Straddling both Cook and DuPage Counties, Burr Ridge got its start in 1834 when Joseph Vial built a log cabin at the intersection of what is now Wolf and Plainfield Road. Vial also built a hotel that served transporters along the Stagecoach Line.
Though not incorporated until 1956, Burr Ridge has a strong history of commercial and civic activity, starting with the first Cook County Democratic Convention which was held in 1835. In 1917, The International Harvester Corporation purchased a large tract of land to test its first all-purpose tractor, and the Cook County Prison Farm began operating.
In the 1940s Denver Busby bought 190 acres that became known as the Burr Ridge Dairy Farm. Busby eventually developed the land into five acre lots he called Burr Ridge Estates and the village was off and running. By 1963, Burr Ridge’s population had grown to 2,200, and it’s now a bustling suburb about 20 minutes southwest of Chicago with a population around 11,000.
Burr Ridge is one of the five most affluent suburbs of Chicago and has much to offer to potential homebuyers looking to stay close to downtown Chicago but wanting a more serene way of life. For those looking to build their own homes, Burr Ridge has plenty of property available, a rarity for a village that’s close to the big city.
Neighborhoods in Burr Ridge range from upscale gated communities to maintenance-free developments newly constructed in the past 10 years. While the median house price in Burr Ridge is double that of the national average, affordable options can be found in various parts of the village, particularly further away from downtown.
Since the village is located at the intersection of the Stevenson Expressway (I55) and Tri-State Tollway (I294) Burr Ridge offers easy access to Chicago airports and other areas throughout the region. The nearby Western Springs train station along the BNSF railway provides commuters and city lovers regular service to Chicago’s city center.
Burr Ridge is served by Community Consolidated District School District 180, which operates excellent elementary and middle schools in the village. High schoolers have options to attend Hinsdale schools or Lyons Township High School in LaGrange, all good choices.
While its downtown area is smaller than most in the western suburbs, Burr Ridge offers quality dining and nightlife. Capri Ristorante Burr Ridge‘s menu features classic Italian and also runs a sports bar, Capri by Gigi, in nearby Indian Head Park. Upscale chains Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant and Hampton Social also have locations in Burr Ridge, and Jonny Cab’s is a great spot for live music.
It’s tough to beat shopping and entertainment in Burr Ridge. Burr Ridge Village Center is a hub for shops, concerts, movie nights, and many other reasons to get off the couch and out of the house. Whether it’s learning to cut the rug at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio, getting pampered at the Kohler Waters Spa, or honing your swing at Elevation Golf, there’s not much you can’t do or buy or watch at the Village Center.
From Woods Pool to the Farra Family Park Ice Rink, the Burr Ridge Park District provides the community with plenty of outdoor activities throughout the year. Little leagues for kids and programs for adults who want to stay active are included in the park district’s menu of offerings. The local Lifetime Fitness includes indoor and outdoor pools, fitness classes and training, and even a Beach Club for those who like to tan.
In total, Burr Ridge is a fine option for families looking for a smaller, upscale community that is close to downtown Chicago but offers a quieter, more peaceful way of life with a selection of amenities they can find in the Windy City.
