Hazel Crest, IL
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks & Points of Interest
- Transportation
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Academic Institutions
- Healthcare Facilities and Services
A quiet suburban village with a rich history, Hazel Crest offers a convenient commuter rail link to Chicago and a close-knit community feel.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: Village of Hazel Crest .
- Administrative Role: Hazel Crest is a village and is not a capital city. It is a municipality within Cook County, Illinois .
- Country and Region: The village is located in the United States, in the state of Illinois. It is part of the Chicago Southland region, a collection of suburbs south of Chicago, and lies approximately 25 miles (40 km) south of the Chicago Loop (downtown) . Cook County is the second-most populous county in the U.S. and the heart of the Chicago metropolitan area.
Founding Date and Age
- Founding: The area was first settled in 1870 as a farming community called South Harvey. It was officially incorporated as the Village of Hazel Crest in 1912 .
- Age: The village is 114 years old as of 2026.
- Founder and Name Origin: An enterprising newspaper editor named William McClintock moved to the area in 1890 and bought land. He initially named the town South Harvey. In 1900, the name was changed to Hazel Crest to reflect the large numbers of hazelnut bushes that grew on a rise of land (a "crest") just south of town .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Coordinates: 41°34′23″N 87°41′9″W (41.5732, -87.6899) .
- Positioning: Hazel Crest is an inland suburb located approximately 25 miles south of downtown Chicago. It is situated on the Tinley Moraine, a ridge formed by glacial activity . It is bordered by several other suburbs, including Markham, Harvey, Homewood, and Flossmoor .
- Elevation: The village's elevation is approximately 198 meters (650 feet) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Hazel Crest is primarily a residential suburban community and a transportation hub . Its economy and identity are closely tied to its function as a commuter town for Chicago.
- Transportation Node: It is a significant transportation hub where Interstate 80 merges with the Tri-State Tollway (I-294/I-94) .
- Commuter Town: The Metra Electric Line station provides direct rail service to Millennium Station in downtown Chicago, making it a key residence for people who work in the city .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, the population was 13,382 .
- City Classification: Hazel Crest is a small to mid-sized village .
- Demographic Features: The village has a predominantly African American population, with 86.25% identifying as Black or African American alone . It has a mix of families and individuals, with a median age of 34.5 .
"Visiting Card" of the City (Briefly)
Hazel Crest offers a quiet, residential alternative to the hustle and bustle of Chicago while providing easy access to the city's jobs and attractions. Its identity is rooted in its convenient transportation links, its local parks and community events, and its history as a small farming town that grew into a modern suburb.
Geography
Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes)
- Nearby: The village is in close proximity to several waterways, including the Little Calumet River and the Thornton Reservoir . While not located directly in Hazel Crest, these features are part of the local hydrology and regional landscape.
Parks and Forests
- Nearby: Residents have access to outdoor recreation at nearby forest preserves. Notable nearby natural areas include Whistler Woods, home to oak trees that are 300 years old, and the Oak Forest Heritage Preserve . These areas offer trails for hiking and wildlife observation.
Unique Landscapes
- Nearby: A unique engineered feature nearby is the Little Calumet Cascades, man-made cascades built by the water district to improve the health of the Cal-Sag river system . This has become a pretty local spot.
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Hazel Crest has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons: warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters . It experiences partly cloudy skies throughout the year .
Average Monthly Temperatures
Temperatures vary significantly between seasons.
- Hottest Month: July, with an average high of 84°F (29°C) and an average low of 66°F (19°C) .
- Coldest Month: January, with an average high of 32°F (0°C) and an average low of 19°F (-7°C) .
- Extremes: Temperatures rarely drop below 0°F (-18°C) or rise above 92°F (33°C) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Rainfall: Hazel Crest receives a significant amount of rain, with approximately 985 mm (about 39 inches) of rain per year . The wettest months are typically late spring and summer, with June averaging 3.7 inches of rain .
- Humidity: Humidity levels can be high, especially in summer, averaging around 80% .
Snowfall
- The winter season brings snow, with the snowiest period lasting from late November to late March. The month with the most snow is February, with an average snowfall of about 4.0 inches (10 cm) .
Sunlight
- Daylight: The length of the day varies significantly, from just over 9 hours in December to over 15 hours in June . The sunniest and clearest skies are typically from mid-June to mid-October .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June-August): This is the warmest and most humid period, with high temperatures in the low 80s°F. It's the best time for enjoying local parks, outdoor festivals, and the nearby forest preserves. July is the warmest month .
- Autumn (September-November): Autumn brings crisp, cool air and beautiful fall colors. September remains warm, with average highs of 74°F, making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities before the colder weather sets in .
- Winter (December-February): Winters are cold, snowy, and windy. January is the coldest month, with average highs below freezing. This season is quiet, and the focus is on indoor activities or quick trips to Chicago.
- Spring (March-May): Spring is a time of transition, with temperatures gradually warming from the 40s°F in March to the 60s°F in May. It can be rainy, but it's also when the landscape turns green again.
- Best Time to Visit: Based on weather alone, the best time for warm-weather activities is from mid-June to mid-September .
Landmarks & Points of Interest
Historical Sites
- Batchelor’s Grove Cemetery: Located nearby, this is the oldest cemetery in Cook County, with about eighty graves. It is also known for local legends as one of the world's most haunted graveyards .
Architectural and Community Landmarks
- Hazel Crest Metra Station: Located at 170th Street and Park Avenue, this station is a key piece of local infrastructure that connects the village to downtown Chicago. It features a historic depot building that was once the area's first real estate office, meeting place, and post office .
- Martin J. Kauchak Municipal Center: This building serves as the village's municipal center. It's an adaptation of an old elementary school building, named for a president who served the village for twenty years .
- St. John Lutheran Church: A brick building from the 1920s, it's a local architectural and community landmark known for its charming interior and stained glass windows .
- Grande Prairie Public Library: This library serves the communities of Hazel Crest and neighboring Country Club Hills, acting as a local hub for learning and community activities .
Monuments and Public Art
- Major Taylor Trail Bridge: A highlight for cyclists and history buffs, this bridge features nice murals showcasing the career of Major Taylor, a champion cyclist in the early 20th century and the first Black cyclist allowed to compete in American events .
Parks and Outdoor Spaces
- Local Parks: The village has small parks that are the "unchallenged heart of the city," including Hazel Crest Park with a playground and picnic areas .
- The Crescent Trail / Lakefront Trail: A portion of this trail runs through the heart of Hazel Crest, offering a well-maintained path for walking, running, and biking .
Nearby Major Attractions
While not in Hazel Crest, these major attractions are easily accessible and define the region :
- Indiana Dunes National Park: Located a short drive across the state line in Indiana, this park offers vast, sandy beaches and dunes on the shores of Lake Michigan.
- Museum of Science and Industry: Located in Chicago, this is one of the largest science museums in the world.
- Pullman National Monument: A historic neighborhood in Chicago that tells the story of the Pullman workers' movement and is a key site in American labor history.
- Chicago Botanic Garden: Located in Glencoe, this is a world-renowned garden with stunning displays, including Japanese gardens.
Community Events
- Hazel Crest Summer Festival: Held annually in July, this local festival transforms the town into a colorful spectacle with carousels, a small stage for local bands, and community stands. It’s a perfect example of the village's community spirit .
Transportation
Major Highways and Interstates
Hazel Crest's location is described by the village itself as a "major transportation hub" . It is at the convergence point of several major interstate highways, providing immediate access to the entire region:
- Interstate 80 (I-80)
- Interstate 94 (I-94)
- Interstate 294 (I-294, Tri-State Tollway) - which merges with I-80 in Hazel Crest .
- Interstate 57 (I-57)
- Interstate 394 (I-394)
Key State Highways and Arteries
The village has an extensive network of state highways and major local roads :
- 167th Street
- 175th Street - its intersection with Kedzie Avenue is the center of the village.
- 183rd Street
- Kedzie Avenue
- Pulaski Road (Crawford Avenue)
- Dixie Highway
- Governors Highway
Commuter Rail (Train)
- Metra Electric Line: Hazel Crest is served by its own Hazel Crest station, located at 170th Street and Park Avenue. This station provides direct commuter rail service north to Millennium Station in downtown Chicago and south to University Park . It offers 144 commuter parking spaces .
Bus Services
- Pace Bus: The village is connected to surrounding suburbs by Pace bus services. Key routes serving the area include :
- Route 356 – Harvey-Homewood-Tinley Park
- Route 359 – Robbins/South Kedzie Avenue
- Route 354 – Harvey-Oak Forest Loop
Getting Around
- Car: Driving is one of the most practical ways to navigate Hazel Crest and its surroundings due to its excellent road network .
- Ridesharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are available in Hazel Crest, offering an alternative to driving or for trips to and from airports .
- Walking and Biking: Walkability varies by neighborhood. While some areas are pedestrian-friendly, others may have longer distances between destinations . Biking infrastructure is somewhat limited on major roads, but there is access to regional trails like the Old Plank Road Trail and the Pennsy Greenway for recreational cycling .
Nearby Airports
Hazel Crest does not have its own airport, but it is conveniently located for access to Chicago's major airports via interstate highways and rideshare services .
- Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
- Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
While Hazel Crest is a primarily residential suburb, its dining scene offers a few noteworthy spots that provide a taste of local flavor and culinary creativity.
Jerk & Cocktails
A standout in the local dining scene is Jerk & Cocktails, a restaurant bringing a vibrant fusion of Caribbean-inspired cuisine and fresh seafood to the south suburbs . The menu is creative and bold, offering a wide variety of items beyond typical local fare. Patrons have particularly praised standout dishes like the oysters with crab meat, described as a highlight, and the hibachi noodles with shrimp . The restaurant's name reflects its dual focus on flavorful jerk-seasoned dishes and an impressive cocktail menu. The drinks are consistently described as "phenomenal," with skilled mixologists creating creative and delicious cocktails that add a touch of sophistication to the dining experience . The atmosphere is intimate and stylish, making it a popular destination for a date night or a small gathering. It's a place where you can tell everything is cooked to order, with recommendations including the jerk chicken, jerk chicken egg rolls, and jerk gizzards .
Sharks Fish & Tony's Grill
For those seeking classic American comfort food with a focus on seafood, Sharks Fish & Tony's Grill is a popular local spot . This restaurant, located on Kedzie Avenue, has earned a strong following for its hearty and well-prepared meals. Customer reviews consistently highlight the quality of the fried fish, which is described as "cooked to perfection," and the chicken wings, which are always "well seasoned" . The menu features a wide array of options, including fried chicken dinners, chicken tenders, burgers, gyros, and various seafood platters. It's a go-to place for family meals, offering large portions and a reliable, tasty experience that has garnered over 2,000 ratings .
Museums
Hazel Crest itself does not have any major museums within its city limits, but the surrounding area is home to several historical societies and museums that preserve the local heritage of the south suburbs .
Nearby Historical Museums
Just a short drive away in the neighboring town of Homewood, visitors can explore the Dorband-Howe House Museum . Operated by the Homewood Historical Society, this museum is housed in an 1891 workingman's cottage constructed from bricks stamped with "HOMEWOOD." It features exhibits and collections dedicated to preserving the history of the area and is a tangible link to the region's past .
Other nearby historical options include the Midlothian IL Historical Museum, located in Midlothian's old library building, and the Blue Island Historical Society in Blue Island . These institutions, staffed by dedicated volunteers, offer a glimpse into the development and stories of the communities surrounding Hazel Crest .
Nature and Education-Focused Centers
For those interested in natural history, the Sand Ridge Nature Center in nearby South Holland provides an opportunity to explore the area's natural landscape and history . Additionally, the Park Forest Art Center in Park Forest offers a focus on visual arts, providing cultural enrichment just a short distance from Hazel Crest .
Sport and Sports Legends
Hazel Crest is connected to the world of sports through its local athletes and its proximity to major sporting venues in the Chicago area.
Local Athletes
The village has produced talented individuals who have competed at regional levels. One notable example is Angela Dehning, a junior golfer from Hazel Crest who made a mark by winning the 19th Annual Sizzler Junior Open in 2006. She turned in an impressive scorecard of 36-35--71 to finish 1-under-par and capture first place in the Senior Girls division at the tournament held at Cog Hill in Lemont, IL .
Nearby Major Sporting Events and Venues
While Hazel Crest does not have its own major sports stadium, its location approximately 25 miles southwest of Chicago places it within easy reach of world-class sporting events and venues . Residents and visitors can easily access downtown Chicago to watch legendary teams like the Chicago Cubs (Wrigley Field), Chicago White Sox (Guaranteed Rate Field), Chicago Bears (Soldier Field), Chicago Bulls, and Chicago Blackhawks (United Center).
Furthermore, Hazel Crest is in close proximity to some of the region's top public golf courses. The nearby village of Olympia Fields is home to the prestigious Olympia Fields Country Club, which has hosted numerous major championships, including the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship. Additionally, the famous Cog Hill Golf & Country Club in Lemont, where the Sizzler Junior Open was held, is just a short drive away and is renowned for its challenging courses, including the famed Dubsdread course, which has hosted PGA Tour events for many years .
Universities and Academic Institutions
Hazel Crest is home to a campus of the University of Phoenix, which is noted as one of the major employers in the village, providing higher education opportunities for local residents . The village is also served by South Suburban College, which has a presence in the area .
For a comprehensive university experience, residents are in close proximity to several major four-year universities. The University of Illinois at Chicago and Governors State University are both located nearby, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs . Furthermore, students from Hazel Crest, such as Keelan Wright in 2013, have gone on to attend institutions like Northern Illinois University to pursue their educational goals .
Healthcare Facilities and Services
Hazel Crest is served by a major hospital and specialized care centers, providing comprehensive medical services to the community.
Advocate South Suburban Hospital
The primary healthcare institution in the village is Advocate South Suburban Hospital, located at 17800 Kedzie Ave . This hospital is a key part of the Advocate Health Care network and offers a range of medical services, including Emergency Medicine and Internal Medicine, with a team of nearly 50 providers . The facility provides essential care to the community, with patient experiences highlighting both efficient care and areas for attention, as is common with any major medical center .
Specialized Care Centers
For residents requiring specialized treatment, Hazel Crest is home to the Hazel Crest Renal Center. This facility, located at 3470 W 183rd St, specializes in kidney care and provides essential services for patients with renal conditions . The presence of such a specialized center underscores the village's capability to offer targeted medical services alongside general hospital care.