Introduction to Arlington Heights, Illinois
Arlington Heights, Illinois, in Cook county, is 23 miles NW of Chicago, Illinois. Arlington Heights, classified as a village, is a popular northwest suburb of Chicago. It's known for the Arlington Park Race Track. The Central Business District has been revitalized by the addition of condominiums, numerous restaurants and new businesses. It also contains a light industrial base. Numerous local schools have been given state and national awards. Arlington Heights is known as a residential and business community.
Arlington Heights History
The village was originally known as Dunton and was established in 1836 by a stone cutter named Asa Dunton. German farmers settled in the area and grew potatoes and established fruit tree orchards. Soon, the railroad arrived and businesses were established. Six daily trains made their way between the village and Chicago. The economy benefited from the dairy products and a variety of vegetables that were sold in Chicago. In 1887 Dunton was renamed Arlington Heights. The population grew significantly during the 1950s and 1960s.
Arlington Heights Attractions
- The Nathaniel Moore House is included in the National Register of Historic Places
- The Metropolis Performing Arts Center features musicals, Shakespeare performances and concerts
- Arlington Heights Historical Society & Museum features a log cabin, the historic home of F.W. Muller, a coach house and the historic Banta House
- Arlington Park Racecourse is a well known horse racing venue
- Arlington Heights Community Concert Band
- The downtown area features historic architecture and is popular for shopping, entertainment and includes numerous art galleries
- The Roy Vombrack Orchestra
- Prairie Brass Band
Arlington Heights Activities
Lake Arlington is popular for boating and fishing and includes a hiking trail which surrounds the lake. Nickol Knoll Park features a golf course and ballparks. The Crabtree Nature Center, includes woodlands, prairie, marshes, ponds and a vast number of bird species. Residents and visitors enjoy hiking in the Lakewood Forest Preserve Loop which offers scenic forest areas and lakes. The Deer Grove Loop includes forest landscape, marshes and ponds.
Arlington Heights Transportation
The Metro Train provides service for Arlington Heights and offers transportation to Chicago.
