· US

Glen Ellyn

Glen Ellyn, Illinois, United States

Glen Ellyn, located in the picturesque state of Illinois, is a charming village that offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and a vibrant community atmosphere. This welcoming destination is sure to captivate visitors…

#Suburban#Family-friendly#Historic#Close to nature#Good schools

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Glen Ellyn.

Top Hotels in Glen Ellyn

Top Flights to Glen Ellyn

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Glen Ellyn.

Tours

Historical Tour at Stacy's Tavern Museum

Discover the rich history of Glen Ellyn with a visit to the Stacy's Tavern Museum.

Shopping

Shopping at Glen Ellyn's Historic Downtown

Experience unique shops and boutiques in Glen Ellyn's charming downtown.

Outdoor

Explore the Scenic Lake Ellyn Park

Enjoy a leisurely day at Lake Ellyn Park, featuring picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Glen Ellyn.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

As of the latest estimates, the approximate population of Glen Ellyn, Illinois, is 28.1 thousand.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Glen Ellyn

Jan

-1°-10°

Feb

1°-8°

Mar

7°-3°

Apr

14°3°

May

20°9°

Jun

26°15°

Jul

29°18°

Aug

28°17°

Sep

24°12°

Oct

17°6°

Nov

9°0°

Dec

2°-7°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Glen Ellyn.

What people love

Glen Ellyn, Illinois, is a charming village located about 25 miles west of Chicago. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Glen Ellyn:

Scenic Beauty: Glen Ellyn is known for its picturesque surroundings, with tree-lined streets, beautiful parks, and the scenic Lake Ellyn Park offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Outdoor Recreation: The village boasts numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking and biking trails, golf courses, and water sports on nearby lakes and rivers.
Cultural Attractions: Glen Ellyn is home to the McAninch Arts Center, which hosts a variety of performances and events throughout the year. The village also has a vibrant arts community, with galleries and art studios showcasing local talent.
Dining and Shopping: Glen Ellyn offers a diverse range of dining options, from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. The village also has a mix of boutique shops, specialty stores, and farmers' markets for unique shopping experiences.
Community Events: Glen Ellyn hosts a number of community events and festivals throughout the year, including the popular Festival of the Arts, 4th of July celebration, and the French Market featuring local vendors.

Overall, traveling to Glen Ellyn offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a welcoming community atmosphere.

Enjoy your trip to Glen Ellyn!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Glen Ellyn, Illinois, could include:

Limited public transportation options: Glen Ellyn may not have as extensive public transportation options compared to larger cities, which could make getting around more challenging for travelers who rely on public transit.
Weather extremes: Illinois experiences all four seasons, including hot summers and cold winters. Travelers should be prepared for potentially extreme weather conditions depending on the time of year they visit.
Limited nightlife: Glen Ellyn is a suburban area with a quieter nightlife scene compared to larger cities. Travelers looking for a bustling nightlife with clubs and bars may find the options in Glen Ellyn to be more limited.
Limited tourist attractions: While Glen Ellyn offers a charming small-town atmosphere and beautiful outdoor spaces, it may not have as many tourist attractions or landmarks as larger cities. Travelers seeking a wide variety of attractions and activities may find Glen Ellyn to be more limited in this regard.
Potential for traffic congestion: Like many suburban areas, Glen Ellyn can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours. Travelers driving in the area should be prepared for potential delays.

Overall, while Glen Ellyn offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, it may have some limitations in terms of transportation options, nightlife, tourist attractions, and traffic congestion.

Glen Ellyn, located in DuPage County, Illinois, has a rich history that reflects its development from a small settlement to a thriving suburban community.

Early History and Settlement

Glen Ellyn’s history dates back to the early 1830s when European settlers arrived in the region. The area was initially inhabited by the Potawatomi people. The first European settlers were Ralph and Morgan Babcock, who arrived in 1834. The area was originally known as Babcock's Grove.

Development and Naming

The community underwent several name changes. It was known as Babcock's Grove until the 1840s when it became known as DuPage Center. In 1874, the village was named Prospect Park after the Prospect Park Improvement Association was formed to promote development. The name Glen Ellyn was adopted in 1891. The name "Glen" refers to the local geography, and "Ellyn" honors Ellyn, the wife of village president Thomas E. Hill.

Railroads and Growth

The arrival of the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad in 1849 significantly contributed to Glen Ellyn's growth, making it a commuting suburb for Chicago. The rail line facilitated the movement of goods and people, fostering economic development.

Lake Ellyn and Resort Era

The discovery of a mineral spring in the late 19th century led to the establishment of the Glen Ellyn Hotel and Springs Company, which sought to transform the area into a resort destination. The hotel, built in 1891, attracted visitors seeking the purported health benefits of the spring waters. Although the hotel eventually burned down in 1906, the development of Lake Ellyn as a recreational area remained an important aspect of the community.

Incorporation and Modern Development

Glen Ellyn was officially incorporated as a village in 1892. Over the 20th century, it transitioned from a resort town to a residential suburb with the post-World War II suburban boom. Infrastructure improvements, such as paved roads and expanded public services, supported its growth.

Historical Figures

Ralph and Morgan Babcock: Early settlers who gave their name to the initial settlement.
Thomas E. Hill: Village president during the renaming to Glen Ellyn.

Important Landmarks

Lake Ellyn Park: A central recreational area with a historic boathouse.
Stacy's Tavern: A historic 19th-century inn, now a museum, offering insights into the early settler experience.
Glen Ellyn Historical Society: An organization preserving and sharing the village's history.

Cultural and Community Development

Glen Ellyn has a vibrant community life with numerous events and festivals. Its downtown area is known for its historic architecture, shops, and dining options. The village has maintained a strong commitment to preserving its historical character while embracing modern amenities.

This combination of historical richness, community spirit, and suburban appeal makes Glen Ellyn a notable part of the Chicago metropolitan area.