Lombard
· US

Lombard

Lombard, Illinois, United States

Discover Lombard, Illinois: A Charming Escape in Chicagoland Escape the hustle of the city without sacrificing excitement in Lombard, Illinois, a vibrant village nestled just 20 miles west of downtown Chicago. Overflowin…

#Suburb#DuPage County#Shopping#Restaurants#Parks
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Lombard.

Top Hotels in Lombard

Top Flights to Lombard

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Lombard.

Tours

Sightseeing in Lilacia Park

Explore the beautiful Lilacia Park, renowned for its lilacs and lovely gardens, offering a tranquil spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic.

Shopping

Yorktown Shopping Center Adventure

Shop till you drop at Yorktown, with a wide variety of stores, dining options, and entertainment for the whole family.

Outdoor

Heritage Hike on the Great Western Trail

A great outdoor activity for both fitness enthusiasts and casual walkers, this trail offers scenic views and a peaceful experience.

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Lombard.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Lombard, Illinois is 'Not Available'.
Languages
Lombard, Italian
Average weather
Lombard
Jan
snow
-1°-9°
Feb
cold
1°-7°
Mar
cloud
7°-3°
Apr
rain
14°3°
May
cloud
20°9°
Jun
sun
26°15°
Jul
hot
29°18°
Aug
hot
28°17°
Sep
sun
24°13°
Oct
cloud
17°7°
Nov
cold
8°0°
Dec
snow
2°-6°

Local guide

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

What people love

Lombard, Illinois, located in DuPage County, has several advantages for travelers. Here are some pros of traveling to Lombard:

  1. Convenient Location: Lombard is conveniently located about 20 miles west of Chicago, making it easily accessible from O'Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport. This central location allows visitors to explore both the city of Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.

  2. Historic Charm: Lombard is known for its historic charm, with well-preserved Victorian homes and buildings. The downtown area features quaint shops, restaurants, and cafes, perfect for leisurely strolls and exploration.

  3. Lilacia Park: One of Lombard's main attractions is Lilacia Park, a beautiful botanical garden featuring over 200 varieties of lilacs. The park hosts the Lilac Time Festival every spring, drawing visitors from near and far to enjoy the stunning floral displays.

  4. Outdoor Activities: Lombard offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, with numerous parks, trails, and recreational facilities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, picnicking, and more in the local parks and nature areas.

  5. Shopping and Dining: The Yorktown Center mall in Lombard provides a wide range of shopping and dining options, including major retailers, boutique shops, and diverse restaurants. Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment all in one convenient location.

  6. Events and Festivals: Lombard hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including art fairs, music festivals, and holiday celebrations. These events provide entertainment and cultural experiences for visitors of all ages.

Overall, Lombard offers a blend of history, natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and modern conveniences, making it a great destination for travelers looking to explore the Chicago area.

What to know

Traveling to Lombard, Illinois, like any destination, has its own set of considerations that might be viewed as drawbacks by some visitors. Here are some potential cons:

  1. Weather: Lombard experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year. Winters can be quite cold, with snow and ice, which might not be appealing to travelers who prefer warmer climates. Summers can be hot and humid, which may also be uncomfortable for some.

  2. Limited Major Attractions: While Lombard is a pleasant suburb with its own local charm, it might not have the same level of major tourist attractions as nearby Chicago. Visitors looking for iconic landmarks and a wide variety of cultural experiences might need to travel into the city.

  3. Public Transportation: Although Lombard is served by Metra trains and local bus services, public transportation options might not be as extensive or convenient as in larger urban centers. This could be a drawback for those who prefer not to rent a car.

  4. Suburban Nature: Being a suburban area, Lombard may not offer the same level of nightlife, dining, and entertainment options as a major city. This might be a con for travelers looking for a vibrant urban experience.

  5. Traffic: As a suburb of Chicago, Lombard can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak commuting times. This could be a concern for travelers who plan to drive around the area or into Chicago.

  6. Cost of Accommodation: Depending on the time of year and demand, accommodation prices in Lombard can vary, and staying in a suburban area might not always be significantly cheaper than in the city.

Despite these potential drawbacks, Lombard can still be an enjoyable destination, especially for those looking for a more laid-back, suburban experience with proximity to Chicago's attractions.

Lombard, Illinois, is a village located in DuPage County, about 20 miles west of Chicago. It has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. Here is a detailed history of Lombard:

Early History

  • Native American Presence: Before European settlers arrived, the area that would become Lombard was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Potawatomi.

  • Settlement: The first European settlers arrived in the 1830s. The area was initially part of a land tract owned by the U.S. Government, which was later distributed to settlers. The first settler in the area was Elisha Fish, who arrived in 1833.

Founding and Development

  • Babcock's Grove: Lombard was originally known as Babcock's Grove, named after Ralph and Morgan Babcock, who were among the early settlers in the 1830s. The name "Lombard" was later adopted in honor of Josiah Lombard, a Chicago banker who financed the construction of the railroad through the village.

  • Incorporation: Lombard was incorporated as a village in 1869.

Important Landmarks and Events

  • Lilacia Park: One of Lombard's most famous landmarks is Lilacia Park, which was created by Colonel William R. Plum, a Civil War veteran, and his wife Helen Plum. The Plums started the park in the early 20th century by planting a large collection of lilacs, and upon their deaths, they bequeathed their estate to the village. The park became a public space in 1927 and is celebrated annually during the Lilac Festival.

  • The Lombard Historical Society: The society maintains two historic houses: the Victorian Cottage Museum and the Sheldon Peck Homestead, the latter of which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Sheldon Peck was a notable itinerant folk artist and abolitionist.

  • The Helen M. Plum Memorial Library: Named after Helen Plum, this library serves as an important educational and cultural resource for Lombard residents.

Notable Figures

  • Ellen A. Martin: A notable figure in Lombard's history, Ellen A. Martin was one of the first women in Illinois to vote, doing so in 1891 before women in the state were generally allowed to vote. Her actions set a precedent for women's suffrage in Illinois.

Modern Development

  • Growth: Post-World War II, Lombard experienced significant growth as part of the suburban expansion of Chicago. The village developed residential areas, schools, and commercial sectors to accommodate the increasing population.

  • Yorktown Center: Constructed in 1968, Yorktown Center is one of the largest shopping centers in the Chicago area and has been a major retail destination in Lombard.

Today, Lombard is known for its vibrant community, rich history, and beautiful parks. It continues to maintain its historical charm while offering modern amenities and services to its residents.