Harwood Heights, IL

Harwood Heights is a suburb located in Cook County, Illinois, United States. The area where Harwood Heights is located was originally settled by farmers in the 19th century. It remained a primarily rural area until the mid-20th century when it experienced significant suburban development.

The present-day village of Harwood Heights was initially known as "Ridgemoor." In the early 1900s, this area was primarily used for farming and dairying due to its rich soil and abundant water supply. The name "Ridgemoor" was chosen because of the undulating terrain, which consisted of gentle ridges and valleys.

In the 1940s, after World War II, the demand for housing in the suburbs skyrocketed, leading to the development of Ridgemoor. This suburban development was due to the post-war housing boom and the increasing popularity of automobile commuting. Developers bought up farmland and began constructing single-family homes and apartment buildings, attracting many residents seeking a suburban lifestyle just outside of Chicago.

In 1947, the village was incorporated as Harwood Heights, named after a prominent developer in the area, John W. Harwood. The village continued to grow, with more housing developments and the establishment of schools, parks, and commercial areas.

Over the years, Harwood Heights has experienced changes and improvements. The village has implemented various initiatives to improve infrastructure, education, and recreational facilities to cater to the needs of its residents. Today, Harwood Heights is a thriving community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas.

The village has also faced challenges, such as urban sprawl and the need to balance development with preserving open space and maintaining a community atmosphere. However, Harwood Heights remains a desirable suburb due to its proximity to downtown Chicago, accessibility to major highways, and various amenities.

Overall, the history of Harwood Heights showcases its transformation from rural farmland to a vibrant suburb, reflecting the larger trends and developments that have shaped many communities in the Chicago metropolitan area.

Guardian Angel Cathedral

This beautiful Catholic church holds religious services and also features stunning architecture.

Harlem-Irving Plaza

A popular shopping center that offers a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Norridge Park District

A local park with various amenities like sports fields, playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas.

Ridgemoor Country Club

Founded in 1905, this private club offers golf courses, tennis courts, and dining facilities.

Harlem Pools

A public swimming facility with multiple pools, slides, and sunbathing areas.

Union Ridge Park

A neighborhood park with sports fields, a playground, walking paths, and a splash pad.

Norridge Historical Society Museum

This small museum showcases the history of the area, including displays, artifacts, and photographs.

Ridgemoor Country Club Golf Course

This 18-hole golf course offers challenging and scenic gameplay for all skill levels.

Hipot Hotpot

A popular restaurant that offers traditional Chinese hot pot dining experience, where guests can cook their own food in a flavorful broth.

West Walker Sports Complex

A nearby sports complex with baseball and softball fields, a children's playground, and open green spaces.

Harwood Heights, Illinois, experiences a humid continental climate. This means that the area has four distinct seasons: a cold and snowy winter, a mild spring, a warm and humid summer, and a cool and crisp autumn.

During the winter months, which typically span from December to February, temperatures in Harwood Heights can average around 25°F (-4°C). However, temperatures can drop below freezing, with occasional snowfall. Average snowfall in the area is around 36 inches (91 cm).

Spring, which spans from March to May, brings milder temperatures to Harwood Heights. Average highs range from the upper 40s°F (around 8°C) to the mid-60s°F (around 18°C), while lows can be in the 30s°F (around 1-4°C). Precipitation increases during this season, with occasional showers.

Summer, from June to August, is warm and humid in Harwood Heights. Average high temperatures range from the low to mid-80s°F (around 26-30°C), with occasional heatwaves reaching the 90s°F (around 32-35°C). The area receives a fair amount of rainfall during this season, with thunderstorms being relatively common.

Autumn, from September to November, brings cooler temperatures to Harwood Heights. Average highs range from the 60s°F (around 15-20°C) in September, to the high 40s°F (around 8-9°C) in November. Autumn foliage is often vibrant in the area, and precipitation levels decrease compared to the summer months.

Overall, Harwood Heights experiences a full range of seasons, with cold winters, mild springs, warm summers, and cool autumns. It is essential to consider these climate conditions when planning activities or travel in the area.

Harwood Heights is a suburb located in Cook County, Illinois, just northwest of downtown Chicago. It is a relatively small village with a population of around 8,500 people.

While Harwood Heights is a single village, it does not have traditional neighborhoods within its boundaries. However, it is bordered by several other suburbs, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the neighboring suburbs and a brief description of what they offer:

Norridge

Located to the south of Harwood Heights, Norridge is a larger suburb with a population of around 15,000 people. It offers a mix of residential areas, shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational facilities. Norridge is also known for having a strong Italian-American community and several Italian restaurants.

Park Ridge

Situated to the north of Harwood Heights, Park Ridge is a larger suburb with a population of around 37,000 people. It is known for its beautiful tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Park Ridge is also home to several parks and has easy access to recreational activities such as golfing and bike trails.

Niles

To the west of Harwood Heights lies the suburb of Niles. With a population of around 30,000 people, Niles offers a diverse mix of residential areas, commercial developments, and recreational opportunities. It is home to popular attractions like the Golf Mill Shopping Center, the Tam Golf Course, and the Leaning Tower of Niles, a half-size replica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Chicago's Northwest Side

Harwood Heights is located in close proximity to Chicago's Northwest Side, where several neighborhoods, such as Portage Park, Jefferson Park, and Norwood Park, are located. These areas offer a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational options. Residents of Harwood Heights can easily access these neighborhoods for additional amenities, including shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

Overall, while Harwood Heights itself may not have distinct neighborhoods, its location provides easy access to several other suburbs with diverse offerings in terms of residential living, shopping, dining, and recreational activities.