A thriving midsize village midst DuPage County, Illinois real estate, Downers Grove is a convenient 19 miles west of the Chicago metropolitan district. Born of a strong community spirit and lively volunteerism, these qualities are treasured to this day by the Village of Downers Grove’s 50,000 friendly residents. The valuable result is exceptional business, cultural, recreational, and educational endeavors.
Downers Grove properties for sale include a unique array of homes, condominiums and townhouses built for each generation since the 1800s. One of the largest collections of Sears-Roebuck Catalog Homes was erected between 1908 and 1940 and adds a classy, historic element to the Downers Grove neighborhoods. Real estate in Downers Grove is bordered by real estate in Oak Brook, Westmont, Darien, Lombard, and Woodridge as well as Lisle real estate.
In 1832, Pierce Downer settled here on fertile farmland, followed by many more pioneers. Some were staunch abolitionists allowing safe haven for runaway slaves traveling to the big city. After the Civil War, the railroad connected to the village and the area grew rapidly, incorporating in 1873. The construction of major toll roads was instrumental in developing the village into a bustling Chicago suburb.
The community enjoys a healthy social life. Each January, the Ice Sculpture Festival draws professional carvers competing for prize money and families ride the trolley rides to view the freezing displays around the downtown district. The Heritage Festival, a very large, three-day event is the highlight of the summer season with its art fair, world-class entertainment, children’s activities, and rides. The Farmer’s Market, Concerts in the Park, and several other regular events are also great summer fun. Local cultural venues compliment those found in the big city. Whether it’s folk singers at Founders Hill Brewing Company or music at the Two Way Street Coffee House, a live performance at the Tivoli Theatre (the second U.S. theater to add sound to film circa 1928), a community theater such as Grove Players, or fine dining at the Nearby Oak Terrace featuring touring companies—the arts do help renew the spirit.
Recreation is another popular pastime. Ice skating, bowling, and miniature golfing will get you started. In 1892, one of the first golf courses in the United States took shape here and it is still a wonderful place to tee off! And there are plenty of beautiful new courses in the valley.
Head out to the 25 miles of trails on Morton Arboretum’s 1500 acres and learn about over 3000 species of trees and shrubs gathered from around the world. Designated a Tree City USA for the past 22 years by the National Arbor Day Foundation, you can imagine that protection of the environment is a high priority. Preserved areas such as Belmont Prairie, Lyman Woods, and Maple Grove Forest Preserve are popular for both educational and recreational purposes. Belmont Prairie is one of the only original prairies left in the state and features 135 species of plants and wildlife. Lyman Woods’ savannahs and marchlands are preserved on over a hundred acres—plenty of space to jog and mingle, hike and delight in flowers, and walk and breathe in the awesome natural habitat.
Families reap the benefits of a wide variety of fine schools, colleges, and universities and see some of the best test scores around. The talent naturally seeks creative business opportunity and residents are proud to be home to Rossi, FTD, Travelers Insurance, Lovejoy, ServiceMaster, Sara Lee, Spiegel, Butterball, and a broad spectrum of other companies. All types of professions rely on the Midway and O'Hare Airports just 45 minutes away. Shopping districts, including nearby Oak Brook, and restaurants are abundant. And for world-class shopping, residents occasionally head to the metropolitan area, but most needs are met right at home.
