Elgin Area CVB > Visitor Info

Bartlett
Population 36,706
Dating to 1873, Bartlett is located east of Elgin and is divided among three counties. The community motto, “Progress with Pride”, is indicative of dynamic growth with respect to heritage. Top recreation spots include Villa Olivia Country Club and Ski Area, Apple Orchard Community Park, and the Bartlett Hills Golf Course. www.village.bartlett.il.us

Carpentersville
Population 30,586
Dating to 1837, such early businesses as Illinois Iron & Bolt Co. and Star Manufacturing, helped shape Carpentersville on the scenic Fox River. The Meadowdale subdivision brought “suburbs” to the Fox Valley in the 1950’s and 1060’s. For a first-rate walleye fishing area, try the Carpentersville Dam Forest Preserve along Lincoln Ave. www.vil.carpentersville.il.us

East Dundee
Population 2,955
Centered on Route 72, East Dundee is the site of the nationally prominent Haeger Potteries, and the historic Milk Pail Restaurant and Entertainment Complex with its intriguing French Country Market and quaint shops. A summer favorite is Santa’s Village Theme Park and adjacent Racing Rapids Park. While hiking, inline skating or biking, the northern extension of the 36-mile Fox River Trail, take a breather at the downtown Dundee Township Visitors Center on North River Street. www.eastdundee.net

Elgin
Population 94,487
Elgin honors its distinctive heritage at well-maintained museums, historic districts, parks and a movement towards renovation and architectural preservation of its downtown and riverfront area. Boasting the two-time award winning Elgin Symphony Orchestra, The Hemmens Cultural Center and Elgin Community College’s Visual and Performing Arts Center, Elgin is also home to the largest riverboat revenue producer in the state, The Grand Victoria Riverboat Casino. With easy access from the I-90 Tollway, a variety of excellent accommodations, multiple sports complex locations, and 1200 acres of parks welcomes our travelers to this Northern Fox Valley “hub”. www.cityofelgin.com

Gilberts
Population 1,279
Once called “Rutlandville” and later, “Gilbert’s Station”, Gilberts was home to the largest brick and tile factory in Illinois. Incorporated as Gilberts in 1890, this beautiful village is a mix of historic homes, new residential and a growing industrial area. www.villageofgilberts.com

Hampshire
Population 3,000
First known as Henpeck, Hampshire is an attractive growing community offering the charms of a rural environment. Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch is terrific for picking your favorite pumpkin while enjoying the fall festivities. Thousands attend the annual four day mid-summer Coon Creek Country Days. www.hampshireil.org

Huntley
Population 12,203
Huntley strives to honor the old and welcome the new with a wide mix of summer events. It’s a shoppers delight at the beautiful and diverse Prime Outlets outdoor shopping mall. Home to Nikko’s Grill and Walleye Grill, you are assured a delicious meal in a comfortable atmosphere. www.huntley.il.us

Lake in the Hills
Population 23,152 (2000 census)
From Early beginnings as a sleepy rural community of summer homes, Lake in the Hills has evolved over the years to an attractive growing residential community. The Lake in the Hills Fen, a 240-acre forest preserve, Exner Marsh, numerous lakes and beaches, and a variety of dining experiences to whet your appetite offer precious relaxation to both residents and visitors. Lake in the Hills is host to the annual AirExpo and the Summer Sunset Festival. www.lith.org

Marengo
Population 6,355
Located at Route 20 and Route 23, Marengo has maintained a down-home identity while situated in prime south-western McHenry County’s Golden Corridor. Year-round, families enjoy the 140 acres at Indian Oak Park, the traditional March Festival of the Sugar Maples, rich in the history of maple sugaring and sap collection, and Settlers Days. www.cityofmarengo.com

Sleepy Hollow
Population 3,553
The rustic quality of Sleepy Hollow has been carefully protected by its rural ambiance rich in green space. A ride by the Headless Horseman and a festive bonfire annually marks the onset of Halloween in the Hollow. www.sleepy-hollow.il.us

South Elgin
Population 16,100
Nestled along the Fox River, South Elgin has maintained a small town “feel” to its fast growing community. This fall, travel via trolley to pick out your pumpkin at the Fox Valley Trolley Museum on Route 31 or experience the annual authentic Oktoberfest celebration. For more information about South Elgin events, visit www.southelgin.com

Union
Population 576
Convenient to the I-90 Tollway, Union is where you can step into a “real” Wild West experience at Donley’s Wild West Town. Ride the rails through history at the nearby unique Illinois Railway Museum – one of the most extensive in the country! A favorite site for movie shoots, including “Ground hog Day” and “The Babe,” discover the fascinating world of vintage locomotives, informative McHenry County Historical Museum holds its Annual Cider Festival in Fall. Union’s small but mighty-a true family destination treasure! www.marengo-union.com

West Dundee
Population 5,428
Tree-lined streets and a quaint downtown welcome visitors to new dining venues and specialty shops. The Dundee Township Historical Society Museum, which highlights the former famous resident detective Allan Pinkerton, is of special interest to history lovers. You’ll find great shipping at the attractive Spring Hill Mall on Route 72. Overnight visitors may choose from the attractive Courtyard by Marriott and TownePlace Suites on Route 31 near the I-90 Tollway, or the historic downtown Mansion Bed & Breakfast. For nightlife, try the Clearwater Theater featuring live bands. www.west-dundee.il.us