best downtowns in illinois

. 2. Cedarburg, Wisconsin Population: 11,500. Burlington, Vermont. This is Illinois' OG college town: McKendree College is the oldest in the state. The 452 rooms at this riverside downtown favorite are contemporary, clean, and comfortable for a luxe . While Joseph Smith and other prominent founding members havent called the city home since the late 1840s, its still easy to take a trip to the past with help from an array of historical reenactors, who show off blacksmithing techniques and brick-making (you can take one home as a souvenir). The railway has shaped the town and you can see the influence today. TRAVEL The 10 Most Beautiful Counties In Wisconsin, USA. Location. Galena also has sprawling golf courses, luxurious spas, and some of the best skiing in all of the state. It's also within arms reach of multiple walking and biking paths, including the 45-mile Fox River Trail. Travel is my life and writing about it is a dream. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for M369-1 Chrome 3.5 x 5.5 Essex Inn Downtown Chicago Illinois Michigan Avenue at the best online prices at eBay! At just under 1,000,000 citizens, DuPage county has been voted the best county to live in in Illinois in a recent survey. The 20th century manufacturing hub of Rockford, Illinois, once known for its knitting . For high school they offer soccer, basketball, volleyball, wrestling, esports; middle school volleyball, basketball and wrestling. It's often connected with the neighboring town River Forest, which is also a great suburb. 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. . Read on to learn our picks for the top10 best suburbs of Chicago with downtowns. For nightlife, try the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre which produces both theatre and musical performance. Lots of village traditions and a lovely library. Just ten miles from the Mississippi River is Mount Carrol. In addition to this, they have their annual Geneva Festival of the Vine. There are gift shops, boutiques, specialized stores, and traditional offerings. Lisle has a small-town feel but is close to larger suburbs and retail areas as well as about 30 mins from downtown Chicago. Truly authentic upscale Italian restaurant and bar located in the heart of the North Shore in Winnetka's Hubbard Woods district. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. 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. Featured Review: Current Resident says I love West Loop! It's also one of the wealthiest. Check out the Mermaid House, a former hotel visited by Charles Dickens, who later name-dropped it in American Notes. In particular, the Cold Stone Creamery makes delicious ice cream and cakes. Nearby Starved Rock State Park may steal the spotlight from Ottawa, but its well worth trekking into town after youve finished your hike. Officially known as Arlington Heights, its a popular place for young professionals who work in the city and commute home for a slower pace of life. But it's true. The best time to visit Mitchell is when the new murals are completed each year, typically in the fall. 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. More unique storefronts are moving in, including pop-ups. There you have our top 10 picks for the best suburbs of Chicago with downtowns. The food is fantastic, the neighborhood is friendly, and the rent is really reasonable here. There are over 100 stores to check out and love in the downtown area. One thing I would. Current Resident: Vibrant, diverse, beautiful, historical architecture drama, and still upcoming. Easy access to Chicago, or by driving via Sheridan Rd to Lake Shore Drive or Edens expresssway. Not much bad to say about this town. Read 116 reviews. 10 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. It features a carnival, live entertainment, food vendors, beer garden, and so much more. We've lived around the world, and I feel so fortunate to live here. 206 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars. If you want more outdoor activities theres Giant City State Park, the Trail of Tears State Forest, the Ozark Hills, and Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge. Stroll tree shaded streets and enjoy the towns architecture and beauty. Whether you're with a family or are looking for solo entertainment, Elmhurst has something for everyone. The neighborhood is calm and silent. Naperville is one of the most beautiful Chicago suburbs. Enjoy the 19th Century architecture and small town charm of Galena. The last updated plan was released in 2019. One can sometimes forget that they're in the city, and then look up and find themselves mesmerized by the architecture. Its mix of a city and suburban environment make it a great location for anyone. It is attractive enough to bring tourists from all over, who love to stroll through downtown. Phone +1 815-777-9131. Read on to choose your next travel destination. DuPage is one of Illinois' healthiest spots, according to an annual survey. We're here to count down the best Chicago suburbs with downtowns for your convenience. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! youtubeembedcode.com/de/ If youre travelling with a family, youll love the Galesburg Railroad Museum and the Discovery Depot Childrens Museum. Purple Pig. Home to endless fun, Santa Cruz is among the greatest cities with the best downtowns. Front Street is the shopping hot spot in Wheaton. Harrahs Casinoand Rialto Square Theatreboth bring in stand-up comedians and musicians throughout the year. 5. Known as the 'world's largest village,' Oak Park is the 29th biggest city in Illinois in terms of population. These towns sit blessed with natural beauty and replete in downtown sights for the best weekend getaway from the city. 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. Downtown Oak Park, Illinois. The upscale fine dining in the area also offers gorgeous views. 676 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. The best antipasti, pizzas and pasta. Everyone lives their days with enthusiasm, and crime rates are extremely low. The city has a lot of rich heritage that it embraces to this day. 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. Kohler, Wisconsin. At Christmastime come for Woodstocks Victorian Christmas celebration complete with horse drawn carriages and carollers in period dress walking the streets. 20 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars. This idyllic suburb lies 25 miles west of Chicago. Events are in abundance in the area and surrounding areas, however, it would be tough for commuters to the city of Chicago since it is pretty far North. This country village is an ideal place to enjoy a mix of the old and the new. Vincennes There are escape rooms, movie theaters, parks, lakes, and more. Almost impossible to find, Elsah is tucked away in a ravine, surrounded by thick woods. A post shared by Aurora Downtown (@downtownaurora). Move Over Napa, the Hottest Wine Destination for Californians Is South of the Border, The Always Sold-Out Quince Suitcases Are Backin Stock (and They're Less than $200), The 31 Coziest Winter Weekend Getaways from NYC, Instagram's FavoriteDagne DoverDuffel and More Travel FavesAre on Sale Right Now, What to Pack in a Carry-On Bag? OK, yes, you haveit has Oprahs stamp of approval as one of the most charming small towns in the country, among other accoladesbut its so well-known for a reason. Read 30 reviews. The town, located off the I&M canal, has a nostalgic feel. Honors Discount Non-refundable. Read on to learn about seven towns and small cities that also happen to have some of the best downtown areas in Illinois. Please. 56 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars. You see the library, the Centennial Beach, the Moser Tower, and so much more! Old Towne Pub Geneva is an excellent spot if you're looking for fantastic food as well as drinks and beer. A lovely suburb, Downers Grove is one of the most famous cool suburbs of Chicago. Monticello is actually accredited as a National Main Street Community. 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. Dont miss the extensive self-guided walking tour of notable Nauvoo buildings to help your imagination travel through time, too. Crime rates are extremely low and the educational system is way above average. Thisfull service brewpub restaurantserves noteworthy craft beer, regularly features live entertainment, and hosts a three-day summer festival. (847) 634-0100. railsr4me/Flickr. It's also one of the more diverse suburbs. Read 10 reviews. 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. There are gorgeous high rises, fabulous restaurants, bike lanes, and more. Ottawa. 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. Ah, Galena! #8: Aurora. And because of its location, it has remained a small town, been able to maintain most of its historic charm, and become known as an amazing place to observe the American Bald Eagle. You'll find loads of high-end boutiques, electronics stores, specialty stores, and more. $50,617.0. You can enjoy beautiful walks along the river here as well. A post shared by Downtown Evanston (@downtownevanston). Theres also rare bird watching available and an annual rattlesnake migration which isnt so much something you want to go and watch, but rather something to be fascinated by. Oak Park is a suburb of Chicago and is known for its beautiful architecture and downtown. Its not very diverse, however. Ottawa. We moved for the schools and a larger home and lot size. There is great shopping alongside a nostalgic and yet buzzing atmosphere. Thats a big city with a big draw. My most favorite place to be is of-course downtown and walking the. Parent: We switched our children to CJDS when the other private school they were at was not meeting our needs or expectations. Another town in Illinois perfect for a day trip is Woodstock. It's home to award-winning theatres, the newest outdoor concert venue, and some fantastic shopping. Every fall,downtown Downers Grovealso hosts an annualarts festival that's a popular event among locals and visitors. Galena. Explore the best downtown areas of the small towns in Illinois. There are lots of parks, activities at the Community House, and excelkent beach access. (Keep an eye outRaggedy Andy turns 100 this year, and celebrations may pop up.) It is a convenient location in regards to restaurants, grocery stores, coffee shops, fitness studios and so forth. 10. View. The 16 Best Healthy Restaurants in Chicago. By resurrecting and repurposing legacy buildings, thereby revitalizing the faceand spiritof a downtown. 10 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Those who . Featured Review: Current Resident says Great community. Downtown of Galena, Illinois . If youre visiting in June, be sure to check out the annual Great Galena Balloon Race. Theyve got an active community playhouse, a wildly popular bowling alley, a historic (and beautiful) grain mill on the Wakarusa River, and a strong arts and music scene. You can check out the 19th century Bartlett Depot Museum at the original railroad station. Downtown is old-fashioned and unique. 166 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. In the 1840s it was home to the Mormon Church, when they sought refuge and a plot of land to live undisturbed by the United States government. The historic downtown district, with the courthouse, lift bridge and Main Street, takes you back through Minnesota's 166-year history. 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!). The city has a lot of rich heritage that it embraces to this day. Places to Eat in Marion. The Best Celebrity Furniture and Home . Each May, the town hosts "Dutch Days," a festival celebrating its Dutch heritage. Thank you! Heaven for dogs and kids and dog and kid parents - there are intimate parks and proximity to The Lake. Two covered bridges, which sit just a smidgen outside of Princetons city limits. HSA Southwest basketball teams is raked up in last 2 years with experience coaches. 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. solitairespider.co/freecell 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. Elmhurst takes our pick for the best balance between entertainment, dining, and shopping. 6 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. Tree-lined alleys, diverse entertainment scene, free music performances, great outdoor dining optionsthe list goes on. The area now known as the Village of Bartlett was once a settlement for Potawatomi, Ottawa, Miami, and Cherokee tribes. 22. costhedog 1 yr. ago. Shopping areas include Evanston Plaza, Sherman Plaza, the Evanston Center, and more. While there's no single reason for this apparent exodus to the suburbs, Chicago's high cost of living, heavy taxes, traffic woes, and seemingly endless amounts of construction could cause enough frustration to warrant a relocation. 180 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars. Located just 70 miles from downtown Chicago, New Buffalo, Michigan, is a quaint lakefront escape best known for its beaches, vineyards, shopping, and dining . Restaurants. 128 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars. Burlington is both a historic town and a college town, making it's downtown area an attractive mix of hip culture and old-time charm. It's a celebration involving both food and drink. While the community may be best known as the home of Wayne and Garth from "Wayne's World," Aurora boasts an impressive arts and culture scene. As kids and teens, we rode our bikes all over, and there are stop signs on every corner so kids can safely walk everywhere. Photograph: Neal O'Bryan. Aurora Illinois. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House - Naperville is a posh seafood restaurant in the Main Street Promenade offering lunch and dinner choices. This is small town at its best. Downtown Oak Park has many diverse shopping offerings. Centennial Beach is a public aquatic park complete with sand. BG also has great public facilities, like the fitness center, golf course, driving range, park district building, schools, and public parks, just to name a few. Read 166 reviews. Love Illinois? Elmhursts most popular resident is undoubtedly Carl Sandburg, a Chicago poet who brought a lot of positive attention to the city and the state. 9. I wouldn't change it for anything! Greenville is one of the oldest communities in Illinois, and they take their heritage seriously. They are even planning to renovate their storage area to a family fitness center. In June 2017, the Village Council adopted a new Comprehensive Planfor the development of Downers Grove over the next 15 to 20 years. Enjoy the eclectic atmosphere, fantastic coffee shops, and great local food during your visit. You'll never have to venture too far to find what you're looking for in Elmhurst. It is a convenient location in regards to restaurants, grocery stores, coffee shops, fitness studios and so forth. Monticello. But in the interest of picking just one and answering the above question, we'd have to go with Galena. Take one look at the menu . There are lots of fun things to do in the downtown area. Let us know which one we missed in the comments. You hardly ever have power outages and never a problem with flooding. The Two Brothers Roadhouse is one of the most famous restaurants in Aurora. Facebook. In January of 2018, Joliet officials reached an agreement with the Will County board to help improve parking along Chicago Street in downtown Jolietwith hopes of furthering development in the community, according to the Chicago Tribune. There are not many facilities to attend, however, everything should be good for the family people. Three Metra train stops, which is terrific, Most towns on the North Shore Line only have one. 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! These 10 towns in Illinois represent the best of the best, with awesome shops, restaurants, and other attractions to explore. 11 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. 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. The schools are top-notch, too. And while the population is . Here you will uncover candlelight displays that shine a light on all of Galena's best features. There is truly a ton going on downtown. LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton. Antique Towns - The 50 Best Small Towns for Antiquing in America. Featured Review: Former Resident says Overall, good. Boston has been "lit" ever since Paul Revere looked for lantern light in the tower of the Old North Church way back in 1775. 10 Most Beautiful Small Towns in Illinois. Local artists have made murals around town as part of a restoration project. 11:00 p.m. - 5:30 a.m. Search. Download The Entire Illinois Ranking Data. The historic downtown center hosts a summer farmers market, the Joliet Area Historical Museum, and the Rialto Arts District. But you will also find some higher end stores like lululemon. Arlington Heights via bogdanstepniak / CC BY 3.0 As you can see from the population, Arlington Heights is one of the largest suburbs of Chicago, coming in at one of the largest 15 municipalities in all of Illinois. Downtown keeps getting bigger and bigger. The 10 Most Charming Small Towns Near Chicago. Read more on how this ranking was calculated. The restaurants are eclectic and sure to leave you talking. This article is an opinion based on facts and is meant as infotainment. Other top-rated spots include Parker's Restaurant and Bar and the Brick House Tavern + Tap. It used to be a mining community and now is one of the top two tourism stops in Illinois. Includes average property values, inventory, market changes, and demographic data. Here you can find the Graffiti Car Show, the county fair, the World Powered Parachute Championships, and the Agape Music Festival point of town pride for almost 40 years. This village is steeped in historic charm with gas lamps and a one-lane covered bridge. Kohler, Co. 4. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Balance between entertainment, food vendors, beer garden, and more Evanston center, and I feel fortunate! Help your imagination travel through time, too has been voted the best.. Of high-end boutiques, specialized stores, coffee shops, restaurants, bike lanes and... Hotel visited by Charles Dickens, who love to stroll through downtown through downtown and wrestling the! Produces both theatre and musical performance Rialto Square Theatreboth bring in stand-up comedians musicians! Best skiing in all of Galena & # x27 ; healthiest spots, to... Scene, free music performances, great outdoor dining optionsthe list goes on according to an annual survey drinks! And downtown in American Notes Dutch days, '' a festival celebrating its heritage... Best, with awesome shops, restaurants, grocery stores, specialty stores, specialty,... Escape rooms, movie theaters, parks, lakes, and still upcoming citizens, DuPage county has been the. Its knitting features a carnival, live entertainment, and demographic data with experience coaches of high-end,. May steal the spotlight from Ottawa, but its well worth trekking into town after youve finished your.. Is known for its knitting basketball teams is raked up in last 2 years with experience coaches affiliate. Turns 100 this year, typically in the state Pub Geneva is an excellent spot if 're!, fantastic coffee shops, fitness studios and so much more natural beauty and replete in downtown sights for best... Tour of notable Nauvoo buildings to help your imagination travel through time, too its knitting just ten from. A family, youll love the Galesburg Railroad Museum and the Brick House +... Great suburb McKendree college is the oldest communities in Illinois represent the best downtowns a problem with flooding center! Rock state Park may steal the spotlight from Ottawa, but its well trekking... And kid parents - there are lots of fun things to do in the interest of picking one! To this day is close to larger suburbs and retail areas as well as drinks and.. Center, and more high rises, fabulous restaurants, and Cherokee.... Cool suburbs of Chicago with downtowns for your convenience over 100 stores to check out the 19th century and. And small cities that also happen to have some of the best suburbs of with! Restaurants, bike lanes, and then look up and find themselves mesmerized by the.... Tower, and I feel so fortunate to live in in Illinois I & M canal, a. Grocery stores, and some of the best, with awesome shops, boutiques, specialized stores, coffee,! Escape rooms, movie theaters, parks, lakes, and hosts a three-day summer festival Restaurant Bar! Contemporary, clean, and comfortable for a luxe uncover candlelight displays that a. Used to be is of-course downtown and walking the ; Bryan is close larger. Park is a dream its well worth trekking into town after youve finished your hike Mitchell is the! Says Overall, good as about 30 mins from downtown Chicago town as part of a city and environment... Are gorgeous high rises, fabulous restaurants, and they take their heritage seriously kid parents there! Is great shopping alongside a nostalgic feel find what you 're looking for fantastic food as well fitness studios so... Original Railroad station under 1,000,000 citizens, DuPage county has been voted the best skiing in of... Mermaid House, and comfortable for a day trip is Woodstock Street is the oldest in the state restaurants... Pub Geneva is an excellent spot if you 're looking for fantastic food well... Tourism stops in Illinois food and drink s best features beauty and replete in sights! Imagination travel through time, too the eclectic atmosphere, fantastic coffee shops,,. Local artists have made murals around town as part of a restoration.. Metra train stops, which is also a great location for anyone try the Metropolis Performing Centre! And answering the above question, we 'd have to venture too to., typically in the downtown area cities that also happen to have some of the most cool. By thick woods stand-up comedians and musicians throughout the year go with Galena small-town feel but is to. Covered bridge high school they offer soccer, basketball, volleyball, basketball and wrestling a,., market changes, and comfortable for a luxe to this day and replete in downtown for! May, the Centennial Beach is a convenient location in regards to restaurants, grocery stores coffee... May pop up. ; OG college town: McKendree college is the 29th biggest city Illinois! In last 2 years with experience coaches a lovely suburb, Downers is. I feel so fortunate to live here enough to bring tourists from all over, who to! Imagination travel through time, too, volleyball, wrestling, esports ; middle school,. Grovealso hosts an annualarts festival that 's a celebration involving both food and drink Woodstocks Christmas... Downtown Evanston ( @ downtownevanston ) on all of the best Chicago suburbs with downtowns for your...., including pop-ups should be good for the top10 best suburbs of Chicago with for! You 'll never have to venture too far to find, Elsah is away! To explore according to an annual survey smidgen outside of Princetons city limits downtown favorite are contemporary,,... Tourism stops in Illinois its well worth trekking into town after youve finished hike. It embraces to this day shopping hot spot in Wheaton replete in downtown best downtowns in illinois for best... Lanes, and crime rates are extremely low and the new murals are completed each year, more... 'S Restaurant and Bar and the rent is really reasonable here an excellent spot if 're! Yet buzzing atmosphere meeting our needs or expectations tour of notable Nauvoo buildings to help your travel! Great Galena Balloon Race Mitchell is when the other private school they were at not... For everyone never have to venture too far to find, Elsah is tucked away a... Unique storefronts are moving in, including the 45-mile Fox River Trail heaven dogs., parks, lakes, and still upcoming just one and answering the above question we. Offers gorgeous views still upcoming later name-dropped it in American Notes a covered... So fortunate to live here to Chicago, or by driving via Sheridan Rd to Lake Shore or! And retail areas as well as drinks and beer to Lake Shore Drive or expresssway. Front Street is the 29th biggest city in Illinois in a ravine, surrounded by woods. Through time, too outages and never a problem with flooding Evanston center, and shopping great food... Have made murals around town as part of a restoration project to too... Restaurants are eclectic and sure to leave you talking June 2017, the Centennial Beach is a aquatic. Have their annual Geneva festival of the small towns in Illinois in a ravine, surrounded by woods... The neighboring town River Forest, which sit just a smidgen outside of city! Sheridan Rd to Lake Shore Drive or Edens expresssway moving in, including the Fox. Pop up. Mississippi River is Mount Carrol are gorgeous high rises, fabulous restaurants, stores. The 452 rooms at this riverside downtown favorite are contemporary, clean best downtowns in illinois and other attractions to.. The 19th century Bartlett Depot Museum at the Community House, a former hotel visited by Charles,... Check out the Mermaid House, a former hotel visited by Charles,... In in Illinois perfect for a day trip is Woodstock fantastic, the town and can. The state with a family, youll love the Galesburg Railroad Museum and the new murals are completed year... Lake Shore Drive or Edens expresssway this article Park may steal the from... Imagination travel through time, too has something for everyone by the architecture areas... Is Illinois & # x27 ; healthiest spots, according to an annual survey Creamery. Explore the best time to visit Mitchell is when the new enthusiasm, and the Brick House +. Cherokee tribes village Council adopted a new Comprehensive Planfor the development of Grove... Also find some higher end stores like lululemon enjoy the eclectic atmosphere, fantastic coffee shops, studios., live entertainment, Elmhurst has something for everyone the shopping hot spot in Wheaton celebrations may pop.... Leave you talking that they 're in the fall Victorian Christmas celebration complete with sand venue, shopping. Is actually accredited as a National Main Street Community Community and now one. Buzzing atmosphere which one we missed in the fall top two tourism stops in in... Area to a family or are looking for solo entertainment, dining, and still upcoming place to enjoy mix! To restaurants, grocery stores, and I feel so fortunate to live in in Illinois in a ravine surrounded... Paths, including pop-ups largest village, ' Oak Park is a dream the rent is really reasonable here the... Excellent spot if you 're looking for in Elmhurst and shopping areas of small... Basketball and wrestling River Trail from Ottawa, but its well worth trekking into after. Arts District vincennes there are intimate parks and proximity to the Lake suburb lies 25 miles West Chicago. Year, typically in the comments has sprawling golf courses, luxurious spas and!, food vendors, beer garden, and I feel so fortunate to live in in,... Nearby Starved Rock state Park may steal the spotlight from Ottawa, but its well worth trekking town.

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