Highwood, IL

Highwood, Illinois is a small city located in Lake County, just north of Chicago. It has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the 19th century.

Highwood was originally settled by German and Irish immigrants in the mid-1800s. The city's location near the railroad tracks made it an attractive destination for new settlers looking for job opportunities in the emerging industries of the time, such as meatpacking and manufacturing.

In the 1870s, the area around Highwood saw a significant influx of Italian immigrants, who came to work in the nearby brick factories. These Italian immigrants left a lasting impact on the city's culture and identity. Today, Highwood is known as the "Toasted Submarine Sandwich Capital of the World" due to its numerous Italian delis and restaurants.

During the Prohibition era in the 1920s and early 1930s, Highwood became a notorious center for liquor smuggling and illegal alcohol distribution. This illicit activity brought both wealth and notoriety to the city. Over time, however, law enforcement cracked down on these activities, and Highwood returned to a more normal way of life.

In the mid-20th century, Highwood saw a decline in manufacturing jobs, leading to a period of economic struggle. However, the city has since reinvented itself as a vibrant community, with a thriving restaurant and entertainment scene. Highwood's annual events, such as the Garlic Fest and Bloody Mary Fest, have gained popularity and draw visitors from all over the region.

Today, Highwood continues to preserve its cultural heritage while embracing new opportunities for growth. It is a close-knit community that celebrates its diverse history and works to ensure a prosperous future for its residents.

Highwood Farmers Market

A popular farmers market featuring fresh produce, artisanal products, and live music.

Highwood Historical Society

Learn about the history of Highwood and explore the exhibits at the local historical society.

Everts Park

A beautiful park with a playground, picnic areas, and walking trails.

Prairie Ave Beach

A sandy beach on the shores of Lake Michigan, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Tommy's Restaurant

A famous steakhouse known for its delicious steaks and cozy atmosphere.

Highwood Rec Center

A community recreation center with indoor sports facilities, fitness classes, and events.

La Casa de Isaac & Moishe

A popular Mexican restaurant serving authentic and flavorful dishes.

Highwood Street Fest

An annual summer festival featuring live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.

210 Live

A live music venue and restaurant offering a variety of musical performances throughout the year.

Ravinia Festival

Located nearby, the famous Ravinia Festival in Highland Park hosts a variety of concerts and events, featuring world-renowned artists.

Highwood, Illinois has a humid continental climate. Summers are generally warm and humid, while winters are cold and snowy.

In summer, temperatures in Highwood range from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 24-29 degrees Celsius), with occasional days reaching the 90s Fahrenheit (32+ degrees Celsius). Humidity is relatively high, especially in July and August, which can make it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are quite common during the summer months.

Winter in Highwood is cold, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-teens to the mid-30s Fahrenheit (around -9 to 1 degree Celsius). However, temperatures can drop below freezing and occasionally go below zero Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is significant, with an average of about 40 inches (over 1 meter) of snow per year. Snowstorms and lake-effect snow from Lake Michigan can sometimes bring heavier accumulations.

Spring and autumn are transitional seasons in Highwood, with mild temperatures. Spring sees temperatures gradually warming up, while autumn sees temperatures cooling down. Both seasons can experience significant rainfall.

Overall, Highwood, IL experiences distinct seasonal changes with warm summers, cold winters, and mild transitional seasons.

Highwood, IL is a small city located in Lake County, Illinois. Although it is a relatively small community, Highwood is known for its diverse neighborhoods. Here are some of the different neighborhoods found in Highwood:

Downtown

Highwood's downtown area is the heart of the city and offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere. It is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, shops, and entertainment venues. This neighborhood is perfect for those who enjoy a bustling and active environment.

Fort Sheridan

Situated on the northern edge of Highwood, Fort Sheridan is a historic neighborhood with a distinct character. It was once an active army base and now offers a mix of beautifully preserved historic homes, open green spaces, and scenic views of Lake Michigan. The neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets and charming architecture.

Highwood Highlands

This neighborhood is located in the western part of Highwood and features a mix of residential properties. Highwood Highlands offers a suburban feel with single-family homes, parks, and quiet streets. It is an ideal neighborhood for families or those looking for a peaceful and tight-knit community.

Highwood Station

Situated near the Metra train station, this neighborhood is predominantly residential. Highwood Station features a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes. It is a convenient location for commuters and offers easy access to public transportation.

Highwood Terrace

Located on the southern end of Highwood, Highwood Terrace is a residential neighborhood that offers a suburban feel. It features a range of housing options, including single-family homes and apartments. Highwood Terrace is known for its tree-lined streets and proximity to local schools and parks.

Each neighborhood in Highwood has its own unique characteristics and charm, allowing residents to find a community that suits their lifestyle and preferences.