West Suburbs, Cook County
Riverside, Chicago
A historic planned suburb designed by Frederick Law Olmsted
Riverside is an incorporated village in the west suburbs of Cook County, known as one of the first planned communities in the United States, designed by the landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. As an independent village, Riverside has its own government, schools, and services. The village combines curvilinear streets, extensive green space, and historic architecture in a distinctive, park-like setting. Riverside's mix of history, architecture, and community makes it one of the most unique suburbs in Cook County.
History & Local Character
Riverside was planned in 1869 by Frederick Law Olmsted, the designer of New York's Central Park, as one of the first planned communities in the United States. The village was designed with curvilinear streets, extensive green space, and a park-like setting, a revolutionary approach to suburban design. The village has maintained its historic character and is a National Historic Landmark. The village has been recognized for its architectural and landscape significance.
Neighborhoods & Communities
Riverside's neighborhoods are exclusively residential, with historic homes on curvilinear, tree-lined streets. The village has a small commercial area along Burlington Avenue. The Des Plaines River runs through the village, and the village's design incorporates extensive green space and parks. The village is adjacent to North Riverside and Berwyn.
Housing & Real Estate
Riverside has a competitive housing market, with a mix of historic homes, many with architectural significance, and some newer construction. Prices are moderate to high for Cook County suburbs, reflecting the village's historic character and design. The market is competitive, and the village's National Historic Landmark status is a draw.
Restaurants & Shopping
Riverside has limited dining options within the village, as it is primarily residential. The village has a few restaurants along Burlington Avenue. Residents typically dine in neighboring North Riverside, Berwyn, or other nearby communities, which offer extensive dining options.
Schools & Education
Riverside is served by several school districts, including Riverside School District 96 and Lyons Township High School District 204. The quality of the schools is a draw for families. The village is near several community colleges and is within commuting distance of several universities.
Parks & Recreation
Riverside's park-like design is its defining feature, with extensive green space, curvilinear streets, and the Des Plaines River running through the village. The village maintains numerous parks, including the Riverside Historic Landscape and the Swan Pond. The village is near the Forest Preserves of Cook County.
Transportation & Accessibility
Riverside is well connected by public transit, with a Metra commuter rail station on the Burlington Northern Line connecting the village to downtown Chicago. The Eisenhower Expressway (I-290) is nearby. The village is served by Pace bus service. The village is convenient to downtown Chicago and the western suburbs.
Local Businesses
Riverside is primarily residential, with limited commercial activity. The village supports a small number of businesses along Burlington Avenue, including restaurants and professional services. The village's affluent population supports businesses in neighboring communities.
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Nearby Attractions
- Olmsted-designed historic landscape
- Des Plaines River
- Riverside Historic District
- Swan Pond
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- Historic planned community designed by Frederick Law Olmsted
- Park-like setting with curvilinear streets and green space
- National Historic Landmark status
- Metra commuter rail connection
Considerations
- Housing prices are moderate to high
- Very limited commercial and dining options
- Car-dependent for most daily needs
- Limited housing inventory
Riverside FAQs
Is Riverside part of the City of Chicago?
No. Riverside is an independent, incorporated village within Cook County, with its own government, schools, and services. It is in the west suburbs.
Who designed Riverside?
Riverside was designed in 1869 by Frederick Law Olmsted, the landscape architect who designed New York's Central Park, as one of the first planned communities in the United States.
Is Riverside a historic district?
Yes. Riverside is a National Historic Landmark, recognized for its significance as one of the first planned communities in the United States and its innovative landscape design by Frederick Law Olmsted.