The picturesque downtown areas in Illinois, rich in history and excitement, provide delightful settings for dining, shopping, and leisurely strolls. Explore the allure of Illinois through its captivating cities.
Woodstock
Woodstock, an outer suburb of Chicago, boasts abundant charm, and served as the filming location for the classic Bill Murray film Groundhog Day. Downtown Woodstock’s nostalgic atmosphere consistently attracts visitors from across Illinois. Charming shops comprise the pedestrian-friendly, Victorian-style Historic Woodstock Square. The city kicks off the holidays with the beloved annual Lighting of the Square, where attendees will witness the lighting of 80,000 white lights and several other festive events.
Naperville
Naperville, a Chicago suburb nestled along the DuPage River, has pleasant parks and renowned museums. It has long been a popular choice for families looking to live in the Chicago area. Downtown Naperville contains a blend of distinctive historical buildings and contemporary structures. Its mix of family-owned stores and national retailers provides excellent shopping options, and its world-class food scene offers a wide variety of tasty restaurants. During the holiday season, Downtown Naperville transforms with over 300,000 brilliant lights.
Buffalo Grove
Buffalo Grove, with a welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals, stands as a pleasant Chicago suburb with a family-friendly atmosphere. It feels far removed from the big city while still being just a short drive away from Chicago’s additional amenities. Downtown Buffalo Grove features entertainment destinations, shops, and eateries along its tranquil Main Street. The city goes all-out for the holidays, with downtown decorations and community events such as holiday light shows.
Geneva
Geneva, nestled along the Fox River, exudes a serene small-town feel with a population of around 21,000. However, its vibrant downtown offers a delightful contrast to the calm community setting. Downtown Geneva houses over 160 specialty shops and dining hotspots and hosts numerous events throughout the year, including Christmas Walk, its annual Christmas festival.
Elmhurst
Elmhurst, a leafy and historic suburb of Chicago, stands as a great community for nature lovers. While the city is surrounded by parks and preserves, the Elmhurst City Centre provides a bustling downtown area with an array of unique shops and food options. The city, filled with cafes and public art installations, regularly organizes entertaining events for residents. Elmhurst’s busy holiday season features numerous festivities across the area, including the Hometown Holiday Lights and Photo Contest.
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