a guide to THE WESTERN SUBURBS
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welcome to the WESTERN SUBURBS
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table of CONTENTS
Addison................................................5 Aurora...................................................6 Aurora/Eola Corridor.....................7 Berwyn..................................................8 Bloomingdale....................................9 Brookfield............................................10 Burr Ridge...........................................11 Carol Stream......................................12 Cicero....................................................13 Clarendon Hills..................................14 Countryside........................................15 Downers Grove.................................16 Elmhurst...............................................17 Forest Park..........................................19 Geneva..................................................20 Glen Ellyn.............................................21 Hinsdale................................................22 Indian Head Park..............................23 La Grange............................................24
La Grange Park/ La Grange Highlands.....................25 Lisle........................................................26 Lombard...............................................27 Lyons......................................................28 Naperville.............................................29 Oak Brook...........................................31 Oak Park...............................................32 Plainfield...............................................33 River Forest........................................34 Riverside..............................................35 St. Charles...........................................36 Villa Park..............................................37 Warrenville..........................................38 Westchester.......................................39 Western Springs...............................40 Westmont............................................41 Wheaton..............................................42 Willowbrook.......................................43
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addison
T he Village of Addison takes pride in its historic preservation, recreation, and commerce.
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History is top-of-mind in this charming community, where the Addison Historical Museum showcases local artifacts and welcomes visitors year-round. Century House, originally built as a teachers’ home in 1893, was purchased by the village to help preserve this important piece of local history. The restoration and furnishings for Century House were funded through community donations. Both buildings are maintained by the village and its historical commission.
Residents of Addison enjoy a wide variety of recreational opportunities thanks to an award-winning golf course and numerous parks and trails for jogging and bicycling, including the 61-mile Illinois Prairie Path. The park district also has an outdoor aquatic center, fitness club, indoor pool, and golf facility. There is something for residents of all ages. Local attractions include the Addison Ice Arena, an indoor go-kart racing facility, and Stardust Bowl – the largest bowling center in the state. The village also has restaurants, hotels, and shopping centers.
The Technology Center of DuPage is located in the village’s industrial sector.
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aurora
T he city of Aurora is one of the fastest growing communities in the country.
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Located along the Fox River, its historic downtown has a number of architectural landmarks including the Paramount Theatre, as well as several commercial buildings by George Grant Elmslie, a famed Prairie School architect. The city is also home to the Phillips Park Zoo, which offers free access to its visitors. Aurora also has an impressive collection of structures by renowned architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Bruce Goff, and Elmslie. The city also has a large collection of historic Sears Catalog Homes and Lustron all-steel homes.
Residents enjoy local city events including Downtown Alive, a festival with live music and food booths; Blues on the Fox with national blues artists; and the Aurora ArtWalk with food, art, live music, and theater. Aurora has a long history as a regional transportation hub. It is the final stop on Metra’s BNSF line. The city also has a stop at the Route 59 station, which borders Naperville.
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aurora/eola corridor
B ordering Naperville, the Eola Corridor is located on the far east side of Aurora. With easy access to the Naperville Route 59 train station and I-88, residents enjoy the convenience of the area’s location.
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The Eola Corridor is lined with a number of planned community developments of both attached and detached homes, making it a highly desirable place to live. Additionally, the Stonebridge Country Club boasts homes situated along a picturesque 18- hole, Tom Fazio-designed golf course.
With several retail hubs in the area, there is no shortage of places to shop. The Aurora Premium Outlets is located less than two miles west of Eola Road and is one of the largest outdoor outlet centers in the country with over 170 stores. Meanwhile, residents can take Liberty Avenue east of Eola Road, and in minutes will find themselves in the heart of downtown Naperville, where they can enjoy local boutiques, well-known retailers, and restaurants. The area is served by Naperville’s Indian Prairie School District 204, with two of the three high schools, Waubonsie Valley High School and Metea Valley High School (the newest high school in the district), located right on Eola Road.
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berwyn T he City of Berwyn practically wrote the book on Chicago-style bungalows. The suburb is known as the “city of homes” for its significant collection of Chicago-style bungalows, widely considered the largest in the nation.
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The city enacted strict building codes in the early 1900s, which resulted in a majority of new construction being classic two-story bungalows.
While the community offers the conveniences of city living, residents enjoy the tranquility of the suburbs and a number of parks including Proksa Park, the largest in the area. The community’s parks offer extensive amenities including tennis courts, basketball courts, baseball and softball diamonds, paved paths, playground equipment, and picnic areas.
One of the most popular events in the community is its vintage car show. The annual “Historic Route 66” event draws thousands of residents and car enthusiasts from across the country to celebrate the spirit of Route 66.
The Berwyn Metra station provides commuter service to Aurora and downtown Chicago on the BNSF Railway.
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bloomingdale
O nce a stop for stagecoaches and westward travelers, Bloomingdale was one of the oldest villages settled in DuPage County.
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The Meacham family settled here in 1833 with a dozen more families to follow the next year. Travelers passed by the Chicago-Galena Highway, known today as Lake Street. Old Town Bloomingdale includes several small business and shops in restored buildings from the area’s original settlement as well as a museum featuring art exhibits in the village’s oldest building.
Residents enjoy more than 160 acres of open space and 2,400 programs through the Bloomingdale Park District. Amenities include the Johnston Recreation Center, Oasis Water Park, and Westfield Walking Track.
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brookfield
R ecognized by Chicago magazine as one of Chicagoland’s top destinations for first- time homebuyers, Brookfield is a thriving community with a variety of amenities.
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One of the village’s most notable attractions is the Brookfield Zoo – one of only two zoos in the region. The zoo houses approximately 450 species of animals across its 216 acres, and it’s easily accessible via Metra’s BNSF Railway. With a few stops in Brookfield, the BNSF Railway serves commuters heading to Aurora and downtown Chicago. The community’s original train station still stands and is now home to the Brookfield Historical Society.
Brookfield is also known for its natural beauty and ample recreational opportunities. The village boasts oak savannas and access to the Salt Creek Trail, a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. Kiwanis Park hosts a summer concert series at its band shell and features trails, sports fields, and open green space. Situated near Brookfield Village Hall, the farmers market is another popular summer activity that brings local produce, handmade pieces, and fresh baked goods to the community. Meanwhile, the village offers several restaurants and local shops that add to its appeal.
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burr ridge
R ecognized among the wealthiest communities in Illinois, Burr Ridge has been dubbed “A Very Special Place” by residents.
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The village is characterized by homes on generous lots and distinguished townhome communities. Downtown boasts a mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment, attracting both residents and members of the business community. Locals also enjoy ample recreational opportunities, with the Burr Ridge Park District maintaining several parks and a public pool. The Pleasant Dale Park District also serves Burr Ridge.
Throughout the year, residents are treated to local events such as Concerts on the Green, where concerts are hosted weekly, and the annual Car Show, which showcases classic, antique, and modern cars. Situated at the intersection of the Tri-State Tollway and the Stevenson Expressway, Burr Ridge offers easy access to downtown Chicago and both O’Hare and Midway International Airports.
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carol stream
L ocated in DuPage County, Carol Stream has been ranked by CNN Money as one of the 100 best places to live in the United States.
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The community’s extensive parks department includes over 35 parks as well as recreational fields, tennis and basketball courts, biking and hiking trails and paths, and a playground area. There is plenty to do year-round – from fishing and boating to ice skating and sledding.
The Illinois Central Railroad operates a feeder line through Carol Stream, which runs through the main industrial complex of the town. Six major roads run through the village, the largest being North Avenue which runs through the center of town and extends 30 miles east into Chicago and further west across the state.
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cicero
C icero is one of the oldest and largest towns in the state.
Recent years have brought a revival of the city’s commercial sector with an influx of businesses and large retail stores as well as condominium developments. The town includes eight distinctly different residential neighborhoods, each with their own name and characteristics: Boulevard Manor, Clyde, Drexel, Grant Works, Hawthorne, Morton Park, Parkholme, and Warren Park.
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Among the area’s top attractions is Hawthorne Race Course, the oldest continually run, family-owned thorough- bred racetrack in North America.
The Hawthorne Park District includes parks and recreational areas with baseball and softball diamonds, soccer fields, basketball and tennis courts, volleyball courts, trails, and picnic areas.
The Cicero Metra station provides convenient service to Chicago and Aurora along the BNSF Railway.
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clarendon hills
K nown for its curved roads that were influenced by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Clarendon Hills has a unique street plan that contours its beautiful natural landscape.
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The rapidly-growing village has been named one of the best places to live in the Chicago area by West Suburban Living and today is home to more than 80 businesses. Eight parks spanning nearly 50 acres offer recreational activities with amenities including baseball diamonds, soccer fields, basketball and tennis courts, trails, and areas for picnicking.
Once known as “Daisy Fields,” Clarendon Hills celebrates its beginnings every June with Daisy Days and the annual Daisy Dash, consisting of a 5K run to benefit local charities. Transportation is convenient for commuters with the Clarendon Hills Metra station, which provides service to Chicago and Aurora along the BNSF Railway.
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countryside R esidents and visitors often refer to the City of Countryside as “Chicago’s Western Getaway.”
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Countryside began as a quiet farming community before transitioning into a
bedroom community for workers commuting to Chicago. The city was later incorporated in 1960 and has tripled its population since then.
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The city is situated just 15 miles from The Loop, 21 miles from O’Hare International Airport, and 8.5 miles from Midway International Airport. Residents also have convenient access to I-55 and I-294. Every year, the city hosts The Best of Countryside, an annual summer carnival at the Countryside City Park with amusement rides, games, live music, and food. In the winter, Countryside also hosts Winterfest, offering residents a day of ice skating, cross-country skiing, mini golf, and a bonfire.
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downers grove
F ortunately, Downers Grove doesn’t let fame go to its head. The village has racked up more than its share of accolades, with Forbes naming it one of America’s friendliest towns.
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A varied housing stock exists in this robust community, ranging from historic homes from the mid-1800s to an assortment of Sears Roebuck Catalog Homes, which were built between 1908 and 1940. New construction can also be found in the village.
Along with ample boutique shopping and upscale dining, Downers Grove hosts dozens of community events and festivals, attracting visitors and earning the village a place on the Chicago Tribune’s “Top 10 List of Downtowns.” The community is also home to the Downers Grove Museum, which includes the historic Blodgett House.
Metra’s BNSF Railway has three stations in Downers Grove, providing direct transportation to Chicago.
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elmhurst
W ith a wealth of shops, restaurants, community events, and arts and culture, Elmhurst is home to more than 40,000 residents who enjoy everything this vibrant community has to offer.
Elmhurst’s award-winning park district maintains nearly 30 parks as well as trails, playgrounds, and athletic facilities. At the center of town is Wilder Park, where locals will also find the community’s public library, Wilder Mansion, the Wilder Park Conservatory, and the Elmhurst Art Museum. The museum has been named the “Best Suburban Art Museum in Chicago” by Chicago magazine and is adjacent to the McCormick House, a rare single-family home designed by Mies van der Rohe.
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The Elmhurst Art
Museum features rotating contemporary art exhibitions and a home designed by Mies van der Rohe.
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they love a PARADE
Residents come together for dozens of community events that are held throughout the year. The Memorial Day Parade has taken place every year since its start in 1918 and the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the third largest in the Chicagoland area. In addition to its many cultural offerings, the city is known for its bustling shopping and dining scene. Elmhurst’s City Centre boasts a movie theater, an assortment of eateries and boutiques, and community events such as the annual Rock the Block Party. The Elmhurst Express Trolley connects downtown Elmhurst with the community’s other shopping areas, including the Spring Road and York & Vallette business districts. The Trolley is free and runs during the summer and holiday season.
transportation JUNCTION
With its proximity to O’Hare International Airport, the Tri-State Tollway, and the Eisenhower Expressway, Elmhurst offers convenient transportation options. A Metra train station is also located in town, providing easy access to downtown Chicago.
The city is also the site of Elmhurst College, a private liberal arts college that was founded in 1871.
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forest park
I t’s not easy appealing to city lovers and suburbanites alike. Somehow the Village of Forest Park manages to offer residents the best of both worlds with its easy city access and small-town sense of community.
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Known for its award-winning dining scene, Forest Park has been voted by readers of the Chicago Tribune as the “Best Neighborhood Dining” in the Chicago area. Residents also enjoy plenty of recreation, including beautiful parks and an aquatic center with two large water slides and a volleyball court. Consistently chosen because of its wonderfully maintained fields, the community has hosted the annual No Gloves National Invitational Softball Tournament for many years, featuring the best 16-inch slow- pitch softball teams in the Midwest.
Forest Park has a healthy mix of industrial and commercial businesses, including a major shopping mall and a bustling commercial center. Historic Madison Street is at the heart of the shopping and dining district, featuring local boutiques, antique shops, and restaurants.
Commuters have access to the Metra, CTA Green and Blue Lines, and the expressway.
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geneva
W ith its beautiful setting, extensive destination for residents and visitors alike.
parks, and historic windmill standing nearly 70 feet tall, Geneva is a popular
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Geneva features an abundance of shops and restaurants and a scenic location along the Fox River. The suburb continues to see its population grow as Chicago’s urban sprawl spreads further west. The Fabyan Windmill, an authentic, fully-operational Dutch windmill, is in near perfect condition and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Dutch Mill was featured on a series of U.S. postage stamps, one of five selected for the “Windmills USA” book of stamps.
Geneva has one of the most extensive park districts in the area, serving over 40,000 people a year. The district includes more than 30 parks with nature trails, athletic fields, aquatic and recreation centers, a skate park, and disc golf course. An expansive bike trail includes parts of the Fox River Trail and the Illinois Prairie Path. Since 1991, Geneva has been home to the Kane County Cougars Minor League Baseball team, and since 2015, home to the Chicago Steel hockey team. Geneva has a stop on Metra’s Union Pacific West Line with daily service to Chicago or west to Elburn. The city is within driving distance of the DuPage Airport.
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glen ellyn
G len Ellyn is a picturesque village in the heart of DuPage County. Known as “The Jewel of the Western Suburbs” to residents, the community offers a convenient suburban location, ample recreational opportunities, and a vibrant mix of businesses.
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Downtown Glen Ellyn boasts an assortment of small boutiques, dining destinations, and specialty services. Residents and visitors can also hop on the Illinois Prairie Path, where they can explore a nature trail spanning over 60 miles. Nature enthusiasts also appreciate the Willowbrook Wildlife Preserve, while the Village Links golf course and nearly 30 public parks provide additional outdoor enjoyment.
With a variety of annual events, Glen Ellyn has a strong sense of community and small-town charm. The Taste of Glen Ellyn is among the many popular summer gatherings along with the French Market, which is open weekly from May through October. Neighborhoods are lined with mature trees and homes in a variety of architectural styles, ranging from new construction to historic homes dating back to the community’s early days.
Along with access to major highways and interstates, Metra’s Union Pacific West Line runs through Glen Ellyn, providing daily train service to downtown Chicago.
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hinsdale
H insdale’s rolling, wooded landscape, residents, earning the suburb its ranking as one of the wealthiest zip codes in Illinois.
historic downtown, and beautiful homes attract some of the state’s most affluent
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With several historic buildings, downtown Hinsdale offers a step back in time. Residents and visitors will also find award-winning restaurants that will satisfy any palate along with a variety of shops, from jewelry stores and upscale boutiques to craft shops and more.
The community has a wealth of amenities such as the Hinsdale Community Swimming Pool, Katherine Legge Memorial Park, and Burlington Park, which is home to various annual events including the farmers market, Fine Arts Festival, and Uniquely Thursdays concert series. There are also numerous parks and athletic facilities for those who enjoy sports like tennis, baseball, and soccer.
Hinsdale has easy access to the Tri-State Tollway, Stevenson Expressway, and three train stations along Metra’s BNSF Railway.
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indian head park I ndian Head Park is a quiet and affluent village with a love for nature and community.
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Characterized by its rolling terrain, mature trees, and park-like setting, the village is committed to forestry and the preservation of trees. It has been a member of Tree City USA, an organization committed to greening up cities and towns across America, for over 20 years.
Residents can often find deer freely roaming about the community or a new tree being planted. Indian Head Park’s business district is located along the Wolf and Juliet Road intersection corridor, with both retail and commercial offerings.
The village also has excellent parks and local recreation such as the nearby Flagg Creek Golf Course in Countryside.
Residents have convenient transportation to downtown Chicago and O’Hare and Midway International Airports.
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la grange
A ll roads lead to La Grange, just one of the reasons the suburb is a popular place to call home.
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Named one of the Chicago area’s top transit suburbs, La Grange has two Metra train stations providing direct transportation to Chicago’s Union Station. Two major highways also run through the village and intersect with I-294 and I-55, putting the community within easy reach of airports and the city. Of course, location is not all that La Grange has to offer. The community also has a charming downtown and a historic district designated by the National Register of Historic Places.
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La Grange has a variety of single- family homes in a range of styles and prices. Many homes are architecturally significant and have been carefully restored to preserve their original charm, including Victorian, Queen Anne, and Prairie School-style homes. With dining, shopping, nightlife, and a movie theater, La Grange has a vibrant downtown, earning the village a place on Chicago magazine’s list of best neighborhoods and suburbs. A number of events are held each year, including the annual Pet Parade, craft show, Endless Summerfest, and West End Art festival, along with seasonal celebrations. Residents also enjoy abundant recreation, with the community’s park district maintaining dozens of acres of parkland.
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la grange park
T he Village of La Grange Park charms residents with its tree- lined streets and natural beauty.
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Located 16 miles west of The Loop, the community is a popular retreat for commuters working in the city. With over 24 acres of parkland, the Cook County forest preserves, and the Salt Creek Bike Trail, La Grange Park gives residents ample opportunity for recreational activities. Throughout the year, neighbors are treated to local community events such as the annual Music Under the Stars series and National Night Out. Weekend block parties and the local swimming pool also bring residents together in the summer.
la grange highlands
La Grange Highlands is known to residents as “a great place to live and grow.”
Situated just south of the Village of La Grange and north of the City of Countryside, the community encompasses 600 acres, making it one of the largest unincorporated communities in Cook County. La Grange Highlands is made up of large residential properties, many of which are set on half-acre lots. Properties include everything from sprawling ranches to new construction homes.
Residents have easy access to I-294 and I-55.
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lisle T hey don’t call Lisle the “arboretum city” for nothing. Naturally it’s home to the famed Morton Arboretum, but that’s not where the trail ends here. In fact, the community is also home to the Jurica-Suchy Nature Museum, the Museums at Lisle Station Park, and the award-winning PrairieWalk Pond.
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The two-acre PrairieWalk Pond includes scenic overlooks, various paths, a play area, and wetlands. The nature park includes more than 100 varieties of native plants and wildlife including cranes, ducks, geese, turtles, frogs, fish, butterflies, and dragonflies. The Garden Walk connects the park to downtown Main Street, which features nature-inspired colorful streetscapes and a dramatic fountain. Beyond the view, residents and visitors have a variety of local boutiques and eateries to enjoy.
It’s no wonder Lisle was ranked by Money magazine as one of the 100 Best Places to Live. The community hosts several popular festivals including Lisle Cruise Nights, when Main Street transforms into a massive block party throughout the summer. The village also hosts the popular Eyes to the Skies Hot Air Balloon Festival and Depot Days, which includes tours of the community’s historic museums and working blacksmith shop.
Located just off the Ronald Reagan Memorial Tollway, Lisle has a Metra station providing direct access to downtown Chicago.
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lombard
D esignated the “Lilac Village,” Lombard is characterized by its quaint, tree-lined streets and close-knit community.
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Lombard residents are proud of the village’s rich history, diverse entertainment opportunities, and unique seasonal events such as Cruise Nights and Summer Concert Series, which puts vintage vehicles and live music on display throughout the summer.
Since 1930, the village has hosted an annual lilac festival and parade in May. Lilac Time is Lombard’s famed 16-day horticultural festival held at the beautiful Lilacia Park. Several other lilac-themed events take place throughout the year, including a formal ball, concerts, wine and beer tastings in the park, and an arts and crafts fair.
Metra’s Union Pacific West Line railway stops in Lombard, providing commuter transportation to downtown Chicago.
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lyons
W elcome to Lyons, the “Gateway to the West,” where thousands of early settlers once traveled across a small area of land connecting the Chicago River and the Des Plaines River, paving the way for Chicago to become a center of trade.
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Lyons is also home to one of the most impressive historical sites in the region, the Hofmann Tower, an eight-story concrete castle built by George Hofmann Jr. in 1908. Once the tallest building west of The Loop, the tower is at the center of the village’s sprawling recreational area, where residents enjoy picnicking and canoeing on the Des Plaines River.
Area parks such as Veterans Park and Amelia Park provide recreational centers, playgrounds, basketball courts, soccer fields, and paths for residents to explore. Spanning 67 acres, Cermak Woods offers paved trails and an aquatic center with a water playground, slides, and a lazy river. Anglers can fish at Cermak Quarry. Metra service to downtown Chicago is available at stations in nearby Riverside, Brookfield, and Berwyn on the BNSF Railway, as well as via three Pace Bus routes. Lyons’ convenient location also gives drivers access to I-55, I-294, and I-290, and the village is just a quick 10-minute drive to Midway International Airport.
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naperville
N aperville is a vibrant community that combines the amenities of a modern city with the charm of a small town.
Among those amenities is a popular Riverwalk that features nearly two miles of brick paths and bridges as well as recreational facilities along the DuPage River. Nearby Centennial Beach is another attraction that draws thousands of visitors and goes from zero to 15 feet deep.
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Naperville’s DuPage Children’s Museum draws visitors throughout Chicagoland.
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A thriving DOWNTOWN
An assortment of local boutiques, well-known retailers, and fine restaurants can also be found in downtown Naperville. Meanwhile, there’s endless entertainment for all ages thanks to the DuPage Children’s Museum, Summer Place Theatre, Magical Starlight Theatre, and DuPage Symphony Orchestra.
Community SPIRIT While Naperville has seen significant growth over the past few decades, the city maintains a strong sense of community through annual events, from farmers markets and sidewalk sales to festivals and a summer concert series. The community’s character is also pre- served in the Naperville Historic District and Naper Settlement, where visitors can step back in time at an outdoor museum. With plentiful amenities and diverse housing stock in a variety of styles and price points, Naperville has received numerous accolades and continues to capture the interest of homebuyers. The city also offers Metra and Amtrak service, providing convenient access to downtown Chicago and surrounding communities.
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oak brook
O ak Brook is a small but mighty community.
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With world-class amenities and a great location, it’s no wonder the village is a desirable place to call home. Among the community’s most notable attractions is Oakbrook Center – a premier shopping center with a spectacular outdoor mall. Located near I-88 and just 30 minutes from Chicago’s Loop, it offers an expansive selection of department stores, over 160 specialty stores, and an abundance of one-of- a-kind dining and entertainment experiences.
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Oak Brook is also known for its award- winning Oak Brook Sports Core, which is a reflection of village founder Paul Butler’s keen interest in sports. The 269-acre complex is nestled among the village’s gorgeous natural setting and features polo fields, a municipal golf course, swimming and tennis facilities, and other recreational facilities not commonly found in a village of this size. Nature enthusiasts will find their calling at Fullersburg Woods, where they can explore trails that accommodate activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, cross- country skiing, and snowshoeing. Residents also enjoy a variety of local events including a summer concert series, a two-person triathlon, the Pink 5K race, Autumn Fest, and the Taste of Oak Brook. Residential subdivisions abound in Oak Brook, offering everything from stately mansions to ranch homes and condominiums. In addition to I-88, Oak Brook is near I-294 and I-290, providing easy access to O’Hare International Airport and downtown Chicago.
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oak park O ak Park is definitely the cool kid on the block as far as communities go. Located just 10 miles west of downtown Chicago, the community has a distinctly urban, creative vibe and has long been home to artists who have risen to the top of their fields.
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Renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright spent the first 20 years of his career in Oak Park, building more homes in the area than anywhere else in the world. Novelist Ernest Hemingway attended Oak Park and River Forest High School, where he excelled in English classes and wrote for the school paper. Oak Park is noted for its unique mix of home styles including Victorian, Queen Anne, Craftsman, and Prairie School. The community is comprised of three historic districts, including the Frank Lloyd Wright Historic District.
In addition to an active arts community, locals enjoy ample recreational opportunities including public parks, outdoor pools, an ice-skating rink, and the Oak Park Conservatory. Meanwhile, downtown Oak Park offers a number of boutiques, national retailers, noted restaurants, and galleries. Transportation is easily accessible with the Eisenhower Expressway and public transportation options like the CTA Green and Blue Lines and the Oak Park Metra station. If biking is more your speed, the village’s Augusta Boulevard is part of the Grand Illinois Trail.
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plainfield
K nown as “Will County’s Oldest Community,” Plainfield boasts a rich history and a thriving downtown that has the distinction of being on the National Register of Historic Places.
Complete with picturesque landscaping and beautifully restored buildings, Downtown Plainfield offers ample shopping, dining, and entertainment. The area is also used for several events throughout the year, such as Plainfield Fest and Harvest 5K. Meanwhile, the community’s annual summer concert series and movies in the park are held at Settlers’ Park, which features an amphitheater, a lake, picnic shelter, playground, and trails.
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The Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve offers residents and visitors the chance to see five species of birds during peak breeding seasons. The area comes equipped with guided tours, viewing scopes, and the Lake Renwick Bikeway, which is open all year.
Plainfield offers convenient access to I-55 as well as a number of highways.
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river forest
T he Village of River Forest is committed to preserving its heritage. There are several structures designed by renowned architects, including Frank Lloyd Wright, who designed and built The Winslow House here in 1893. A total of 860 properties are in the village’s historic district.
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River Forest was originally part of a larger community that included parts of Oak Park and Forest Park before it incorporated on its own in 1880. The villages remain connected through cultural programs. The Oak Park and River Forest Performing Arts Center has long hosted stage productions by Circle Theatre and Festival Theatre.
The River Forest Park District offers facilities and activities for all ages, including 10 parks with baseball fields, paths, a sledding hill, and a climbing wall. Residents enjoy wide-open spaces and three miles of Cook County Forest Preserve trails that surround the community.
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riverside
R iverside is considered to be the first planned community in the United States. Incorporated in 1875, the historically recognized village is noted for its expansive parkways, charming town center, and early 20th century architecture.
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Residents take great pride in the community’s history and architecture, which is on display through tours at the Riverside Historical Museum and the Riverside Water Tower. Homes include well-maintained 1920s bungalows, huge Victorians, and early 20th century mansions. The Riverside Landscape Architecture District was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1970. To retain its original aesthetic charm, the village even maintains 379 antique-style gas street lanterns.
The village features several restaurants including some that have been recognized as among the best in the Chicago area. There are also unique boutiques and stores selling antiques and Victorian house fixtures – a nod to the town’s rich architectural history.
With a train station along Metra’s BNSF Railway, Riverside is a short commute to Chicago’s Union Station.
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st. charles
S t. Charles is a picture-perfect city with a bustling Main Street and an idyllic setting along the scenic Fox River.
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The community has an incredible mix of arts and entertainment, recreation, shopping, and fine dining. St. Charles has also been recognized for its ideal combination of good neighbors, green spaces, and variety of housing stock.
Although it has a small-town feel, the community has big-time entertainment to offer residents and visitors.
For decades, St. Charles has hosted the famous Kane County Fair and the Kane County Flea Market at the Kane County Fairgrounds. The Pottawatomie Park is a longtime source of recreation for residents, offering access to the Fox River Trail along the Fox River as well as an activity center, amphitheater, picnic tables, a playground, sand volleyball, and tennis courts. The village is accessible via several major roadways including Routes 64, 38, 25, and 31, and is less than an hour from O’Hare and Midway International Airports. Two major county roads also traverse St. Charles including Randall Road on the west side and Kirk Road on the east side.
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villa park T he Village of Villa Park owes its founding to the Ovaltine chocolate company, which built the DuPage County subdivision in 1908 to ensure factory employees didn’t have any transportation issues getting to work.
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Villa Park was incorporated in 1914 when two subdivisions were combined for a total of 300 residents. The Ovaltine factory closed in 1988 and later converted to loft apartments. In addition to the factory, the town blossomed in part for its proximity directly west of downtown Chicago and the railroad that ran from the Loop to Wheaton. The railroad stopped operations due to construction of the Eisenhower Expressway, which caused a decline in ridership. The area later was developed into, the Illinois Prairie Path, which runs through the village. The village’s two original train stations house the Chamber of Commerce and the Historical Society.
Commuters enjoy direct access to downtown Chicago thanks to the village’s train station on the Metra’s Union Pacific West Line. Villa Park’s proximity to several highways make it a convenient drive to O’Hare and Midway International Airports and nearby suburbs.
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warrenville
W elcome to Warrenville, the city that Julius Warren built after his family blazed a trail west from New York and settled along the DuPage River.
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Known for its scenic landscape, Warrenville offers numerous recreational opportunities from fishing and canoeing to hiking and cross- country skiing. The community, surrounded by five forest preserves and the Fermi National Laboratory, has more than 10,000 acres of open space and 30 miles of bike paths.
The Ferry Creek Wetland Restoration at Summerlakes Park features six acres of open land for water conservation and wildlife. The community also enjoys entertainment at the Acorn Community Theater, which features large-scale summer musicals. Located within the Illinois Technology and Research Corridor, Warrenville is home to several corporate headquarters. The community is accessible via the Ronald Reagan Memorial Tollway and Metra, which has a station just south of the city in Naperville.
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westchester
T he Village of Westchester was farmland until 1924, when its founder purchased the land to develop an English-styled town.
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Today the village boasts local restaurants and shops, recreation centers, and parks. Westchester is also home to the Westbrook Corporate Center, which includes five 10-story towers with more than one million square feet of office space. Nearly all of the open land in the village has been consumed by expansion except for the 85-acre Wolf Road Prairie.
The small community hosts several annual events and activities including a Fourth of July parade and fireworks, BBQ Block Party, and Fall Festival at the Fountain.
Westchester offers access to downtown Chicago via the Eisenhower Expressway
and provides Pace bus service to the Forest Park Transit Center.
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western springs
T he Village of Western Springs offers beautiful homes, a short commute, and plenty of parks and recreation.
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Homes here include a mix of spacious single- family homes as well as condominiums and townhomes. The village has a number of new construction homes and remodeled homes as well. The Western Springs Park District maintains more than 80 acres of land in several neighborhood parks, and offers sports programs and classes sponsored by the recreation department. Residents can also find restaurants and shops in the picturesque downtown district along with plaza shopping facilities at the Garden Market Shopping Center.
The Thomas Ford Memorial Library and the Theatre of Western Springs are two local attractions. The theater hosts classes and summer camps as well as 10 performances each year for the community. Western Springs is bordered by several major thoroughfares including the Tri- State Tollway. The community also has its own Metra station, offering train service to downtown Chicago.
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westmont
I n the immortal words of Blues legend Muddy Waters, you might say Westmont has got its “mojo working.” The “father of modern Chicago blues” lived here for more than a decade, and a street near his former home is named “Honorary Muddy Waters Way.”
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The suburb has grown significantly thanks to its proximity to all that Chicago has to offer. Residents enjoy a suburban lifestyle and easy commute downtown. Convenient Metra service to downtown Chicago and Aurora is available at the Westmont Station on the BNSF Railway.
Westmont has over 20 parks and green spaces with facilities including bocce ball, tennis and basketball courts, and soccer and baseball fields. Additional park features include paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
The DuPage County village has a number of highly regarded restaurants as well as retailers and fine arts.
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wheaton
W heaton has racked up more than its share of awards. The affluent community ranks among the “top 25 highest-earning towns” and one of the best places to live by Money magazine.
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The Wheaton Public Library is regularly ranked among the top in the nation. The Wheaton Park District, with 52 parks and more than 800 acres, has won several National Gold Medal Awards for Excellence from the National Recreation and Park Association. The park district includes the 135-acre Lincoln Marsh Natural Area with over 300 plant and animal species and a ropes course; the Cosley Zoo, which houses more than 200 animals; and the 27-hole Arrowhead Golf Club.
Wheaton is home to the prestigious Chicago Golf Club, the oldest 18-hole course in the country and host of numerous U.S. Open and U.S. Amateur Golf Championships, and the Cantigny Park and Golf Course, which includes a championship golf course and two museums. The county also owns the Danada Forest Preserve and Equestrian Center, once an estate and home to a Kentucky Derby winner. The community has seen considerable residential and business development including its landmark, the Wheaton Center, a six-building apartment complex downtown that includes two 20-story high-rise buildings.
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willowbrook
I f there’s one word to describe Willowbrook, it’s “convenient.”
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Located near several major thoroughfares, the charming village gives residents easy access to a number of destinations including downtown Chicago, Midway International Airport, and the regional business center of Oak Brook. While small in size, Willowbrook offers an abundance of recreational opportunities. The community is home to 10 parks including Tony and Florence Borse Memorial Community Park, the largest in the area with ball fields, volleyball and basketball courts, a playground, and picnic pavilions. The fun doesn’t stop there, as other local parks offer additional amenities such as tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, and fishing ponds.
Nearby Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve offers over 2,500 acres of gently rolling to hilly terrain where hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and cross-country skiers can venture through approximately 11 miles of trails, and nature lovers can explore 740 native plant species. Visitors can also go fishing or take on the orienteering course. The community also boasts thriving retail centers like the Willowbrook Town Center, which offers a wealth of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The Willowbrook Ice Arena is a premier destination for residents looking to hit the ice on an NHL-sized rink.
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WS114-04
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