The Illinois-Michigan Canal was eventually finished in 1848, and in 1864 the first trains on the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad line came through town and to other villages further west. Both contributed greatly to Westmont’s growth and development. Because of the railroad, Westmont shifted from being primarily an agriculture village to more of a commuter center.
In the early 1900s, maps for the village of Westmont were drawn and roads were constructed. Westmont was officially incorporated in 1921, and Vince Pastor served as the first President of the Village Board. Early on, the village did not encourage commercial and industrial growth, so it wasn’t until the 1960s and 1970s that Westmont began to see rapid growth. Westmont High School wasn’t constructed until 1974.
Notable Westmont residents include Ty Warner, the billionaire founder of Ty, Inc. and creator of the Beanie Baby, and the late blues music legend Muddy Waters, who spent his later years in Westmont. With a population of about 25,000, Westmont is similar in size to other villages nearby.
For potential homeowners looking to relocate to Chicago’s Western Suburbs, Westmont has much to offer. Houseseekers will find both luxury and more options, with the median home price being around $380,000. There are many rental options, both apartments, and single family homes. The five-story Quincy Street Station development downtown includes 94 luxury apartments and executive suites just minutes from the Westmont train station, making it perfect for commuters.
Students in Westmont attend schools operated by Community School District 201, including an early childhood center, two elementary schools, Westmont Junior High School, and Westmont High School, a U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon Award winner.
For those who prefer dining out, Westmont has an excellent selection of quality restaurants to choose from. Neat Kitchen + Bar has a great beer and whiskey list and offers contemporary American dishes. Grill 89 is a hot spot for meat lovers, and Katy’s Dumplings serves up quality Asian fare. Local chain Sushi House is great for those who like their fish more on the raw side, and Bishop’s Chili is a local gem.
The local bar scene in Westmont is vibrant as well. Pot Belly Pub, Uptown Tavern, and DJ’s Sports Bar & Grill are all good options for a night out in Westmont. Cigar smokers should check out Humidor of Westmont, which offers a fine selection of tobacco and the Davidoff Lounge.
Outdoor lovers will find much to enjoy in Westmont. The Westmont Park District runs a wide array of programs to keep kids and adults active, including fitness and aquatic centers, golf courses, early childhood programs, and the Gregg House Museum, which provides a window into the history of the township. Over the Christmas season, there’s the popular Holly Days Frosty & Friends Parade & Tree Lighting, a favorite for kids.
Families that are including the Western Suburbs of Chicago in their relocation search should take a good look at Westmont because of its affordability, access to Chicago’s city center via train, and the amenities it offers to those of all ages.
