$280,698Average Value$193Average Price per Sq Ft21Homes For Sale
"The Island City" along the Kankakee River
Will County's Wilmington combines rural and suburban living and is part of the Heritage Corridor along historic Route 66, also called "The Mother Road." With a portion of what was once Route 66, the city served as a way station for travelers. Wilmington's been a safe and scenic spot for those en route to another destination or ready to settle down long-term. Known as "The Island City" for its downtown's placement beside the Kankakee River, Wilmington has a deep connection to that waterway. The city's history as a riverport goes back to the days of the Illinois & Michigan Canal, which was in use from the mid-1800s until the 1930s.
During the 1850s, Wilmington was a stop on the Underground Railroad, as abolitionists living in the area provided a haven to those fleeing enslavement and injustice. Today, the historical downtown is full of antique shops and small businesses close to riverside scenery. There are plenty of nature preserves and places for outdoor recreation opportunities just a short distance from the center of Wilmington.
Shopping and dining in historic downtown Wilmington
In the heart of the downtown, residents frequent various small businesses and locally owned shops and eateries. Haydens Crossing is a popular spot with Blind Mule Bar included. It's an old-school tavern that was remodeled using reclaimed barn wood. Another downtown destination is the Mar Theater, which opened in 1937 and features the original stage, lobby and ticket booth. It's the place to catch first-run movies and the occasional classic. There are choices for grocery shopping, including Faletti Meats, favored for its custom butcher cuts, and Valle's Produce Market, which stocks more than just fruits and veggies.
The nearly 100-year-old Mar Theater still features the original stage, lobby and ticket booth.
Known for their steak, Haydens Crossing is a popular restaurant in Wilmington.
Downtown Wilmington features bars and restaurants situated along the Kankakee River.
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Seasonal events and the Wilmington Park District Farmers Market
Well-attended events include the Let Freedom Rock Celebration in June, Fourth of July fireworks on the water, and Catfish Days later in July, which include a carnival, parade, beer garden and car show. The Wilmington Park District Farmers Market is held downtown during the summer. Cold season delights include a Christmas Cookie Crawl and holiday festivities.
Historic housing, bungalows and ranch-style homes
With a history of over 150 years, the city includes examples of 1890s and early 1900s houses, particularly near the historical downtown. Architecture from the following decades includes bungalows, ranch-style homes and custom builds. Typical prices range from about $120,000 for a two-bedroom of less than 1,000 square feet to $370,000 for a house with an additional bedroom and more than double the space.
Many single-family homes surround downtown Wilmington.
Homes in Wilmington have generous lot sizes and well-manicured lawns.
Bungalows are common in Wilmington.
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Public schools in Wilmington and nearby colleges
Children may attend public schools like Bruning Elementary, graded B-minus by Niche and serving prekindergarten through first grade. L.J. Stevens Intermediate is for second through fifth grade and has an A-minus grade. Wilmington Middle, graded B-plus, has a selection of engaging activities, including an aerospace team and science team, and sports such as basketball, baseball and wrestling. Wilmington High, graded B, also offers a versatile roster of athletic teams and special interest clubs. Every year, the Lady Cats Volleyball team hosts Volley for a Cure, a fundraiser for cancer research.
The district's students benefit from the work of the Wilmington Foundation for Excellence, a scholarship program with events like an annual golf outing to raise educational funds. Institutions of higher learning in the region include three campuses of Joliet Junior College. The University of Saint Francis also is in Joliet, which is about 20 miles to the north.
Students in Wilmington attend Bruning Elementary School.
Students here attend Wilmington Middle School.
Students here attend Wilmington High School.
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Boating in the Kankakee River and hiking in Forsythe Woods
With the clear Kankakee River right here, boating and fishing are big pastimes. The area is appealing to those who like hiking, camping or hunting. Part of the Wilmington Island Park District, set in the middle of the river, North Island and South Island are local favorites and home to many gatherings and special events.
There are many extensive natural spaces within 10 miles. Forsythe Woods, part of the 795-acre Forked Creek Greenway, is only about 2 miles away. Other nearby sites include Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, which, with over 20,000 acres, is the largest connected open space in northeastern Illinois. Visitors enjoy hiking, biking or horseback riding. Braidwood Dunes and Savanna Nature Preserve are two other notable outdoor destinations nearby.
The Kankakee River provides an excellent spot for fishing.
North Island Park is located in Wilmington.
South Island Park is a popular spot to hang out along the Kankakee River.
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Historic Route 66 goes right through downtown Wilmington.
Wilmington residents use cars to get around
Except for the downtown area, Wilmington is fairly car-dependent. The nearest commuter stations, Manhattan and Joliet, are about 17 miles away. Residents who opt to drive might use state routes 53 and 102, which run through the city. Interstate 55 is located west of the river. Downtown Chicago is about 60 miles southwest.
Dow Chemical Company and Walmart distribution center among top employers
Major employers in the area include Dow Chemical Company, about 20 miles southeast in Kankakee, and a Walmart distribution center and industrial companies to the north, on the way to Joliet, about 20 miles away. There's also a training area for the Army Reserve between the two cities.
Written By
Paul Spencer
Photography Contributed By
JJ Starr
Video By
Adam Barkley
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On average, homes in Wilmington, IL sell after 58 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Wilmington, IL over the last 12 months is $250,000, up 32% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
WATERS EDGE - RARELY AVAILABLE - Custom designed 3,000 square foot home offering 6 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, 4 car attached garage and full-finished basement (adding 1400+ sq ft) on a sprawling 1/3 acre lot Main level offers a bright and open floor plan with generous sized living areas! The stunning 2-story Foyer greets guests into home. The well-appointed kitchen features ample cabinetry, sleek
Welcome to this beautifully refurbished 4-bedroom, all-brick bungalow nestled in a quiet pocket of town, just moments from schools and parks. This charming two-story residence seamlessly blends timeless character with thoughtful modern updates throughout. Built with solid concrete construction and a full brick exterior, this is not your typical bungalow. This home is designed to stand the test of
UNDER CONSTRUCTION - SEMI- CUSTOM HOMES! Welcome to the {Justin} on Lot 13 at PRAIRIE FARMS; Wilmington's newest single-family community featuring 43 new, semi-custom residences that offer stunning curb appeal, flexible living spaces, and beautiful designer finishes throughout! The modern-farmhouse design offers a beautiful front porch welcoming you & your guests. The favored open-concept
AMAZING LOCATION! Escape to this adorable one-bed, one-bath fully furnished home (Furniture stays with home) nestled on the lakefront with stunning panoramic water views. (One of the best locations in Shadow Lakes) Located on Big Shadow Lake & across from a serene wooded area, this property offers exceptional privacy and a peaceful, natural setting. Take in breathtaking sunsets every evening from
Park model on the water. You have a chance to rehab or replace this park model to your specifications! Located in beautiful Shadow Lakes. Priced for condition. This is a private gated community. We have miles of fresh water channels, lakes, and marshes all interconnecting. This is the place to fish, swim, or boat, where it can reach 42 feet deep in some areas. (BIG FISH POSSIBILITIES!) Wildlife
Opportunities like this don't come around often-10 beautiful acres paired with a massive 40x60 heated shop that can support nearly any business, hobby, or agricultural needs. Tucked away on a quiet country road, this potential income-producing property offers the space, privacy, and functionality that buyers are searching for, with a well-kept home as an added benefit. Low taxes and move in
This versatile vacant lot in Shadow Lakes is prepped and ready for your finishing touches. Fresh gravel has been added, making it ideal for placing a camper, or you can explore the option of installing a park model or building a home. A convenient storage shed is already on the property, and four blacktopped parking spots provide ample room for vehicles or guests. While not directly waterfront,
Have you been waiting for that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to present itself - one where you could own an exceptional 18-acre piece of land, a gorgeous custom-built home, a secondary building currently housing a successful working business, a large pole barn, and more?? Your dreams have been answered! 15661 Peotone Rd is an estate unlike any other! This 4,600 square foot home is filled with
WATERS EDGE ESTATES - 1/3 acre parcel zoned R-3 with lake views - across the street! Utilities nearby and no home-owner association (HOA) fees! R-3 zoning supports a duplex residence or a single-family residence! Call for additional information.
Ivana Longest@properties Christie's International Real Estate
WATERS EDGE ESTATES - 1/3 acre parcel zoned R-3 with lake views - across the street! Utilities nearby and no home-owner association (HOA) fees! R-3 zoning supports a duplex residence or a single-family residence! Call for additional information.
Ivana Longest@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Looking for almost 5 acres to build your home and pole barn in a beautiful community? This wooded 4.62 acres in an open 16 lot subdivision is the place to be. Homes built must be a minimum of 2,350 sq ft. You can also have an outbuilding as well. Low association fees cover mowing of common areas as well as easements, snow plowing of streets and a mailbox. The majority of lots are 3-5 acres so
Beautiful 5-Bedroom Home on a Private Street with Modern Upgrades This spacious 5-bedroom, 3 full bathroom home is tucked away on a quiet private street, offering peace, privacy, and convenience. Featuring modern finishes throughout, the home is designed for both comfort and functionality. Enjoy a huge fully fenced yard complete with a pool and outdoor play area, perfect for entertaining or
Winchester Manor consists of one, two-story building with 24 one bedroom/one bath units in Wilmington, Illinois that are reserved for individuals that are either disabled and/or 62+ years of age. Units have all electric utilities and resident is responsible for electric. Water, trash, sewage and cable with Direct TV provided at no additional cost. NEIGHBORHOOD HIGHLIGHTSLocated along
1 bedroom, living room, 1 bath apt in 4 flat, ground level. Clean, remodeled unit. Ceramic floor in kitchen, ceiling fan in living room. Appliances provided including refrigerator, stove, & air conditioning. Off-street assigned parking space. Discounted rent is $795.00 per month. Tenant pays electric, water/sewer and garbage. Sorry, no pets permitted.Credit check & criminal
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