Hazel Crest, IL

Hazel Crest is a village located in Cook County, Illinois, United States. The area that is now Hazel Crest was originally settled in the 1870s by German immigrants attracted to the rich farmland in the region. In 1890, James L. Brown, a real estate developer, purchased a large tract of land in the area and began to build houses, creating what would eventually become Hazel Crest.

The village was officially incorporated in 1912 and was named after the hazelnut bushes that grew abundantly in the area. In the early years, Hazel Crest remained primarily an agricultural community, with many residents working in the farming industry.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Hazel Crest experienced significant growth and development as the population increased and the village attracted new residents. Many of the new residents were African Americans who moved to Hazel Crest as a result of racial integration efforts in nearby Chicago.

During this period, Hazel Crest also saw the construction of numerous new homes, schools, and businesses. The village became an attractive suburban destination for families looking for a peaceful and affordable place to live.

In recent years, Hazel Crest has faced challenges related to economic decline and urban decay. Like many other communities in the region, Hazel Crest has been affected by the decline of manufacturing industries and the resulting job loss. However, the community has made efforts to revitalize and attract new business and investment.

Today, Hazel Crest is a diverse community with a population of approximately 14,000. The village offers a range of amenities and services to residents, including parks, schools, and recreational facilities. It is located approximately 25 miles south of downtown Chicago, making it a convenient suburb for commuters.

Millennium Park

This park offers various outdoor activities such as walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

Veterans Memorial Park

This park features a memorial to honor veterans, as well as sports fields and a playground.

Gaelic Park

A cultural center that hosts Irish-themed events, festivals, and music concerts.

Oak Hill Park

A community park with a playground, athletic fields, and picnic areas.

Homewood Rail Park

A museum and park dedicated to preserving the history of the Illinois Central Railroad.

Coyote Run Golf Course

A public golf course with scenic views and challenging holes.

Flossmoor Country Club

A private country club offering golfing, tennis, swimming, and dining facilities.

Joes in Juniors Sports Bar

A popular local sports bar and restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere.

South Suburban College

A local community college with a performing arts center and galleries.

Oak Forest Bowl

A bowling alley with arcade games, pool tables, and a bar for a fun night out.

Hazel Crest, Illinois has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers in Hazel Crest are typically warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-30 degrees Celsius). Heatwaves are not uncommon during the hottest months of July and August, where temperatures can occasionally reach the 90s Fahrenheit (around 32 degrees Celsius).

Winters in Hazel Crest are cold and snowy. Average temperatures during the winter months range from the mid-20s to mid-30s Fahrenheit (-4 to 2 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common, with an average snowfall accumulation of around 36 inches (92 cm) per year. Winter storms can sometimes bring heavy snowfall and low temperatures, resulting in occasional blizzard conditions.

Spring and autumn in Hazel Crest tend to have mild temperatures. Springtime temperatures range from the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit (4-15 degrees Celsius) while autumn temperatures range from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10-25 degrees Celsius). These transitional seasons often bring some precipitation, occasionally in the form of thunderstorms.

Overall, Hazel Crest experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year, with warm summers, cold winters, and mild transitional seasons. It is always a good idea to check the local weather forecast when planning outdoor activities in Hazel Crest to be prepared for any potential weather changes.

Hazel Crest is a village located in Cook County, Illinois. It is a suburb of Chicago and is known for its diverse neighborhoods. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Hazel Crest:

Old Hazel Crest

This neighborhood is the oldest part of the village and features a mix of historic homes and newer developments. It has a charming, small-town feel and is home to many long-time residents.

Homewood-Flossmoor

Although technically not part of Hazel Crest, the neighboring communities of Homewood and Flossmoor are often associated with the village. These areas offer a range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. They are known for their strong school districts and family-friendly atmosphere.

Markham

Another neighboring community, Markham, is located to the south of Hazel Crest. Markham is a predominantly residential area with a mix of single-family homes and apartment complexes. It is known for its quiet streets and affordable housing options.

Hazel Crest East

This neighborhood is situated on the eastern side of the village and features a mix of housing types, including both single-family homes and apartment complexes. It is a well-established area with tree-lined streets and a sense of community.

Hazel Crest West

Located on the western side of the village, this neighborhood is primarily residential with a mix of housing styles, from ranch-style homes to newer constructions. It is a relatively quiet area with easy access to amenities and nearby highways.

Hazel Crest South

Situated in the southern part of the village, this neighborhood is characterized by its proximity to parks and open spaces. It offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. It is a popular area for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

It is worth noting that these neighborhood distinctions are not always well-defined and can overlap. However, each area of Hazel Crest contributes to the community's overall diversity and charm.