Welcome to Long Grove, Illinois: Where Countryside Charm, Horse Farms, and Preserved Heritage Define Lake County Living

Tucked in the rolling hills of northeastern Illinois, just 40 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, Long Grove is a picturesque village that feels worlds away from the city — yet remains surprisingly accessible. With a population of around 8,300, this unincorporated community blends rural beauty, historic preservation, and thoughtful development into a lifestyle that’s both peaceful and progressive.

Known for its horse farms, apple orchards, and scenic trails, Long Grove isn’t just another suburb — it’s a sanctuary where nature is protected, traditions are honored, and life moves at a comfortable pace.

🌲 A Legacy of Open Space & Rural Character

Founded in the 1830s and named after early settler James McHenry, Long Grove has carefully balanced growth with conservation. Unlike fast-developing suburbs, Long Grove maintains its countryside soul through strict zoning, greenbelts, and scenic buffers between neighborhoods.

Highlights include:

Over 1,200 acres of parks, forest preserves, and equestrian trails
The Buffalo Grove Bike Path and Deer Grove Trail — perfect for biking, jogging, or horseback riding
Volo Bog State Natural Area and Volo Botanical Gardens nearby for hiking, birdwatching, and seasonal events
Designated “rural residential” zones preserving horse properties and large-lot homes

This is suburban living with a country heart — where kids wave from their bikes and neighbors still say good morning.

🍎 Historic Downtown & Seasonal Traditions

At the heart of Long Grove is its beloved historic downtown — a charming cluster of shops, cafes, and seasonal attractions centered around Old School Marketplace and Main Street:

Cider Mill & Bakery — open seasonally, famous for fresh cider, donuts, and apple pie
Antique stores, boutiques, and art galleries housed in restored 19th-century buildings
Annual events like Apple Festival, Holiday Lights Parade, and Pumpkin Fest draw thousands each year

It’s not just a shopping district — it’s a destination where memories are made, generations gather, and fall truly feels like fall.

🏡 Spacious Homes, Smart Value

One of Long Grove’s biggest advantages? Space and privacy. Compared to nearby towns like Buffalo Grove or Mundelein, Long Grove offers some of the most spacious single-family homes in the region, featuring:

Ranch-style houses, split-levels, and custom-built estates on generous lots
New construction communities like The Preserve at Fox Meadow, Saddle Club Estates, and Hunters Pointe
Many properties with garages, private backyards, and room for horses or gardens — rare in much of Chicagoland

With lower property taxes than many North Shore neighborhoods, it’s an ideal choice for:
✅ First-time buyers seeking space
✅ Growing families wanting safety and serenity
✅ Professionals looking for peace with proximity to I-94

This is a neighborhood where homes are built to last — and lifestyles are designed to thrive.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Top Schools & Family Life

Education is central to Long Grove’s appeal:

Served by Aptakisic-Tripp School District 102, Half Day School District 120, and Adlai E. Stevenson High School (District 125) — all consistently ranked among the top in Illinois
Strong STEM programs, arts education, and extracurricular activities

The Long Grove Park District runs year-round programming:

Youth sports leagues, swim lessons, summer camps
Fitness centers, playgrounds, and seasonal events
Signature gatherings like Concerts in the Park, Fall Craft Fair, and Holiday Tree Lighting

It’s a community built for families who value safety, stability, and connection.

🚗 Connected Without the Chaos

Despite its serene feel, Long Grove is surprisingly well-connected:

Served by Pace Bus routes #600 and #656
Easy access to I-94 (Tri-State Tollway) and Illinois Route 21
Just 50 minutes from downtown Chicago and 25 minutes from O’Hare Airport

Whether you're commuting to work, school, or weekend adventures, getting around is fast and efficient.

💼 Economic Strength & Strategic Location

Long Grove sits at the crossroads of opportunity:

Close to major employment hubs in Lake Zurich, Vernon Hills, and Deer Grove
Proximity to I-94 makes it attractive for tech, healthcare, logistics, and remote workers
Business-friendly environment supporting local entrepreneurs and startups

This balance of peace and productivity makes Long Grove ideal for those who work hard — and want to come home to calm.

❤️ A Diverse, Inclusive Community

Long Grove is proudly culturally diverse, with growing Asian, Latino, African American, Eastern European, and immigrant families contributing to its inclusive atmosphere. This diversity is celebrated through multicultural festivals, inclusive park programming, and civic engagement.

Block clubs, faith-based groups, and civic associations help maintain safety, beautification, and connection — reinforcing a deep sense of belonging and pride.