But retirement comes in as many shapes and sizes as the lives lived before it. Do you want cultural enrichment or rural tranquillity? Perhaps it’s time for you to splurge on the finer things in life – but if you’re looking to extract the best from a modest retirement, then there’s surely a place for you too. 

You can indeed find all that and more in the Chicago suburbs and by the end of this article, you’ll have a good idea of which neighborhood is perfect for your retirement dreams. 

The Best Chicago Suburbs For Retirement 

6. Oak Brook, IL 

Best for: Luxury experiences and low taxes

Oak Brook is ranked as the number 6th best suburb in Chicago for retirement and Chicagoland’s seniors agree – an impressive 39% of the population here are aged 65+. It’s one of the only 

If you dream of glamorous golden years filled with high-end shopping, and dining, then this is the village for you. Oak Brook is the shopping capital of Illinois and the Oak Brook Centre is home to luxury brands including Coach, Kate Spade, L’Occitane, and Ralph Lauren. It’s also the home of Butler National Golf Club, one of the most prestigious and exclusive clubs in the world. 

The suburb itself houses many modern developments, including the Rush Oak Brook hospital, which opened in 2019. Some of the best assisted senior living facilities are located in Oak Brook, many of which are located close to the central hub of golf courses, fitness centers, and the public library. There are also several private senior communities. There are lots of businesses headquartered and operating in Oak Brook, which allows excellent public facilities to be funded despite incredibly friendly taxation. 

If you’re intrigued by what retirement living in Oak Brook could have in store for you, read all about it in our in-depth feature. 

5. Glen Ellyn  

Best for: Community involvement  

If you dread the idea of becoming a ‘spare part’ after retirement, Glen Ellyn would welcome you with open arms. The suburb nicknamed itself The Volunteer Village because so much of the community has been built from the ground up by local volunteers and visionaries. You could get involved with the Animal Rescue Foundation, the public library, Willowbrook Wildlife Center, or one of several food banks, to name a few volunteer-led initiatives in Glen Ellyn. 

As a community-focused suburb, Glen Ellyn has many amenities to enjoy in retirement, including 29 parks, a well-maintained downtown, and a central metra station for easy access to the city. Popular events include the Taste of Glen Ellyn, the once-yearly food festival that brings the downtown to life. 

4. Wheaton, IL 

Best for: Community & Culture  

A college town might not seem like the obvious place to base your twilight years, but they’re surprisingly suitable places to retire. Wheaton is home to a private evangelical liberal arts college and the constant influx of engaged young adults is arguably what makes this suburb such a well-rounded place to live. 

Wheaton is perfect for seniors who are seeking an active lifestyle. There’s lots of natural beauty and greenery, a dynamic downtown, and many programs for seniors to get involved in. There are also many opportunities for community worship in the Christian faith. 

We’ve covered the suburb of Wheaton in lots of detail in our community spotlight post, where you can read all about life in one of the most highly-rated suburbs in Illinois. 

3. Elmhurst, IL 

Best for: Arts & Culture 

If you consider yourself a learner for life, then Elmhurst would be a fantastic way to continue expanding your horizons well into your golden years. It’s considered to be the cultural capital of DuPage County, being home to several prestigious and historical institutions, including the Elmhurst Art Museum, the Elmhurst History Museum, the Elmhurst Public Library, and the York Theatre. There are many well-funded community events too –  through every season – so you don’t have to worry about staying entertained. 

If you always pictured yourself retiring to a pretty suburb, then you’ll be happy here. It’s one of the leafier western suburbs and that’s where it takes its name (‘Elm’-hurst). Elmhurst is also one of the western suburbs that are closer to Chicago, promising an easier journey to take advantage of the best entertainment, shopping, and dining in the state, as well as the many state-of-the-art hospitals in the city. 

These pointers barely scratch the surface of why this suburb is a great place to live, so if you want to know more then head to our Elmhurst Community Spotlight. 

2. Evanston 

Best for: Urban-feel and Healthcare 

The city of Evanston is approximately 17 miles north of Chicago and home to 74,587 residents. It offers a different type of retirement – in a central, urban location – where you can live actively and be part of the soul of the city. Evanston is well known for being a dynamic, diverse, and forward-thinking town and so it’s perfect for anyone who doesn’t want to slow down too much in their golden years. 

There are many benefits to being an empty nester in a more urbanized location like Evanston. You’ll have an endless supply of things to do right on your doorstep, rather than being isolated in a suburban location.

You’ll also be supported by public transport – including the UP-N metra line and three public transit agencies – should you ever decide to stop driving. Evanston is also one of the handful of suburban villages with its own large hospital, Evanston Hospital, which makes accessing healthcare far easier. 

Evanston is one of the Chicago suburbs with the best downtowns, so if it’s entertainment and excitement, you’re after, head over to that article to find out which other places made our list. 

1. Barrington Hills 

Best for: Rural living 

Barrington Hills is a spacious village with a small population just 53 minutes Northwest of Chicago. The Average Effective Property Tax Rate here is 1.3%, which is lower than Lake County’s average of 2.83%. Admittedly you’ll find lower tax rates in Chicago’s comparably wealthy retirement suburbs (such as Glencoe, Winnetka, and Kenilworth). What you find instead is rolling green expanses, sprawling estates, and the agricultural and equestrian lifestyle that Barrington Hills is known for. 

A quick google image search of life in Barrington Hills speaks for itself – if you dream of a secluded and outdoorsy retirement in Chicago’s upper crust, this is it. There is the Barrington Hills Country Club, the Spring Lake Forest Preserve, Lake Zurich, and the Fox River all close by. Chicago’s north shore boating clubs are also less than 50 minutes away by car and you can join the Barrington Boating Club for boating in three local locations. 

If you’re wondering whether a far-out, quiet location is convenient for an empty nester, just know that 30% of Barrington Hills’ community is made up of retirees. The median home value here is $773,000 so it may only be the perfect retirement destination for a select few. But, if you can afford it, the autumn of your life is better spent in very few places than Barrington Hills. 

Whether you want to discover a quirky new independent shop or want to grab dinner and catch a movie – the malls of Chicago have something for everyone.

Yet, you may not know where to go to find what you want due to the sheer volume of malls in the area.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the five best malls in Chicago’s suburbs to make things easier on you. Whether you’re north, south, or west of the city – you aren’t far from one of the malls on this list. Also, we’ve categorized each mall for what they do best. (luxury brands, quirky wares, dining, etc.)

#5: Chicago Premium Outlets

1650 Premium Outlet Blvd., Aurora, IL, 60502

Best for: Spending a day shopping for great deals

If you want to spend a sunny day shopping outdoors for great prices – you’ll love Chicago’s Premium Outlets. Located in Aurora, this outlet mall is west of the city on the Ronald Reagan Memorial Tollway.

It’s a massive outdoor mall featuring beautiful architecture. There are plenty of lush outdoor areas to sit on a bench and take in the scenery.

There are plenty of great deals, making this one of the best outlet malls in Chicago’s suburbs. Choice outlets include:

• A Nike Factory Store

• Polo Ralph Lauren

• Adidas

• Puma

• Pac Sun

• Gap Outlet – Kids and Baby

• The Banana Republic

• Many others

If you want to refresh your wardrobe without breaking your budget, Chicago Premium Outlets is the mall for you.

Dining

Besides all the great shopping, there is a food court located in the mall’s center. It gives shoppers the chance to sit back, relax, and refuel during a long day of finding great deals. Restaurants include:

• Asian Chao

• Maki of Japan

• Great Wraps

• Starbucks Coffee

• Tea Ninja

• Auntie Annie’s Pretzels

Chicago Premium Outlets features ample parking – and it’s all free. That means you won’t have to worry about paying extra to park, and you shouldn’t have trouble finding an open space.

#4: Heritage Trail Mercantile

190-B Northfield Rd., Northfield, IL, 60093

Best for: Going antiquing and discovering quirky wares

Our next pick takes us north of the city to Heritage Trail Mercantile. What started as a feed & grain store has become an antique mall. It features stunning jewelry, antiques, furniture, and one-of-a-kind artwork. You’ll adore this mall if you’re more into antiquing and finding quirky art and furniture.

Stores include the new vintage clothing boutique, House of Holly. It gets its name from the beloved rescue dog that greets each customer. Inside, you’ll find tons of vintage clothing in great shape.

The shops here are goldmines for art lovers and antique lovers. You’ll find vases, china, furniture, picture frames, art, etc.

This is the mall to visit if you want to redecorate your home. You’ll find all sorts of knick-knacks and decorations that you won’t find anywhere else.

Hours of Operation and Parking

Heritage Trail Mercantile is open seven days a week for your convenience. They operate:

• Monday through Friday from 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Saturday from 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM

• Sunday from 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM.

There is free parking located at the rear entrance facing Wilmette Avenue. It’s a quaint location that doesn’t get too busy, so you shouldn’t have trouble parking.

#3: Woodfield Mall

5 Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg, IL, 60173

Best for: Enjoying a full day of shopping and entertainment

Are you looking for a mall that can do it all? In other words, a mall with shopping, entertainment, and dining? If so, you’ll want to head northeast of Chicago to the Woodfield Mall – the largest shopping center in Illinois. In fact, Woodfield Mall is one of the largest shopping destinations in the entire country.

It’s a massive mall, so be prepared to do a healthy amount of walking. The good news is it’s entirely indoors – so you’ll stay in air conditioning the entire time.

Shops

There are many shops at Woodfield Mall – including luxury clothing brands. You’ll find electronics, toys, cosmetics, sportswear, shoes, and more. No matter what you’re looking for, you’re bound to find what you need somewhere in Woodfield Mall. Choice stores include:

• Build-a-Bear

• Apple Store

• Armani Exchange

• Lush Cosmetics

• Nordstrom

• H&M

• Express

• Many more

You’ll also find plenty of options for entertainment at Woodfield Mall.

Entertainment

There’s no shortage of things to do here should you get bored with shopping. You can visit the bowling alley to enjoy a quick game with friends. Or you can take in a show at the in-house comedy club. There’s a play area, a game lounge, and Peppa Pig World of Play Chicago if you’ve got kids with you.

#2: The Chicago Fashion Outlets

5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont, IL, 60018

Best for: A day of luxury clothing shopping.

If you’re staying near the O’Hare airport in Rosemont, it’s worth visiting The Chicago Fashion Outlets. It’s an enclosed outlet mall that has designer clothing brands. Not only that, but you can take in interactive visual arts, and there are plenty of restaurants.

This mall is home to 150 stores, so there are plenty of options. This is the mall to visit in Chicago’s suburbs if you’re after luxury clothing. You’ll find the most designer brands as well as great deals.

Stores

Here’s a glance at some of the stores you can find in The Chicago Fashion Outlets:

• Aldo

• Allsaints

• Armani Outlet

• Bloomingdale’s Outlet

• Boss Outlet

• Calvin Klein

• Claire’s Outlet

• Dolce Regalo

• Forever 21

• Gucci

• Many more

As you can see, you’ll have plenty of options for designer clothing stores. Not only that, but many of these stores are outlets, so they contain great deals and prices.

#1: Oakbrook Center

100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook, IL, 60523

Best for: A day of shopping and dinner and a movie.

Our #1 pick goes to the second-largest mall in Illinois, the Oakbrook Center. It’s another massive indoor mall with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The mall features art installations such as the Prismatica Kaleidoscope Experience. It’s a gorgeous interplay of lights, reflections, and colors.

It’s reasons like that why visits to the Oakbrook Center transcend shopping and become something more memorable. There’s also a movie theater inside the mall – making it the perfect spot for dinner and a movie.

Shops

Here’s a glance at the shops you can find at the Oakbrook Center:

• American Eagle

• Allbirds

• CardTronics

• Barnes & Noble

• Chico’s

• L.L. Bean

• Louis Vuitton

• Many more

Should your stomach start to rumble, it’s time to head to the food court.

Dining

The District Food Hall is on level 2 and is near the movie theater – making it a great spot to grab dinner before a show. Here are some of the restaurants you’ll find:

• Perry’s Pork Chop Friday Lunch

• Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken

• Corner Bakery Cafe

• California Pizza Kitchen

• Longitude 87

• Blanco Cocina & Cantina

• DMK Burger Bar

• Many others

As you can see, there are plenty of dining options to satisfy many different tastes. Once you’re done with dinner, you can catch a movie at the built-in AMC 12 Theatres.

Closing Thoughts: Best Malls in Chicago Suburbs

Illinois is no slouch when it comes to shopping malls. In fact, the state is home to some of the most extensive malls in the country. In particular, Woodfield Mall is huge and is an excellent spot for bowling, games, and comedy. Whether you want to discover antiques or spend a day shopping outside – these malls won’t disappoint. If you’re considering moving to the area, check out the 15 Best Western Suburbs of Chicago to Live In.

Though they found the Chicago lands too swampy, they continued traveling northwest on the Indian trail to Milwaukee, Wisconsin (now Milwaukee Avenue). They crossed north branch of the Chicago River but their horse met its demise from a snake bite. So, instead of continuing on their journey, they decided to settle in an area that later became known as Touhy and Devon Avenues.

In November 1834, Christian and Barbara Ebinger had their son, Christian Jr., who was the first White child born in the area that later became known as “Dutchman’s Point.” This name came about because of the German ancestry of the Ebingers. The senior Christian Ebinger was friends with some of the local Native Americans. His son grew up to become ordained as a minister in their German Evangelical Association. In addition, he held other positions such as Village Collector (1852), Village Assessor (1852-1865), and Highway Commissioner (1854-1858).

The Ebingers initially claimed 80 acres of land. But soon, other family members arrived and joined them, settling in an area that eventually became known as Nile Township. As the families grew larger, they spread out into Maine Township.

The community was incorporated as a village in 1881. Developers promoted the availability of electricity, and as the village grew, they established a church, Sunday school, and other amenities. By the turn of the 20th century, it had become a streetcar suburb. Chicago annexed Edison Park on November 8, 1910.

Edison Park’s population exploded 400% to 5,370 in 1930 after WWI due to the building boom. By then, there was very little farmland left. The Ebingers’ name was remembered by a school established in their honor in the 1920s — Christian Ebinger Elementary School.

The land which is now Edison Park was once utilized as summer camps for Native Americans in the 1830s. However, by the 1850s, German farmers had already started to claim the area as their own. In an attempt to bring people to these newly developing suburbs, developers renamed the area and tried various marketing strategies–which eventually proved successful.

However, it took almost 40 years for Edison Park to grow as a community truly, but when it did, it was one of the first communities with electricity. The area was named after Thomas Alva Edison in 1890, and by 1896 it had become a successful railroad suburb with artesian water, Volunteer Fire Company, large railway depot, hotel, and several dozen grandiose houses.

Edison Park has attractively evolved over time and undergone four waves of changes with each new type of resident and nature of land use that came along. It started as a home to Native Americans, became a farming community afterward, followed by its transformation into a railroad suburb; until it finally developed into one of Chicago’s 20 best neighborhoods today.

The average age of those living in Edison today is 41.9 years, and they are relatively affluent too with a per capita income $59,666 (which is higher than Chicago’s average per capita income of only $37,103).

Here we look at the 10 best things to do this weekend to excite mind, body and spirit outside of the metropolis. 

10. Shopping in Oak Brook

If you’re looking for some retail therapy this weekend, look no further than the charming western suburb of Oak Brook, where you will find one of the largest malls in Illinois, the Oakbrook Center. Opened in 1962, the shopping center boasts a huge range of nearly 200 stores and restaurants.

There is nothing you won’t find at this iconic outdoor mall. Brands on offer include Macy’s, Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus, and the great range of eateries includes Cheesecake Factory, California Pizza Kitchen, Perry’s Steakhouse, and many more. So if you’re looking to forget the cares of the working week, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere better than the Oakbrook Center. 

9. LEGOLAND® Discovery Center, Schaumburg

Located on the western edge of the beautiful Busse Woods nature reserve in the suburb of Schaumburg, the LEGOLAND® Discovery Center offers a wonderful day out for all the family. Packed full of amazing attractions and rides, boredom is banished at the Discovery Center. The ultimate indoor LEGO® playground is packed with enough entertainment even for the most energetic kids (and big kids), including MINILAND® – an entire Chicago cityscape made from over 1.5 million bricks – a LEGO® 4D cinema, and the LEGO® Master Builder Academy.

The LEGOLAND® Discovery Center is open 10am-7pm on weekends throughout the year. Tickets can be booked online, and are available from $25 each. 

8.  Brookfield Zoo

Located in the quiet western suburb of Brookfield, and managed by the Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield Zoo is home to over 450 species of animals set in nearly 100 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. Opened in 1934, and internationally recognized for being the first zoo to use ditches and moats instead of cages to house its species, the zoo is the perfect destination for the sensitive animal lover looking to get closer to nature. 

There are events and attractions throughout the year. Highlights include Dolphins in Action, the Hamill Family Wild Encounters, and the Big Cats. A wonderful family day is waiting at Brookfield Zoo. 

7.  Frank Lloyd Wright Buildings, Oak Park

Frank Lloyd Wright was one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. A true innovator, he developed the first distinctively American trend in housing design, known as the Prairie Style, and his philosophy of ‘organic architecture’ continues to influence today.

Discover the inspiring legacy of Lloyd Wright in Oak Park, the Chicago suburb where he lived and worked. The main attractions include his beautiful home and studio, which is open daily, and the iconic Unity Temple. Throughout the summer months, on Saturdays and Sundays, there are also walking tours around the suburb which take in the idyllic neighborhoods that the great architect pioneered. 

6.  The Comedy Vault, Batavia

If you’re looking for some light relief this weekend, there’s no better place to visit than The Comedy Vault. Located in a historic building in downtown Batavia, this venue is a new gem in the area offering popular comedy shows all year around. 

Showcasing the best in American comedy, Batavia’s first ever comedy club is a perfect venue for a lighthearted date or a fun night out with friends. A delicious selection of local food and drinks is served nightly, and for courageous audience members, there are weekly open mic nights. For those looking for a laugh, The Comedy Vault is the perfect destination. 

5.  Fermilab, Batavia

If you want to tackle the big questions of science – What are we made of? How did the universe begin? How can we understand the intricacies of space and time? – then you should visit Fermilab this weekend. Located in a stunning park on the eastern side of the suburb of Batavia, the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, established in 1967, is the United States’ foremost particle physics laboratory. 

The site hosts a programme of educational lectures and events including the popular Ask-a-Scientist every third Sunday of the month. But don’t let the scientific rigor of Fermilab intimidate you. The grounds are also home to a native prairie ecosystem, and even a roaming herd of wild bison. So whatever your interest in science or the natural world, Fermilab promises a great day out for all the family. 

4. Riverwalk, Naperville

Established by the Naperville Park District in 1981 for the town’s 150th anniversary, this wonderful two-mile Riverwalk along the DuPage River is perfect for a tranquil afternoon stroll. It won’t just take you through the downtown, but through the history of Naperville itself.

It’s no surprise that this attraction is considered the ‘Crown Jewel’ of the suburb. Ambling along the meandering paths, the walker will find much to stimulate the senses, including beautiful fountains, expressive outdoor sculptures, and evocative wooden bridges. But don’t worry, it’s not all natural wonder. There are shops and restaurants too where you can kick back and snack on local culinary delights. For a memorable suburban experience this weekend, head to Naperville.

(If you need inspiration on where to stop off, get some ideas from this list of best burgers in Naperville.) 

3. Kiss The Sky Records, Downtown Batavia

If you’re a music lover, you will love Kiss The Sky record store in the beautiful western suburb of Batavia. Opened in 1996, the store has become a firm favorite of audiophiles, with its huge collection of vinyl, CDs and cassettes, as well as a great range of equipment including turntables and speakers. 

More than just a record store, Kiss The Sky is at the heart of the community in ‘The Windmill City’. There are live shows every week in the dedicated performance area, and the store doubles as a café on the weekends. Whatever music you’re looking to immerse yourself in, you’ll be sure to find it at Kiss The Sky. 

2. The Morton Arboretum, Lisle

Looking for tranquility and time relaxing in the shade this weekend? Consider visiting the Morton Arboretum. Located in the leafy western village of Lisle, the Arboretum is a unique public garden with an enormous collection of over 4,100 different tree and plant species. The grounds also include an outdoor museum, a library, and a herbarium where a further 200,000 species are carefully cataloged. 

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful stroll, or an active family adventure, the Arboretum offers a variety of activities for all ages to enjoy. Attractions include extensive hiking trails, educational lectures and a Children’s Garden. Opening is from 7am until sunset, and admission is from $11.

If you’re headed to the arboretum, don’t miss out on the Best Restaurants near the Morton Arboretum. 

1. Ravinia Festival, Highland Park

Established in the early years of the 20th century, making it North America’s oldest outdoor music festival, Ravinia is an annual celebration of sound which plays host to a dizzying array of musical acts, from orchestras and operas to pop and rap performers, and absolutely everything in between. 

Taking place in the beautiful Ravinia Park in the northern suburb of Highland Park, Ravinia Festival runs from May to September, with over 100 different concerts to whet the appetite of any music lover. Acts in recent years have included stars such as Stevie Nicks, Lady Gaga, and Windy City native Andrew Bird. As well as providing a thrilling musical experience, the Festival is also a great day out for all the family, with the park providing extensive grounds for picnicking and relaxation. If you want a weekend to remember, get your tickets for the Ravinia Festival. 

From the golden sands of the Lake Michigan shore to the woodland feel of some of the smaller lakes, there’s all kinds of different experiences to be had. Whether you’re looking for adventure or for a relaxed day out with the family, there’s a beach for everyone in the Chicago suburbs.

Here we take a look at some of our favorite beaches in the ‘burbs, along with a few tips on where to hang out once you’re done at the waterside.

Evanston

Located just 12 miles north of downtown Chicago on the shores of Lake Michigan, Evanston is a busy and thriving college town suburb with lots to offer. It also has a number of beautiful beaches that are perfect for a great day out. 

Lighthouse Beach, Evanston

If you’re looking to escape the busy urban life for some relaxed fun, why not head to Lighthouse Beach? This intimate and pretty beach is surrounded by beautiful woodland and is perfect for those looking for a more tranquil experience. It’s noted for its cleanliness and picturesque views – a great place to walk the dog or enjoy a relaxed evening stroll. 

Once you’ve sampled the sand and surf, check out downtown Evanston for more fun. With great outdoor spaces like Dawes Park, amazing cultural venues like the Space theater where you could catch a band, and great museums like the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian, you’ll be sure to have a memorable day out here. Plus, our favorite chicken wing shop in the whole Chicago suburbs is right here in Evanston. 

Libertyville

With a sense of fun and freedom in the name of the suburb, Libertyville is a great place to head to when the sun is shining this summer. Located in Lake County 35 miles north of downtown Chicago and 5 miles west of the shore of Lake Michigan, the area has a number of beaches to choose from. One popular destination is Lake Minear beach.

Lake Minear, Libertyville

Close to the Des Plaines river on its eastern edge, this 72-acre lake is perfect for a family day out in the sun. Here you can while away the summer hours with a picnic or a bbq on one of the charcoal grills provided, go for a swim in the lake, and even go fishing year-round. Of course, if you’re feeling peckish, there’s a great range of tasty snacks and treats available from the lakeside vendors. Our 2nd favorite pizza place in the North ‘burbs, Pizzeria Deville, is here in Libertyville. 

That’s not all that the suburb has to offer. Once you’re done at Lake Minear, head into town to enjoy the full Libertyville experience. With its cute downtown and established cultural destinations, it won’t disappoint. You could go for sushi at Starfish Sushi on Milwaukee Avenue, or if you’re in the mood for something more intellectual, head to the renowned Bess Bower Dunn Museum, an interactive museum of history, art and popular culture. Whatever you decide, we’re certain you’ll have a great time in Libertyville. 

Glencoe

If you’re looking for a luxury beach experience, the affluent suburb of Glencoe is your perfect destination. With its scenic trails and stunning views, it’s no surprise that Glencoe Beach is regarded as one of the most beautiful spots, not just in Glencoe but in the entire Chicago metropolitan area. 

Glencoe Beach

The extensive beach amenities here include a sprayground for kids, areas for beach volleyball, paddleboard and kayak rentals, and sun shelters. There is an admission charge in the summer months, from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, of $20 for non-residents. With such glorious views and wonderful amenities, we believe it’s worth the price. 

Once you’re done at the beach, Glencoe has a huge amount to offer those looking for more fun. Why not head to the prestigious Chicago Botanic Garden, with its renowned water lily and rose gardens, or catch a play at the popular Writers Theatre in the center of town? Whatever you choose, you’re certain to find the finer things in life in Glencoe.

Lake Zurich

Located in the north west of the Chicago metropolitan area, Lake Zurich is a suburb that’s well worth a visit this summer. When the sun is shining, there’s no better place to be than Paulus Park, on the shore of the lake. 

Paulus Park Beach, Lake Zurich

This family park, with its popular beach, is a perfect destination to take the kids for a great day out. With its children’s play area and splash pad, numerous walking trails, and picnic areas, you’ll be certain of a super fun time. 

Once you’re done with the aquatic fun at Paulus Park, you could head to the nearby Cuba Marsh Forest Preserve for some more outdoor adventure. This beautiful area of gently rolling hills with marshes and scattered groves is great for nature lovers and would be perfect for a summer evening stroll when the sun is going down. It features three miles of scenic trails and allows for hiking, cycling, and dog walking. It’s certainly not to be missed for those who want an outdoor adventure in Lake Zurich.

Naperville

For an aquatic experience to remember this summer, you could try heading to the ever-popular Naperville. Located 30 miles west of the downtown Chicago area, this beautiful western suburb is famous for its Riverwalk. This tranquil 3-mile stretch of the DuPage river is well-known for its variety of walkways, fountains, and outdoor sculptures, not to mention the great selection of bars, shops and eateries. 

Centennial Beach, Naperville

What is less well-known is that, over in Centennial Park, there’s a great little beach where you can have some fun with the kids and make the most of the summer sun. At Centennial Beach, you will find a great opportunity to enjoy some river swimming, with a good selection of slides and diving boards to keep the whole family entertained. 

Once you’ve seen all the fun that can be had at Centennial Beach, why not treat the kids to a movie at the nearby Hollywood Palms Cinema? This popular theater shows all the latest blockbusters with a great selection of snacks and treats. And if you plan to work up an appetite at the beach, check out our five favorite burger joints in Naperville.

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.