Norridge, IL

Norridge is a village located in Cook County, Illinois, approximately 15 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. The history of Norridge can be traced back to the early 19th century when European settlers began to arrive in the area.

The land that is now Norridge was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Potawatomi and Ottawa peoples. These tribes used the land for hunting and fishing, taking advantage of the nearby Des Plaines River and the fertile soil.

In the mid-19th century, European settlers established farms in the area, and a small community began to develop. The origins of the village's name can be traced back to the Norris family, who settled in the area in 1833. The family owned a substantial amount of land and played a significant role in the early development of the community.

Norridge remained a sparsely populated farming community until the 1920s when urbanization began to take hold. This urbanization was largely driven by the growth of nearby Chicago and the increased demand for housing in the suburbs. With the development of transportation infrastructure, such as the construction of the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad, Norridge became more accessible to commuters.

In 1948, Norridge officially became incorporated as a village, establishing its own local government and institutions. The village grew rapidly in the post-WWII era, attracting new residents and businesses. Several subdivisions were developed to accommodate the increasing population.

Over the years, Norridge experienced significant commercial development, particularly along its main thoroughfare, Harlem Avenue. Shopping centers, restaurants, and other commercial establishments emerged, transforming Norridge into a vibrant suburban community.

Today, Norridge is a well-established residential and commercial suburb with a population of approximately 14,500 residents. The village maintains its small-town charm while offering proximity to the amenities and opportunities of the nearby city of Chicago.

Harlem Irving Plaza

A popular shopping mall with a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Ridgewood High School Athletic Field

A community park with sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas.

Norridge Park District

Offers recreational activities including sports leagues, fitness classes, and community events.

Norridge Park

A family-friendly park with playgrounds, sports courts, picnic areas, and a splash pad.

Leigh Park

A smaller neighborhood park with a walking path, picnic tables, and a children's playground.

Norridge Commons Shopping Center

Another shopping center with a variety of stores and dining options.

Forest Preserve District of Cook County

Located nearby, offering nature trails, fishing spots, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

The Garage Bar & Sandwiches

A popular local restaurant known for its craft beer selection and sandwiches.

The Village Circle

A community center that hosts events, concerts, and other activities throughout the year.

Harlem & Irving Plaza Outdoor Farmers Market

Held during the warmer months, featuring local vendors selling fresh produce and other goods.

Norridge, Illinois has a humid continental climate. Summers in Norridge are warm and somewhat humid, while winters are cold and snowy. The average high temperature in summer ranges from the mid-70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (24-27°C), and the average low temperature in winter ranges from the low 20s to the mid-30s Fahrenheit (-6 to 1°C).

The spring and fall seasons in Norridge are generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 70s Fahrenheit (10-25°C). However, these transitional seasons can be unpredictable, with occasional temperature swings and fluctuating weather conditions.

Norridge experiences moderate precipitation throughout the year. Summers tend to be wetter, with June being the wettest month. Snowfall is common during winters, with January typically being the snowiest month.

Due to its location in the Midwest, Norridge is also prone to severe weather, including thunderstorms and sometimes tornadoes during the spring and summer months.

Overall, Norridge has a classic four-season climate, with distinct variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year.

Norridge is a village located in Cook County, Illinois, approximately 12 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. Here are some of the different neighborhoods of Norridge:

Oriole Park

On the southern border of Norridge, Oriole Park is a primarily residential neighborhood known for its beautiful parks, recreational facilities, and strong community spirit. It offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and apartments.

Big Oaks

Located towards the northeast side of Norridge, Big Oaks is known for its tranquil tree-lined streets and spacious homes. The neighborhood exudes a suburban feel and offers a variety of housing options, including ranch-style homes, split-level houses, and bungalows.

Union Ridge

Situated on the northwest side of Norridge, Union Ridge is a diverse neighborhood with a blend of residential and commercial areas. It features diverse housing options, including single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses. The neighborhood is home to Union Ridge Elementary School, which is known for its excellent reputation.

Cumberland/Norwood Park

Positioned on the eastern edge of Norridge, this neighborhood is known for its easy access to major highways and its proximity to Norwood Park. It offers a mix of residential properties and commercial establishments. The area features a variety of housing styles, including single-family homes, apartments, and condos.

Harlem-Irving Plaza Area

This neighborhood, located near the interchange of Harlem and Irving Park Roads, is characterized by its commercial development and the popular shopping center, Harlem-Irving Plaza. It is a bustling area with numerous stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Housing options here are limited but include apartments and condos.

Norridge Park Area

Found in the central part of Norridge, this neighborhood is home to Norridge Park, one of the village's main recreational areas. The park offers various amenities such as baseball fields, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a community pool. The surrounding area consists of primarily residential properties, including single-family homes and some apartments.

Overall, Norridge offers residents a suburban feel with a mix of housing options, numerous parks, and good schools. It is a close-knit community with a strong village identity and a range of amenities and services.