Riverside Historic District

Riverside Historic District is a carefully planned suburban community on about 1,600 acres along the Des Plaines River, with curved streets, broad green corridors, and a mix of homes in different architectural styles. The area was designed as a unified whole, with parks, street lighting, and buildings forming a coherent ensemble.

The area was designed in 1869 by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux as a modern suburban community that challenged typical urban patterns of the time. The project embodied new ideas about planning that intentionally connected green spaces, architecture, and community life.

The neighborhood displays distinctive architecture from different periods, from Victorian homes to later designs, all fitting naturally into the green surroundings. Visitors notice how the curved streets and parks shape daily routines and encourage people to spend time outdoors.

The district lies about 9 miles from Chicago and is best explored on foot or by bicycle, as it was designed for this kind of movement. The original gas lighting system is still visible and adds to the character of the area.

The Water Tower, designed by Jenney, Schermerhorn and Bogart, is an overlooked landmark that functions as both practical infrastructure and a designed element. Most visitors miss this tower even though it plays an important role in the overall layout of the place.

Location: Riverside

GPS coordinates: 41.83167,-87.81361

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:52