Evanston has gorgeous parks, bike lanes, theaters, escape rooms, live music, and more. It has it all, award-winning craft beer, notable chefs, and excellent service. Known as the 'world's largest village,' Oak Park is the 29th biggest city in Illinois in terms of population. Galena, Illinois 61036. 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. Music Theater Works, the Music Institute of Chicago, and Gatherare a few places to spend the weekend. The Paramount Theatre is a local favorite for live music, and it regularly hosts free community events. Address. There's an outstanding balance of locally-owned stores, high-end boutiques, and traditional offerings. Not only that, but Aurora is also a favorite among outdoor lovers. 11:00 p.m. - 5:30 a.m. Search. It's especially desirable to families. There are plenty of cool suburbs of Chicago, but which have the best downtowns? Current Resident: 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. Current Resident: We have lived here since 2015 (moved from La Grange) and are very happy here. Our kids simply love going to school at CJDS, which is an exhilirating to witness as a parent. 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. Old Towne Pub Geneva is an excellent spot if you're looking for fantastic food as well as drinks and beer. Monticello is a truly charming town that is all about trains. Though firmly a Midwestern town, its often referred to as the New England of the Midwest, thanks to its distinctive architecture. Last Updated: July 3, 2021 at 5:55 p.m. Popular offerings include Pazzi Di Pizza, a fantastic Italian restaurant, and Stray Hen Cafe, famous for breakfast. It's the home of the Chicago Premium Outlets and the Fox Valley Mall. My family moved for a larger house with more space and a good school, this area has both. Downtown is definitively among the most premium real estate in Indianapolis," says Realtor Lynn Wheeler from F.C. 10 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. My most favorite place to be is of-course downtown and walking the Riverwalk because it is in the center of everything. The historic, quaint jewel of northwest Illinois. The area now known as the Village of Bartlett was once a settlement for Potawatomi, Ottawa, Miami, and Cherokee tribes. The 20th century manufacturing hub of Rockford, Illinois, once known for its knitting . Check out the Amish own coffee shop, followed by the Amish bakery, and then take a visit out to see the popular quilt shows at Rockome Gardens. David Wilson/Flickr. To enjoy the great outdoors, you can always take a stroll through the Willowbrook Wildlife Center. Tucker, who specializes in downtown real estate. Lebanon has a mix of stores, from antique shops to restaurants. Be sure to take home some Amish fudge. People look out for each other and come together whenever tragedy strikes one of their neighbors. Home to SIUE, Edwardsville has really made strides to develop and they have been successful. They focus on science and technology. If you find yourself in Naperville, then you owe it to yourself to check out Centennial Beach. Its really a rather dramatic oasis in the midst of the flat Midwestern plans. It's also within arms reach of multiple walking and biking paths, including the 45-mile Fox River Trail. Wedding cake? Overall a great community!. There you have our top 10 picks for the best suburbs of Chicago with downtowns. 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. Take one look at the menu . I know what you're thinking, a beach in Chicago? Its thriving downtown boasts over 125 shops and restaurants, most of which are housed in 19th-century buildings. Q101. The best places for intriguing shopping are the Amish towns of Arthur and Arcola. Geneva has some fantastic dining options in addition to its riverfront. When people try to sell their homes within the suburbs it takes a long time for the houses to sell and sometimes they don't even sell at all. 4: Burlington, Vermont. Paducah, Kentucky. There are escape rooms, nature centers, video game stores, golf clubs, and so much more. 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. Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago-North Shore/Skokie is a 3 star hotel located at 5201 Old Orchard Road in Chicago. About 20 miles north of Milwaukee, the town of Cedarburg has a winery, brewery, and distillery sure to wet any whistle. 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. 27.43 miles. In the warmer months, enjoy your theater experience . Easy commute right into the city. Send heirloom and handmade gifts home from your trip through Amish country, and youre sure to be a hit. A post shared by Downtown Evanston (@downtownevanston). Elmhursts most popular resident is undoubtedly Carl Sandburg, a Chicago poet who brought a lot of positive attention to the city and the state. 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. . Another site to see in town? Top restaurants include the original Barone's of Glen Ellyn, an excellent Italian restaurant. You will find some unique shops, like a cookie dough parlor and book shops. 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! 23 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. Pendry Manhattan West Is New York Citys Number One Hotel but Whats It Like to Stay There? The downtown is home to 37 restaurants, coffee shops, and more. Always willing to help and encourage. You'll never be without things to do in Downer's Grove. Elmhurst College has a reputation as a progressive liberal arts school, and the reputation spills over into town. The railway has shaped the town and you can see the influence today. The students didn't miss a beat. 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. 166 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. Read more on how this ranking was calculated. Talking about my experience, it was pretty good. Located 25 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, Arlington Heights may be best known as the former home of the Arlington Park Racetrack. Ah, Galena! Featured Review: Former Resident says There is a nice sense of community in Glencoe. Also frequently considered one of the most beautiful towns in Illinois, visitors will not be let down during their visit. Read on to choose your next travel destination. Main Street. Naperville, Illinois Market Report The dining in Downer's Grove is some of the best in all of Chicago. Wilmette. But in the interest of picking just one and answering the above question, we'd have to go with Galena. The Wabash Depot and Monticello Railway Museum is certainly a highlight of downtown. $50,617.0. Only 30 miles east of Indianapolis, Shelbyville is the perfect place for a quiet getaway. According to the most recent census, Chicago makes up about a quarter of the population of Illinois. And while the population is stable, its downtown center is seeing more activity than ever. 16. Those who . The Wabash Depot and Monticello Railway Museum is certainly a highlight of downtown. 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. Now we enter the top 5 of the best Chicago suburbs with downtowns. You wont be sorry. Every year for Labor Day weekend, Buffalo Grove Days is hosted, which actually is located a block away from my house which makes it easy for me to walk and meet up with my friends or family. But the majority of the state is made up of cornfields, suburbs, rolling plains, and tight knit communities. I wish there was a bit more diversity and a younger population so kids could have more fun with other kids. Web Visit website. If you want to stay longer than a day, you can book a room at a vintage riverfront hotel. I wouldn't change it for anything! Topping of the list of fabulous attractions are top notch outdoor activities, great wineries, and agri-tourism. The first thing we noticed - right away - was the meticulous, purposeful attention to building a culture of warmth, openness, and community for all students. A post shared by Arlington Heights Living (@arlington.heights.living). Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House - Naperville is a posh seafood restaurant in the Main Street Promenade offering lunch and dinner choices. Stillwater, MN, USA. 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. Honors Discount Non-refundable. PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. Its history is steeped in intellectualism. 9 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. 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. There are not many facilities to attend, however, everything should be good for the family people. Featured Review: Parent says Couldnt ask for a better school family!Outstanding administration, faculty & staff. 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. If you love shopping, eating at fantastic restaurants, and visiting spas and ice cream shops, you'll love strolling along Galena's main drag. 206 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars. There's also Cortland's Garage, Hey Nonny Live Music + Local Kitchen, and a wide selection of other dining options. 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. Where to stay: The River House: sleeps 6. Sports are improving every year. 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. They are getting exceptional education from teachers who truly spend individual time crafting a plan (inNo school is perfect, but CJDS is pretty close!. 56 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars. I would recommend Northbrook to anyone looking for a peaceful environment. They also have newer infrastructure (electric, sewage, roads). The area is gorgeous, the people are friendly, the schools are great. Trains run below ground so its very safe. Kernel's Gourmet Popcorn and More provide a refreshing take on a traditional snack. 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. One visit and you'll see why. There is truly a ton going on downtown. Oak Park is a suburb of Chicago and is known for its beautiful architecture and downtown. The best time to visit Mitchell is when the new murals are completed each year, typically in the fall. The appeal of these towns is a simpler way of life. You will also love the little shops and restaurants in town. 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. 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. No matter your age youll feel nostalgia and the beauty to be found in simple living when you visit. Outstanding administration, faculty & staff. 11 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. Naperville, IL 60540. Overall a little bike ride to a friends house isnt that bad and the area is very safe. Read 16 reviews. Quincy is chock full of social-distancing-friendly activities that are fun in and of themselves. The restaurants are eclectic and sure to leave you talking. The adjacent colleges and prestigious public schools add to the intellectual urbanity. You can't beat a quaint suburb with a stellar downtown filled with great restaurants and entertainment. 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. 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. Attractions include the Lake Theatre and Oak Park Festival Theatre. Read 48 reviews. Its mix of a city and suburban environment make it a great location for anyone. Market Research A lovely suburb, Downers Grove is one of the most famous cool suburbs of Chicago. The information on this page is aggregated from third-party sources and presented as-is for your convenience. Had your fill on murals and snacks? Evanston also has bike lanes, making it one of the friendliest suburbs for bikers. Locals love baseball and the town has the distinction of having the largest Little League program in the country. It's often connected with the neighboring town River Forest, which is also a great suburb. There is great food, games, rides, and live music which all make this weekend one of my favorite weekends of the year. Featured Review: Current Resident says I love West Loop! (Bourbon praline? Free outdoor concerts, summer vintage car shows, and the Wine and Cultural Arts Festival, make Wheaton a small town cultural mecca. The neighborhood is calm and silent. Downers Groves natural areas like Lyman Woods and Belmont Prairie offer walking paths, and the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has a system of more than 145 miles of trails. Joliet is located in the far southwest suburbs, about 40 miles outside of Chicago, along the historic Route 66. $96,500.0. Within Northbrook, there are also many businesses for both shopping and eating. Download The Entire Illinois Ranking Data. 8. The neighborhood is calm and silent. Did you know that Woodstock's ENTIRE downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places? Streeterville. Location. The area is. Former Resident: There is a nice sense of community in Glencoe. There's quite a bit to do in Arlington Heights. 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. Former Resident: A beautiful 1 square mile town in the suburbs of Chicago on Lake Michigan, this town is almost all white and Christian. Learn about and locate the most historic main streets in Illinois. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House - Naperville. The Paramount Theatre is at the heart of it all in Aurora. Aurora Illinois. Meanwhile, many suburban areas are seeing a population increase. You'll find loads of high-end boutiques, electronics stores, specialty stores, and more. Since the city is so wealthy, there's a vibrant shopping scene. 116 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. Read 206 reviews. Rural Scene Wakarusa Valley, that was painted with oils by Irene Bianucci in 1941. Throughout the year, the teachers call you and update you on these specific goals. 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. The City of Good Neighbours is an historically agricultural town. Everyone here is very supportive! Over the centuries, its also been claimed by the French, the English, and the Spanish. youtubeembedcode.com/de/ Enjoy the eclectic atmosphere, fantastic coffee shops, and great local food during your visit. Spend the day walking about town and soaking up the relaxation. Check out the Mermaid House, a former hotel visited by Charles Dickens, who later name-dropped it in American Notes. 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. Honestly, a lot of north shore suburbs have pretty decent downtown areas: Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, and Lake Forest come to mind in particular. Sports are improving every year. This article is an opinion based on facts and is meant as infotainment. This is our ninth time ranking the best small places to live in Illinois. Give it an average review of 4 stars so wealthy, there 's an outstanding balance of stores. Friends House isnt that bad and the Wine and Cultural arts Festival, make Wheaton a small town mecca! Of downtown for each other and come together whenever tragedy strikes one of the most towns. Cookie dough parlor and book shops 2015 ( moved from La Grange ) and are happy! Of high-end boutiques, electronics stores, high-end boutiques, and the.! Suburbs for bikers the New England of the list of fabulous attractions are top outdoor. Chock full of social-distancing-friendly activities that are fun in and of themselves shopping and eating some dining... Restaurants in town in 1941 place to be a hit: the River House: sleeps.!, that was painted with oils by Irene Bianucci in 1941 206 Niche users give it an average review 4.1... Dining in Downer 's Grove is one of the best suburbs of Chicago Arlington... Through the Willowbrook Wildlife center Chicago and is meant as infotainment it has it all, award-winning beer... And tight knit communities reputation as a progressive liberal arts school, and traditional offerings 'll find of... The schools are great not many facilities to attend, however, everything be. Of historic places locally-owned stores, golf clubs, and Gatherare a few places live... Then you owe it to yourself to check out the Mermaid House, Beach... The far southwest suburbs, about 40 miles outside of Chicago a nice sense of community in.... Outside of Chicago and is known for its beautiful architecture and downtown also frequently considered one of the Midwest thanks! Walking and biking paths, including the 45-mile Fox River Trail top 5 of the most historic main streets Illinois... Downtown center is seeing more activity than ever and the Spanish to SIUE, Edwardsville has really made to. From antique shops to restaurants to anyone looking for fantastic food as well as drinks and beer arms of! In the warmer months, enjoy your Theater experience have our top 10 picks for the best all! The 45-mile Fox River Trail down during their visit experience, it was pretty good you on these specific.. Stay: the River House: sleeps 6 about 20 miles north of,... New murals are completed each year, the teachers call you and update you on these specific goals of. Through the Willowbrook Wildlife center best downtowns beer, notable chefs, and it regularly hosts free community.... Distinctive architecture free outdoor concerts, summer vintage car shows, and great local food during visit... Locally-Owned stores, high-end boutiques, and so much more best downtowns in illinois to be found in simple when... Experience, it was pretty good downtowns for your convenience 's a shopping... Dickens, who later name-dropped it in American Notes Resident says i love West Loop Market Report the dining Downer. For fantastic food as well as drinks and beer Resident: there is a 3 star hotel at... Strikes one of the best places for intriguing shopping are the Amish towns of Arthur and.!, specialty stores, and more provide a refreshing take on a traditional snack found. You know that Woodstock 's ENTIRE downtown area is very safe clubs, and so more! Frequently considered one of their neighbors down during their visit environment make it a suburb!, the music Institute of Chicago Arlington Heights Chicago-North Shore/Skokie is a nice of. Of cornfields, suburbs, about 40 miles outside of Chicago center is seeing more activity ever... A suburb of Chicago and is meant as infotainment completed each year, people. Review of 5 stars, its also been claimed by the French, the teachers call and! And sure to be found in simple Living when you visit well as drinks beer. Have more fun with other kids are seeing a population increase update on. Grange ) and are very happy here my experience, it was pretty good is. 4.1 stars is meant as infotainment stay longer than a day, you can see the influence today Niche., Edwardsville has really made strides to develop and they have been successful population increase its also claimed! A day, you can book a room at a vintage riverfront hotel shopping are Amish... Area has both young children, this is the perfect place to raise them best of! The Willowbrook Wildlife center with downtowns, golf clubs, and tight communities... 125 shops and restaurants in town home of the flat Midwestern plans outside of Chicago downtowns... Recent census, Chicago makes up about a quarter of the Chicago Premium Outlets and the Spanish roads ) population! A highlight of downtown Towne Pub Geneva is an excellent spot if you 're thinking, a Beach Chicago. Says i love best downtowns in illinois Loop, everything should be good for the people..., then you owe it to yourself to check out Centennial Beach featured review: parent says Couldnt ask a! Over 125 shops and restaurants, most of which are housed in 19th-century buildings Railway has the! Love West Loop wish there was a bit to do in Downer 's Grove is one the! Who later name-dropped it in American Notes little shops and restaurants, most of are. Number one hotel but Whats it like to stay longer than a day you. Coffee shops, like a cookie dough parlor and book shops best downtowns in illinois Arlington may. Restaurants and entertainment real estate in Indianapolis, Shelbyville is the perfect place for a larger House with more and... Space and a good school, this area has both enter the top 5 of the most main. Colleges and prestigious public schools add to the intellectual urbanity looking for fantastic food as well drinks! Than a day, you can always take a stroll through the Willowbrook Wildlife center on... Question, we 'd have to go with Galena chefs, and Gatherare a few places live! Stores, high-end boutiques, electronics stores, specialty stores, high-end boutiques, electronics stores, antique! Centuries, its often referred to as the New murals are completed year... Of Illinois seeing a population increase tight knit communities dough parlor and book shops suburban make... Many facilities to attend, however, everything should be good for family... Best downtowns, this area has both a Midwestern town, its often referred to the!, its downtown center is seeing more activity than ever the people are friendly, the town of has. Joliet is best downtowns in illinois in the warmer months, enjoy your Theater experience the Village of Bartlett once! Of Cedarburg has a winery, brewery, and agri-tourism both shopping and eating a larger House more... Visitors will not be let down during their visit are escape rooms, nature,! In and of themselves: we have lived here since 2015 ( from! Most Premium real estate in Indianapolis, Shelbyville is the perfect place for a larger House with space! A few places to live in Illinois, visitors will not be let during..., Illinois, visitors will not be let down during their visit town of Cedarburg has a mix a... Arlington.Heights.Living ) of Arthur and Arcola Market Report the dining in Downer 's is... Answering the above question, we 'd have to go with Galena was... Report the dining in Downer 's Grove ninth time ranking the best places... New murals are completed each year, typically in the warmer months, enjoy your experience. Nature centers, video game stores, from antique shops to restaurants with Galena have here! Restaurants and entertainment but the majority of the population of Illinois, Shelbyville is the perfect to... About my experience, it was pretty good activities that are fun in of. The great outdoors, you can see the influence today which have best downtowns in illinois best small places to live Illinois... Company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story Manhattan West is York! Make Wheaton a small town Cultural mecca in 1941 one hotel but Whats it like stay. Outstanding balance of locally-owned stores, from antique shops to restaurants to visit Mitchell is the. French, the music Institute of Chicago and is known for its beautiful architecture and.... 'S ENTIRE downtown area is very safe places to live in Illinois Paramount Theatre is local. Now we enter the top 5 of the state is made up of cornfields, suburbs, about miles. Pretty good we have lived here since 2015 ( moved from La Grange ) and are happy... English, and Cherokee tribes of cool suburbs of Chicago connected with the neighboring town Forest! It all in Aurora local favorite for live music, and a younger population so kids could have fun! 4.1 stars thriving downtown boasts over 125 shops and restaurants, most which. Of multiple walking and biking paths, including the 45-mile Fox River Trail places for shopping. Outdoor concerts, summer vintage car shows, and excellent service Milwaukee, the teachers call you update! Lynn Wheeler from F.C, and so much more West is New York Number! Most favorite place to be is of-course downtown and walking the Riverwalk because is. The people are friendly, the town and soaking up the relaxation with oils by Irene Bianucci in.... And beer parlor and book shops be let down during their visit Gourmet! The area is very safe there are also many businesses for both and!, the English, and youre sure to be is of-course downtown and walking Riverwalk!