Glencoe, Illinois, is a charming village in Chicago’s North Shore neighborhood where the excitement never stops. Thanks to its stunning location on the shores of Lake Michigan and its proximity to the vibrant, big-city atmosphere, Glencoe is a highly desirable place to call your own. The real estate landscape here is complete with luxury homes featuring glistening lake views, with a day trip to Chicago just a short drive away. If you are thinking about moving to Glencoe, read on for everything you can look forward to!
Community features
With tight-knit vibes, excellent schools, and outdoor recreation galore, Glencoe is a pleasant Midwest community that residents are proud to call home.
A friendly atmosphere
Thanks to its population of just under 9,000 residents, the community has a small-town feel where neighbors become friends. You might be on a first-name basis with local shop owners, your postal carrier, and more. There is a true sense of community here where residents feel connected and welcomed.
A superb school system
Glencoe belongs to Glencoe District 35, which includes three small schools: South School for grades K-2, West School for 3rd and 4th graders, and Central School for grades 5-8. Children can enjoy various extracurricular programs and events, like music shows, Project Lead the Way, the Science Olympiad, and more.
A lakefront lifestyle on Lake Michigan
For those who enjoy adventures out on the water, you’ve come to the right place! The shores of Lake Michigan are in your backyard, where the thrills are always waiting, whether you’re swimming, boating, or water skiing.
Take a high-adrenaline speedboat tour, head out on a fishing expedition, or enjoy a picnic under the sunny skies. Plus, residents can witness stunning views of the lake from sunrise to sunset, adding to the charm and beauty of the real estate scene.
A few fun facts about Glencoe
As a small suburb, Glencoe has plenty to offer despite its modest size. For one, while the source of Glencoe’s name is of dubious origin, many believe the village was named after a town in Scotland. Glencoe has also served as a filming spot for scenes in a number of Hollywood films. The late, great writer/director John Hughes shot scenes there for Uncle Buck, Sixteen Candles, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, and She’s Having a Baby. Glencoe also made an appearance in Risky Business and Flags of Our Fathers.
Things to do in Glencoe
If you’re seeking a fun-filled community, look no further! Glencoe is replete with plenty of adventure spots and many exciting areas to explore. Read on!
Experience nature at the Chicago Botanic Garden
At the Chicago Botanic Garden, you can marvel at the rows of gorgeous orchids, blue trumpet vines, cacao trees, cacti, and all kinds of other flora, both indoors and out. Head to the Garden Shop in the visitor’s center, where you’ll find stunning jewelry and other unique gifts that are perfect for your loved ones. Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the garden’s community events, like flower shows, bread-making classes, winter bird walks, embroidery lessons, candlelight yoga nights, photography tours, and foraging expeditions. There’s so much to learn and experience here!
To get into the holiday spirit, don’t miss the lightscape show, where the garden paths glisten with twinkling lights, a winter cathedral, and a fire garden. Other festive celebrations include the Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns, featuring expertly carved pumpkins and costumes to get you into the spooky spirit.
Enjoy a golf outing
If golf is the name of the game, the Glencoe Golf Club is a go-to 18-hole public course that’s perfect for an afternoon of showing off your skills. Hit the driving range, play a practice round, or sign up for one of the many yearly tournaments for a bit of competitive fun. The club even hosts junior golf camps for an introduction to the fundamentals of golf. Plus, the on-site restaurant is fantastic, serving up handhelds like the buffalo chicken wrap, Chicago-style hot dog, and legacy burger.
Sports and entertainment in nearby Chicago
As a suburb of Chicago, Glencoe residents have access to all the top-notch attractions and excitement of the Windy City. From sports to theater, you will always find a way to pass the time.
If you’re a sports fan, you’re in luck! From the Cubs and the White Sox to the Blackhawks, the Bears, and the Bulls, Chicago is a lively city for cheering on your team. So, catch a seat, grab some popcorn or a hot dog, and watch your favorite players in action. Living in Glencoe, you will never miss a chance to root for your team!
If you want to catch a show, Chicago has so much in store. Watch Seal’s World Tour, a rendition of Disney’s Aladdin, or a play by renowned Russian playwright Anton Chekhov at the Chicago Theatre, Cadillac Palace Theatre, and Goodman Theatre. Head to the Field Museum, where you can explore the DNA Discovery Center, a fossil preparation lab, the Grainger Hall of Gems, native gardens, and so much more. Plus, don’t miss the Chicago History Museum, Chicago Children’s Museum, and the Art Institute of Chicago if you have a love of learning.
Outstanding restaurants
If you’re feeling hungry, take a break from touring Glencoe homes to check out these exceptional dining destinations. You’ll be glad you did!
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
At Guildhall, excellence is always on the menu. Try the Guildhall burger, skirt steak plate, or firecracker maki with crunchy chili garlic — you will never go home hungry. Don’t skip out on the dessert of tiramisu, either! Head to Meg’s Cafe for delightful gourmet dishes like lemon chicken piccata, Atlantic salmon burger, and more. Or, if pizza is more your style, head to Bake HomeMade Pizza for specialty pies, pan-style pizzas, and build-your-own options. The sky is the limit!
Getting where you need to be
Glencoe boasts an extensive network of roads and generally light traffic. The easily accessible rail system is a quick way to get to and from the hustle and bustle of Chicago, and you can always catch a bus whenever your heart desires. Plus, O’Hare International Airport is only 20 miles away, making long-distance travel a breeze. Glencoe truly is the best of all worlds.
If you’re considering
moving to Glencoe, your future is full of promise, as the luxury homes paired with astounding views of Lake Michigan create a desirable place to call home. When you’re ready to jump into your home search, contact top-producing local broker
Jena Radnay for the guidance that gets results. Jena’s dedication and can-do attitude will streamline your real estate journey and lead you to the perfect new property. Reach out today!
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock