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Bourbonnais, IL

Bourbonnais is a village in Illinois with a unique French heritage, known as the "Village of Friendship" and for hosting the Chicago Bears' summer training camp for nearly two decades.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

The full official name of the municipality is the Village of Bourbonnais (Village of Bourbonnais) . It is a village located in Kankakee County, Illinois, United States . Bourbonnais is a principal city within the Kankakee-Bourbonnais-Bradley, IL Metropolitan Statistical Area . Kankakee County is part of the larger Chicago metropolitan area (Chicago-Naperville-Michigan City, IL-IN-WI Combined Statistical Area), placing it within the sphere of influence of a major global city .

Historical Names and Nicknames

Bourbonnais is officially nicknamed the "Village of Friendship" . The area was historically known as Bourbonnais Grove, a name that dates back to its early settlement days in the 19th century .

Date of Foundation and Age

The first permanent non-Native American settler, Noel Le Vasseur, arrived in the area in 1832 and established a trading post . The area was known as Bourbonnais Grove at this time. The Village of Bourbonnais was officially incorporated in 1875 following a referendum . As of 2026, the village is 151 years old.

Geographic Location and Coordinates

The village is located at coordinates 41°10′15″N 87°52′24″W . It is situated in northeastern Illinois on a level plain, approximately 60 miles south of downtown Chicago . The Kankakee River flows just south of the village. The elevation of the village is approximately 660 to 696 feet (around 200-212 meters) above sea level . It is a suburban residential community with a total area of 9.31 square miles (24.12 km²), all land .

City Type and Economic Specialization

Bourbonnais functions primarily as a residential suburb and a college town, being the home of Olivet Nazarene University . A key part of its identity and economy was its role as the summer training camp host for the Chicago Bears NFL team from 2002 to 2019, which brought significant tourism and media attention to the area . The local economy is also supported by education, healthcare, and retail, with Northfield Square mall serving as a major shopping destination .

Population and Demographics

As of the 2020 census, the population of Bourbonnais was 18,164 . With a population density of about 1,950 people per square mile, it is classified as a small to medium-sized village. The village has a diverse population, with the 2020 census showing a racial makeup of 77.09% non-Hispanic White, 9.45% African American, 2.32% Asian, and 6.61% Hispanic or Latino of any race . The presence of Olivet Nazarene University contributes to a significant population of young adults, with 20.6% of residents aged 18 to 24 .

"City's Calling Card" (In short)

Bourbonnais is a friendly, historic village in Illinois that seamlessly blends its French-Canadian fur-trading past with modern life. Known as the "Village of Friendship," it's widely recognized as the former summer home of the Chicago Bears and as the anchor for Olivet Nazarene University, offering a peaceful, community-oriented contrast to the nearby hustle of Chicago.

Geography

Water Objects

The primary water feature near Bourbonnais is the Kankakee River. This river flows just south of the village and is a significant natural resource for the entire region . The Kankakee River is popular for recreational activities such as fishing, canoeing, and kayaking, and its presence was a key reason for the area's original settlement by fur traders like Francois Bourbonnais circa 1830 .

National and Nature Parks

While Bourbonnais itself is a developed village, the Kankakee River State Park is located nearby, just northwest of the village along the river. This park offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, fishing, and camping, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the natural landscape of the river valley .

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Bourbonnais has a humid continental climate (Köppen climate classification Dfa), which is typical for the Midwest United States. This climate is characterized by four distinct seasons, with warm to hot and humid summers, and cold, snowy winters.

Average Temperatures by Season

Best Time to Visit

The most pleasant times to visit Bourbonnais are during the spring (late April to June) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild and comfortable for exploring the university campus, the historic LeVasseur house, or enjoying outdoor recreation at nearby Kankakee River State Park. The summer can be hot and humid but is also lively.

Landmarks

LeVasseur House (The Stone House)

The LeVasseur House, also known as The Stone House, is the most significant historic landmark in Bourbonnais. Construction began in 1837 for Noel Le Vasseur, the area's first permanent settler, and was completed in 1866 . This historic stone residence, located on North Convent Street, served as the home of the prominent fur trader and community leader. Today, it is owned by the Bourbonnais Grove Historical Society and serves as its headquarters and a museum, offering a glimpse into 19th-century life and the region's unique French-Canadian heritage . The society is also working to restore the property's garden and arboretum .

Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church

This historic church, built in 1858, stands as a testament to the deep Catholic roots of the community's early French-Canadian settlers . It is one of the oldest churches in the region and its establishment led to the arrival of the Congregation of Notre Dame from Canada, who founded the Notre Dame Academy. The church is a central piece of the historic character of the village.

Transport

Main Highways

Bourbonnais is well-connected by road, with Interstate 57 (I-57) running along its eastern edge, providing direct access to Chicago to the north and Champaign-Urbana to the south. Illinois Route 102 (also known as Armour Road) and Illinois Route 50 are major arterial roads serving the village and connecting it to neighboring communities like Bradley and Kankakee .

Public Transport

Public transportation in Bourbonnais is provided by River Valley Metro, a bus service that operates multiple routes throughout the Kankakee area, including Bourbonnais. These buses connect residents to shopping centers, Olivet Nazarene University, and other key destinations within the village and to the neighboring cities of Bradley and Kankakee .

Airports and Landing Strips

Bourbonnais does not have a commercial airport. The primary airfield in the immediate area is the Karlock Airport, a small, privately-owned general aviation airport located in the township . For commercial air travel, residents and visitors are served by major airports in the Chicago area, most notably Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) and Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD).

Railroads

While there is no passenger rail station in Bourbonnais itself, the history of the area is tied to the Illinois Central Railroad, which ran through nearby Kankakee starting in 1854 and led to that city becoming the county seat . Freight rail lines still operate in the area. For passenger rail service, the nearest Amtrak station is located in the neighboring city of Kankakee.

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

American Comfort Food and Local Favorites

While Bourbonnais doesn't have a single world-famous dish, its culinary scene is defined by classic American comfort food with a few local twists. The village offers a variety of dining experiences that reflect its Midwestern roots.

Bourbon-Inspired Cuisine: A notable local spot, Bourbon Creek Kitchen, offers a menu centered around "bourbon-inspired cuisine." This includes dishes where bourbon is used not just in cocktails but as a key flavor component in the food itself, such as in glazes or marinades for appetizers and entrees . This represents a modern, regional take on American dining.

Classic American Fare: Many local establishments serve staples of American cuisine. For example, restaurants like the now-closed Beef O'Brady's were known for serving classic pub food . Reviews for local eateries highlight popular dishes such as pot roast sandwiches, cheese curds, Buffalo wings, and pizza, which are beloved by the community . These items represent the comforting, shareable food that is central to the local food culture.

A Unique Culinary Fusion

Candy & Cake (Egyptian and American Diner Fusion): For a truly unique dining experience, Candy & Cake offers an unexpected blend of American diner classics and authentic Middle Eastern specialties. Founded in 2018, this family-owned establishment provides a wide range of dishes, from traditional diner fare to Egyptian cuisine, reflecting the diverse cultural influences now present in the community . This fusion makes it a distinctive culinary destination in Bourbonnais.

Local Breweries and Drinks

Brickstone Brewery: This is a cornerstone of the local food and drink scene. As a brewery, it offers a variety of craft beers brewed on-site, providing a taste of local craft beverage culture . It's a popular spot for both residents and visitors to enjoy house-made ales and lagers alongside a meal.

Flight 102 Wine Bar: For those who prefer wine, Flight 102 Wine Bar offers a different atmosphere, contributing to the variety of drinking establishments in the village .

Museums

Local History and Heritage Museums

Exploration Station: This is a dedicated children's museum in Bourbonnais, offering interactive and educational exhibits designed for young learners . It serves as a key destination for families, providing hands-on activities that make learning about science and the world around them fun.

Letourneau Museum & Log Schoolhouse: For those interested in local history, the Letourneau Museum is a must-visit. Housed in a historic home saved from demolition in 1986 by the Bourbonnais Grove Historical Society, the museum contains many artifacts from Bourbonnais' past . It also features a lending library of historical books and DVDs. The site includes a Log Schoolhouse tour, offering a tangible connection to the area's 19th-century educational history. The museum is open to the public on the second Saturday of each month from March to December, or by appointment .

Sport and Sporting Legends

A Historic NFL Training Camp Home

Chicago Bears Training Camp: Bourbonnais holds a significant place in NFL history as the former summer training camp home for the legendary Chicago Bears. In 2001, the Bears chose Olivet Nazarene University (ONU) in Bourbonnais as their new training camp location, ending an 18-year stint in Platteville, Wisconsin . The team signed a two-year contract with the university and began holding camp there in the summer of 2002.

The arrival of the Bears was a major event for the village and the entire Kankakee County region, promising a significant economic boost . To accommodate the team, Olivet Nazarene University undertook major renovations, including doubling the size of the football locker rooms, re-sodding practice and game fields, and installing permanent lights . For years, Bears fans from across the Midwest would flock to Bourbonnais each summer to watch their favorite players practice up close, making the village a vibrant hub of football activity. While the Bears have since moved their training camp to other locations, this period remains a memorable chapter in Bourbonnais's sports history.

Collegiate Athletics

Olivet Nazarene University Tigers: As the home of Olivet Nazarene University, Bourbonnais supports a vibrant collegiate athletics program. The ONU Tigers compete in various sports, contributing to the local sports culture and providing entertainment for the community. The university's facilities, once used by the Chicago Bears, continue to be a center for athletic activity .

Universities and Academic Institutions

Olivet Nazarene University: A Cornerstone of the Community

Olivet Nazarene University (ONU) is the only college located within Bourbonnais itself and is a defining feature of the village . Founded in 1907, this private, not-for-profit university is rooted in a Christian tradition and has been a part of the Bourbonnais community for over a century .

Academic Profile: ONU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It is particularly recognized for its strong programs in education, business, nursing, engineering, and computer science . The university boasts a park-like campus spanning over 200 acres with numerous buildings, and a significant percentage of its faculty hold doctoral degrees . It has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top universities in its category .

Connection to the Community: ONU is not just an academic institution but a central part of Bourbonnais's identity. Its most famous moment in the national spotlight came when it hosted the Chicago Bears' summer training camp . The university's facilities are a key part of the local landscape, and its events, including athletics, draw in residents from the surrounding area.

Nearby Educational Institutions

While ONU is the only university within Bourbonnais, the area is served by several other colleges and universities within a short distance . These include:

Healthcare Facilities and Services

Local Outpatient and Specialized Care

Kankakee Community Based Outpatient Clinic: Located within Bourbonnais, this clinic provides essential outpatient services to the community. It is staffed by physicians specializing in several key areas of medicine, including Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, Vascular Medicine, and Vascular Surgery . This clinic offers residents access to specialized care without needing to travel to a major city. It accepts a wide range of insurance plans, making it an accessible healthcare option for many .

Regional Healthcare Access

For more comprehensive hospital services, including emergency care and major surgeries, residents of Bourbonnais typically rely on healthcare facilities in the neighboring city of Kankakee and the wider Kankakee County area. These nearby hospitals provide a full spectrum of medical services. Information on Medicare plans and providers in the Bourbonnais area is readily available, with numerous options for Medicare Advantage, Part D prescription drug plans, and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policies to help residents manage their healthcare coverage .

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