Arlington Heights earns our pick for its delicate balance of entertainment, dining, and shopping. We moved for the schools and a larger home and lot size. Harrahs Casinoand Rialto Square Theatreboth bring in stand-up comedians and musicians throughout the year. Cedarburg, Wisconsin Population: 11,500. Read 30 reviews. Read more on how this ranking was calculated. 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. Downtown Oak Park has many diverse shopping offerings. 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. A post shared by Dry City Brew Works (@drycitybrew). And for history buffs, there's no shortage of points of interest in Galena, as 85 percent of the town is on the National Register of Historic Places! The upscale fine dining in the area also offers gorgeous views. 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. There are many parks and nature trails that follow the Fox River. Everyone here is very supportive! 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. (630) 548-3764. Send heirloom and handmade gifts home from your trip through Amish country, and youre sure to be a hit. 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. There are many parks in the town, and they're all highly rated online. About 20 miles north of Milwaukee, the town of Cedarburg has a winery, brewery, and distillery sure to wet any whistle. Its mix of a city and suburban environment make it a great location for anyone. There are not many facilities to attend, however, everything should be good for the family people. Trains run below ground so its very safe. According to the most recent census, Chicago makes up about a quarter of the population of Illinois. Easy commute right into the city. #3 Best Suburbs to Live in Illinois.. Naperville. There are escape rooms, movie theaters, parks, lakes, and more. 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. And because Downtown San Rafael is pretty centrally located, it's easy to get to on foot or via the public transit system. Crime rates are extremely low and the educational system is way above average. But the majority of the state is made up of cornfields, suburbs, rolling plains, and tight knit communities. Check out one of the prime lookout spots for seeing bald eagles when they spend the winter in the area. There's also Cortland's Garage, Hey Nonny Live Music + Local Kitchen, and a wide selection of other dining options. This is small town at its best. 13. Shaped by the rolling praires that surround it, Galesburg is a step back in time. Read on to learn about seven towns and small cities that also happen to have some of the best downtown areas in Illinois. There are over 275 local merchants that call downtown Elmhurst home. This is Illinois OG college town: McKendree College is the oldest in the state. The best places for intriguing shopping are the Amish towns of Arthur and Arcola. If youre visiting in June, be sure to check out the annual Great Galena Balloon Race. 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! The architecture is very pretty, and the public schools here are fantastic if you can afford the property tax. Read 6 reviews. Its also a family friendly place be sure to check out Kids Adventure Hunts which lets parents and children explore the downtown area by following clues and taking pictures of their discoveries. 676 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. 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. You can learn more about that process here. 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. This pretty small town is located in northern Illinois and is most famously known as a filming location for the ever-popular movie, Groundhog Day starring Bill Murray. My family chose to live here for those two exact. Former Resident: I grew up in Winnetka as did my mom. railsr4me/Flickr. Those who . Q101. Read more on how this ranking was calculated. Nature wakes up from under the snow cover and reveals its fresh-faced glory to the world. Centennial Beach is a public aquatic park complete with sand. Elmhurst is known as a fantastic place to receive a public liberal arts education. Its history is steeped in intellectualism. If youre a fan of American movies, you might recognize Woodstock from movies like Planes, Trains and Automobiles as well as Groundhog Day. On the Galena River you can boat, canoe, or kayak, and just 13 miles from town flows the mighty Mississippi. Both boast excellent reviews online, and they're in the heart of downtown Elmhurst. 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. Recently several wineries have joined forces to create the Shawnee Hill Wine Trail. Market Research This country village is an ideal place to enjoy a mix of the old and the new. youtubeembedcode.com/en/ The town was founded in the 19th century and attracts a large number of artists and their wealthy patrons. If youre travelling with a family, youll love the Galesburg Railroad Museum and the Discovery Depot Childrens Museum. Nearby is Shawnee National Forest and many huntsmen come here in season for turkey, goose, and bear hunting. The students didn't miss a beat. Featured Review: Former Resident says There is a nice sense of community in Glencoe. 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. Neighborhoods.com is not affiliated with the builder, developer, or the association of any communities displayed on this website. What are some fun small town day trips in Illinois? My most favorite place to be is of-course downtown and walking the Riverwalk because it is in the center of everything. 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. 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 city of Elmhurst boasts more than 40 unique dining options. Be sure to take home some Amish fudge. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House - Naperville. The town was hugely influential to Orson Welles, a famous resident. We are both active people so nice trails and fitness facilities nearby is key. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Free shipping for many products! The Alcove in Evanston is one of the most renowned fine dining spots in all of Chicago. Two covered bridges, which sit just a smidgen outside of Princetons city limits. 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. They also have newer infrastructure (electric, sewage, roads). Featured Review: Former Resident says A beautiful 1 square mile town in the suburbs of Chicago on Lake Michigan, this town is almost all white and Christian. Need something other than treats to stir up some excitement? The heritage of Fulton comes from the Dutch, and the influence is evident all over town. Web Visit website. Always willing to help and encourage. Ah, Galena! Widely considered to be one of the best small towns in the country, Galena is your quintessential, all-American small town. Home to SIUE, Edwardsville has really made strides to develop and they have been successful. Founded in the 1800s, this town has a lot of historical character but remains a progressive community with award-winning schools, a convenient metra stop, and plenty of things to do. Love Illinois? (847) 386-6053. I wouldn't change it for anything! The 16 Best Healthy Restaurants in Chicago. 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. Lincolnshire is a top-rated family resort ideal for families traveling with toddlers or infants. It features a carnival, live entertainment, food vendors, beer garden, and so much more. Always willing to help and encourage. There, you can enjoy a myriad of outdoor activities. 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. 9 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. And while the population is stable, its downtown center is seeing more activity than ever. The neighborhood is calm and silent. 20 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars. 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! The restaurants are eclectic and sure to leave you talking. It's a celebration involving both food and drink. 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. Lebanon, Il. Featured Review: Current Resident says This is a fantastic place to relocate if you want to move a little closer to Chicago. Shelbyville. Read 206 reviews. Even with its density, there's still a sense of community in Printers Row. It has a 4.5 overall guest rating based on 1363 reviews. Sue Reddel and Diana Laskaris. Read 10 reviews. Looking to start a family very soon as well so would like to find a suburb that is a good mix of young families, growing, and a nice downtown area. It's our opinion that it achieves this balance even better than Arlington Heights. If that's a question you've been asking yourself, then you're in the right place. Naperville is truly a shopper's paradise. Featured Review: Current Resident says Great community. Sure, Chicago has a downtown, but it's massive and often out of the way of many suburbs. The schools are top-notch, too. 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. View. There is great shopping alongside a nostalgic and yet buzzing atmosphere. As previously stated, there are a ton of dining options in Wheaton. This village is steeped in historic charm with gas lamps and a one-lane covered bridge. Until then, you can still roam its grounds while reading more about the homesteads history. We just moved from Chicago to Lake Forest and absolutely love it. Discover the schools, companies, and neighborhoods that are right for you. 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. San Mateo Courtesy of Katie Morrell / 7x7. 206 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars. Love Illinois? Downtown Highwood, LF, and Lake Bluff are awesome. 985 Green Bay Rd., Winnetka. My children received. Current Resident: I love where I live. If youre into interesting history, it doesnt get better than Nauvoo. Ranking based on data from the U.S. Census, FBI, BLS, CDC, and other sources. The town, located off the I&M canal, has a nostalgic feel. Free Admission. 4. It has a convenient location close to downtown museum and country parks, and each room comes with some standard amenities such as flatscreen TVs, mini-fridges, and coffee machines, as well as . And that is because the suburb of 53,585 has everything going for it. This idyllic suburb lies 25 miles west of Chicago. Located 25 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, Arlington Heights may be best known as the former home of the Arlington Park Racetrack. Lebanon has a mix of stores, from antique shops to restaurants. Fashionistas, renowned designer shops and boutiques await you. As kids and teens, we rode our bikes all over, and there are stop signs on every corner so kids can safely walk everywhere. The downtown area isn't large in size, but it does offer a number of Tudor-style buildings. 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. I want to move to a walkable, historic, four-season town and have a budget of $30,000 a year where should I retire? Spring is the perfect season to try new things like venturing into unexplored territories. The area now known as the Village of Bartlett was once a settlement for Potawatomi, Ottawa, Miami, and Cherokee tribes. 1. Lisle has a small-town feel but is close to larger suburbs and retail areas as well as about 30 mins from downtown Chicago. Best Restaurants in Lincolnshire. You'll never be without things to do in Downer's Grove. Whats your favorite small town around the Prairie State? Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown River North. In June 2017, the Village Council adopted a new Comprehensive Planfor the development of Downers Grove over the next 15 to 20 years. Read 91 reviews. 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. Neighborhoods.com does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of information or assume any liability for its use. Illinois gets some serious bragging rights because one of its downtown areas landed on the list in the #2 spot but was also mentioned as the absolute best in America. Learn about and locate the most historic main streets in Illinois. 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!). On the other hand, it is very expensive to live here. 11 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. St. Charles is a great day trip from Chicago. Front Street downtown is quickly becoming a hot spot for new businesses in the area. 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 . Restaurants. 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. Facebook. 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. If you're a fan of a good read, check out The Book Table, a unique bookstore downtown. 10 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. Downtown Galena. And while the population is . Downtown of Galena, Illinois . My family chose to live here for those two exact reasons; safety and good school districts. Shopping areas include Evanston Plaza, Sherman Plaza, the Evanston Center, and more. It's a charming midwestern town with lots of outdoor attractions. 55 S Main Street. Here you will uncover candlelight displays that shine a light on all of Galena's best features. Opening Hours. Naperville, IL is located 28 miles west of the city and is Chicago's largest suburb. Totally convenient, the transportation are plentiful: the L, Metra, Union Station, bike rentals, or better, hoof it. It's one of the most impressive artificial beaches in the United States. Did you know that the first designated historic district in Illinois is Long Grove? Enjoy the 19th Century architecture and small town charm of Galena. Just ten miles from the Mississippi River is Mount Carrol. The last updated plan was released in 2019. Here Are 20 Essential Items, According to a Profesh Traveler. 166 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. As with all Chicago suburbs, Oak Park has a lot of fine dining options. 180 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars. 2. In Naperville, you can have a great time without ever having to step foot in the city of Chicago. 5. It has it all, award-winning craft beer, notable chefs, and excellent service. The Worlds One and Only Hippie Memorial, a public folk art installation dedicated to the tumult of the 1960s. The appeal of these towns is a simpler way of life. The city has a lot of rich heritage that it embraces to this day. Monticello is a truly charming town that is all about trains. Most people of color in Vernon Hills live in townhomes or apartments which is another thing I would like to see improve. You wont be sorry. There's quite a bit to do in Arlington Heights. Fulton provides another opportunity to step back in time, but with a distinctly Dutch vibe. Quaint is the perfect word for Fulton, but then, so are charming and idyllic. Whether you're with a family or are looking for solo entertainment, Elmhurst has something for everyone. Galena is best known for its amazingly up kept historic buildings, some of the best in all of Illinois. Pete's Fresh Market is a staple of the area, as are DuPage County Historical Museum. There's nothing more delightful than spending a day in one of the Land of Lincoln's myriad small towns, whether it's taking a historic tour or checking out the best downtown shopping areas in Illinois. The community has a charming downtown that residents dont want to leave, and the population has been fairly stable since 1990, according to statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau. It has been a wonderful experience for all of us. Read 150 reviews. Crime rates are extremely low and the educational system is way above average. 3. Includes average property values, inventory, market changes, and demographic data. DuPage is one of Illinois' healthiest spots, according to an annual survey. There are some fun shops, as well as farmers markets and winter markets going on. The 10 Most Charming Small Towns Near Chicago. Enjoy the eclectic atmosphere, fantastic coffee shops, and great local food during your visit. 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. Mount Carroll. 116 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. The area surrounding Chicago ishome to a number of suburbswith their own urban feel and lively downtowns. Other top-rated spots include Parker's Restaurant and Bar and the Brick House Tavern + Tap. Downtown Aurora overlooks the Fox River, and it's the last Metra stop on the BNSF line. Each teacher gets to know their student in a personal level to build relationships to help them show the right way to be a better person for the society. Read 11 reviews. This article is an opinion based on facts and is meant as infotainment. There are many parks and nature trails that follow the Fox River. 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. The Arlington Ale House is a great place to get a delicious meal and some great drinks. Check out the Mermaid House, a former hotel visited by Charles Dickens, who later name-dropped it in American Notes. Many homes contain recording devices, and buyers should be aware they may be recorded during a showing. Out of all the best suburbs of Chicago with downtowns, Geneva has the best riverfront. 16. As with all Chicago suburbs, Oak Park has a lot of fine dining options. Of all the places in Wilmette, Sheridan Road is considered as the most restrictive in terms of real estate. Kohler, Co. 4. Galena. Discover more cool places to visit in the Chicago area by signing up to our newsletter here. Heaven for dogs and kids and dog and kid parents - there are intimate parks and proximity to The Lake. 3. It is a very safe and welcoming neighborhood. Proud of its traditions and community covenant, the atmosphere here isnt like your typical college town. Just about 3,500 people call Galena home and they know first-hand that there is plenty to do. The downtown is home to 37 restaurants, coffee shops, and more. I would recommend Northbrook to anyone looking for a peaceful environment. PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. The orchards there are famous for peaches and apples. These 10 towns in Illinois represent the best of the best, with awesome shops, restaurants, and other attractions to explore. 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. 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. Private, and two Parochial schools- all in town! $50,617.0. A post shared by Elmhurst City Centre (@elmhurstcitycentre). 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. You will find some unique shops, like a cookie dough parlor and book shops. You can also enjoy stand-up comedians and live music while dining here. Heard of it? There are lots of parks, activities at the Community House, and excelkent beach access. 19 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars. 16 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. Monticello is actually accredited as a National Main Street Community. Galena has a gorgeous downtown area, with some excellent restaurants, bakeries, and candy shops for you to choose from. Thank you! There is an opera house and also tons of live music to choose from in this delightful Illinois town. Featured Review: Former Resident says I grew up in Winnetka as did my mom. 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 places without being too dangerous. Not only that, but Aurora is also a favorite among outdoor lovers. Featured Review: Current Resident says I love where I live. Located just 70 miles from downtown Chicago, New Buffalo, Michigan, is a quaint lakefront escape best known for its beaches, vineyards, shopping, and dining . It also has a lot of entertainment options. In the summertime, locals can often be found catching a Slammersbaseball game at DuPage Medical Group Field, located right in downtown Joliet. These towns in the Land of Lincoln all fit the bill!. The river is where you'll want to spend most of your time in Geneva. If you have young children, this is the perfect place to raise them. Read 180 reviews. Popular offerings include Pazzi Di Pizza, a fantastic Italian restaurant, and Stray Hen Cafe, famous for breakfast. Tree lined streets, diverse walks of life, public parks everywhere, huge gardens, shops and locally owned businesses for days. Have some of the Arlington Park Racetrack until then, so are charming and.. 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