Resource Guides
Village of Oswego
Oswego Park District
Oswego Visitors Bureau
Oswego Community Unit School District 308
Oswego Chamber of Commerce
Welcome to Oswego
When it comes to finding an idyllic, family-friendly place to live, nothing quite compares to Oswego. This town has earned a well-deserved reputation for having a welcoming and serene environment. It’s part of both Kendall and Will Counties and has a modest population of 34,933. Oswego is located just over 47 miles southwest of Downtown Chicago and borders the Fox River.
In addition to being a warm and inviting place to live, the area is home to a number of top conveniences. You’ll find excellent schools, locally-owned stores, great attractions and entertainment, and several beautiful parks. With one stroll through town, it’s almost impossible not to fall in love with Oswego.
Another perk of relocating to the area is the exceptional value of residential properties. Currently, the median list price for homes here sits at a mere $339,900. You can easily find spacious homes with 3+ bedrooms and 2+ bathrooms at a price unrivaled by neighboring communities.
What to Love
- Inviting, family-friendly atmosphere
- Excellent home value
- Plenty of places to shop, dine, and enjoy your leisure time
History
Oswego, Illinois, located in Kendall County, has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1833. Originally known as Hudson, the village was renamed Oswego in 1837, a name derived from the Iroquois word "os-we-go," meaning "flowing out," a reference to the area's location near the Fox River. The Fox River played a critical role in the early development of the village, serving as a transportation route and providing water power for mills.
Oswego began as a small farming community, but its strategic location along the river and later along major railroad lines facilitated growth and development. The village quickly became a hub for commerce and trade, particularly during the mid-19th century when the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad reached the area. This connection to larger markets helped Oswego to grow rapidly.
One significant event in Oswego's history was the construction of the Oswego Drag Strip in the 1950s, which became one of the first purpose-built drag racing strips in the country. This brought national attention to the village and remains a point of local pride.
Over the years, Oswego has maintained its small-town charm while evolving into a suburban community with a population that has grown rapidly since the late 20th century. Today, Oswego is known for its well-preserved historic downtown area, which reflects its 19th-century roots, as well as its commitment to preserving local history and culture.
People & Lifestyle
The welcoming and friendly environment found in Oswego cannot be overstated. Residents here make incredible neighbors and are always looking out for the local community. There is an unmatched sense of pride among those living in this town.
While it’s a bit too far to be considered an excellent place for commuters, it’s nearly effortless to access Downtown Chicago from Oswego. Individuals who want to enjoy the occasional day trip to Chicago, but want to live in a cozy suburban community will definitely want to consider relocating here.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
As a new resident, you’ll quickly find that the dining establishments and stores located throughout Oswego have just as much character and personality as the residents who live here.
Roughly two blocks from the Fox River, you can stroll down Main Street and browse some of the area’s best locally-owned shops. Check out the selection at unique places such as The Marmalade Tree, Dusty Road Merchants, Happenstance Goods, Oswego Cyclery, A Lady and Her Tools, Urbane Hemp Company, The Prom Shoppe, My Sister’s Lil Donut Shoppe, Emerson Creek, and Stonehouse Market.
When you’re ready to grab a bite to eat or drink, Oswego does not disappoint. Local favorite establishments include Oswego Brewing Co.,113 Main, Tap House Grill, Freddie’s Off The Chain Mexican Restaurant, Oswego Family Restaurant, Danelli’s Italian Restaurant, Benny’s Place, Sakamoto Japanese Grill and Steakhouse, Shu’s Sushi Bar & Grill, and Asadoras Argentinas Burgers.
Things to Do
Whether you’re in search of a fun seasonal festival or a year-round attraction, there are so many fun ways to enjoy your time off in Oswego.
In September, don’t miss the four-day celebration known as PrairieFest. At this event, you can order delicious food from your favorite vendors, take in one-of-a-kind performances, and browse the Expo Village. At Fox Fall Fest, held every October, you can take a ride on the Giant Slide, interact with various animals at the on-site petting zoo, enjoy cuisine from local food trucks, and purchase artisan creations. Add Wine on The Fox festival.
Throughout the year, there are plenty of places locals love to go to in their free time. Top community highlights include Hudson Crossing Park, the Orchard Corridor Entertainment Venue, Prairie Point Community Park, Fox Bend Golf Course, Wormley Heritage Park, Oswego Village Square Park, and Altitude Trampoline Park Oswego.
Local Attractions
Oswego boasts a variety of attractions that reflect its history, natural beauty, and vibrant community life. Here are some of the most popular landmarks and attractions:
- Hudson Crossing Park: Situated along the Fox River, Hudson Crossing Park is a popular destination for outdoor activities. The park offers scenic walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a beautiful view of the river. It’s also a great spot for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
- Historic Downtown Oswego: The village's downtown area is a must-visit, featuring beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings. The area is home to unique shops, local restaurants, and cafes. The Oswego Brewing Company, located in a historic building, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- Prairie Point Community Park: This expansive park is perfect for family outings and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers sports fields, playgrounds, and a splash pad for kids. The park also hosts various community events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.
- Fox Bend Golf Course: For golf enthusiasts, Fox Bend is one of the best public golf courses in the area. The course is known for its challenging layout and well-maintained greens. It’s a great place to enjoy a round of golf in a picturesque setting.
- Oswego Drag Strip Historical Marker: While the drag strip itself is no longer operational, a historical marker commemorates its significance in Oswego's history. The marker is a reminder of the village's unique contribution to the motorsports world.
Cultural Scene
Oswego's cultural scene is a blend of history, art, and community-focused events that celebrate the village's rich heritage and contemporary creativity.
- Little White School Museum: This museum is a cornerstone of Oswego’s cultural landscape. Housed in a historic 1850s schoolhouse, the Little White School Museum offers exhibits that chronicle the history of Oswego and the surrounding area. The museum's collections include artifacts, photographs, and documents that provide insight into the village's past.
- Oswego Village Hall Art Gallery: The Oswego Village Hall hosts rotating art exhibits that showcase the work of local artists. The gallery provides a platform for artists to display their work and for residents to engage with the local art scene. The exhibits often feature a variety of media, including paintings, sculptures, and photography.
- Oswego Cultural Arts Commission: This commission plays a key role in promoting the arts in Oswego. It organizes events such as the Oswego Literary Festival, which celebrates local authors and literary works, and the Oswego Beats & Eats, a summer music and food festival that draws crowds from across the region.
- Fox River Academy of Music and Art: This local institution offers classes and workshops in music and visual arts for all ages. It’s a hub for cultural education in Oswego, providing residents with opportunities to learn and appreciate the arts.
- Community Events: Oswego hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year. The Oswego Christmas Walk is a beloved tradition, featuring a tree lighting ceremony, parade, and festive activities for all ages. The PrairieFest is another major event, celebrated annually with carnival rides, live music, food vendors, and a craft fair, drawing visitors from across the region.
Oswego’s cultural scene, while reflective of its small-town roots, is vibrant and diverse, offering residents and visitors alike numerous opportunities to engage with the arts and local history.
Commute & Accessibility
Oswego, IL, is well-connected, making commuting to nearby cities and navigating the local area convenient for residents. The village is strategically located near several major highways and roads, providing easy access to larger metropolitan areas, including Chicago.
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Highways and Major Roads:
- U.S. Route 34 (Ogden Avenue): This major thoroughfare runs through Oswego and connects the village to Aurora and Naperville, offering a direct route to these nearby cities.
- Illinois Route 71: This state route cuts through Oswego, providing a connection to Yorkville to the west and Plainfield to the east. It’s a key road for accessing other local communities.
- Illinois Route 25: Running parallel to the Fox River, Route 25 is another important road for local travel and accessing neighboring towns along the river.
- Interstate 88 (Ronald Reagan Memorial Tollway): Located just north of Oswego, I-88 is a major east-west interstate that provides a direct route into Chicago, making it a crucial route for commuters working in the city. The tollway also connects to I-294 and I-355, facilitating access to the broader Chicagoland area.
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Public Transportation:
- Metra Rail: While Oswego itself does not have a Metra station, the Aurora Transportation Center is a short drive away. The Aurora station is on the BNSF Railway line, offering direct service to Chicago’s Union Station. This makes it a popular option for commuters working in downtown Chicago.
- Pace Bus Service: Pace, the suburban bus service, operates routes that connect Oswego to neighboring communities and key transit hubs. This includes routes to the Aurora Transportation Center, providing further access to Metra trains.
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Proximity to Airports:
- O'Hare International Airport: Located about 45 miles from Oswego, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world, offering both domestic and international flights.
- Midway International Airport: Midway is approximately 40 miles away, serving as another convenient option for air travel.
- Aurora Municipal Airport: For private flights, Aurora Municipal Airport is located about 15 miles west of Oswego, catering to general aviation needs.
Walkability and Bikeability
Oswego, IL, has made significant strides in developing a pedestrian- and bike-friendly environment, catering to those who prefer to explore the village on foot or by bicycle.
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Walkability:
- Downtown Oswego: The heart of Oswego is its historic downtown area, which is highly walkable. The downtown streets are lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites, all within a short walking distance from each other. The pedestrian-friendly design encourages residents and visitors to explore the area on foot.
- Residential Areas: Many of Oswego’s residential neighborhoods feature sidewalks and quiet streets, making them safe and pleasant for walking. The village has invested in maintaining and improving pedestrian infrastructure, ensuring that sidewalks are well-kept and accessible.
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Bikeability:
- Fox River Trail: One of the key features of Oswego's bike infrastructure is the Fox River Trail, a scenic multi-use path that runs along the Fox River. The trail is popular among cyclists, joggers, and walkers, offering beautiful views of the river and connecting to other regional trail systems.
- Prairie Point Trail: This local trail connects Prairie Point Community Park with other parts of the village, providing a safe and scenic route for cyclists. The trail is well-maintained and is a favorite among families and recreational cyclists.
- Bike Lanes and Routes: Oswego has added bike lanes on several key roads and continues to expand its network of bike-friendly routes. These lanes are clearly marked and help ensure the safety of cyclists navigating the village.
- Bike Sharing and Amenities: While Oswego does not yet have a bike-sharing program, the village is bike-friendly, with ample bike racks and parking options in public areas, especially near parks, schools, and downtown.
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Future Plans:
- Oswego is continually working to improve its walkability and bikeability as part of its long-term development plans. The village is focused on expanding its trail network and enhancing pedestrian and cyclist safety through infrastructure improvements.
Overall, Oswego is a community that values and promotes active transportation. Whether walking through the historic downtown or biking along scenic trails, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the village’s commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for pedestrians and cyclists.
Schools
Oswego is home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include District 308 (link to District site)
Real Estate in Oswego
