$280,848Average Value$193Average Price per Sq Ft23Homes 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
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Wilmington, IL sell after 38 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 $247,500, up 24% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this impeccably maintained duplex townhouse, where comfort and convenience come together seamlessly. This spotless home offers 3 generously sized bedrooms and 1.5 baths, thoughtfully designed for easy living. The main level features two spacious bedrooms, a full bath, and a convenient laundry area, making everyday living effortlessly accessible. The inviting kitchen flows into a
Right in the heart of Wilmington, this 2-bedroom, 1.5 bath home puts you within walking distance to local schools and the downtown area. Restaurants, shops, and everything the downtown district has to offer are just moments away. Inside, the home has just been refreshed with brand new carpet and fresh paint, giving it a clean, updated feel throughout. The kitchen was remodeled in 2021 and makes
Welcome to 1903 Lakewood Dr in Wilmington, a beautifully updated home near the scenic Kankakee River offering a rare opportunity with two PIN numbers, including additional land across the street with river frontage. This 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom home has been fully remodeled by the current owner with major interior upgrades including new insulation, drywall, updated electrical, central furnace and
UNDER CONSTRUCTION & NEARLY READY FOR OCCUPANCY! 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
Stunning channel-front custom home offering over 4,300 square feet of living space in the desirable Wildfeather subdivision. This beautifully designed 3-story residence features 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, and 2 half baths, blending craftsmanship with resort-style living. Truly one of the most custom homes you will find in this area. A MUST see! Enjoy waterfront living with direct access to the
Almost 10 acres of residential vacant land on a quiet dead end street bordering a creek. Buyers to do due diligence. Vacant lot with no representations or warranties. Existing survey will be provided. Access property at the corner of County Rd and Turner Ln
Charming ranch home just moments from the heart of downtown Wilmington! This well maintained 3 bedroom, 1 bath home offers comfortable single level living with a warm and inviting feel throughout. Step inside to find a bright living area and nicely sized bedrooms that provide both functionality and flexibility. The kitchen offers ample cabinet space and flows easily into the main living area.
Jennifer Madden@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Darling 4 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom Ranch home nestled within a quiet neighborhood with beautiful mature trees! Home features an Eat-in kitchen with stone countertops, ample cabinetry/storage, and stainless steel appliances! Primary bedroom features a walk-in closet and an convenient ensuite half bathroom! 3 additional well-sized bedrooms with great closet space! Updated hall bathroom and mudroom!
Ivana Longest@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Welcome to this impeccably maintained duplex townhouse, where comfort and convenience come together seamlessly. This spotless home offers 3 generously sized bedrooms and 1.5 baths, thoughtfully designed for easy living. The main level features two spacious bedrooms, a full bath, and a convenient laundry area, making everyday living effortlessly accessible. The inviting kitchen flows into a
Set on 10 beautiful acres, this property offers more than just a home; it's an opportunity to live with purpose, space, and freedom. Whether you've been dreaming of a homestead, a hobby farm, or simply room to breathe, this land is already working for you. Approximately 5 acres of established hay fields support livestock, while the current setup for Highland cattle and two well-built chicken
Right in the heart of Wilmington, this 2-bedroom, 1.5 bath home puts you within walking distance to local schools and the downtown area. Restaurants, shops, and everything the downtown district has to offer are just moments away. Inside, the home has just been refreshed with brand new carpet and fresh paint, giving it a clean, updated feel throughout. The kitchen was remodeled in 2021 and makes
This lovely home offers a spacious living room and a comfortable family room, perfect for everyday living and entertaining. This home is on Natural Gas NOT Propane. The main floor also features a laundry room and a full bath. The kitchen opens to a large deck, ideal for family barbecues and gatherings. Upstairs you'll find two spacious bedrooms along with a full bath. Updates Include: Furnace
Incredible development opportunity in the historic and established community of Wilmington Illinois. This subdivision is currently experiencing development activity and this Lot is 1 of 8 improved lots with utilities to the site. Wilmington boasts numerous outdoor recreational activities, a fantastic school district, a vibrant and diverse business sector, and a historic downtown area with
Incredible development opportunity in the historic and established community of Wilmington Illinois. This subdivision is currently experiencing development activity and this Lot is 1 of 8 improved lots with utilities to the site. Wilmington boasts numerous outdoor recreational activities, a fantastic school district, a vibrant and diverse business sector, and a historic downtown area with
Incredible development opportunity in the historic and established community of Wilmington Illinois. This subdivision is currently experiencing development activity and this Lot is 1 of 8 improved lots with utilities to the site. Wilmington boasts numerous outdoor recreational activities, a fantastic school district, a vibrant and diverse business sector, and a historic downtown area with
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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