Suburban Spotlight: Elmhurst, Illinois

Nestled just 16 miles west of Chicago, Elmhurst, IL is a vibrant community full of charm, culture, and connectivity. Its walkable downtown—Elmhurst City Centre—is a leafy hub of over 50 restaurants and 40 shops anchored by York Classic Cinemas and a lively plaza with seasonal fountains and street‑side cafes. Summer evenings come alive with live music via “Wednesday Nights Live,” the free Elmhurst Express trolley, and events like Rock‑the‑Block, St. Patrick’s Day and Memorial Day parades, drawing both locals and Chicago commuters. It’s the kind of place you park and forget your car.

Elmhurst’s cultural backbone is impressive for a suburb. The Elmhurst Art Museum—set beside the iconic Mies van der Rohe McCormick House—hosts rotating contemporary exhibitions; the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art dazzles with gemstone carvings; and the Elmhurst History Museum—housed in Glos Mansion—tells 165+ years of local tales. Don’t forget Wilder Park’s Conservatory and green gardens—a perfect leafy respite.

History and architecture buffs will love more hidden gems: the Dutch‑style Fischer Windmill at Mount Emblem Cemetery, dating to the 1860s; Frank Lloyd Wright’s F. B. Henderson House; Walter Burley Griffin’s Sloane House; and the historic York Theatre, a beautifully preserved 1924 cinema screened across multiple screens including reclining seats. Plus, the Illinois Prairie Path is a scenic, multipurpose trail perfect for walking, running, biking, or even riding horses.

Between its exceptional schools, easy Metra access to downtown Chicago, abundance of parks, community events, and blend of independent shops and eateries, Elmhurst shines as one of America's most beloved suburbs. Whether you're grabbing crepes in City Centre, exploring art museums, or cycling along the Prairie Path, Elmhurst delivers small‑town warmth with big‑city convenience and cultural depth.