Algonquin
Welcome to Algonquin
A progressive and thriving village on the bank of the Fox River
Algonquin was originally home to the Potawatomi tribe and was colonized in 1834. Railroad construction came soon afterward, allowing more people to settle in the area and enabling farmers to send their products to Chicago. The area has seen immense growth since then, and in the 20th century, Chicago residents began to move outside of the city, seeking a more suburban lifestyle. Initially, they built summer homes but eventually found life in Algonquin to be much more favorable than life in the city and decided to make a permanent move. Development in Algonquin continued through the 1990s and 2000s, expanding retail spaces and residential properties. Today, Algonquin offers a thriving, beautiful community, a short drive from O’Hare and downtown Chicago.
What to Love
– Highly-rated public schools
– Abundant and lush green spaces throughout the community
– Vibrant and ever-changing downtown district with endless shopping and dining opportunities
Local Lifestyle
Home to families, young professionals, students, and retirees, Algonquin is an excellent and diverse place to call home. Residents enjoy dozens of green spaces, like Towne Park and Hill Climb Park, along with the High Hill Park and Nature Preserve. Each year, Algonquin hosts fun and family-friendly community events, like the annual Founders Day Festival and Art on the Fox. Homes in Algonquin range from single-family structures along the suburban streets, condos, and expansive apartments in the downtown district.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
For the ultimate shopping experience, plan an entire day at the Algonquin Commons Outdoor Shopping Mall, home to over 60 shops and several dining options. It’s been voted as one of the best shopping centers in the county and provides name-brand and boutique stores as well as delicious restaurant options. The open-air shopping center also hosts art exhibitions, community blood drives, and fitness competitions throughout the year.
Port Edward Restaurant has been a community favorite in Algonquin for 54 years! Located along the Fox River, this go-to restaurant maintains a well-loved and respected reputation in the Algonquin neighborhood and beyond. The restaurant is so revered, they frequently host international visitors seeking a high-quality Algonquin experience. Port Edwards proudly serves fresh seafood dishes created with local ingredients and exceptional detail. Their nautical setting is perfect for a fine-dining experience complete with live music along the beautiful riverfront.
Cucina Bella brings award-winning Italian flavor to the heart of downtown Algonquin. They specialize in “just like Nonna” classic recipes and offer a large selection of wines and mouth-watering desserts. The dining space features brick walls, an open kitchen, and a warm and welcoming staff who make dining at Cucina Bella feel just like home. Try their goat cheese marinara dip, create your own pasta, and be sure to save room for dessert!
Things to Do
Held on the first full weekend of July, the Algonquin Founders Day Festival is the highlight of the year for the community. This cornerstone festival and tradition, since 1961, brings a huge carnival, parade, and fireworks to the neighborhood and features a Founder’s Run competition and annual bar crawl.
Hit the lanes at the retro-inspired Bowlero Bowling Alley for themed parties for all ages, laser tag, arcade games, and huge plates of oversized, shareable meals. The bowling alley features 38 lanes and a sports bar and lounge for dining. They offer specials every week, from Taco Tuesdays to free games for First Responders and Sunday-Funday games for families. The Bowlero mission is to encourage guests to forget everything they know about bowling and instead, look to experience the “epic fun that only happens when you’re at Bowlero!”
You would never guess a 12-acre park was nestled in the middle of downtown Algonquin, but Towne Park offers everything you need for a relaxing day outside. The spacious area is filled with picnic tables, expansive fields for sports, a castle-themed playground, and basketball courts. The picnic area serves as a beautiful spot for family picnics or birthday parties, and since the park is centrally located, there are numerous places to grab a bite to eat within walking distance.
Calling all art aficionados – the annual Art on the Fox festival celebrates art in all forms with 75 vendors showcasing their talents along the Fox River over the course of two days. Featuring unique pieces in a wide variety of mediums, Art on the Fox is a celebrated event each year, and hundreds of Algonquin residents show up to support their local artists. The festival features live music each day and educational artist workshops for all ages. Browse the downtown district for your next unique piece of jewelry or extraordinary painting!
Schools
Algonquin is home to several high-achieving schools. Some of them include:
- Algonquin Middle School, a public school for grades 6-8.
- Harry D. Jacobs High School, a public school for grades 9-12.
- St. Margaret Mary Catholic School, a private school for grades PK-8.
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