Lombard, IL
- About the city
- Geography
- Climate and weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Institutions and Services
Lombard is a suburban village in DuPage County, Illinois, part of the Chicago metropolitan area known as "The Lilac Village" for its historic lilac garden and annual festival.
About the city
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
Lombard is officially the Village of Lombard. It is a suburban community located in DuPage County, Illinois, approximately 20 miles west of the Chicago Loop . As an incorporated village, it operates under a council-manager form of government and is part of the sprawling Chicago metropolitan area (Chicagoland), one of the largest and most economically diverse regions in the United States .
Historical Names and Nicknames
Lombard is famously known as "The Lilac Village" . This cherished nickname originates from Lilacia Park, an 8.5-acre garden bequeathed to the village in 1927 that features over 200 varieties of lilac bushes . Before its incorporation, the area was originally known as "Babcock's Grove," named after the Babcock brothers, who were among its first settlers .
Date of Foundation and Age
Lombard was officially incorporated as a village in 1869 . It was named after Josia Lewis Lombard, a Chicago banker and real estate developer who platted the settlement a year earlier . As of 2026, the village is 157 years old. The area's history as a settlement, however, dates back to the 1830s with the arrival of families like the Pecks and the Babcocks .
Geographical Position and Coordinates
The village is centrally located at coordinates 41°52′34″N 88°00′50″W . Lombard sits on a relatively flat glacial plain at an elevation of approximately 728 feet (222 meters) above sea level . Its landscape is typical of the Chicago suburbs, characterized by residential neighborhoods, commercial corridors, and green spaces interspersed with small waterways like the DuPage River and Salt Creek .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Lombard functions primarily as a residential suburb and a regional commercial hub within the Chicago metropolitan area . Its economy is diversified, anchored by retail, centered around the large Yorktown Shopping Center; healthcare, with facilities like the Westin Lombard Yorktown; professional services; and hospitality, serving both business travelers and tourists . The village also has a significant manufacturing and industrial presence in areas like the Yorkbrook Industrial Park .
Population and Demographics
According to the 2020 census, Lombard has a population of 44,476 . This makes it a large suburban village, characterized by a diverse and growing community. The population has seen significant growth since the post-World War II era. Demographically, the village is quite diverse, with the 2020 census showing a racial makeup of 68.58% non-Hispanic White, 13.09% Asian, and 10.17% Hispanic or Latino of any race . The median household income is approximately $86,167 .
"Visiting Card" of the City
Lombard is best known as "The Lilac Village," a charming Chicago suburb that bursts into color and fragrance each spring with its historic Lilacia Park and beloved Lilac Festival. Visitors come to experience this unique horticultural legacy, explore its quaint downtown, and enjoy suburban comforts while being just a train ride away from the attractions of downtown Chicago .
Geography
Water Bodies (Rivers, Creeks)
The village lies within the Salt Creek watershed, with the creek itself running through the area. This waterway offers opportunities for outdoor activities like canoeing, kayaking, and fishing for species such as bass, catfish, and pike . Lombard's early history is also tied to the DuPage River, near which the first settlers, the Babcock brothers, established their homestead .
National and Natural Parks
While Lombard itself is a developed suburb, it is home to several significant local parks and is close to larger forest preserves.
- Lilacia Park: An 8.5-acre (3.4 ha) public garden and the crown jewel of Lombard. Bequeathed to the village in 1927, it features over 200 varieties of lilacs and 50 varieties of tulips. The park was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2019 . It is located at 150 South Park Avenue, adjacent to the Lombard Metra station .
- York Commons Park: A sprawling 56-acre community park that serves as a major recreational hub. Its centerpiece is Paradise Bay Water Park, featuring water slides, a lazy river, and pools. The park also houses the Lombard Historical Society's Victorian Cottage Museum and hosts community events like concerts and the annual Lilac Festival .
- Great Western Trail: A popular multi-use trail that passes through Lombard, offering paved paths for walking, running, biking, and horseback riding, connecting the village to the broader regional trail system .
- Nearby Forest Preserves: As part of DuPage County, Lombard is surrounded by the DuPage Forest Preserve District, which manages numerous nearby natural areas for conservation and recreation, such as the Churchill Woods Forest Preserve along the DuPage River.
Climate and weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Lombard experiences a humid continental climate, characteristic of the Upper Midwest. This means there are distinct seasons with large temperature variations. The village enjoys hot and humid summers and cold, windy winters with moderate snowfall .
Average Temperatures Throughout the Year
The average temperature throughout the year ranges from -8°C to 29°C (18°F to 85°F) .
- Hottest Month: July, with an average high of 29°C (84°F) and an average low of 19°C (66°F) .
- Coldest Month: January, with an average low of -8°C (18°F) and an average high of -0°C (32°F) .
- Extreme Temperatures: Temperatures rarely drop below -19°C (-2°F) or rise above 34°C (93°F) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Rainfall: Lombard receives significant precipitation year-round, averaging approximately 959 mm (37.7 inches) per year . The wettest months are generally late spring and summer, with June seeing an average of 92 mm of rain .
- Snowfall: Snow is common in winter, with an average of 107 mm (4.2 inches) in February, the snowiest month. The snow season typically lasts from late November to late March .
- Humidity: Humidity levels are often high during the summer months, averaging around 80%, which contributes to the muggy feeling .
Best Time to Visit
According to Weather Spark, the best time to visit Lombard for warm-weather activities is from mid-June to mid-September .
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm up significantly, from chilly to pleasantly mild (8°C to 22°C / 46°F to 72°F). This is the time for the famous Lilac Festival in May, though rain is common .
- Summer (June-August): Warm to hot and humid, with July highs averaging 29°C (84°F). This is the peak season for outdoor activities, including visits to Paradise Bay Water Park .
- Fall (September-November): Starts pleasantly warm and becomes crisp and cool. September is a great month with average highs of 23°C (73°F) and less humidity .
- Winter (December-February): Cold and snowy, with January highs averaging around freezing (0°C / 32°F). This season is ideal for experiencing a true Midwestern winter, but outdoor activities are limited .
Landmarks
Lilacia Park
The absolute heart and soul of Lombard, Lilacia Park is an 8.5-acre horticultural masterpiece. It is the reason for the village's nickname, "The Lilac Village." The park was the estate of Colonel William Plum and his wife Helen, who brought lilac cuttings from the famous French breeder Victor Lemoine in the early 20th century . When Colonel Plum died in 1927, the property was bequeathed to the village . Today, it features over 200 varieties of lilacs and 50 varieties of tulips, creating a spectacular display each spring. The park is open to the public daily and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2019. It's located at 150 South Park Avenue .
The Sheldon Peck Homestead
One of the oldest standing structures in DuPage County, the Sheldon Peck Homestead was built in 1839 by Sheldon and Harriet Peck, some of Lombard's earliest settlers . Peck was a folk artist and primitive portrait painter. The restored farmhouse offers a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century pioneer life and also served as the area's first school. In 2011, it was inducted into the National Park Service's Network to Freedom for its verified role as a stop on the Underground Railroad . It is managed by the Lombard Historical Society.
The "Little Orphan Annie" House
A unique piece of American pop culture history, this Italianate-style home at 215 S. Stewart Ave was the residence of cartoonist Harold Gray's parents . Gray, the creator of the famous "Little Orphan Annie" comic strip, used a study in this house as his studio. Some architectural features of the home, such as the grand staircase and outer deck, are said to have been incorporated into the backgrounds of his cartoons. Gray lived here while developing his iconic work .
York Commons Park and Paradise Bay
A premier destination for family fun, York Commons Park spans over 56 acres . Its main attraction is Paradise Bay Water Park, a thrilling aquatic center featuring multiple water slides, a lazy river, swimming pools, and a splash pad, making it a perfect escape during the hot Illinois summers . The park also offers open fields, picnic areas, paved walking trails, and hosts the Lombard Historical Society's Victorian Cottage Museum, blending recreation with local history.
The Lombard Lilac Festival
While not a physical landmark, this annual event is a defining feature of the village's cultural landscape. Held every May since 1930, the Lilac Festival is a 16-day celebration of Lombard's floral heritage . The festival takes over the village with a parade down Main Street, the crowning of a Lilac Queen, arts and crafts fairs, wine tastings in Lilacia Park, concerts, and a Mother's Day Brunch. It attracts visitors from across the state to witness the breathtaking beauty of the blooming lilacs .
Transport
Main Airports
Lombard does not have its own commercial airport but is strategically located between two of Chicago's major international airports, making it highly accessible.
- Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD): Located approximately 9 miles from the Lombard city center, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world and serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights . Travelers can reach Lombard via taxi, ride-sharing services, or by taking the CTA Blue Line to downtown Chicago and connecting to Metra, though a direct car or shuttle is most common.
- Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW): Another significant airport serving the Chicago area, located southwest of the Loop. It is a key hub for low-cost carriers and is also accessible from Lombard by car or a combination of CTA and Metra trains.
Main Railway Stations
Lombard is well-connected to Chicago and the surrounding region by commuter rail.
- Lombard Metra Station: Located in the heart of downtown Lombard at 200 W. Maple Street, this station serves the Union Pacific West Line (UP-W) . It provides direct and frequent service to Ogilvie Transportation Center in downtown Chicago, making it a convenient option for commuters and visitors alike. The station is also adjacent to Lilacia Park.
- Amtrak: While there is no Amtrak station directly in Lombard, long-distance and intercity rail service is accessible via Chicago's Union Station, a short connection away on Metra.
Major Highways
Lombard is situated at the crossroads of several major interstate highways, facilitating easy travel by car.
- Interstate 88 (I-88) : The Ronald Reagan Memorial Tollway runs directly through Lombard, with an exit at Highland Avenue, providing a high-speed route to Chicago and the western suburbs .
- Interstate 355 (I-355) : The Veterans Memorial Tollway, which runs north-south, is just east of the village and connects to I-88, I-290, and I-55 .
- U.S. Route 20 (Lake Street) and Illinois Route 38 (Roosevelt Road) : These are major east-west surface roads that run through the village, offering non-toll alternatives to the interstates .
Public Transportation
- Pace Bus: The suburban bus division of the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) provides local bus service throughout Lombard and connects to neighboring suburbs and Metra stations. While a viable option, some visitors may find the system complex .
Car Rentals
Renting a car is a popular and practical way to explore Lombard and the greater Chicagoland area. Numerous car rental agencies have locations in and around the village, with an average rental cost of around $37 per day. Renting from locations within the city is often significantly cheaper than renting from the airports .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
While Lombard is a charming suburb, it doesn't have a centuries-old culinary identity like a major metropolis. However, its modern food scene is vibrant and boasts local favorites that have become destinations in their own right. The culinary traditions here are less about ancient recipes and more about contemporary American comfort food with a creative, local twist.
Babcock's Grove House
A cornerstone of Lombard's dining scene is Babcock's Grove House, a local restaurant celebrated for its inviting atmosphere and consistently excellent food . It has garnered a reputation as the "best restaurant in Lombard" among locals .
- Signature Dishes: The restaurant is particularly famous for its burgers. Customer favorites include the "Really Gouda Burger," a creative take topped with smoky Gouda cheese, and the "Ryan’s Pub Burger" with fries . For those seeking lighter fare, options like the smoked salmon quinoa bowl and the turkey shallot burger are also highly praised .
- Other Must-Try Items: Beyond burgers, patrons rave about the Wisconsin cheese curds and a creamy garlic mushroom soup so good that diners recommend ordering one bowl per person . The dessert pies are also described as "phenomenal" .
- The Experience: Housed in a pretty, historic building, the restaurant offers an intimate feel. A unique feature is The Lilac League bar, where patrons can wait for a table and then bring their craft cocktails, such as the locally-named "Peck Homestead," into the main dining area .
The Local Burger Scene
Lombard has developed a notable reputation among burger aficionados in the Chicago suburbs . The local food scene is known for its creativity with this classic American dish.
- Creative Offerings: Beyond the staples at Babcock's Grove House, other local spots are known for innovative, limited-time offerings. One such example is the "Cheesy Chopped Guppie Burger," a unique flavor combination that has become a must-try for visitors . This focus on fresh ingredients and inventive toppings defines Lombard's approach to the burger .
Museums
Lombard offers a focused but rich historical museum experience, centered on preserving and interpreting the village's past from the 19th century. The museums are operated by the Lombard Historical Society and offer a glimpse into the lives of the area's early settlers and middle-class families.
Lombard Historical Society Museums
The Lombard Historical Society is the steward of Lombard's heritage and manages two primary historic sites .
- The Victorian Cottage Museum: Located at 23 W. Maple Street, this museum is an 1882 historic house that immerses visitors in the life of a middle-class Victorian family . The museum features four period rooms authentically decorated to reflect the years 1870-1885 . The site also includes an 1870 two-story Carriage House used for exhibits and archives, a c.1860 three-seated privy, and Colonel Plum's garden shed . The Carriage House also houses the Emporium, a gift shop selling souvenirs, hand-sewn doll dresses, and even locally grown honey .
- The Sheldon Peck Homestead: Recognized as the oldest house in Lombard, the Sheldon Peck Homestead was built around 1839 in what was once Babcock's Grove . Located at 355 E. Parkside Avenue, this site holds national significance as it is a National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Site . It preserves the legacy of Sheldon Peck, a prominent local abolitionist and folk artist.
Key Events and Exhibits
The Lombard Historical Society is active in hosting events that bring local history to life. A notable example is its celebration of the 100th anniversary of "Little Orphan Annie," titled "Annie”-Versary," demonstrating a commitment to connecting local and national cultural history .
Sport and Sports Legends
Lombard's sporting identity is deeply rooted in community values and high school athletics. While it does not host any major professional sports franchises, the village is home to competitive high school teams and a popular annual cycling event.
High School Athletics: Glenbard East High School
The core of Lombard's sports culture is Glenbard East High School, located at 1014 S Main St . The school's teams, known as the Rams, compete in the DuPage Valley Conference.
- Track and Field: Glenbard East has a robust track and field program, with teams regularly competing at conference and state levels. The school participates in events like the DuPage Valley Conference meets and the Illinois Prep Top Times Indoor Championships .
- Cross Country: The school's cross country teams are also active, competing in invitationals and IHSA regional and sectional meets, with the goal of reaching the IHSA Class AAA State XC Championship .
Major Sporting Events
- Lombard Cycling Classic: One of the most significant annual sporting events in the village is the Lombard Cycling Classic. This event brings competitive cycling back to Downtown Lombard, attracting racers and spectators for a day of high-speed action . It's a key date on the local sports calendar, fostering community spirit and showcasing the downtown area.
Universities and Educational Institutions
Lombard is home to a diverse range of higher education institutions, from a specialized health sciences university to a renowned cosmetology school, offering unique educational opportunities not found everywhere.
National University of Health Sciences
A premier institution in Lombard is the National University of Health Sciences (NUHS) , located at 200 E Roosevelt Rd . Founded in 1906, NUHS is a private, non-profit university and a leading center for the study of complementary and integrative medicine .
- Specialization: The university is specifically focused on health sciences, offering degrees in chiropractic medicine, naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, and biomedical sciences. It grants bachelor's, master's, and professional doctoral degrees .
- Unique Features: With a low student-to-faculty ratio of 7 to 1, NUHS provides an intimate learning environment . The university also has on-campus housing, contributing to a traditional campus feel within the suburban setting . Its students and faculty are dedicated to advancing the philosophy, science, and art of natural health care.
Paul Mitchell the School-Lombard
For those pursuing careers in the beauty and wellness industry, Lombard hosts a campus of the internationally recognized Paul Mitchell the School, located at 106 Yorktown Shopping Center .
- Focus: This school is a private, for-profit institution specializing in cosmetology, barbering, and instructor training . It offers programs leading to certificates, preparing students for state licensing exams and careers in the field .
- Philosophy: True to the Paul Mitchell brand, the school emphasizes a culture of creativity, inclusion, and giving back, alongside its technical curriculum .
Healthcare Institutions and Services
Lombard is well-served by a network of quality healthcare facilities, anchored by a major new primary care center and a multi-specialty health center, providing residents with comprehensive and accessible medical services.
UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Primary Care
A significant development in Lombard's healthcare landscape is the new UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Medical Group Primary Care office, which opened in December 2024 at 2050 Finley Road, Suite 50 .
- Comprehensive Services: This 4,000-square-foot facility offers a full range of family medicine services, including annual wellness exams, chronic disease management, cancer prevention screenings, immunizations, and minor office procedures . It features an onsite lab, and X-ray services are also available .
- Experienced Team: The office is staffed by five experienced family medicine physicians—Charles Friedl, DO, James Graziano, MD, Sheri Lyn Evans, DO, Manjari Ranganathan, MD, and Jesse Lauren Kulig, DO—who are committed to providing compassionate, whole-person care . The facility offers same-day and next-day appointments for acute issues like sore throats and fevers, making it a convenient option for immediate care needs .
Edward-Elmhurst Health Center
Another key healthcare provider in the village is the Edward-Elmhurst Health Center and Immediate Care Lombard, located at 130 S Main St . This practice is part of a larger, respected health system in the western suburbs.
- Multi-Specialty Practice: This center stands out for its broad range of specialists. It provides access to physicians in over 20 specialties, including Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine, Dermatology, Obstetrics & Gynecology, and Urology . With 33 practicing physicians on its roster, it serves as a major medical hub in the downtown area .