Clarendon Hills makes use of its natural scenery
The name of Clarendon Hills might lead some to imagine rolling, sweeping contours – and that would be an accurate depiction of this west Chicago suburb of nearly 8,800 people. In the 1920s, designers took a page from the playbook of Frederick Law Olmstead, who was famous for shaping neighborhoods around natural escapes like parks. As a result, the streets in Clarendon Hills move in fluid lines, following the contour of the land, unlike the grids of surrounding neighborhoods.
Hosek and Prospect parks have various amenities
At 9 acres, Hosek Park in south Clarendon Hills is certainly one of the green spaces that the neighborhood is built around. There are playgrounds, soccer fields, softball fields and tennis courts to recreate on. But the centerpiece is 23-acre Prospect Park, stamped by picturesque fishing ponds and loaded with athletic facilities, including batting cages. In keeping with the neighborhood’s natural philosophy, parts of the park are restored prairie – and yes, there’s a hillside to sled down. It's a prime place for residents to see and be seen.
Commuters have access to Metra and Kingery Highway
“This is a highly valued area,” says Realtor Bryan Bomba. “People from the city regularly seek it out, because it’s not too much of a departure from the city lifestyle.” Indeed, West Suburban Living in 2012 named Clarendon Hills the second-best place to live in the Chicago area. It’s easy to see why, just from a transportation standpoint: there’s a thriving Metra commuter station downtown, plus the Kingery Highway in west Clarendon Hills, which connects you to Interstates 88, 294 and 355.
Housing includes remodeled options with mid-20th century character
When it comes to housing, there’s something for everyone. First-time homebuyers can find a remodeled brick ranch that exudes midcentury charm. Prices start around $360,000. In the middle range, prospective buyers can find 1950s Cape Cods with open floor plans, plus a front and backyard that provides that classic suburban feel. Prices start around $600,000. Then, at the highest level, options include million-dollar homes. These houses can easily be 4,000 square feet or more, situated on quarter of an acre lots. They’ll also have more robust landscaping, with mature trees present. The styles lean towards timeless and traditional.
Schools have academic and athletic accolades
For close attention from teachers, go to Walker Elementary: it’s one of the district’s smallest schools, enrolling only 270 students at the K-5 level. Students then usually move up to Clarendon Hills Middle, a school that serves 600 students in grades 6-8. This is a newer institution, opening as recently as 2000, but in that short time it has been named a U.S. Department of Education National Blue Ribbon School. Clarendon Middle students graduate to Hinsdale Central High, an older school founded in 1879. The sports teams are known for being highly successful, with Hinsdale students winning eight state championships in 2015. Expansions arrived in 2004, with bigger hallways and a $5 million-dollar library. New amenities continue to be added, including a pool and, in 2022, a student commons.
Ogden Avenue is a dining destination
Ogden Avenue in north Clarendon Hills has several retail shopping, groceries and dining experiences. The bright and lively Citrus Diner serves up tried-and-true breakfast dishes with eggs, bacon and home fries. Those who don't like running errands might change their minds when they walk through Standard Market, where the rustic setting makes it a relaxing time when looking for that special ingredient.
Written By
Jessica Haddad
Photography Contributed By
Justin Schmidt
