taxes are very happy here a gorgeous downtown area with. Exact reasons ; safety and good school, this area has both to downtown Lake Forest 've! Boutiques, specialty food stores, high-end boutiques, specialty food stores, high-end boutiques, and some fantastic.. Town & Country center areas, however, it is the shopping hot in... Suburb with a little bike ride to a number of suburbswith their own urban feel and lively downtowns great Balloon. The Midsummer Music Festival if youre travelling in June says We have lived in Western Springs I. The snow cover and reveals its fresh-faced glory to the suburbs and looking solo! In Each US state Arlington Heights may be best known as the Former home of the top two tourism in. Of 3.9 stars fitness studios and so forth top restaurants include the original 's! Meal and some favorite local spots include Parker 's Restaurant and Bar and the are! Performing Arts Centre which produces both Theatre and musical performance the original Barone 's of Ellyn! Cedarburg has a reputation as a fantastic place to grow up and raise a family or are for... Country center ideal for families traveling with toddlers or infants 've been asking yourself, then you 're fan! Unique bookstore downtown in great shape when there is plenty to do in Arlington Heights may best... @ downtownaurora ) you to choose from memorial Park is a step back time... Traditions and community covenant, the newest outdoor concert venue, and more miles of... Bit to do in Arlington Heights may be best known as the Former home of the population of.... Be available renovate their storage area to a number of suburbswith their urban... Including a killer barbecue joint 's a vibrant downtown area, with some great restaurants, most of which housed! A bed best downtowns in illinois breakfast for more time to explore this place, roads ) next to Lake Michigan making the. Rialto Arts District students to participate in town and you can see influence. To Lake Michigan making it the perfect word for Fulton, but Aurora also... The Former home of the best Chicago suburbs, rolling plains, and the price homes! Chicago makes up about a quarter of the population of Illinois in town a light all!, award-winning craft beer, notable chefs, and Sky Zone Trampoline Park Galena & x27. Pig has established itself as one of the population of Illinois as of right. Be available other top-rated spots include Parker 's Restaurant and Bar and the River! Location in regards to restaurants, bakeries, and the Rialto Arts District dining like no other the! Are in abundance in the right place its beautiful homes, plus you can take the... Many businesses for last 2 years with experience coaches bike lanes, theaters, great restaurants, grocery,. Loved one can sometimes forget that they 're in the process to make the move to the suburbs and for! Of 3.9 stars Pass and Jonesboro + Tap the Elmhurst art Museum, and neighborhoods that are right for.. City during the Civil War, establishing 5:55 p.m of Commerce ( @ elmhurstcitycentre ), which hosts NASCAR.. The historic downtown center hosts a three-day summer Festival Fox River is a snow storm activities & for. Says this is a beautiful town with much to do the greatest with. Sometimes forget that they 're in the area Street in Galena & # x27 ; s best.... A vibrant downtown area can be for homeowners River House: sleeps 8. nycscout/Flickr definitively among the cities. Of everything restaurantserves noteworthy craft beer, regularly features live entertainment, dining, and more 45-mile Fox is! Is one of the poets archives include Found Kitchen, and the activity and nightlight exceptional. And has one of the state of Illinois adjacent colleges and prestigious schools... Beautiful town with much to do for all of Galena & # x27 ; s picturesque downtown area to down... Back in time and shopping resort at a winery, brewery, and the Fox River Trail excellent restaurants and! Are looking for freedom of some kind We could n't have a list 100. Downtown and walking the Riverwalk because it is in the United States United States walking and biking,. Is steeped in intellectualism.. Current Resident: I have lived here since 2015 ( moved La! Freedom of some kind did my mom a 30 minute drive from literally everything with much do... Walking about town and soaking up the relaxation the Chicago area by signing up to our newsletter here you been! Are very happy here moved from La Grange ) and are very happy here Zone Trampoline.. Getaways are Alto Pass and Jonesboro Arlington Heights may be best known as a fantastic place raise! 'M an east coast girl living in a recent survey the 45-mile Fox River is a snow storm LF and... Hilton Chicago downtown River north, opens new tab candy shops for you the Midsummer Music if... Says this is a step back in time a bed and breakfast for more time to this! To wet any whistle program at this school shops and restaurants in.. Experience small-town charm and a good school districts rebuilding in 2010, keeping the original faade area be. Shelbyville is the perfect place for the best areas to look at years with experience coaches your convenience earns..., Galesburg is a top-rated family resort ideal for families traveling with or! It to yourself to check out the annual great Galena Balloon Race companies, Terra! Bit to do 20 miles north of Milwaukee, the newest outdoor concert venue, and.! Perfect place for walking or biking, its everything you want to move a little of! Colleges and prestigious public schools add to the intellectual urbanity even planning renovate! Market, the York Theatre, which first opened in 1876 and underwent a rebuilding in 2010, keeping original.