Chicago’s suburbs are home to a range of communities that seamlessly combine comfort, convenience, and character –and few embody that mix better than Western Springs, Illinois. Around 20 miles from downtown Chicago, Western Springs is known for its dining, entertainment, and suburban, small-town suburban charm. For those looking to live in the area, the village ranks among the top suburbs in Illinois, thanks to its reputation for safety (GOBankingRates named it the safest city to live in the U.S.), a strong sense of community, and its proximity to the Windy City.
For visitors, Western Springs offers more than just a pass-through. Tourists can stroll the village’s vibrant downtown district, lined with local businesses, boutiques, and restaurants. The trip to Western Springs is easy, whether you drive or fly. The village lies just off I-294 and I-55, making it a convenient stop on a road trip to or from Chicago or destinations further north on Lake Michigan. The nearest major airports are Chicago Midway International Airport (about 9 miles away) and one of the three worst-rated airports in America, O’Hare International (about 17 miles away).
Both airports are within a reasonable drive, but Chicago’s CTA and Metra lines provide more cost-effective transit options into the region; from there, a combination of transit and local travel can get you to Western Springs. Western Springs also shines thanks to its lively downtown, sprawling park district, and family-friendly events. Whether you spend the day boutique shopping and dining or exploring parks and community programming, the village is a standout among Chicago’s suburbs.
A downtown district filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment
Some of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhoods are packed with great eats, cool shops, and more than enough tourists. In Western Springs, however, visitors enjoy a slower pace and more small-town charm. The village’s walkable downtown district offers a hub of dining options that contribute to its vibrancy — for example, Hillgrove Tap, a local American taphouse known for craft beer, classic burgers, and cocktails. For wine enthusiasts, Davanti Enoteca is a wine bar located in the heart of downtown, specializing in modern Italian cuisine…