There is so much to see and do on the Riverwalk and it would be a shame to miss the good parts. We’ve put together the best walking route through the riverside park and into downtown Naperville, which ticks off the best parking, the rotary tower, the quarry, the centennial beach, historical monuments, resting spots, and the perfect places to grab a coffee or bite to eat along the way. 

Walk with us and we’ll show you how it’s done! 

Scroll to the end for a printable map. It includes the full walking route and all the destinations mapped out along the way. 

Self Guided Tour of The Naperville Riverwalk 

1. Park at the Naperville Riverwalk Parking 

This parking spot usually has spaces because it’s not right in the middle of downtown. There is also plenty of accessible parking, which is unrestricted. Parking is free for two hours from Monday-Friday between 7:00 am – 4:00 pm. That might not sound like long, but without any stops, the riverwalk itself only takes half an hour. 

If you prefer a leisurely stroll or plan to make a long stop to paddle boat or hang out on centennial beach, then you can find all day parking at the Municipal Center Parking (again, free). And don’t worry because you can simply do the walking tour in reverse! 

2. Find the hidden woodland pathway

Start at the Veteran of Foreign Wars Center, or in the parking bays just in front of it. Walk alongside the parking bays with the center on your right and the Grand Pavilion (a sheltered picnic spot) on your left. You’ll come to a small roundabout, where you’ll find a paved footpath through a woodland, heading towards the river. The old halogen style street lamps will have you feeling like you just stepped back a few decades in time to discover the charming river walk. 

3. Stroll along the DuPage River 

Through the short woodland path, you’ll break out onto the DuPage Riverwalk. Bear left and stroll the DuPage River, with the river bank to your right. You should be heading back towards Naperville downtown. Hint: Follow the flow of the river and keep it on your right.

You’ll head back past the Grand Pavilion, a playground, and the ice skating rink (which is retired in the summer). You’ll notice there are so many different kinds of trees planted throughout the riverwalk, thanks to the thoughtful park planning. If you’re with little ones you can make a game of counting how many different types you see!

4. Cross over at the Moser Tower Bridge

When you reach the first bridge over the river, cross it! It’ll take you over to the Moser Tower and the quarries. You can’t miss it because the Moser Tower is just shy of 160ft tall. 

5. Enjoy the Quarry, Moser Tower & Rotary Hill 

The Moser Tower is a significant landmark in Naperville, and not just for its height. It was built to celebrate the third millennium. The tower has 72 bells hidden inside and to get to the top, you’d have to climb 253 steps. The largest bell weighs six tons and is named after the founder of Naperville, Joseph Naper.

If you’re lucky, you might get to hear the majestic bells ringing out during one of the summertime concerts. Perhaps, somewhere, Joseph Naper himself is listening too! We hope he’d be proud of everything Naperville has achieved. 

You’ll also find a small but scenic quarry just behind Moser Tower and if you head south, there’s a big hill for energetic children to run up. In the winter, Naperville locals head to Rotary Hill for sledding, which is great fun. 

6. Take a rest at the scenic Gregory Gazebo 

Once you’ve taken in the sights at the Moser Tower, head towards the second quarry. Take any of the paths from Moser Tower or Rotary Hill, but just keep the River on your left hand side. You’ll soon reach the big quarry and along its western edge, you’ll find the scenic Gregory Gazebo, which is a charming outpost perfect for taking in the view and snapping a selfie. 

7. Optional: Go Paddle Boating on the Lake or get a snack at the Riverwalk Cafe (in summer only)

If you want a longer walk, you could take a stroll around the quarry – or you could walk up to the paddle boating rental station. It’s right beside the Riverwalk Cafe, which is next to the DuPage River here on the west side of the quarry. It’s only a few hundred yards from the Gregory Gazebo, so hopefully you won’t get lost!

During the summer months, you can paddle boat or kayak on the quarry for $10 per twenty minutes. The seasonal Riverwalk Cafe also offers all the family favorites if you need a quick snack or a coffee – though save some appetite for the Egg Harbor Cafe later on. 

8. Walk across the beautiful covered bridge 

One of the most beautiful parts of the riverwalk are the covered bridges. You’re about to head right over the first one on our tour. It has the official title of the Naperville Riverwalk Covered Bridge and it’s a sight to behold. It feels really romantic to walk through and in the evening it’s lit up with fairy lights. Children, wives or girlfriends are guaranteed to love it here, so leave enough time to take a quick picture! 

9. Check out Centennial Beach 

Now we’re back on the North side of the river and it’s time to check out one of the most popular summertime spots in Naperville – Centennial Beach. That’s right, you can find sandy shores right here in the suburbs. 

If you bear slightly left and follow the winding footpaths, you’ll go through Centennial Park and back around to the beach. It’s not hard to find during peak months as there will be lots of people around it. In the summer, you can go swimming, diving or just top up your tan. So if you’re planning to make a longer stop, be sure to check your parking hours and bring a bathing suit. 

It’s also a great spot for a picnic if you’re so inclined. Bring a blanket, a hamper and some good friends! 

10. Pass by the Landforms Art Sculpture 

Keeping the river to your right, head up the Riverwalk towards downtown. We’re getting pretty close to all the action now, but there are still a couple of beautiful spots along the Riverwalk to check out. 

One notable historical monument are the landform sculptures. You’ll find them just on the corner where St Eagle Street cuts the Riverwalk path. The sculpture was a gift from the Naperville Art League in 1984, commemorating the hard work of all the volunteers who built the Naperville Riverwalk. 

Community spirit is deeply embedded into the history and present of Naperville and you’ll find tributes to it dotted throughout the town as part of the Century Walk.  

After you’ve checked out the sculpture, cross over St Eagle Street and keep the river on your left – this will make for the best reveal of the Dandelion Fountain.  

11. Stroll over the Naperville Bridge to the Dandelion Fountain 

We’re almost at the best part of the Riverwalk, the Dandelion Fountain. It’s a small but architecturally distinct fountain that makes for a lovely end to the Riverwalk. 

It’s one of my favorite places to sit with a coffee, read a book, take a picture and just take in the atmosphere of downtown Naperville. 

12. Stop for a bite to eat at the Egg Harbor Cafe

I don’t know about you, but I think any good walk should work up an appetite and be rewarded by a delicious meal. There’s no better place to head right now than the Egg Harbor Cafe. Simply cross Jackson Avenue at the Dandelion Fountain and it’s right there waiting for you. 

They serve egg-ceptional breakfasts and lunches all day long, including gourmet pancakes, skillets, seafood frittata, waffles, french toast, meltingly cheesy sandwiches… Need I go on? 

This place is well worth a stop, but if you’re tight on time you can grab a coffee and cake, or a healthy snack, to go. 

And if you’re looking for a more serious meal in Naperville to end your walk, check out our recommendations: 

• 5 Best steaks in Naperville 
• 5 Best Burgers in Naperville 
• 5 Best Sushi Spots in Naperville 

15. Walk back along the Southside river path 

We hope you enjoyed the walk so far! To get back to your car at the Naperville Riverwalk Parking, we recommend taking the Southside river path, since we spent a lot of time on the Northside. But you can also retrace your footsteps. The park is linear all the way along the river, so it’s pretty hard to get lost. 

If you’re with little ones who are tired, you can get them hyped up by promising a quick play at the Jaycee Park, which is just before the carpark at the end of the walk. It’s a mini adventure playground with tons of slides, climbing frames and more. 

Map of the Naperville Riverwalk Tour 

We’ve compiled a list of the most affordable neighborhoods in Naperville. In this blog, we are going to go over neighborhoods with an average asking price under $300,000.

The city of Naperville is divided into three parts- North, central, and south. Within these areas, Naperville has many distinct neighborhoods to distinguish them.

If you’re looking for an affordable neighborhood in Naperville, you can’t go wrong with any of these options. With such a wide variety of choices, you’re sure to find the perfect place to call home.

Brookdale Manor

Brookdale Manor is a quaint community that takes its cues from the rural farmlands it was built upon. You’ll feel right at home among our friendly neighbors and delightful surroundings. Their neighbors, a lively mix of long-time residents and newcomers, who cherish Brookdale for both its many amenities and its friendly and caring spirit.

Brookdale is situated in the northwest corner of Naperville near the I-88 Tollway. You can reach Brookdale via Route 59 or Winfield Road exits. They are also minutes from the Burlington Northern Metra station on Route 59. Their boundaries are McDowell Road (north), Raymond Drive (east), North Aurora Road (south) and Route 59 (west).

In addition to the ease of access to major transportation routes, Brookdale offers the following community appeals:

• Proximity to area shopping and Downtown Naperville
• Proximity to McDowell Forest Preserve (walk or bike ride)
• Neighborhood beauty, character, and values
• Neighborhood churches within borders
• Neighborhood senior residences for keeping parents close
• Location of elementary and middle schools within neighborhood boundaries

If you’re looking for a reasonably priced townhome in the well-established community of Brookdale Manor, look no further! This cozy community was built in the 1990s and continues to attract interest from buyers looking in the Naperville area.

Brookdale Manor features about 128 town homes with floor plans ranging from 1,050 to 1,550 square feet of living space. The median listing home price in Brookdale Manor was $240K in August 2022. The median listing home price per square foot was $179.

According to GreatSchools, Brookdale Manor is home to three public schools that have all received ratings of good or higher. The best public schools in Brookdale Manor are: Brookdale Elementary School (6 out of 10), Thayer J Hill Middle School (7 out of 10), and Metea Valley High School (9 out of 10).

Enclave At Country Lakes

If you’re looking for a luxurious and serene place to call home, look no further than The Enclave at Country Lakes in Naperville, Illinois. The Enclave at country lakes is a charming neighborhood with winding roads and 438 stately townhouses that complement their settings.

The Enclave at Country Lakes is a townhouse complex dating from the 2000s. The Enclave at country lakes has homes with sizes ranging from 1,199 to 1,431 square feet of living space.

Ideally located off Illinois Route 59 and North Aurora Road, their community is in close proximity to the Metra Train Station at Route 59, great local restaurants, and various entertainment venues. The Enclave at country lakes is located adjacent to a former golf course, Country Lakes Park, and protected wetland areas.

It’s hard to believe that it’s so close to everything… Minutes from I-88, seconds from Metra trains, and minutes from historic Naperville with the River Walk and charming shopping district. It’s all within your grasp.

The Enclave at country lakes is a community that takes full advantage of one of the most unique pieces of land in Naperville … with its incredible real estate appreciation values and reputation as one of the nation’s top-ranked communities. The Median Sale Price is $234,900. The Average per square foot is $188, and the association fees range from $206 to $288 monthly.

The Enclave at Country Lakes has three public schools that are rated excellent and higher by GreatSchools. The following are the finest public schools in Enclave at Country Lakes: Reba O Steck Elementary School 9 out of 10, Francis Granger Middle School 7 out of 10, Metea Valley High School 9 out of 10.

Windham Hill

Nestled three miles from downtown Naperville, IL is the neighborhood of Windham Hill. This charming area offers all the benefits of living in Naperville without all the hustle and bustle.

The Windham Hill neighborhood is a single-family home development that was established in 1986. The community has 87 houses, a tot lot, and a retention pond, as well as several common spaces.

Windham Hills is a mixing pot of long-time residents and newcomers who love the town for its many amenities and tight-knit community. It’s an ideal place to put down roots and raise a family.

Windham Hills is located near Downtown Naperville and has quick access to many Illinois highways as well as Metra Service from the Naperville station.

Windham Hill is part of unincorporated Naperville and shares many of its services between Naperville, Lisle and DuPage County.

One of the many great amenities that their residents receive is access to Naperville School District 203, recently ranked 3rd in the state for top-performing school districts.

The community is in unincorporated Naperville, Illinois, and is located near Maple Avenue north of Naper Boulevard. It is 10 Minutes to Downtown Naperville, 15 Mins to Wheaton 5 Minutes to Reagan Memorial Hwy (88), and 11 Mins to Veterans Memorial Hwy (355)

You’re never bored on campus with a children’s center, food trucks, and various community events happening throughout the year. Being close to an elementary school has its perks- your kids will never be bored!

And if that’s not enough, there’s also a community park nearby. Not to mention Windam hill’s distance to downtown is close, so shopping, dining, and civic functions are all within easy reach. Great neighbors and a supportive community are just icing on the cake!

There is currently one home for sale here for $299,000. With the median home price just a little bit over 300k, you can still find an affordable home here.

Windham Hills has three public schools, all of which are rated excellent or higher by GreatSchools. The following are the finest public schools in Windham Hills. Steeple Run Elementary School is 8 out of 10. Jefferson Jr High School is 7 out of 10. Naperville North High School is 9 out of 10.

Windridge

Windridge of Naperville is a large community in Naperville that consists of both townhomes and condos. Windridge of Naperville is a large townhome/condo community on the southwest side of Naperville, which consists of 101 buildings, 620 units, and three ponds with beautiful fountains.

Here at Windridge, they pride themselves on being in an ideal location. Windridge is a part of the highly desirable 204 school district, across the street from Naperville Crossing, just 5 minutes from Westfield(Fox Valley) Mall, and only 10 minutes from Downtown Naperville & Centennial Beach.

They have the best of both worlds: living in a quiet, peaceful atmosphere with beautiful landscaping, ponds, and fountains while still being close to all sorts of amenities.

Because they are such a big community, it’s been critical to have a fantastic property management firm on board to assist with their accounts and organize tasks. American Community Management has been representing Windridge for many years, helping to make it a safe and desirable place to live.

In Windridge, the average cost of a home is $225,750. The price per square footage averages at $236 and monthly association fees range from $150 to $284.

All of Windridge’s public schools have a Good or higher rating from GreatSchools. The following are the best public schools in Windridge: Arlene Welch Elementary School (7 out of 10), Scullen Middle School (9 out of 10), and Neuqua Valley High School (8 out of 10).

Carrolwood

If you’re looking for an affordable place to call home, Carrolwood may be the perfect spot. This townhouse community was built in the late 1980s and has a median price range of $259K – making it popular amongst home buyers.  Carrollwood is located in Naperville, Illinois, on Ogden, east of Route 59

At Carrollwood, they have homes to fit any family size. Their floor plans range from 1,252 to 1,362 square feet of living space. Whether you’re a young couple just starting out or a growing family, they have a home for you.

The median listing home price in CarrolWood was $259K in August 2022. The median listing home price per square foot was $196. The sale-to-list price ratio was just a little over 101 percent. Homes in CarrolWood sold for approximately the asking price on average in August 2022.

Here are the top 3 public schools in Carrollwood, all of which have been rated good or higher by GreatSchools: Owen Elementary School 7 out of 10, Thayer J Hill Middle School 7 out of 10, and Metea Valley High School 9 out of 10.

I hope you all got some value from this blog. If you are looking into buying or selling real estate in Naperville, feel free to give us a call or email or book a consultation with us.

St Charles is made up of a historic central district with a riverside downtown, all of which is surrounded by a few dozen miles of upscale suburban housing. It’s considered a city and leaves little to be desired. There are two prestigious high schools, multiple parks, and forest preserves, shopping centers, a theater, cinema, and library, as well as a long list of popular restaurants and bars. Plus, this city doesn’t stand alone – it sits below the Elgin and South Elgin, and is just a few kilometers upstream from Geneva, Batavia and Aurora. 

With a population of 32,887, St Charles can be considered a medium-sized suburb but put together with its tri-city siblings Geneva and Batavia, there are over 80,000 residents living in this area of the Fox River. 

Is St Charles a good place to live? 

St Charles, IL, offers residents a high standard of living. It’s one of the best places to live in Illinois and offers exceptional public schools, low crime rates, award-winning parks, and a historic downtown. In return, St Charles has a high cost of living and the average family income is $98,393, which is almost 50% greater than the national average. 

For most families here, they’ll tell you that the benefits of living in a clean, leafy and quaint suburb make life in St Charles well worth the price tag. To get a taste of what it’s like to be an STC local, let’s take a look at the best schools, real estate and things to do in this much-coveted corner of Chicagoland. 

Schools in St Charles

Locals from St Charles will happily tell you that the school system is one of the best things about living here. The public school system has received the highest level of commendation from niche.com, with an A+ ranking. 

The school system in St Charles is highly-rated. Students are served by Community Unit School District 303, which operates thirteen elementary schools, two middle schools and two high schools. St Charles is also the home of Elgin Community College, a 4-year college that offers over 129 programs in subjects like accounting, nursing, biology and psychology. 

Elementary Schools 

There are thirteen elementary schools within District 303, nearly all rated an A by niche.com. Families living all over the suburb can give their children the best start in education at one of these elementary schools:

• Anderson – B rated 
• Bell-Graham – A rated
• Corron – A rated
• Ferson Creek – A rated
• Munhall – A rated
• Norton Creek – A rated
• Wasco – A rated
• Wild Rose – A rated
• Davis Primary (K-2) and Richmond Intermediate (3-5) – A rated
• Fox Ridge 
• Lincoln

Middle Schools

Both middle schools in St Charles are of equal standing. They are A-rated institutions with similar student cohorts, teacher-to-student ratios, and English and math proficiency. 

Thompson Middle School – A rated

1,311 students in St Charles attend Thompson Middle School, which is located in central St Charles, on West Main Street. It serves those in grades 6-8 with a student-teacher ratio of 14 to 1. 55% of students are at least proficient in math and 74% in reading.

Wredling Middle School – A rated

1,486 St Charles students attend Wredling Middle School, which is located on the east side of the suburb. It caters to those in grades 6-8 and has a student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1. 58% of students are at least proficient in math and 70% in reading. 

High Schools 

St. Charles East High School

St Charles East is the larger and older of the two high schools. It’s an A-rated institution by niche.com and is known for its strong education in both theater studies and science. Any budding young musical talents will be sure to thrive at St Charles East because they can take music classes for credit. The school is also excellent for young athletes, as it competes in the DuKane Conference and Illinois High School Association, with its most recent win as state champions in the boys, cross country in 2019. 

St Charles East serves 2,408 students and is on the east side of the suburb. Students are in grades 9-12 with a student-teacher ratio of 14 to 1. 51% of students are at least proficient in math and 51% in reading.

St. Charles North High School

Although St Charles North is the newer of the two high schools, it hasn’t taken long to catch up. It is rated A+ by niche.com and offers several AP classes. Notably, the school is renewing its curriculum alongside the Illinois Illinois Math and Science Academy, which many consider the most prestigious public school in the state. Students at St Charles North will also have the chance to compete (and possibly even win) in the ISBA High School Mock Trial Invitational and the Dukane conference. 

St Charles North serves 1,971 students and is in the central/north part of the suburb. Its students are in grades 9-12 with a student-teacher ratio of 15 to 1. 66% of students are at least proficient in math and 57% in reading.

Compass Academy 

This is the newest edition to District 303’s schools. It was founded in 2021 and has a special focus on personalized learning for students in grades 9-12. The school has no entrance criteria but will be taking a maximum of 200 students to be able to maintain a small, focused learning community. The learning model is flexible, which will allow students to attend later or earlier, and to study at their own pace. It’s an exciting new addition to the excellent schools in St Charles and is a sure sign that the suburb is committed to adapting to the needs of its residents. 

Real estate in St Charles 

The real estate market in St Charles consists of many upmarket single-family homes and townhouses, alongside some luxury condos. Most residents own their homes and most of the village has a dense suburban feel. 

There are so many beautiful streets, homes and front lawns here in St Charles. You could easily kill a couple of hours driving around the neighborhoods and curb shopping for your dream home. 

Of course, it’s known for being an upmarket suburb, which means that real estate here doesn’t come cheap. If you take the total market value of real estate in St Charles and divide it by the area, the city has an average of $126M of real estate every square kilometer – it’s clear to see St Charles is home to some of Chicago’s most valuable properties. 

You also need to factor in this suburb’s high property tax rates, which come in at a minimum combined rate of around 8%. Nonetheless, with St Charles being one of the most desirable Chicago suburbs, you’ll find many people here willing to make that investment. 

If you take the total market value of real estate in St Charles and divide it by the area, the city has an average of $126M of real estate every square kilometer. 

Niche.com lists the median house price in St Charles at just under $300,000, but the reality is that it’s a challenge to find a home for less than $350,000. Anything under $300,000 is usually lots and land; if there are nice homes for this price, they are snapped up quickly. A more accurate picture of homes in St Charles is that they come in around the $475-675,000 mark and are 3-5 bed properties. 

The most wealthy area of St Charles is arguably on the North East side, where houses typically value at $700K. It’s an exclusive neighborhood and there are rarely homes for sale here. However, you can find plenty of homes for sale in central St Charles closer to the Fox River. 

Some of the most expensive homes on the market in St Charles right now are a $1.2M custom-built 3-bed home on 2nd street, a $3.3M English Manor estate on Ware Woods Drive, and a $1.6M single-family estate on Aintree Rd. If you move to St Charles, it’s safe to say you won’t be short of future homes to aspire to. 

Things to do in St Charles

Being part of the tri-city area, St Charles is one of the livelier suburbs. It gets a lot of visitors and it keeps them easily entertained by all the things to do here in this corner of Chicagoland. 

St Charles stands out from lots of suburbs thanks to the many cultural institutions you can visit, including the theater, library, and cinema. The suburb hosts family-friendly events throughout the year, including outdoor events and activities. The downtown area also has plenty of shops, including the Streets of St Charles and Mark Twain Village shopping centers. 

Best year-round activities in St Charles

1. Stroll through the Pottawatomie Park 

There is no question that the most beautiful part of St Charles is Pottawatomie Park. It’s right on the river close by to the downtown area – you can’t miss it thanks to the striking picnic pavilion. The original was built in 1892, though it was rebuilt in 2000 in its original place. The park itself is named to commemorate the Potawatomie Indians who once made their home alongside Fox River Valley.

Today there are lots of amenities at Pottawatomie Park. You can go boating, play miniature golf, or hire a riverboat. The park is an idyllic location all year round and stands as a reminder to everyone passing through that St Charles is a special place. 

2. Visit the Streets of St Charles Shopping Center
   

Although it is named a Shopping Center, the Streets of St Charles is more of a lifestyle and recreation location. You can eat, exercise, see a movie, or visit the spa and salons. It has a good balance of chain restaurants and smaller boutiques and is right in the downtown area. It’s touches like this mall that make suburban living feel far more suited to modern life. 

3. See live music or theater at The Arcada Theater. 

The Arcada Theater puts on more than 200+ live music events every year – that’s practically a show every night of the week! The venue doesn’t limit itself by genre but puts on almost anything that’s guaranteed to draw a crowd, be it a KISS tribute band, a roaring 20s night, or a prog-rock show. True to its name, the theater also hosts performance arts from popular local theater troops. The building itself is spectacular, and shows are hosted in the 900-seater theater, which features red suits, golden gilded banisters, and a giant dome with a mural in it, all making for an atmospheric night to remember. 

4. Browse the nationally-ranked library 

A great library is something that’s not just nice to have – a good suburb needs to have it! Luckily, The St. Charles Public Library ranks as one of the best libraries in the state and the whole of America. Just cross the Fox River and head east on Main Street to visit. The library is bigger than it looks from the outside – you can browse books, DVDs, CDs, and online databases. If you want to restock your own bookshelves, then visit the biannual book sales that take place in Spring and Fall. 

5. Kayak through the downtown on the Fox River 

If you are adventurous, you can choose to check out St Charles’ historic downtown from a different angle – the Fox River! A popular kayaking route is to head from South Elgin to St Charles, but if you want to take it easy, you could set out from Fergus Creek for a short paddle around the Boy Scout Island area. You’ll need a permit to Kayak on the river, but you can also speak to local companies about hiring a Kayak. They’ll help you with everything you need to know and be sure to get their advice on how best to approach (or avoid) the Fox River waterfall, just by Hotel Baker. 

6. Fly high at the Urban Air Trampoline Park 

If you are a young family, this is the place that is great to have on your doorstep, especially during those bitter Chicago winters. That’s because anyone with energy to burn will love the Urban Air Trampoline Park in St Charles. Now, of course, the target audience is children and young adults, but the big kids out there will be pleased to hear that there’s no official age limit. There are climbing walls, go-karts, bumper karts, and lots of trampolines. For a basic trampoline pass, you can buy one-off tickets or membership passes that come in at just $7.99 a month.  

7. Fill your pockets at the candy shop. 

The ‘Rocket Fizz Soda Pop and Candy Shop’ isn’t just fun to say – it’s fun to visit too. The shop is lined from floor to ceiling with just about every type of candy there is and every soda flavor you could dream of. A word to the wise, though; some items are surprisingly expensive – keep a tally because your stomach and eyes might be bigger than your wallet.  And if you happen to visit Rocket Fizz, look for the weirdest soda flavor you can find, and then tell us what it was like! 

8. Catch a film at the Classic Cinemas Charlestowne 18 

The cinema is in a quiet mall on the east side of town but is definitely worth checking out. It has a vintage feel but screens all the latest blockbusters. It’s also one of those rare places that still does the classic unlimited refill on popcorn – combined with the huge reclining chairs, this is a great cinema to be able to call your local. 

9. Take a coffee to the Baker Memorial Park 

A nice way to pass some time in downtown St Charles is to stop by the Corocco Coffee, get a drink to go, and make the five-minute walk over the river to the Baker Memorial Park.  In springtime, the park is full of blossoms. The small park is right beside the impressive Methodist Church – if you get the chance to visit inside, your mind will be blown. 

10. Shop at the Kane County Flea Market 

The Kane County Flea Market has been in business since 1967, keeping St Charles in a steady supply of eccentric wares, antique furniture, and all kinds of oddities. It runs on the first Saturday and Sunday of every month when some 600 vendors arrive at South Randall Road to pitch up and flog their goods. It is truly an Aladdin’s cave and eager treasure hunters could easily spend half a day at the Flea Market, sifting through old records, clothes, crockery, and even culinary delights. 

 Best seasonal activities in St Charles 

The best seasonal events in St Charles are The Dragon Boat Festival in June, The Kane County Fair in July, The Scarecrow Festival in October, and The Fox Valley Concert band, who perform five free concerts for the locals every year. 

Best Restaurants in St Charles

St Charles is definitely not short on delicious eateries, though it might surprise you that this upmarket suburb actually prefers humble, local dining with an emphasis on simple food done well. While you can find most of your favorite chains on your doorstep, the places that are really thriving here are the one-off eateries and family-owned businesses.

Kava Diem 

This stylish and health-conscious coffee shop is on the Fox River and is one of the best coffee shops in St Charles. You can opt for cozy, comfy seating by the fireplace – perfect for curling up with a book – or a light and bright pick-me-up out on the patio. Not many coffee shops can compete with the range of vegan, gluten-free and organic offerings from Kava Diem, especially when it comes to gluten-free baked goods. They also have a large drinks menu, with unusual picks like CBD teas and Nitro Coffee.

Insider tip: If you’ve never had a gluten-free donut, this is the place to try one. 

Chum’s Shrimp Shack  

St Charles is known for being great for seafood and Chum’s Shrimp Shack is the best of the bunch. As the name suggests, it’s a tiny little shack, but Chum’s is punching above its weight for its range of incredible-quality seafood dishes. Everything comes wrapped in paper, just like it should, and that includes hush puppies, coconut shrimp, clam strips, lobster mac and calamari. 

Insider tip: If you’re passing through main street in a hurry, you can pick up delicious handhelds to go, like the Chum’s Sandwich or the Lobster rolls. 

Eden Restaurants & Events

Eden’s is St Charles’ best upscale restaurant for three reasons: The chic and modern decor, the perfectly-executed yet simple food, and the romantic views over the Fox River. They serve a select menu of Mediterranean dishes, including tapas, flatbreads, grilled meat, fish and skewers. What really makes this place fun is the live music on Friday and Saturday nights, which sometimes runs late, and you can catch the best local flamenco, jazz, latin, rock and fusion bands.

Insider tip: Happy hour runs from 4-6. Picture yourself enjoying alfresco aperitifs beside the Fox River – sipping on sangria or an ice cold martini in hand. 

Chef Abdul’s Mediterranean 

Some towns are blessed with having irreplaceable local businesses – Chef Adbul’s is one of those special gems. It’s incredibly humble and if you were looking for exceptional food, you might make the mistake of driving straight past. Don’t let looks fool you, though, as this restaurant has 4.9 stars for a very good reason. 

Chef Abdul’s food is made to be heartwarming. You can tuck into mouth-watering middle eastern dishes like kabobs, shawarma, falafel and soups, and it all feels like it was cooked with huge amounts of love and care. What’s more, you’ll feel like you’re eating at a friend’s house  – Abdul and his family are going to give you a warm welcome. There’s no way you’re leaving feeling hungry.

Insider tip: We might love a decadent dessert in America, but Abdul’s humble banana bread is not to be missed. It’s a delicately spiced fruit cake that goes down a treat with the Arabic coffee. 

Alter Brewing and Kitchen

This is the perfect place to head for a drink on the river. It’s modern, bright and relaxing, and the outside patio is really special in the summer. The menu is huge, including the drinks menu, and there are lots of IPAs on tap. You can order all your favorite things to set beside your ice cold beer – hamburgers, loaded fries, steak, and chili brisket – need we say more? 

Inside tip: If you’re with a group, try to get a booking for one of the outdoor globes – you can play your own music through the bluetooth speaker!

The Filling Station Pub & Grill

As you can guess from the name, the Filling Station Pub and Grill once served St Charles as a fuel station. Today, it’s a quirky sports bar and grill serving a great atmosphere and all-American food. The interior nods to the pub’s history, with antiques like old coca-cola signs and license plates lining the walls. It’s very laid back and dogs are welcome on the tree-shaded patio, which is a rare treat for the four-legged residents of St Charles. 

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Batavia is a hidden gem of Chicago suburban living. The city truly lives up to its nickname, ‘city of energy’ (being home to a physic lab), giving good energy to everything it does, with high caliber schools, appealing real estate opportunities, and well-rounded amenities that draw in families, young professionals and retirees alike. 

It’s the kind of place that ticks all the boxes. It’s not too big and not too small. There’s a charming and walkable downtown, but if you feel like kicking things up a notch, you’re in easy reach of St Charles, Geneva, Aurora, and Naperville. Located on the western fringes of Chicagoland, you’ll be tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Chicago, but you can still be there in 50 minutes by car any time. Here in Batavia, you’ll feel secure but not bored. This truly is a Goldilocks city – it’s just right. 

That’s why, in our humble opinion, Batavia is not just the oldest city in Dupage and Kane county – it’s one of the best. Let’s take a closer look at everything that makes it one of the most highly-rated places to live in Illinois. 

Is Batavia a good place to live? 

According to multiple sources, Batavia is one of the best places to live in Illinois. In recent years the suburb has received several awards, including the Top 100 Places to Live in America, Best Street awards, and commendations for its park district. 

Residents say they love living in Batavia for the family-focused atmosphere, local businesses, and the community ethos. The schools and amenities see good investment, which give this suburb a sustainable standard of living and sees families settling down for generations to come. 

The Best Schools in Batavia, IL 

Lots of Illinoisan families gravitate to Batavia to benefit from its school district. Batavia takes education seriously, with well-funded schools that achieve high ratings for the educational opportunities they provide. Batavia spends 68.6% of its property tax funds on school districts. 

Batavia is mainly covered by school district 101, though some small areas fall into Geneva district 304 and West Aurora district 129. 

Batavia school district 101 includes:

• Louise White Elementary School –  A minus 
• Hoover Wood Elementary School – A minus
• Grace McWayne Elementary School – A minus
• Alice Gustafson Elementary School – A minus
• H.C. Storm Elementary School – A minus
• J. B. Nelson Elementary School – B plus 
• Sam Rotolo Middle School – A minus
• Batavia High School – A minus

All ratings according to niche.com, are based on educational data and reviews.

Batavia High School

Most students in Batavia will attend Batavia High School, which is an A-rated public school, according to niche.com. There are 1,938 students in grades 7-12 with a student-teacher ratio of 17 to 1. This high school stands out for its commitment to a holistic education, offering AP courses, honors, and dual credits, as well as a wide variety of clubs and the opportunity to compete athletically. Students say they appreciate the attention given to helping them find the best path beyond their 4 years at Batavia High School. 

Geneva Community High School

A small subset of Batavia Students on the northside will attend Geneva Community High School, which is also an A-rated institution according to niche.com. 1,831 students attend Geneva Community High School and benefit from slightly smaller class sizes of 15 to 1.
The school competes as the Vikings and the football team has one of the oldest Illinoisian rivalries with the Batavia High School Bulldogs. Whichever side your child ends up on, be prepared for fiercely competitive matches. 

Real estate in Batavia

Amid the highest house prices seen in decades, homebuyers in Chicagoland would be wise to look to cities like Batavia. Thanks to being all the way out in Kane County, the median home prices here are comfortably below the Chicago average. 

You can find reasonably sized properties at attractive prices – for example, there are many 3-bed homes around the $300,000 mark that would make great fixer-uppers. There are lots of beautiful townhouses and single-family homes, as well as the occasional condo or apartment. Many homes in Batavia have curb appeal while still being pleasantly affordable, which makes this place a rare diamond in real estate.

Rental properties in this suburb are somewhat less widely available and tend to air on the average side of Chicago prices. You can also find plenty of lots and land here in Batavia if you’re looking to start from scratch. 

Things to do in Batavia

Batavia might be a small city but the locals aren’t short on things to do. Both in and around the city, you’ll find scenic walks, delicious food, and high-energy entertainment. Here are just a few of our favorite things to do in Batavia. 

1. Head Downtown 

Part of Batavia’s undeniable charm is the historical downtown that overlooks the beautiful Fox River. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing stroll, complete with quaint buildings, boutique shops, and down-to-earth eateries. Not to be missed are the historical windmills dotted along the river walk, which are a unique landmark of the city. Along the river is also the weekly farmer’s market, where you can pick up anything from Kombucha to Artisan cheeses. 

2. Visit the Fermilab

The Fermilab is a fascinating part of Batavia’s story. You don’t need to know what a top quark and a bottom quark is – just that they were discovered right here in the Fermilab, in a moment of significant scientific breakthrough. Since being established in 1967, Batavia’s very own lab has been shaping global knowledge of particle physics, accelerator physics, and quantum informational science. So whether you’re looking to inspire your kids in STEM subjects or get a closer look at what some of the greatest minds in particle physics have been up to, you can do so all year round at the Fermilab. They offer tours of the lab and lecture series – or you can simply come along to enjoy the 6,800 acres of natural beauty on the grounds of the lab, which includes a bison preserve. 

3. Go to Funways Entertainment Center 

Funways is suitably named – offering fun for all the family in almost every way you can think of. There are go-karts, bumper boats, mini-golf, water wars, batting, and soccer cages, and jump shots! You can burn off some energy on a rainy day in the 20-lane bowling alley or roller skating rink, or battle out with your friends at Lazer Tag. In those famously bitter Chicago winters, Batavia locals are more than grateful to have Illinois’ favorite indoor sports center on their doorstep. 

5. Browse the local boutiques 

Batavia’s downtown supports local artisans and creatives, with a number of one-of-a-kind storefronts including Hearth & Hammer, a literary candle studio, Bee Attitudes Antiques, the Boardwalk, with multiple independent vendors, and an apothecary. Another shopper’s destination is the Wilson Street Mercantile, where you’ll find four boutiques under one roof and can pick up scented candles, very millennial cushions, framed prints and artisan coffee.  

5. Shop the cultural scene 

Among Batavia’s downtown shops are lots of local gems in the cultural sector – music, literature and art, to name a few. 

Kiss The Sky 

The local record store, “Kiss The Sky” has been part of the pulse of Batavia’s beating heart since 1996 (minus a brief relocation to Geneva). Local owner Steve is not only a touchstone for the community to discover new music (or rediscover old loves), but acts as a transmitter. He’s always chatting to locals who pass through the store, asking what they’re listening to so that he can find gems to share with others. As you might expect from that, Kiss The Sky is a genre-spanning treasure trove, stocking anything and everything from critically acclaimed rock classics to ear-blasting hyper pop. They also sell merch, vinyl gear, speakers, and oddities, as well as hosting over 2,500 live music acts over the lifetime of the store. 

Water Street Studios

Their next-door neighbor is Water Street Studios. This local, independent studio and gallery is on a mission to make the arts accessible to the midwest. As well as ongoing exhibitions, there are gallery receptions every second Friday, where you can peruse the local talent, pick up one-of-a-kind fares at the pop-up shops and attend special events. There are regular workshops and studio spaces to rent, making sure the artsy population of Batavia are always catered for. 

The Book Shop

Just around the corner is The Book Shop, a second-hand mercantile brimming with page-turners curated by a true book lover. The prices are unbeatable – choose wisely and you can pick up a handful of fantastic reads for less than $20. While the store is currently only open on afternoons at the weekend, it’s well worth setting aside time to dig for treasure in this cozy cubbyhole on Wilson St. 

6. Take a day trip to Naperville 

One of the best Chicago suburbs is Naperville and it is only a 25-minute drive from Batavia. Naperville has it all; the best eats, drinks, shops, and riverwalk. Batavia residents can enjoy it all but without Naperville prices. Once you’re on I-88, it’s an easy route to downtown Naperville and you can make this popular suburb your regular hang-out spot. 

7. Take a day trip to Aurora 

The city of Aurora is just under ten times bigger than Batavia and it is only a ten-minute drive straight down route 31. Aurora is well known for a being diverse and vibrant city – it’s also one of the best spots in Chicago for Mexican food, with over 10 popular Mexican and Latin eateries in the heart of the downtown area. If that doesn’t whet your appetite for living in the tri-city area then we don’t know what will. 

Green spaces in Batavia

Batavia’s award-winning park district manages 36 parks and green spaces across the suburb. So although the area has a dense suburban feel, you won’t be short of spaces to stretch your legs, walk the dog, take a picnic, or even pursue more adventurous outdoor activities. Let’s take a look at some of our favorite green spaces right here in Batavia. 

Depot pond 

The Depot bond in Batavia is beautiful all year round but the highlight has to be when it freezes over in the winter and all the locals go ice skating. It’s been a tradition of the suburb for more than a century. Seeing everyone wrapped up in scarves, hats, and mittens while trying to balance on their skates is something the residents look forward to the year around – especially the children. In the summer months, the Depot is also great for paddle boating. Tucked into the Batavia dam, it’s a central outdoor location that you can visit any time.   

Batavia Riverwalk

The river walk was built by the community, for the community. The volunteer-led project took six years to complete and extends along the Fox River around the 12-acre peninsula. There are boardwalks, overlooks, and a pavilion – all providing tranquil moments to take in the scenery and enjoy the fresh air. Don’t forget to bring your camera because there are lots of picture-perfect views you’ll want to capture, including the wildflower sanctuary, the Depot Museum, and the historic windmills. 

Forest Preserves

There are two forest preserves on the western outskirts of Batavia; the Dick Young Forest Preserve and the Nelson Lake Marsh. Teeming with diverse flora and fauna, these beautiful natural locations have inspired many photographers and artists over the years and you can still see rare and endangered plant life there today. 

Red Oak Nature Center

The Red Oak Preserve is perfect for families because this walk has some unique features to add interest to any stroll. Among the hiking trails, you’ll find a cave known as the Devil’s Cave, which is heaps of fun for children to climb and explore. There are also exhibits at the Nature Center to keep the little ones entertained and you can even see turtles in the mini-aquariums. 

Fabyan Forest Preserve

Just north of Batavia, you’ll find the Fabyan Forest Preserve, which is on Geneva territory. It has multiple natural and historical landmarks that make it one of the most unique and fascinating preserves in Illinois. You can visit the Fabyan Forest Villa, a Japanese tea garden built-in 1910, and the strikingly beautiful Fabyan Windmill. People come from all over the state to behold the sights here, but in Batavia, you have it right on your doorstep. 

Harold Hall Quarry

The Quarry Beach is the number one destination for Batavia families looking for relief from those hot Chicago summers. There is a zero-depth sand beach, two islands, a youth water slide, a drop slide, and a diving tower with two- and four-meter platforms. Self-described as “kid-tested and family-approved”, the Harold Hall Quarry won’t disappoint.

The Best Restaurants and Bars in Batavia

The food scene is humble here in Batavia. You won’t find upscale dining but what you get is arguably better – friendly, cozy, and intimate mom-and-pop eateries that serve up delicious plates every night of the week. Dining in Batavia is easy on the wallet, so you can eat out way more than in an expensive suburb. Let’s check out some of our favorite foodie (and drink) locations in Batavia. 

The Flyleaf Cafe 

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Directly opposite the centrally-located public library, you will find the Flyleaf Cafe, where they’re serving up wholesome, hearty, home-cooked meals and pastries to fuel the literary adventures of Batavia locals. This small-batch bakery serves up big-time favorites, like cinnamon rolls and homemade cookies. The menu and flavors evolve from day to day, as they cook to suit the seasons and their storecupboard

Inside tip: Follow the Flyleaf Cafe on Instagram and keep your eyes peeled for family-friendly community events, like painting workshops and artist exhibitions 

Energy City Brewery  

You can only live in Batavia for so long until you come across big queues winding through the downtown area on a Saturday morning. Before you ask yourself what all the fuss is about, know that the answer is “Energy City Brewery”. This local artisan brewery only opens its doors for a few hours on a Saturday and the town goes crazy to get a taste of their adventurous beers.

It’s a truly unique business venture and local founder David FIles treats it like a science. He makes insanely creative flavors, like Milkshake IPA, Battisseri Stout and Blood Orange Habanero. The atmosphere on their open days is great, but you can order anytime and they’re also stocked in locations across Chicago.

Inside tip: If you find a flavor you love, be sure to stock up because their rotation is always changing.

Bocaditos

This family-owned Argentine is a favorite among Batavia locals. It’s a cute and cozy cafe and is the best spot in town for Empanadas. Their food has a homemade feel to it; packed with flavors and guaranteed to leave you feeling well looked after. It’s also run by two of the friendliest women in Batavia, so you’d be challenged not to have a lovely time at Bocaditos.  

Inside tip: Take home a batch of frozen Empanadas to eat at home.  

Tusk Thai

When it comes to humble, cozy restaurants in Batavia, Tusk Thai is a firm member. It’s a family-owned business and you need only visit once or twice for them to start getting to know you and treating you like a regular. The menu is fresh, vibrant, and packed with Thai staples – think Eggrolls, Potstickers, and Tom Yum. But even if you play it safe with a traditional dish like the yellow curry, you won’t be disappointed. 

Inside tip: This place is BYOB (bring your own bottle), so be sure to arrive prepared. 

Sidecar Supper and Beer Garden

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The Sidecar Supper club is one of the best evenings out in Batavia, serving the time-honored triple whammy of fantastic food, beer, and atmosphere. Their menu is all about American classic bar fares, like burgers, wings, and chips. It’s a great spot to rub shoulders with locals and get to know your neighbors. 

Inside tip: The Sidecar is always putting on great live music, so time your trip for the occasion. 

Riverside Pizza

Life doesn’t get much sweeter than eating delicious pizza and drinking cocktails while overlooking the Fox River. Riverside Pizza is a rare breed, as they’ve mastered both the crispiest thin crust and the deepest pie dishes. You won’t be challenged to find places to put your money back into the community, because Riverside Pizza is yet another Batavia family-owned business. 

Batavia Popcorn Depot

Smell is one of the most powerful memories you can have, and for the people of Batavia, no smell reminds them of downtown more than freshly cooked popcorn. This historical landmark is just off the riverwalk path, where you can stop by and pick up made-to-order popcorn in mouth-watering flavors like fresh spun cheese or warm caramel. 

Batavia Diner

Only in Batavia could there be an appetite for a cafe that only does breakfast. Early in the morning, this is where you’ll find the locals, who come here to start their day with piping hot coffee and, if they know what’s good for them, the gypsy skillet. It’s the type of spot where you can enjoy your time and relax, which is exactly the way a morning in Batavia should be spent. 

Bar Evolution  

Although Batavia doesn’t really do upscale, Bar Evolution is the best place to head for a slightly high-key night out. They serve the best cocktails in a chic setting –  there’s a grand piano and tree trunk tables… Need we say more? 

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It’s no secret that we here at the Ralphie and Ryan show love the western suburbs of Chicago. We were born and raised here, it’s where we and our families call home, and it’s where the vast majority of our real estate business takes place. We’re not alone in our appreciation for the western suburbs, either – ask any Napervillian, Northlaker or Wheatonite and they’ll tell you the same thing; out west is best. 

Since starting our blog and YouTube channel, we’ve covered so many of the western suburbs  – so we decided to put together this super list of all our favorites.

What counts as a western suburb? It’s a vaguely defined term, but for this blog, we considered any suburb that is: 

• West of North and South Cicero Avenue 
• East of the Fox River 
• South of O’Hare Airport and I-90
• North of the Des Plaines River (or along it) 

So, let’s head out to the wild western suburbs of Chicago to see which ones come out on top. 

The 15 Best Western Chicago Suburbs 

15. Brookfield 

Good for commuting to Chicago, public schools and shopping 

Brookfield is a small suburb close to Chicago. With just a 37-minute metra journey to Union Station, the suburb is popular with working families and young professionals. It has two good shopping centers on the west side and the public schools are highly rated. 

Residents say that Brookfield is a quiet and down-to-earth place to live. It would suit anyone looking to move out of the city and start a family, or who wants to earn a living in Chicago but pay an affordable suburban rent. 

14. Lombard

Good for families, outdoor spaces and community-feel

Lombard is a medium-sized suburb situated 20 miles directly west of Chicago. The village is bordered by lots of green spaces, including the Hidden Lake Forest Preserve, the Glen Oak Country Club, Churchill Woods and Lilica Park.

Locals say they love living in Lombard for the community atmosphere. There are lots of family-oriented events and the suburb has the comforting charm of a neighborhood where people recognize and look out for you.

13. Northlake

Good for affordable housing and an easy-going atmosphere 

As a Northlake local, I consider this suburb to be one of the most underrated. The house prices and rent are insanely cheap compared to the Chicago average – meanwhile, you are a stone’s throw from the popular suburb of Elmhurst. 

Residents appreciate Northlake because it’s humble, quiet and friendly, and offers a great cost of living. It’s not the ideal location to commute to Chicago by metra but you can be there in less than 30 minutes by car. 

You can read all about living in Northlake right here in our community spotlight. 

12. La Grange 

Good for commuting, families and schools

La Grange is a compact suburb within easy commuting distance of Chicago, being only a 25-minute train ride away. Sitting between the popular areas of Brookfield and Western Springs, the town is noted for its local businesses, strong community spirit, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Locals love living in La Grange because it’s a great place to raise a family, with low levels of crime and a small-town feel. The area has several highly-rated public schools including Arlington and Millbrook High. 

Get the lowdown on living in La Grange in our community spotlight.

11. Hinsdale

Good for upscale housing, schools and boutique shopping

Considered to be one of western Chicago’s most desirable areas, Hinsdale was once dubbed by the Chicago Tribune as “the diamond on Dupage County’s ring”. And with its pristine downtown area, leafy residential roads and top-performing schools, it is a historic suburb that continues to shine bright. 

Among the many charms which Hinsdale has to offer, locals highlight the elegant period houses, beautiful open spaces like Burlington Park, and excellent schools. Particularly noted is Hinsdale Central, one of the very best high schools in Illinois. 

Find out more about historic Hinsdale in our community spotlight.

10. Lemont 

Good for outdoor spaces, schools and affordability

Lemont is a small suburb situated around 25 miles southwest of Chicago. A picturesque and historic town set on a hill close to the Des Plaines River, the area is noted for its beautiful outdoor spaces like Black Partridge Woods and its quality schools. Importantly, it’s also one of the more affordable suburbs for renters, though, with an average rent of $1,000 PCM and only 20% rental properties, you’ll be in for a fight to find a place. 

Residents say they love Lemont for its safe atmosphere and close-knit community feel. They also praise its convenience — with easy access to the I-55 Highway, it’s only 30 minutes from downtown Chicago.

9. Oak Park

Good for commuting, culture and diversity

Situated only 9 miles or a 15-minute drive from the heart of Chicago, Oak Park is perfect for commuters and those looking for a diverse community. The mid-sized suburb of 55,000 people is particularly noted as being the home of world-renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, whose hugely influential designs, including Unity Temple, can be found here.

Residents love the town for its liberal culture, its brilliant nightlife, and its charming mix of suburban and city living. Anyone looking for a taste of suburbia within easy reach of the Windy City should consider Oak Park.

8. Wheaton

Good for community worship, schools and things to do 

Situated 25 miles west of Chicago, Wheaton is a medium-sized suburb noted for its large Christian population, with thriving church communities and institutions such as the renowned evangelical Wheaton College. It’s also a haven for lovers of the great outdoors, containing 47 parks in total.

Residents love the close-knit community feel and say the area is a great place to raise a family. They also appreciate the proximity to downtown Chicago and the large student population makes for a lively atmosphere. Those looking for close-knit community and natural beauty, whilst staying connected to the city, won’t be disappointed in Wheaton.

You can read all about Wheaton in our community spotlight.

7. Franklin Park

Good for affordability, commuting and community spirit

Franklin Park is a small town of 18,000 people which is located just 18 miles from the center of Chicago. This peaceful community is one of the more affordable suburbs with a median rent of only $880.

Residents love Franklin Park for its inclusive community and safety. They also praise the outdoor pursuits available on its doorstep, with the lake at local Schiller Woods offering fishing and walking trails. If you are looking for an affordable, homely town full of friendly faces, then you may well find it in Franklin Park.

6. Oak Brook 

Good for shopping, high-end dining and luxury housing

Only 20 miles from downtown Chicago, Oak Brook is a small suburb that is big on luxury. With a great selection of upmarket restaurants, high-end shopping outlets, and some of the most impressive upscale housing in Illinois, the village is perfect for those looking for the finer things in life. 

Unsurprisingly, Oak Brook is popular with those enjoying their golden years, with 40% of its population over the age of 65. As such, the area is well supplied with all the amenities and luxury properties that retirees could wish for.

Want to learn more about this luxury destination? Head over to our Oak Brook community spotlight.

5. Western Springs

Good for families, upscale housing and outdoor spaces

Western Springs is a small suburb of 13,000 people located 20 miles southwest of downtown Chicago, which is accessible by train in only half an hour. The village is blessed with plenty of outdoor space on its doorstep, including the Bemis Woods forest preserve with its cycling and walking trails.

With its top-rated schools and comfortable upscale housing, the picturesque suburb attracts many young families, who love the friendly community feel and the sense of safety.

Learn more about living in Western Springs in our community spotlight.

4. Glen Ellyn

Good for community spirit, schools and things to do

Glen Ellyn is a small suburb 25 miles due west of Chicago, which is just a 30-minute drive away. The area, nicknamed ‘The Village of Volunteers’, is famous for its inclusive, community-minded ethos, and new faces are always given a warm welcome. 

With fantastic cultural institutions like the McAninch Arts Center, wonderful open spaces like Lake Glen Ellyn, and a great range of community groups and events, the suburb is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and raise a family.

You can read all about living in Glen Ellyn in our community spotlight.

3. Elmhurst

Good for cultural and historical landmarks, schools, and families 

20 minutes from downtown Chicago by car, but with a thriving community and business district of its own, Elmhurst has it all. There is much to do and see throughout the year, with cultural events like Art in Wilder Park, renowned institutions like Elmhurst Art Museum, and many shops and eateries. 

Anyone looking for a suburb with a little more energy will not be disappointed here. And with great schools and a good mix of housing, it is also a wonderful place to raise a family.

You can read all about thriving Elmhurst in our community spotlight.

2. Downers Grove

Good for things to do, schools, and Millenials 

Downers Grove is a large suburb conveniently located close to Chicago, being just a 30-minute train ride from Union Station. The area has a great reputation for nightlife, with a huge range of eateries (see our choice of the 6 best pizza places) and entertainment including the historic Tivoli Theater. 

Residents love Downers Grove for its thriving social life and scenic outdoor spaces with walking trails. With its dynamic mix of urban and rural experience, this suburb would be perfect for younger Chicagoans looking to put down roots. 

We’ve covered everything to love about living in Downers Grove in our community spotlight.

1. Naperville

Good for things to do, families and schools 

Naperville, a large suburb of around 150,000 people just a 40-minute train ride from Chicago, is a city with something for everyone. With a huge array of things to do, great schools, beautiful outdoor spaces, and a wide range of housing, it’s no surprise that Naperville is frequently recognized as one of the best places to live and raise a family in America.

Among the many things that locals love about this charming suburb are the brilliant schools, such as Naperville North High, which is acclaimed for its athletics teams. They also love the scenic beauty of the suburb, with the famous river walk a favorite destination for many. If you’re looking for a bustling city that’s got everything, you’ll love Naperville.

Read all about wonderful Naperville in our community spotlight.

As life-long locals to the western suburbs, we’re going to weigh in on the best and worst parts of living in Naperville IL – no holds barred. Brace yourself because we’re going in! 

Worst parts of living in Naperville

5. The traffic and parking

If you’ve ever tried to get across Naperville during peak hours, you’ll know what we’re talking about. Between 7:00 and 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 till 7:00 pm, Naperville gets very congested with families doing the school run as well as commuters. Unlike quieter suburbs, you’re not only getting the flow out of the village and into Chicago, but plenty of people are also coming into Naperville to go to their retail and hospitality jobs downtown and shifts at Edwardsville Hospital. 

It’s also not just the traffic but the sprawl of the suburb itself. Naperville is sometimes dubbed a city, and thanks to its size, there’s a lot to do here. But it also means that depending on where you live, it can take a while to get around. The downtown is very walkable, but from most places in Naperville, you can expect to set aside twenty minutes to get there, which also applies to the metra. If you live on the Southside of the city, it may take you up to 35 minutes to get onto I-88 when traffic is particularly bad. 

Finally, there’s the parking. Naperville’s downtown is one of the most popular in the Chicago suburbs, so you’re not just competing with commuters for a parking spot – but you’re fighting off the daytrippers too. Luckily, Naperville has free street parking although it is two hours maximum. There are also several free off-street parking facilities for those longer stretches. Just be prepared to drive around for a while, particularly on Friday and Saturday evenings. 

4. The low housing inventory 

Be prepared to tough out the competition for real estate, because boy, oh boy, is Naperville popular right now. 

You could see this as a positive or a negative depending on your situation. If you’re looking to move to Naperville, getting onto the market at the moment can be a headache. Naperville has always been popular, but we’re still seeing extra increased demand since the post-lockdown swell. You will definitely need a realtor who is experienced with the Naperville area to help you close on the home you want. 

However, if you already own property in Naperville or are looking at a long-term investment, you should see the popularity as a definite plus. And even if you are an outsider coming in, look at it this way; with the right realtor, you will get onto the Naperville property ladder – at which point you’ll have a solid investment in your hands.

3. The competitive schools and daycare 

With the best public schools in Illinois, you shouldn’t be surprised that things can get competitive around here. Whether you see this as positive or negative is down to your subjective worldview. On one hand, a little healthy competition encourages students to strive for the best, giving them a great head start and teaching the reality of how competitive life can be. The flip side is that not everyone can compete and not everyone excels under pressure. It’s important to think about whether that’s the right environment for your family. 

The other thing to consider is whether the schools’ demographics suit your needs. Often people ask us whether Naperville is a diverse suburb and there isn’t a simple answer. In this case, bear in mind that the demographics within schools can be different compared to the overall population. 

If you look at the general Naperville population, you will see that it is a predominantly white suburb and that Asian people make up the largest minority group at 15% of the community. The high schools, however, are more diverse both in terms of ethnicity and in the percentage of low-income students. You can check out the figures yourself for each high school in Naperville at illinoisreportcard.com. 

Finally, on the subject of school populations – bear in mind that it’s not just the academics that are competitive. There are long waitlists for daycare and nurseries in Naperville. If you are an expectant family or have young children already, you should get on the waitlist as early as you can so you don’t come unstuck. 

2. The high expenses and cost of living

There are no two ways about it — Naperville is expensive! Of course, how you view the expense will depend on where you’re coming from but compared to many other suburbs in Illinois, you will face high home prices and property taxes. The average family income in Naperville is $125,926, which is almost twice the national average. We have seen other sources estimate that you need to make around $80,000 to enjoy the minimum comfortable living standards in Naperville. 

The average home value in Naperville is $410,800, so you can expect to pay around $9,102 per year in property taxes. The 2.22% property tax in Naperville is quite standard for DuPage County and compared to other DuPage suburbs, it sits in the middle of the road. 

Hinsdale, Elmhurst, Downers’ Grove, Clarendon Hills, and Darien all come in cheaper, whereas you’ll pay more taxes to live in Wheaton, Aurora, Glen Ellyn, or Warrenville. Property taxes in Naperville are actually modest if you compare them to Glendale Heights or Hanover Park, which come in at a few percentage points more. 

The other way to look at it is that, if you can afford it, it’s worth paying for the number 1 public schools in America and all the great amenities on offer here in Naperville. 

1. The people? 

Finally, we’re onto the most controversial criticism, which is the “Naperville Stereotype”. Some people say that Napervellians are snobby, rude, or that they are not inclusive of diversity. Yet, plenty of locals will tell you that this suburb is friendly and welcomes everyone. So, what’s the truth? 

Spoiler alert: We can’t give the ‘official truth’ about Naperville people, because there isn’t one. Just like anywhere in the world, your opinion will depend on who you associate with and who you cross paths with. Instead, we would say that no matter where you are moving, you should visit the place extensively to find out if it’s a good cultural fit for you and your family.

What we can do is give a little insight into the demographics. Statistically speaking, Naperville plays host to a largely white and affluent community that has somewhat moderate political views. 

That’s not the whole story though, as Naperville gets visitors from all walks of life and the diversity has increased in recent years. However, if you are looking for a very dynamic and open-minded suburb, you might consider checking out towns like Skokie or Aurora (or take a look at our full list of the best diverse suburbs in Chicago). They’ve both got their own vibrant downtown areas and are known for more diverse, liberal communities. 

Best parts of living in Naperville

As well as putting Naperville’s drawbacks under the microscope, it’s only fair to consider its best sides too. After all, there is a reason that this suburb has such an impressive collection of awards and accolades.

5. The varied supermarkets

When you first take a look at an area, it’s easy to be drawn to the fun and exciting amenities – the fancy restaurants or the shopping. But when you live somewhere, it’s often the day-to-day conveniences that make the difference. 

One of Naperville’s less bragged about qualities is that it has plenty of good stores in close reach. You’re never too far away from a Jewel-Osco or an ALDI, one of which is a 24-hour store. There’s also a Marianos, which is voted Chicago’s favorite for price and freshness combined.

Other popular stores in the Naperville area include Trader Joe’s and a Casey’s and, naturally, there’s Whole Foods and a Costco too. All your tastes and price points are pretty much covered here in Naperville and that’s without considering all the small shops and restaurants in the downtown area. 

4. The great outdoor spaces

Naperville is excellent for outdoor spaces, both urban and natural. The riverwalk through the downtown is one of the best in the state and it drifts through Burlington Park and Centennial Park. The more outdoorsy type can get their fix at the Springbrook Forest Prairie or McDowell Forest Preserve, and families here in Naperville love days out at the Knoch Knolls Nature Center. Last but not least is one of Naperville’s best-kept secrets, which is hiking up to the 190-foot scenic overlook in Greene Valley Preserve to watch the sunset over Naperville. 

We can’t overstate how many outdoor activities there are to do here. There are bike trails, dog walking, horseback riding, fishing, boating, picnicking, and bird spotting, most of which are free. In the summer, you can splash about or kick back at Centennial Beach or one of the multiple outdoor pools. In winter, you can go skiing. You don’t get opportunities like this in every suburb of Chicago, making Naperville a real breath of fresh air for outdoor spaces.

3. The schools, amenities, jobs, and safety

Naperville might be busy and slightly expensive, but those downsides come with a significant payoff – the quality of life here is great. We’ve already touched on this key point a few times because we think that you get a lot back for what you pay in property taxes in this suburb.

Naperville is far from being the most expensive suburb in DuPage county, yet it has the best schools, fantastic community events, beautiful parks, plenty of job opportunities, and very reassuring safety data. If money were no object, a lot of people would jump at the chance to have the quality of life available in Naperville and so it’s definitely worth appreciating. 

2. The vibrant downtown

Most of us only get one or two days each week off to enjoy ourselves, so it says a lot that so many people choose to spend theirs visiting Naperville. It has something for everyone; it’s a shopper’s paradise and has over 50 restaurants and bars, all of which are set in the picturesque location around the DuPage river. 

We’ve heard some people say that Naperville used to have more independent outlets – this might be true and there are certainly are a lot of national favorites in the suburb these days. But from time to time, who doesn’t love or need Barnes and Noble, Pottery Barn, or Sephora? 

Plus, Naperville does still have plenty of family-owned places and one-off stores; if you’re looking for something special, you can find jewelry boutiques, antique collections, and mom-and-pop type restaurants all over the downtown area and surrounding suburbs. Me and my family personally love downtown Naperville, and that’s why it makes second on our list of the Chicago suburbs with the best downtowns. 

1. The incredible school system 

If you aren’t a family or a young person, then perhaps this factor doesn’t make number one on your list. But there’s a lot to be said for living in America’s number one destination for public schools. Naperville is renowned for having some of the best and brightest places for students to flourish. There are 3 High Schools, 8 Middle Schools, and 34 Elementary Schools to choose from – put together, more than 90% of them have an A-rating and above by niche.com, signaling that they offer the very best education. 

Even if you don’t have a school-age child, living in an education-first suburb has its benefits. More than 30% of the population has a master’s degree and above and another 40% has a bachelor’s degree, making it no surprise that this suburb has great educational resources. Naperville has an impressive three public libraries, which together are considered a national treasure. There are also plenty of cerebral activities for adults and families to check out, including historical settlements, art galleries, a nature center, nearby museums, and more. 

So, what do you think? 

Do the pros of living in Naperville outweigh the cons? Perhaps you’ve found some surprises here that have changed your opinion about this popular suburb – let us know in the comments. 

And if you’re looking for a new home around here, we want to help you get to know the Chicago suburbs! We’ve lived around here all our lives and have helped many families successfully move into their new homes in Naperville. If you have any questions about this suburb or other areas in the Western Chicago suburbs, we want to hear from you. And if anything piqued your interest, or if you’re now wondering whether Naperville is right for you, then we can help you find the right place for you. 

Believe it or not, Downtown Elmhurst offers an endless array of some of the best restaurants in Illinois! You actually do not have to go all the way to Chicago to find a great place to take your loved ones for brunch, dinner, or a night out.

The dining options offered by restaurants near Elmhurst are so diverse. In fact, it doesn’t matter whether you want to experience authentic American cuisine, Italian old-school pizza, Malaysian curry, Venezuelan sandwiches, or even Tibetan dumplings; Downtown Elmhurst has it all!

But there’s a caveat; with so many restaurants available in Downtown Elmhurst, choosing the right restaurant for you can be a real challenge as you’re spoilt for choice. This is why we want to take a few minutes of your precious time to highlight the 4 best restaurants in Downtown Elmhurst and what makes them the best. So without further ado, let’s jump straight in.

Francesca’s Amici

A part of Francesca’s restaurant chain, Francesca’s Amici is an Italian restaurant located at the heart of the vibrant downtown Elmhurst. While the dishes on offer are more northern Italian than what many may refer to as the classic Roman Italian, you’re definitely sure that the wide selection of Italian menu based on the sumptuous cuisine of Rome and the surrounding areas such as Lazio, Umbria, and Tuscany won’t be a disappointment!

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If you’ve been looking for a restaurant in Elmhurst where you can enjoy perfectly cooked salmon, chicken breasts, and calamari, as well as huge servings of delicious pasta, look no further. To the Elmhurst residents, however, this place is known for its delicious martinis, malbec, and chianti but do not limit yourself. You can also try the zesty coffee on offer and tasty bitings such as gelato, tiramisu, and mint chocolate, which will most likely excite you at the first bite!

It doesn’t matter whether you’re going out for a normal dinner or celebrating any party, event, or milestone, this restaurant has everything to make your day awesome. The staff is welcoming and accommodating, the décor is lovely, and its quiet ambiance will have you feeling comfortable and relaxed. Better still, the prices are pocket-friendly.

Zenwich

As a vegan-friendly restaurant, Zenwich brings forth a unique combination of the classic American sandwich and the exotic Asian flavors in a way that will arouse your taste buds. The fact that it’s both a vegan and non-vegan restaurant means that the menu is so diverse that you can’t miss something delicious for everyone.

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While many guests come to grab nicely cooked crab cakes, delicious crab sandwiches, and perfectly cooked garlic shrimps, you can try the spicy chicken Basil sandwich combined with grill onion and creamy Thai curry (this remains my favorite). And if you’re accompanied by kids, you can let them try the chicken Teriyaki sandwich with tofu but they’ll always insist on more once they taste this!

Zenwich may be a small counter-serve restaurant, but the delicacies on offer will always have you coming back for more. Of course, that shouldn’t be a problem given the prices are affordable, the staff is friendly, and the atmosphere is pretty welcoming for a loner, a family, or a group of friends looking to have fun in Elmhurst, Illinois.

Nu Crepes

Located in the beautiful Schiller Court Walkway, Nu Crepes is a super modern hipster-like restaurant that’s perfectly hidden in an alley of a busy plaza but a great place to start your day. Well, forgive me if I sound biased but I must admit that it’s one of the best spots in Elmhurst for a fantastic breakfast.

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This family-owned restaurant is widely known for its American-inspired crepes but it goes beyond that. In addition to a plethora of sweet and savory crepes, you have to try the delicious marsala or the perfectly prepared bacon, buffalo chicken, and tapas.

While it’s considered a fast-food joint, it’s designed to offer a warm atmosphere to make you feel comfortable, relaxed, and have a good time. This restaurant offers fair prices for their dishes and the staff is well-trained and welcoming. This picturesque restaurant is certainly worth visiting.

Mack’s Golden Pheasant

There’s probably no better restaurant for nostalgic moments, especially for those who grew up in Elmhurst. Having been in operation since 1948, Mack’s Golden Pheasant restaurant remains one of the oldest restaurants in DuPage County. It serves a unique combination of flavorful American, Austrian, Czech, and German cuisines and cocktails in a laidback lodge-like setting. I know, I know, it isn’t located in Downtown Elmhurst, I just couldn’t leave it out. You won’t be disappointed if you are willing to travel for only a few minutes.

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With a long history starting from its Czech immigrant founders, this restaurant has passed the test of time and withered every storm and adversity, which is an indication that the owners have been doing things the right way. While the menu may appear somewhat eclectic, it features some of the best Eastern Europe dishes that you’ll ever come across including hand-cut steaks, Wiener schnitzel, roast duckling, and a variety of sumptuous seafood. To bring back the classic American cuisine, you can try the famous hand-pattied 12 oz. hamburgers.

Having been recognized as an Elmhurst institution, Mack’s Golden Pheasant restaurant not only offers great food and cocktails but also a superb atmosphere that makes diners feel like they’re part of one family. Imagine a place where you can enjoy some of the best dishes at very affordable prices with ever-friendly staff ensuring that you enjoy yourself, and of course, your meal.

Dining options in Downtown Elmhurst are as diverse as the people who live and work there. Whether you want to experience authentic American cuisine, Italian old-school pizza, Malaysian curry, Venezuelan sandwiches, or even Tibetan dumplings; this downtown has it all!  It’s not hard for anyone on any budget to find a restaurant they love here.

Though there are plenty of websites with data on the western suburbs, sometimes you need somebody with first-hand knowledge to answer – is La Grange IL a good place to live? 

La Grange IL ranks among the best Chicago suburbs to live in and is highly rated for safety, schools, and family life. It has a small, dense population of 16,321 and lots of amenities. The downtown offers over 80 retail and dining outlets and a 25-minute metra connection to Chicago. 

That’s the short answer. In this article, I’ll give you a detailed breakdown of everything La Grange has to offer; I’ll show you around the best things to do, compare the local schools, and explain the housing market, including a comparison of property taxes in and around La Grange.  

What it’s Like Living in La Grange, IL 

La Grange might be small in size but it’s big in its offering. Two main things initially attract people to this village in Cook County – the easy commute into Chicago by metra or car, and the reputation as a great place to raise a family. But what makes people enjoy living here for years to come? 

The village of La Grange ensures a high quality of life for residents by continuously reviewing and investing in community facilities, including the streets, parks, events, and schools. The area also offers unique natural and cultural landmarks, including Salt Creek to the north, the historic district, and a popular downtown populated by independent outlets. 

La Grange offers something that you won’t find in many Chicago suburbs, which is walkability. The village is 2.5 Square miles, which allows many of its residents to take a stroll from their home to the vibrant downtown. With a coffee in hand, you can explore the leafy sidewalks through the suburbs and parks, taking in the mix of historic and modern architecture, including impressive Queen Anne and Frank Lloyd Wright homes. 

Another significant benefit of living in La Grange is the connections to surrounding areas. La Grange is on the I-294 corridor and it’s within twenty minutes by car to reach the Eisenhower expressway, the Stevenson Expressway, O’hare airport, and Midway airport. Similarly, Chicago or other popular suburbs like Naperville, Downers Grove, and Glen Elynn are all less than 30 minutes by car from La Grange. 

So whether you’re looking for a characterful place to settle down or a well-placed base for exploring wider Chicagoland, La Grange has plenty to offer. Let’s take a closer look at the amenities that make this village stand out.

The Best Schools in La Grange

If, like me, you have young children, one of the first things you’ll check out about an area is the educational opportunities. But comparing all the schools one by one takes time, so I’ve put together a quick comparison of the local schools to help you answer the question – what are the best schools in La Grange? 

La Grange has three school districts all highly rated for public education. Whether located in District 102 in the north or District 105 in the south, children can attend an A-rated elementary school and middle school. District 205 serves all of La Grange and includes the A+ rated high school, Lyons Township High. 

Comparing the schools in La Grange 

Some of the schools lie geographically in the La Grange Park area to the north of La Grange or the unincorporated La Grange Highlands to the south. Due to
La Grange’s high walkability, most children can attend their chosen school on foot. 

Schools in La Grange spend an average of $14k per student, compared to the national average of $12.5. La Grange directs slightly more spending towards schools with a high percentage of low-income students, allowing the village to offer consistent opportunities throughout all its schools. All schools in La Grange are rated A+ to B. 

With such a consistent level of good education, La Grange makes our list of the top five affordable western suburbs for schools. 

Lyons Township High School 

3,989 students attend the A+ rated high school, Lyons Township, which ranks 31st best public high school in the entire state of Illinois, according to niche.com. Academic, athletic, and creative students will all find strong development opportunities at Lyons Township. Students can compete in at least eighteen different sports.

Lyons Township also runs an award-winning student newspaper, The LION, as well as a student YouTube channel, and not to mention, the award-winning radio show that gave some of the nation’s talent their start in media. As if that wasn’t enough, Lyons Township also offers over 100 extracurricular activities, ranging from theatre groups, the Science Olympics, sports medicine, and a photography club, to name a few. 

Real Estate in La Grange, IL

Take a walk or a drive around the tree-lined streets of La Grange and you’ll soon see there is an exciting range of housing stock. From size, style, age, and price point, the village boasts characterful and eclectic neighborhoods. With so many beautiful homes on display, you’d be crazy not to ask the question – what is the real estate market like in La Grange? 

Since 2019, the median sale price for a single-family home in La Grange has fluctuated between $400-500K. However, properties in La Grange start at $130K and the high end of the market includes luxury homes valued at over $1.5M. Most properties are single-family homes, however, there are condos available, particularly in the downtown and southeast parts of La Grange. 

The real estate market in La Grange is considered competitive, with homes usually receiving more than two offers. Homes usually sell for 98% of the list price. 

The next thing you might be wondering is whether all the neighborhoods here were created equal. It is a relatively small village, which makes it easier to answer the question – what are the best neighborhoods in La Grange? 

La Grange can be divided into four main neighborhoods, which are northwest, northeast, south, and the village center. There is some variety between the neighborhoods.

As a general rule, the most affluent neighborhoods and expensive properties are located in the northwest of La Grange and the village center. According to bestneighborhood.com, most of La Grange is rated as a desirable place to live, except for a small area of the La Grange Highlands in the far southeast of the village. 

Are property taxes high in La Grange IL? 

Following suit with the rest of Cook County, La Grange IL has higher property tax rates than the U.S. national average, at 2.02% vs 1.10% for a single-family home. 

As you’ll see in the table below, La Grange has higher property tax rates than its neighboring suburbs Hinsdale and Western Springs; however, the average median home value is lower in La Grange. Comparatively, La Grange Park and Brookfield to the north both have higher property taxes and lower median home values than La Grange.

High-quality education, clean and green streets, a historic village hall and a well-maintained public library are just a few of the community resources that La Grange property taxes go towards.  

Is La Grange a good place to raise a family? 

La Grange ranks ​​#24 for best places for families in Chicago, out of an impressive 501 areas, according to niche.com. The demographics alone support La Grange’s reputation; 25% of households have children and a whopping 8% of the suburb’s community are under five years old. There’s more to it than data, though. 

Several things that make La Grange a good suburb to raise a family. The village has low crime rates, good schools, clean streets and lots of youth activities. 

La Grange’s walkability also means that children in this village will have independence not always offered by the sprawling suburbs of Chicago. Most of the village’s businesses can be found on South La Grange Road, which runs the entire length of the suburb. This means that shops, markets, and cafes are within walking distance. Most children can also attend school on foot and easily reach parks close by. 

Is La Grange safe? 

Both property crime and violent crime are approximately 80% lower in La Grange IL than the national average. Residents report feeling safe in their community and note that they are largely unaffected by any crime. 

Things to Do in La Grange

No guide to La Grange would be complete without showcasing the fantastic days out you can have here – it’s one of the best things about living in La Grange.

La Grange is not only close to destinations like Naperville and Chicago but has its own charming and bustling downtown area too. So if you’re wondering what there is to do in La Grange… The answer is, plenty!

Downtown La Grange is known for its independent personality, with most outlets being boutiques, one-of-a-kinds, and mom and pops. It’s no surprise it was voted the best in Chicagoland by Chicago magazine. There is also a second shopping district located three blocks west, by Stone Avenue. 

Here are just a few things worth exploring in and around downtown La Grange: 

• The La Grange Farmers Market, for the very freshest local produce 
• Jackson Square mall, home to two stories of antiques and vintage wares
• The Village Hall, for its stunning Georgian Renaissance architecture 
• Olivaceto, to sample a huge selection of artisan olive oils and vinegars 
• Anecdote, to get inspired by their curated collection of high-end homeware
• Wonderful Matcha, to peruse teas from around their world and consult their very own teologist on the perfect brew
• Linnea Jewelers, to pick up unusual pieces made by one of Chicago’s last traditional jewelers  
• The historic Stone Avenue station, whose Richardsonian Romanesque design looks like it’s straight from a fairytale 
• La Grange Art League, a gallery and studio hosting works and workshops from talented local artists 
• The La Grange Country Club, an exclusive 18-hole, 112-acre golf course
• The La Grange Theatre, although temporarily closed, this historical and cultural landmark has been part of the village’s identity since 1925
• La Grange Area Historical Society, a museum and research center in one of La Grange’s oldest homes – if you’re a La Grange resident, you may even be able to see old records of your house 

Community events in La Grange

The community ethos of La Grange is no doubt helped by their strong calendar of events throughout the year. Whether it’s the weekly farmer’s market, or many anticipated yearly events like the Pet Parade, Illinois’ leading Craft Fair, the West End Art’s Festival, or Summerfest, residents usually have something in their calendar to look forward to. 

Local organizations are known for pulling together when the community needs it most. For the Covid era Christmas of 2021, the La Grange Business Association displayed thousands of lights; from shopfront decorations to large installations.

Their mission was to make sure families in La Grange had plenty of opportunities to enjoy the festive season. Throughout the year, the community-led association uplifts La Grange businesses with initiatives, workshops, and local promotion. 

Best Restaurants and Bars in La Grange 

There are around 50 restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from in La Grange, and it’s no doubt part of the reason it’s such a popular suburb to live in. A fantastic selection of cuisines caters to the urban sophisticate tastes of the locals, but La Grange’s restaurants pull visitors from all across Chicago. While the village isn’t known for its nightlife, many of its restaurants double up nicely as a cozy place for a cocktail or glass of wine, while the local sports bars provide a livelier atmosphere. 

The Milkstop Cafe

Stop by the Milkstop Cafe for a plate packed with flavor and a slice of La Grange’s history. This multiethnic diner is housed in a historic 120-year old building opposite the original milk stop on the Aurora railroad, now known as Stone Avenue station. The cafe was founded by local community members, making it a true neighborhood cafe. They serve food all day long, so you can stop by for french toast in a cup for breakfast, Chilaquiles for brunch, avocado club sandwiches for lunch, or crispy chicken thighs and blistered shishito peppers for dinner. 

Insider tip: Try one of their wine-topped cocktails, such as the tequila moonrise; a delicious elderflower, tequila, and lime trio topped with a fizz of Prosecco. 

Marcos Kitchen 

In a time where international travel is sorely limited, you can expand your culinary horizons by stopping by Marcos Kitchen, where Chef Marco brings you dishes from far-flung corners of the globe, inspired by his decades of travel. Your evening will no doubt be elevated by the exquisite interior – the art deco decor is intimate, yet modern and upscale, while white tablecloths and dark wooden flooring cleverly nod to the menu’s traditional European inspirations. The menu changes with the seasons, but a sure staple is Marcos’ freshly baked bread, served with delightful accompaniments; think whipped butter laced with cabernet. 

Insider tip: The menu is ever-changing, so keep an eye on their social media so as not to miss their special offers and one-off specialty dishes.  

The Elm 

Think big flavors on small plates. The Elm, La Grange, is serving up fusion food in a chic setting. Complete with indoor and outdoor rooftop seating, a large bar, and a grand staircase, this location makes for one of La Grange’s coolest destinations. If the friendly staff doesn’t put you at ease, then perhaps the one-of-a-kind cocktails will. The menu features pork belly tacos, fig bruschetta, and salmon wontons; this is relaxed dining at its finest. 

Insider tip: The crab cakes are not to be missed. 

Blackberry Market 

This health-focused market-style eatery is the perfect place to swing by for an energizing lunch or dinner. Believing in all that is non-processed, natural, and fresh, they offer a warm welcome to all the usual suspects; gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, or sugar-free – but there’s plenty of feel-good food for all folks. Come expecting salads, sandwiches, and soups, and enjoy a colorful plate of no-nonsense tasty food.  

Insider tip: The cinnamon buns have pride of place on the countertop for a reason, so be sure to grab one to go! 

Q-BBQ

If you’re looking for something dark and smokey, then look no further. Q-BBQ offers umami-gold with their 13-spice rub and 24-hour hickory smoking. The hush puppies are surprise gems on a menu of big players, and their sauces are best served slathered. Q-BBQ is fast food that isn’t fast forgotten. 

Insider tip: The smoked meats are the star of the menu 

The Barrel House Social 

A friendly and relaxed gastropub and sports bar in the heart of downtown La Grange. The outdoor patio is perfect for summer drinks; inside, the eleven TV screens make it hard to miss the game. They serve up Midwestern-style comfort food; chicken wings, chicken biscuits, pulled pork nachos, and mac and cheese, to name a few. 

Insider tip: Head here in the evening to catch the happy hours, live music nights, and pub trivia 

Milk Money Brewing 

As the Milk Money Brothers put it themselves, this establishment is ‘born, bred and brewed in the village’. To kindly assist you in drinking more of their creative craft beers, they’re served up alongside an interesting artisan menu; wood-fired oysters, fried chicken and hot honey mash, and grandma’s pizza by the slice. 

Insider tip: We can’t tell you what to order because the menu is seasonal! We can tell you to take a peek at the kids’ menu for a good laugh.

Best Parks in La Grange

Despite its proximity to Chicago, La Grange has preserved a respectable amount of green space for the community to enjoy. 

In total, La Grange has 82 acres of parks, which, combined with the 112-acre country club, makes up 12% of the village land area. As well as the community parks within the village, you can reach Salt Creek Nature Preserve, Possum Woods, La Grange Park Woods and Arie Crown Woods by car in ten minutes.

La Grange Park District

The park district manages 13 green spaces in La Grange, in addition to providing robust activities and athletics programs for children. Across the locations, the park facilities include: 

• A recreation center
• Running tracks
• Soccer pitches
• Full and half basketball courts
• Community gardens
• Playgrounds
• Tennis, baseball, volleyball, softball and handball courts
• A skate park
• T-ball fields 
• Picnic shelters 

Salt Creek Nature Preserve

This historic natural site features the slow-moving salt creek, which winds through 245 acres of ancient oak savannah, prairie, marsh, and meadows. Lucky ramblers might spot great horned owls, hawks, and American bullfrogs among the tall grasses, and, rumor has it, there are flying squirrels at night. Keen volunteers of all levels can get involved in the ongoing ecological restoration of the site. 

Possum Woods and La Grange Park Woods

The woodlands are located right next to the Salt Creek Nature Preserve and provide a welcome natural refuge for dog walkers, bird watchers, and runners. You can take one of the many hiking trails through the woods and past the creek and stop off for a bite to eat at the picnic benches along the way. 

La Grange Country Club

This exclusive golf club has been part of the La Grange scene since it was founded in 1899. Members not only enjoy the 18-hole golf course spread over 112 acres, but take advantage of the tennis courts, swimming pools, and the selection of dining spots.

Arie Crown Forest

Located just past the southern edge of La Grange is a 3.4-mile trail through Arie Forest. It’s a quiet, unpaved route that takes you through the woods, past large open fields, pavilions, and picnic groves, and alongside the fishing lake. 

In short 

If you’re looking to move to a Western Chicago suburb with a high quality of living, proximity to the city, and lots of amenities for families, then La Grange deserves a place on your list. If you’re still not convinced, check out our list of the best commuter suburbs in Chicago and the Chicago suburbs with the best downtowns. 

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World-class coffee vendors are not only found in the metropolis of Chicago itself but also dotted in and around its suburbs, including Elmhurst, Naperville, St Charles, Geneva, and Wheaton. You can find locally roasted blends, home-baked goods, and exquisite latte art that put these neighborhoods firmly on the map for the best coffee in the suburbs. 

Read on to find your new favorite place to grab a cup of joe on the go or to tuck into a cozy corner with a book for a couple of hours.

What are the best coffee shops in the Chicago suburbs? 

5. Brewpoint Coffee, Elmhurst

Don’t leave Elmhurst without visiting at least one of the Brewpoint Coffee houses. There are three to choose from, thanks to Elmhurst being one of the more proximate suburbs of Chicago (less than 20 miles away). Brewpoint spotted a match made in heaven between their irresistible coffee and the frequent coffee culture folks passing through this suburb.

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Brewpoint bills itself as a community coffee shop with a relaxed ambiance and free wifi. Enjoy their home-roasted coffee and locally-made gluten-free pastries from Holcomb Hollow and West Town.

And no great coffee shop would be complete without the good company of friendly locals and excellent service. They recently updated their menu, so it’s worth a revisit if you’re already familiar with this highly-rated establishment. 

4. Arcedium, St Charles

This fashionable cafe offers specialty coffee, freshly baked pastries, and light food in a stylish and cozy environment. The historic downtown is nestled right up against the Fox River making a 40 mile trip out of Chicago more than worthwhile. When the weather is nice, you can get your coffee to go and enjoy it on a stroll along the scenic river trails. 

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Arcedium is well known for warm and friendly welcomes, with relaxed ambiance and staff giving their recommendations if you don’t know what to order. The cafe has a wrap-around bar, similar to a diner, where you can sit and watch while your drink is being made. Whatever you end up with is guaranteed to be fresh and flavorful.

Our personal recommendation? Try the Breve Latte with a filling croissant (choice of almond, chocolate, or raisin). If late in the day, you’re still at Arcedium, indulge in their Roast Beef Panini – roast beef with cream cheese on white bread.

3. Cafe And Barr, Geneva

Cafe and Barr has a family-friendly ambiance but their coffee selections are suitably grown-up. Enjoy anything from a cold brew to a matcha latte, each served with thoughtfully curated mugs and cups. Think camping-style enamelware for hot chocolate and summery highball glasses for lattes. 

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And when you’re still lingering there for lunch, tuck into their filling and simple pick-me-ups, like bagels and toast with everything on them. It’s simple, honest, and delicious; if you’re with the family, you can’t go wrong at Cafe and Barr. 

Another incentive to stop by Cafe and Barr is that Geneva has one of the most highly rated downtowns in the Chicago suburbs. Complete with a beautiful riverfront, historic shopping district, and more than 160 local restaurants, boutiques, bars, and stores, why not make an afternoon of your trip? 

2. Sparrow Coffee, Naperville 

If you are a certified urbanite with an appetite for everything modern and updated, you will love  Sparrow Coffee down in Naperville. It’s a high-end coffee spot where enthusiasts can drool over the coffee paraphernalia and tech while sipping artisanal coffee in a chic designer setting. This is coffee nerdmanship at its very best. 

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Among their curated selections are the Hot Red Eye, the Batch Brew, and the Cafe Au Lait. Frequent customers know to pair them with the well-loved Banana Streusel Muffin or the geeky green-themed Avocado Toast with smoked gouda and smashed avocado, Aleppo pepper on Publican Quality Bread.

Some customers who are not coffee drinkers confess that they come here for the food, like the Tofu Banh Mi (marinated tofu with pickled vegetables and jalapeños) and the Brekky (tender pork belly with soy glaze and fried eggs). But you’d be wise not to disclose your caffeine aversion on arrival, or you might just find yourself shunned in this coffee-lovers paradise. 

1. My Half Of The Sky, Wheaton

As well as serving some of the best coffee, My Half of The Sky might just be the comfiest, cutest cafe outside of Chicago. They serve signature blends in a farmhouse-style setting, nodding to their beans sourced ethically from fair-trade farmers. They meet high standards of environmental and social responsibility, summed up in their motto ‘shop local, care global’. 

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That’s quite an inspiring story for you to absorb as you sip your expertly extracted and sublimely balanced coffee. With twenty-four hot coffee offerings and nineteen iced coffee variants, you’ll find everything from your usual suspects to drinks you won’t get anywhere else (lavender vanilla latte and peppermint bark mocha are some of the most creative on the bill). 

Their signature espresso blend is rich and complex, with meltingly delicious aromas of butterscotch, dark chocolate, and praline. The deep and silky amber crema will warm any sleepy afternoon with its sweet, caramel finish.

So, if you find yourself in Wheaton with the sudden urge for your daily Java, head to My Half of the Sky to perk yourself up with tasty bean blends, balanced palettes, and of course, just the right dose of caffeine. 

Want to know what else is good in the suburbs? 

We’re locals to the western Chicago suburbs and we specialize in scouting out the best neighborhoods and real estate opportunities. If you’re exploring the area, check out more of our hand-picked selections for ‘best of’ in the Chicago Suburbs: 

• Work up an appetite over our list of the Best Burgers in the Chicago Suburbs
  
• Plan your next special dinner at one of the Best Steakhouses in the Chicago Suburbs
  
• If you’re feeling charmed by all that Chicagoland Suburbia has to offer and considering making that move, check out which are the Best Chicago Suburbs for Commuting Downtown 

Building your dream home is a big decision, but you’ll be making the best choice if you work with one of these companies. We hope you find this list useful when choosing your new custom home builder.

If you’re looking for a new home, there are several things to consider before deciding on which one is best for your family. One of the most important is the quality of workmanship and materials used by each company. The last thing any homeowner wants after investing in a house is to have it fall apart. 

Another factor you should consider before choosing your new home builder in Naperville, IL is their customer service history. You want a company that cares about the finished product as much as you do! A good way to find out about a company’s customer service is to read reviews; they’re a goldmine of unbiased real customer experiences. 

However, we understand that you might not have time to scour the internet for reviews. Building a home in a busy time! That’s why we’ve taken the time to do a deep dive into home builders in Naperville IL, so we can share the very best with you.  

Below is a countdown of the best custom home builders in Naperville.

8. Oak Hills Builders

Nick Stanitz, the son of a real estate entrepreneur, began building homes in 1988. Nick grew connections and started constructing houses in Naperville, becoming one of the area’s largest developers. He also developed important new subdivisions including Ashbury, Stillwater subdivisions, and most recently the Clow creek. Oak Hills Builders has produced over 40 homes per year. They built plenty of new subdivisions such as Stillwater and Clow Creek. 

Oak Hills Builders is a family-owned business, so you can always be sure their hearts and heads are in the right place when it comes to designing homes with integrity. As such, they are highly commended as a trusted home builder in Naperville. 

7. Overstreet

Best of Houzz Service 2015-2016

Overstreet Builders are three generations of Overstreet builders that have satisfied Napervillians for more than 60 years. The Overstreet family believes in hard work, integrity, and honesty. When you are looking for a new home, the best place to begin is with people who have been in business for more than 50 years.

Overstreet Builders are located in the Naperville area but build homes throughout DuPage County and surrounding areas. They now have sites available in Ashwood Park and Hidden Creek, but you may also build a custom house anywhere your heart desires.

The Overstreet family will work with you to create your perfect dream home. You can expect quality craftsmanship when you choose Overstreet builders for all of your new construction needs. 

When building a custom house, there is no limit on how creative they can get. So you can expect a beautiful one-of-a-kind masterpiece when working with Overstreet builders. If you are wondering what’s the most expensive part of building a house find out here. 

6. T6 Construction and Development Inc

T6 Construction and Development, Inc. is a firm based in Downers Grove, Illinois. They specialize in general contracting, construction management, and design/build construction. T6 construction builds expertise, knowledge, and integrity into every project it undertakes. In the words of T6 themselves, they “…offer a full range of services, from pre-construction and consulting through constructing their clients custom homes and buildings.”

T6 Construction and Development has built a reputation in the industry for quality, honest service by maintaining strict ethics in its bidding policy and providing a safe work environment. All carpenters and laborers are employed in-house, giving them maximum control over the process from start to finish. 

In addition to T6’s experience, clients also benefit from the firm’s principles. They endeavor to be personally involved in every aspect of a project to ensure its ultimate success. They consider themselves a key player on any home-building team, as they can generate costing budgets and propose alternative construction plans during the design development stage. They can get creative and provide engineering at very competitive prices, making them the general contractor of choice for anyone looking for the whole package. 

5. M House Development

Best of Houzz Design 2018-2021 | Best of Houzz Service 2018-2021 | 10 Reviews

M House Development is a custom home builder in Naperville, IL that prioritizes quality design with fresh, modern finishes. M House’s reputation for high-quality workmanship, originality, and attention to detail distinguishes it from the competition. They have that contemporary flair that many people desire nowadays.

M House was created by Scott Mathieson. His dedication to the field is evident in his job, as well as the long-term impression he makes on his clients. Clients are kept up to date on the progress of their order throughout the building process, thanks to his open communication and straightforward business approach. His previous 18+ years of homebuilding expertise have equipped him with the knowledge and skills to design and build over 3500 single-family residences.

The desire to make a difference in people’s lives, coupled with a love for beautiful design, inspired the creation of M House Development. This Naperville home builder knows that every family is unique, which is why they will work with you to create your perfect dream house. M house is based in Naperville but builds homes though-out the western Chicago Suburbs.

4. Crestview Builders Inc

Crestview Builders is a firm that provides spec and bespoke homes in the Naperville area. Over the last four decades, the firm has established 21 subdivisions and constructed over 1,800 houses in Naperville and neighboring communities. That’s a lot of houses! They currently offer sites at Ashwood Park, Hidden Creek, and Hobsons Pond in Naperville.

Crestview builders are just one of many home builders in Naperville, but they are unique since this family-owned company takes pride in hiring only the best to work on your house. Mike Steck, the owner of Crestview has over 40 years of experience in real estate development, which makes him a leader in this industry.

Crestview is committed to bringing their clients only the highest quality houses at an affordable price tag. Crestview Builders is a family-owned and managed firm that has a team of locally-raised employees with long histories with the company. They are known for being upfront and honest with all customers about who they are and what they can provide them.

3. Charleston Building and Development

Best of Houzz Design 2018-2021 | 13 Reviews, 5.0

With Charleston Building’s median project cost of over $1.5m, you will see some of the most extravagant and customs designs on this side of the Mississippi. Charleston was voted “Best Builder in Naperville” by Naperville Magazine. It’s not hard to see why; one look at their portfolio and you’ll find nothing but luxurious, high-end homes that are sure to blow you away.

Charleston’s office is small, stylish, and feels like home; they like to think of it as a reflection of their team. Since 1998, Larry Van Someren has innovated home building with his creative modernist designs. The business is now run by both of his sons with an in-house designer.

Charleston Buildings can be found all around the Chicago suburbs but many are found right here in Naperville! Charleston is a master at designing luxury custom homes for any kind of clientele, whether you only have $500k or over $20mil to spend – they will build it (and beautifully). If you are looking for something truly unique, Charleston is the company for you.

2. Kings Court Builders Inc

Best of Houzz Design Award 2013, 2019, 2020 | Best of Houzz Service Award 2013-2016, 2018-2021 | 42 Reviews, 5.0

Another long-time builder in the Naperville area is Pete Stefani, with Kings Court Builders. Pete has years of expertise in constructing houses and is one of the most well-known and trusted builders in the region. Kings Court Builders has a history of excellent customer service and continues to provide high-quality workmanship for homeowners throughout Naperville.

Homeowners are impressed with Kings Court Builders’ dedication to delivering a top-quality home. They have several different floor plans for you to choose from and modifications are welcomed, which means the options are endless! Many of their homes feature premium materials and great attention to detail in all aspects of design.

They have sites available in Ashwood Park and Americana Estates, but they may also build custom homes if you already own a plot of land you’d like to use. They also have a professional team of designers and consultants to guide homeowners through the entire building process.

1. DJK Custom Homes

Locally Owned, Eco-friendly, 32 Years In Service

Best of Houzz Design 2016 | 2018 Best of Houzz Service 2015-21 | 64 reviews, 4.9 | 131 Projects in Naperville

Dan Kittilsen and his wife Kim own and operate DJK Custom Builders. DJK Custom Homes was founded in 1988 and has been delivering high-quality, cost-effective, eco-friendly homes to Naperville residents ever since. Dan is still involved in each new home development, ensuring that you get the authentic experience every time. Many of the homeowners speak highly of DJK’s meticulous attention to detail and honesty.

DJK Custom Homes is locally owned and operated, which means they take pride in the work they do for Naperville homeowners. They are committed to building only the highest quality homes; ones that meet all local regulations as well as energy efficiency standards. 

DJK Custom Homes is proud of its excellent customer service record; many homeowners even remark on how responsive they are to their questions or concerns throughout the process. They have a staff of experts on hand to guide you through the construction process, so you can rest assured that your home is built to last.