$286,696Average Value$201Average Price per Sq Ft28Homes 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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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Wilmington, IL sell after 47 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Wilmington, IL over the last 12 months is $260,000, up 14% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Island living is no longer just a dream - here's your rare opportunity to own your very own private island retreat on the beautiful Kankakee River! Nestled on nearly an acre in the middle of the river, this unique property offers peace, privacy, and unforgettable waterfront views in every direction. The charming 1-bedroom cottage/studio is the perfect getaway for weekend escapes, fishing trips,
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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
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AG-1 ZONING = LOWER TAXES! Ask/sms for more videos. Escape to your private sanctuary-a luxurious modern farmhouse nestled on approximately 14 acres of fenced serene, partially wooded land, where pastures and a tranquil creek create an idyllic backdrop for upscale effortless country living. Hunting and Homesteading! This breathtaking estate blends peaceful seclusion with the convenience of nearby
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Property Id: 2474010An affordable one bedroom one bath apartment in a four unit building recently remodeled ceramic floors in kitchen and bathroom ceiling fans you pay your own electric and water sewer and garbage all this for a discounted rent of $825 per month deposit verries on how well qualified you are starts at $850 goes up from there minimum credit score 650 minimum income $2550
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Super cute 2 bedroom with full dry basement, 2 baths, 2 car detached garage. Newer carpeting, pristine condition No pets, Non smoking rental. New windows & New siding , new central air
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