Lombard IL, United States
- 43,797 people
- 16 places to visit
- 41.88, -88.0078
Places to Visit (16)
Lombard, Illinois, is a suburban village located in DuPage County, approximately 20 miles west of downtown Chicago. Founded in the late 19th century, the community was initially named "Bacon" after one of its early settlers, but was later renamed Lombard in homage to Lombardy, a region in northern Italy. The village was incorporated in 1869 and has since grown into a thriving residential area characterized by its rich history and vibrant community. Lombard is known for its beautiful parks, scenic landscapes, and the famous Lilac Festival, which celebrates the town’s history of lilac cultivation and attracts visitors each spring.
The village covers an area of around 6.5 square miles and features a population of approximately 43,000 residents. Lombard boasts a blend of suburban tranquility and urban conveniences, with access to major highways such as I-88 and I-355, enabling quick travel to Chicago and other neighboring areas. The Lombard Metra station serves as a vital transportation hub, linking the village to the broader regional transit system. In addition to its residential offerings, Lombard hosts a variety of shopping, dining, and recreational opportunities, including the Yorktown Center, a large shopping mall, and several local businesses that contribute to the area’s economic vitality. The community places a strong emphasis on education, with several highly-rated public and private schools serving its families.
Lombard is also rich in cultural and historical attractions. Notable sites include the Lombard Historical Society and the Victorian Cottage Museum, which showcases local history through artifacts and exhibits. The community is active with numerous events throughout the year, fostering a sense of togetherness among residents. Parks and recreational facilities, such as the 60-acre Lombard Common and the annual Lombard Park District events, provide opportunities for outdoor activities and community engagement. Today, Lombard remains a desirable place to live, offering a harmonious blend of suburban life with easy access to the cultural and professional opportunities of nearby Chicago.
Facts about Lombard
- Lombard, Illinois is famously known as the 'Lilac Village' because of its annual Lilac Time Festival, celebrating the city's long-standing tradition of cultivating lilacs, including over 200 varieties.
- The Lombard Historical Society maintains the Victorian-era Lombard Heritage Center, which features exhibits on local history and the famous Lombard train station built in 1901.
- Lombard is home to the largest lilac collection in the U.S., with more than 1,000 lilacs planted throughout the city, which bloom each spring and attract tourists.
- The Lombard Park District operates over 300 acres of parks and recreational facilities, offering the community extensive outdoor spaces and programs, making it one of the region's most family-friendly towns.
- Lombard hosts the annual Lombard Summer Concert Series, which features free live music performances at the Lombard Commons Park, fostering community spirit and cultural engagement.
- One of Lombard's notable landmarks is the Lombard Castle, a historic building constructed in the late 1800s that showcases unique architecture and serves as a venue for community events.
- Lombard was originally named 'Plum Grove' and was incorporated in 1869, later being renamed to reflect the large number of Lombard families that settled here in the late 19th century.
- The Lombard Historical Society also operates the Sheldon Peck Homestead, a preserved site of a 19th-century abolitionist, reflecting the town's historical significance in the anti-slavery movement.
- Each September, Lombard hosts the Lombard Oktoberfest, a popular event that celebrates German culture with food, music, and family-friendly activities, distinct from similar events in nearby towns.
- Lombard is strategically located just 20 miles west of Chicago, providing residents with easy access to the metropolis while maintaining a small-town atmosphere, differentiating it from other suburbs.