Clarendon Hills, IL
County: DuPage
History
Clarendon Hills is a small village located in DuPage County, Illinois. Its history dates back to the early 19th century when European settlers first arrived in the area.
The Potawatomi Native Americans were the original inhabitants of the region. They used the land for hunting and farming until the arrival of European settlers in the early 1800s. In 1834, the land was officially surveyed by the federal government, and a few families began moving to the area.
The village itself was originally known as West Hinsdale and was a part of neighboring Hinsdale until it officially incorporated as Clarendon Hills in 1924. The name "Clarendon Hills" was given by Middaugh Estates, the developers of the area, who chose it to reflect the natural topography and landscape of the region.
In the late 19th century, Clarendon Hills became a popular commuter town for residents working in nearby Chicago. The establishment of a train station in the village in 1874 further enhanced this trend. Many wealthy Chicagoans built summer homes in Clarendon Hills, leading to a significant increase in the population.
Over the years, Clarendon Hills has evolved from primarily a residential area into a thriving suburban community. Residential development continued in the early 20th century, and the population gradually increased. Today, Clarendon Hills is known for its picturesque neighborhoods, excellent schools, and close-knit community.
The village has maintained a commitment to preserving green spaces and parklands throughout its history. Prospect Park, a large and scenic park featuring recreational facilities and walking trails, was established in 1917 and continues to be a popular gathering place for residents.
Clarendon Hills has also witnessed economic growth, with the establishment of various businesses and small shops throughout the years. The downtown area, known as "the village center," exudes a charming atmosphere, featuring local shops, restaurants, and public spaces.
In summary, Clarendon Hills, Illinois, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. From its origins as a small settlement to becoming a vibrant suburban community, the village has maintained its unique character and continues to be a desirable place to live.
Attractions
Prospect Park
A beautiful park with playgrounds, a baseball field, picnic areas, and walking trails.
Hinsdale Golf Club
A private golf club that offers a scenic, challenging golf course.
Hinsdale Farmers Market
A popular farmers market that takes place on Mondays from May to October, featuring fresh produce, local products, and live music.
Immanuel Hall
A historic community center that hosts various events and gatherings, including weddings, parties, and cultural programs.
Downtown Clarendon Hills
A charming downtown area with boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes, perfect for shopping and dining.
The Community House
A community center offering various activities, classes, and programs for people of all ages, including art classes, fitness programs, and cultural events.
Community Park
A large park with sports fields, tennis courts, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Chicago Botanic Garden
Located nearby in Glencoe, the Chicago Botanic Garden is a stunning 385-acre garden with countless plant varieties, beautiful landscapes, and educational exhibits.
Cantigny Park
Located nearby in Wheaton, Cantigny Park is a sprawling park and museum complex encompassing gardens, walking trails, historic buildings, and a military museum.
Morton Arboretum
Located nearby in Lisle, the Morton Arboretum is a vast outdoor museum of trees, offering beautiful gardens, walking trails, and educational programs.
Climate
The climate of Clarendon Hills, IL, can be characterized as a humid continental climate. It experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year.
Summer (June to August) in Clarendon Hills is warm and humid. Average daytime temperatures range from the mid-70s°F (around 24°C) to the mid-80s°F (around 29°C). However, heatwaves can occasionally push temperatures into the 90s°F (above 32°C). Humidity levels can be high, and occasional thunderstorms occur during the summer months.
Fall (September to November) brings mild and pleasant weather to Clarendon Hills. Average temperatures gradually decrease from the 70s°F (around 21°C) in September to the 40s°F (around 4°C) in November. The region experiences colorful foliage as the leaves change, providing picturesque scenery.
Winter (December to February) in Clarendon Hills is cold and snowy. Average temperatures range from the 20s°F (around -6°C) to the 30s°F (around -1°C), and occasional cold snaps can bring temperatures below freezing. Snowfall is common during these months, with an average annual snowfall of around 37 inches.
Spring (March to May) in Clarendon Hills is mild and often green. Average temperatures gradually increase from the 40s°F (around 4°C) in March to the 60s°F (around 16°C) in May. Spring showers and thunderstorms are quite common during this time of year.
Overall, Clarendon Hills experiences a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year due to its geographic location in the Midwest region of the United States.
Neighborhoods
Clarendon Hills, IL is a suburban village located in DuPage County, about 20 miles west of downtown Chicago. It is a small and tight-knit community with a population of approximately 8,600 residents. While Clarendon Hills is relatively small in size, it is divided into several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics and attributes.
Downtown
The heart of Clarendon Hills is undoubtedly its downtown area. It is a vibrant and charming neighborhood filled with tree-lined streets, boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes. The downtown area is also home to the Metra train station, making it a convenient location for commuters.
Holmes School
Holmes School is a neighborhood known for its excellent educational facilities. It is home to Holmes Elementary School, which is highly regarded for its quality education and strong sense of community. Many families with young children choose to reside in this neighborhood to take advantage of the superb school district.
Blackhawk Heights
Blackhawk Heights is a quiet and residential neighborhood located in the southern part of Clarendon Hills. It primarily consists of single-family homes on spacious lots. This neighborhood offers a suburban atmosphere with a peaceful and serene ambiance.
Golf Avenue
Golf Avenue is an upscale residential area characterized by its beautiful tree-lined streets and larger, luxurious homes. Many of the houses in this neighborhood are architecturally stunning and boast well-manicured lawns. It is a prestigious area that attracts higher-income families.
Prospect Park
Prospect Park is a neighborhood known for its proximity to Prospect Park, a beautiful green space with playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails. The neighborhood is home to a mix of single-family homes and townhouses, offering a range of housing options. It is a family-friendly area that provides residents with easy access to outdoor recreational activities.
Clarendon Hills Road
This neighborhood is located on the eastern side of Clarendon Hills, along Clarendon Hills Road. It is a more commercial area, with a mix of residential properties and businesses. It offers easy access to major roads and highways, making it convenient for commuters.
Overall, each neighborhood in Clarendon Hills has its own distinct character and appeal, allowing residents to find a community that best suits their lifestyle and preferences. The village as a whole is known for its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and proximity to numerous amenities and recreational opportunities.