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Cicero, IL

Cicero is a suburban town in Cook County, Illinois, directly west of Chicago. Incorporated in 1867, it was once known as Hawthorne and is infamously linked to Al Capone. Today, it's a dense, predominantly Hispanic community with landmarks like Hawthorne Race Course.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

The official name of the municipality is the Town of Cicero. It is an incorporated town in Cook County, Illinois, United States . Cicero holds a unique distinction as the only municipality in Cook County to operate under a town form of government . It is a densely populated suburb located directly west of Chicago and is part of the Chicago metropolitan area.

Historical Names and Nicknames

Date of Foundation and Age

Cicero was officially incorporated on February 28, 1867 . The town's seal bears the date February 26, 1867 . The Town of Cicero is named after Marcus Tullius Cicero, the renowned Roman statesman and orator .

Geographic Location and Coordinates

Cicero is located at 41°50′40″N 87°45′33″W . It is a suburban town situated immediately west of the City of Chicago, bordering its South and West Sides. The town is landlocked and completely flat, lying on the shores of Lake Michigan (via its position next to Chicago) and sitting on the plain of the American Midwest . The elevation of the city center is approximately 185 meters (607 feet) above sea level . With a total area of just 5.87 square miles (15.19 km²), all of which is land, it is geographically small but densely populated .

City Type and Economic Specialization

Historically a major industrial suburb, home to the massive Western Electric Hawthorne Works plant, Cicero's economy has since diversified . Today, it functions as a:

Population and Demographics

As of the 2020 census, the population of Cicero was 85,268 . This makes it the 11th most populous municipality in the state of Illinois . The town is characterized by a very high population density of over 14,500 people per square mile . A defining demographic feature is that 89.0% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, making it the most heavily Hispanic municipality in Illinois . The town has undergone a major demographic shift since the 1980s, transforming from a predominantly Czech and Bohemian community to its current majority-Hispanic identity .

"Calling Card" of the City (In Short)

Cicero is a dense, working-class suburb with a rich and complex history, acting as a historic gateway to Chicago's West Side. While known for its notorious past as a haven for Al Capone, today it is a vibrant and predominantly Hispanic community, celebrated for its deep cultural roots, family-owned businesses, and the enduring legacy of the Hawthorne Works.

Geography

Water Bodies

While Cicero itself has no significant natural rivers or lakes within its borders, its geography is defined by its location just west of Lake Michigan and the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. The town is part of the greater Chicagoland watershed, and its flat terrain is characteristic of the ancient lake bed of the glacial Lake Chicago.

Canyons and Unique Landscapes

The entire town of Cicero is situated within the Chicago Plain, a flat expanse of land that was once the bottom of glacial Lake Chicago. Its defining geographic feature is its complete lack of topographical variation, a gridiron street pattern, and dense urban development.

National and Nature Parks

Cicero does not contain any state or national parks. However, it is adjacent to the massive Cook County Forest Preserve system, with preserves like Paw Paw Woods and Indian Road Woods located just southwest of the town, offering natural landscapes and trails.

Islands and Archipelagos

Cicero is landlocked and does not contain any islands.

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Cicero has a humid continental climate (Köppen: Dfa) , characterized by four distinct seasons . It features warm to hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The city experiences significant temperature swings between seasons, typical of the interior of the North American continent .

Average Temperatures by Month

Precipitation and Humidity

Sunny Days and UV Index

Cicero experiences moderate sunshine throughout the year. During the summer months, the UV index can reach high levels, typically 8 or 9, requiring sun protection during midday hours.

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

Specific Weather Phenomena

Landmarks

Hawthorne Works Tower

One of the most significant historical landmarks in Cicero is the Hawthorne Works Tower. It is one of the original towers of the enormous Western Electric manufacturing plant that once dominated the town's economy . At its peak in the early 20th century, the Hawthorne Works employed over 40,000 people and was a major force in the development of industrial psychology . Today, the tower stands as a preserved relic behind the Hawthorne Works Shopping Center near the corner of Cermak Road and Cicero Avenue, a tangible link to the town's industrial heyday .

St. Mary of Czestochowa

St. Mary of Czestochowa is a stunning Neo-Gothic church built in the grand Polish Cathedral style . It is a testament to the area's once-dominant Polish and Czech communities. The church features a significant sculpture of Christ the King by famed Polish sculptor Professor Czesław Dźwigaj . It is also historically notable as the site of Al Capone's sister Mafalda's wedding in 1930, adding a layer of local lore to its architectural grandeur .

Hawthorne Race Course

Located on the south side of Cicero and extending into Stickney, Hawthorne Race Course is one of the oldest continuously operating horse racing tracks in the United States . It offers live racing and year-round simulcast wagering, serving as a major entertainment and employment hub for the community . Adjacent to the track was the now-demolished Chicago Motor Speedway at Sportsman's Park, a site that has been redeveloped for retail and commercial use .

J. Sterling Morton High School East and Chodl Auditorium

Morton East High School, originally built in 1894 and rebuilt after a fire in 1924, is a central educational institution for Cicero . Inside the school is the historic Chodl Auditorium (completed 1927), a dual-purpose auditorium and gymnasium that is one of the largest non-commercial proscenium theatres in the Chicago metropolitan area. Its historical and architectural significance earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places .

The Al Capone Legacy

While not a single landmark, the legacy of Al Capone is woven into the fabric of Cicero's history. After moving from Chicago in 1923 to escape the police, Capone took effective control of the town . The infamous 1924 Cicero municipal elections were marked by gangster-led violence and voter intimidation to ensure a favorable outcome for the incumbent mayor, who had allied with Capone . A famous, though possibly apocryphal, story claims Capone publicly slapped then-Mayor Joseph Klenha down the steps of the old Cicero Town Hall . This era cemented Cicero's place in American gangster lore. The site of the old Town Hall at 4937 West 25th Street, now replaced by a new municipal complex, is marked with a historical marker detailing this history .

Transport

Main Airports in the City and Region

Cicero does not have its own commercial airport but is strategically located between two of Chicago's major airports, making it a convenient base for travelers .

Main Railway Stations and Depots

Cicero is well-served by the extensive commuter rail network of the Chicago area.

Public Transport System (CTA and Buses)

Public transportation in Cicero is provided by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) , which operates several bus routes through the town. These bus routes connect Cicero to CTA 'L' train stations in Chicago, providing seamless access to the wider city's rapid transit system. Key bus routes include the #54 Cicero Avenue, #60 Blue Island/26th, and #21 Cermak Road buses.

Major Highways and Roads

Cicero's location offers excellent access to the Chicago area's expressway system .

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Cicero, Illinois, boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary scene that reflects its rich cultural tapestry. While the town is historically known for its deep-rooted Czech and Bohemian community, its modern food landscape is significantly shaped by long-standing Italian-American institutions and a thriving Mexican food culture.

A Lost Culinary Landmark: Klas Restaurant

For much of the 20th century, the name in Cicero fine dining was Klas Restaurant. Founded in 1922 by Adolph Klas, a native of Plzeň, this establishment was more than just a restaurant; it was a cultural hub for the Czech and Bohemian community in America . Housed in a building redesigned in 1934, Klas was an artistic and architectural marvel, featuring hand-carved woodwork, stained glass windows, and a "Russian Room" adorned with murals. Each dining room, such as the Moravian Room and the Garden Room, transported guests to a different European setting . For decades, it served traditional Bohemian cuisine and attracted notable guests, including President George H.W. Bush, Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, and various Czech presidents . Although this iconic establishment closed its doors in 2016 and was demolished in 2022, its legacy is preserved through salvaged artifacts and murals now held by institutions like the Chicago History Museum . Klas Restaurant remains a powerful memory of Cicero's culinary heritage.

Italian-American Staples

Italian cuisine forms the backbone of Cicero's restaurant scene, with several family-owned institutions serving the community for generations.

Freddy's Pizza is a treasured local spot that has been operating as an old-school, family-owned Italian market and deli since 1968. It is particularly well-loved for its squares of thick-crust pizza, along with a menu of pastas, salads, sandwiches, and classic Italian desserts like gelato and Italian ice .

Another cornerstone is Cicero Country Pizza, a local institution since 1975. It is renowned for its diverse pizza offerings, including thin, Sicilian (thick), and a super-thick pan crust. Beyond pizza, their menu features homemade Italian dinners such as lasagna and chicken parmesan, made with fresh dough daily and served in generous portions .

Scatchell’s, an iconic neighborhood restaurant on Cermak Road, has been serving Italian classics since 1953. As a member of the Vienna Beef Hot Dog Hall of Fame, their Polish sausage is a must-try. The menu is also famed for its Italian beef sandwiches, pizza, and other fast-food favorites .

For a more contemporary Italian dining experience, Sapori By Antonio and Delullo's Trattoria offer highly-rated options. Delullo's, in particular, is set in a charmingly renovated home and is praised for its made-from-scratch pasta and farm-fresh ingredients .

Authentic Mexican Flavors

Cicero is also home to a wealth of authentic Mexican restaurants, reflecting the town's large Hispanic community.

Parrillada de Tampiquña is a dedicated purveyor of traditional Mexican cuisine, with its name hinting at its signature offerings: the "Parrillada" (a grilled feast) and "Tampiqueña" (a classic steak dish served with an enchilada). The restaurant prides itself on using fresh ingredients to create hearty meals, from tacos and enchiladas to savory soups like Caldo de Res .

Restaurant Cocula has been a local favorite since 1975. What began with just eight tables has expanded into a regional chain, but its Cicero location continues to serve traditional Mexican fare, including breakfast items like Chilaquiles and all the classic tacos, tortas, and tostadas, best accompanied by fresh margaritas .

For casual, late-night cravings, Mr. Taco is a go-to spot. This cash-only establishment serves staples like steak tacos, quesadillas, and burritos, often paired with a refreshing cup of horchata .

Classic American Fare and Unique Finds

Cicero also offers classic American dining experiences with a local twist.

Henry’s Drive-In, located on Historic Route 66, has been serving classic fast food since 1950. It is famous for its hot dogs, particularly the unique BLT Dog—a deep-fried hot dog wrapped in bacon .

Steak’n Egger is a 24-hour, family-run restaurant that has served the Chicagoland area since 1955. With three locations in Cicero alone, it's a reliable spot for any meal, from pancakes and omelettes to burgers and their famous homemade chili, like the "Big Boy Sandwich" .

Another local favorite for hot dogs and Italian beef is Lucky Dog, a family business established in 1984 known for its homemade touch and generous portions . For homestyle breakfast and lunch, Erika’s Place is a popular diner-style restaurant, celebrated for its hefty portions of comfort food like meatloaf and chicken & dumplings .

Museums

While Cicero itself may not have a large number of public museums within its immediate borders, its rich history is preserved and interpreted by major cultural institutions in the region. The most significant museum story connected to Cicero is that of its own lost landmark.

The Legacy of Klas Restaurant

The story of Klas Restaurant is Cicero's most prominent museum-worthy subject. Though the building was demolished in 2022, its cultural and historical significance is being preserved. During the demolition, many original items, including murals from the Zhivago Room and other artifacts, were salvaged . These pieces of Cicero's history are slated to find a new home in museums, with the Chicago History Museum and the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library in Iowa planning exhibits featuring these salvaged pieces and personal memorabilia from the Klas family . For those interested in Cicero's heritage, these institutions will become key destinations to connect with the town's past.

Nearby Museums and Attractions

Cicero's location as a near western suburb of Chicago places it in close proximity to world-class museums. Residents and visitors often venture to nearby Oak Park and Chicago for cultural experiences. Attractions like the Oak Park Conservatory are noted as nearby draws for those in Cicero . The broader Chicago area, of course, offers countless institutions, from the Art Institute of Chicago to the Museum of Science and Industry, making a wealth of museum experiences easily accessible from Cicero.

Sport and Sports Legends

Cicero's sporting identity is deeply intertwined with its history of gaming and racing, anchored by one of Illinois' most historic venues.

Historic Venues: Hawthorne Race Course

The undisputed center of sports and gaming in Cicero is Hawthorne Race Course. As one of the oldest and largest municipalities in Illinois, Cicero has been home to this horse racing track for well over a century . It is a landmark destination for thoroughbred and harness racing in the Chicago metropolitan area, drawing crowds for its live racing meets and simulcast wagering. Its long history makes it a significant part of the local cultural and sporting landscape.

Nearby Sporting Attractions

Given its suburban location, Cicero is also a short distance from the major professional sports venues in Chicago. Residents are fans of Chicago's teams, including the Cubs, White Sox, Bears, Bulls, and Blackhawks, and the town's accessibility via major roads and public transport allows for easy travel to games in the nearby city.

Sports Legends

While Cicero may not be the birthplace of a vast number of professional athletes, its political history intersects with sports in an interesting way. The famous Klas Restaurant was not only a dining destination for dignitaries but also a place where artists and local legends felt at home, including individuals like Chicago Mayor Anton Cermak . Furthermore, the restaurant served as the venue for significant political events, such as Judy Baar Topinka's campaign launch for Governor of Illinois in 2005 . This connection highlights how sports, politics, and community life often converged at this historic establishment.

Universities and Educational Institutions

Cicero does not host a major four-year university within its own borders, but it is well-served by educational institutions in the immediate region, and its own schools have been a foundation for the community.

Higher Education and Proximity

For higher education, Cicero benefits from its location in the Chicago metropolitan area. Residents have access to a vast array of colleges and universities in and around the city. Notably, one of the major healthcare centers serving Cicero, the Oak Forest Health Center, has a medical school relationship with Rush Medical College of Rush University Medical Center, indicating a connection to advanced medical education and training in the region .

Primary and Secondary Education

The town is served by J.S. Morton High School District 201, whose main campus, J. Sterling Morton High School East, is located in Cicero. This is the primary public high school for the community. Additionally, Cicero is home to several private and parochial schools that have served the town for decades, contributing to the educational fabric of the area. The emphasis on community is reflected in local businesses like Cicero Country Pizza, which note their ability to accommodate large groups for events like graduation parties, underscoring the importance of these local milestones .

Healthcare Facilities and Services

Cicerexans have access to a range of healthcare facilities, from comprehensive community health centers to specialized clinics, ensuring that medical services are readily available close to home.

Major Community Health Centers

UI Health - Mile Square Health Center at Cicero is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) located in the Hawthorne Works Shopping Center. This facility is dedicated to providing accessible, quality healthcare to all, regardless of insurance status . It offers a wide array of services for patients of all ages, including:

The center is particularly noted for its friendly English and Spanish-speaking staff, free parking, and a sliding fee scale for the underinsured, making it a vital resource for the entire community .

Cicero Health Center - Cook County is another significant medical practice located at 5912 W Cermak Rd. This center hosts a team of physicians across seven specialties, including Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology, and Pediatrics . It accepts a wide variety of insurance plans, making it an accessible option for many families.

Cicero Family Health Center, situated at 5341 W Cermak Rd, offers specialized care with a focus on Neurology, Psychiatry, and Psychology, providing essential mental health and neurological services to the community .

Local Pharmacies and Urgent Care

In addition to these major centers, Cicero is served by numerous pharmacies and urgent care facilities. For example, CVS Pharmacy at 5701 W Cermak Rd provides retail pharmacy services and basic health consultations. For non-emergency medical needs, clinics like Access Immediate Care at 1620 S Cicero Ave offer walk-in treatment for illnesses and minor injuries. These facilities, combined with the comprehensive health centers, ensure that Cicero residents have convenient access to quality medical care close to home .

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