Berwyn IL

Berwyn, Illinois – Just a short drive west of downtown Chicago, Berwyn offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city access. Known for its tree-lined streets, rich cultural heritage, and distinctive architecture, this welcoming suburb is more than meets the eye. Whether you’re strolling through its vibrant downtown, exploring historic bungalow homes, or enjoying local eats, Berwyn embraces visitors and residents alike with open arms and a strong sense of community.

• Population: ~57,000
• Weather: Four-season climate (20-85°F); cold winters with snow, warm and sunny summers.
• Places To Visit: Berwyn Route 66 Museum, Proksa Park, FitzGerald’s Nightclub, Depot District, Roosevelt Road arts corridor.
• Top Activities: Catching live music, exploring vintage shops, dining at local taquerías, attending community festivals, biking along the Salt Creek Trail.
• Famous Food: Authentic Mexican cuisine, Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, and neighborhood bakeries serving fresh pan dulce.

Berwyn, IL is a vibrant suburb just outside of Chicago, offering a diverse economy and workforce. Its proximity to major medical centers, schools, warehouses, and transportation routes make it an attractive area for workers in multiple fields. Whether you're starting a new career or exploring job opportunities, Berwyn offers a range of in-demand roles across essential industries.

Top 5 Jobs in Berwyn, IL

Berwyn, IL might not be as flashy as Los Angeles, but this charming suburb just outside of Chicago has its own unique vibe—perfect for students looking to unwind, hang out, or get inspired. From cool cafes to outdoor escape spots, Berwyn offers plenty of places where you can chill, relax, and have fun after a busy day of studying.

Proksa Park – This peaceful park is a hidden gem for students who need a break from the books. You can chill by the lagoon, stroll through the gardens, or find a quiet bench under a tree to unwind. It’s ideal for a solo break or a group hangout with friends.

Friendly Coffee Lounge – Need a caffeine fix or a comfy place to get some light reading done? This cozy coffee spot offers great drinks, board games, live events, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a go-to for local students who want to sip and socialize.

The Outta Space – Part art gallery, part music venue, and part chill zone, this creative hangout brings the community together for open mic nights, art shows, and live bands. It’s fun, inspiring, and a great way to stay connected to local talent.

The James Joyce Irish Pub – While definitely for the 21+ crowd, students who are of age love the laid-back vibe, classic pub food, and live music. It’s inviting without being too loud, and it’s a great stop for weekend relaxation.

Depot District – This vibrant area is full of cool shops, small eateries, and vintage spots. It's perfect for casually exploring, grabbing tacos, or finding an indie shop your friends haven’t heard about yet. Think of it as downtown vibes with way less stress.

Swedish Covenant Green Space – Just outside Berwyn, this tucked-away retreat is worth the short trip. It’s a quiet, lush spot for walking, reflecting, or even doing some outdoor yoga on a sunny day. Sometimes, a change of scenery is all you need.

Berwyn Route 66 Museum – It might not sound like your typical fun zone, but this quirky little museum is a cool way to take a break and learn something new, especially if you’re into Americana or hidden history. Plus, it’s free.

North Riverside Park Mall – Just minutes from Berwyn, you’ll find everything from classic fast food to movies and retail therapy. Got a few hours to kill with your friends? This is a solid pick for low-effort fun.

Whether you’re looking to connect with nature, get artsy, sip something warm, or just laugh with friends, Berwyn has you covered. Being a student doesn’t mean it’s all work—this city gives you the space to breathe and be you.

Berwyn, IL is a vibrant city located just outside of Chicago, known for its diverse community and close-knit neighborhoods. The area is home to several highly regarded colleges and universities, offering excellent options for students seeking both public and private education paths. Whether you're searching for advanced degree programs or accessible two-year colleges, Berwyn and its nearby region have you covered.

Top Public Colleges & Universities Near Berwyn, IL

Triton College – Located in nearby River Grove, Triton College is a leading community college serving Berwyn residents. It offers a wide range of associate degrees, certificate programs, and workforce training, making it a top choice for students seeking quality education at an affordable price.

University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) – Just a short drive from Berwyn, UIC is the largest university in the Chicago area and is known for its research, business, engineering, and healthcare programs. UIC attracts students from all over Illinois and beyond.

Governors State University – Located about 30 minutes from Berwyn, this public university offers outstanding undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on affordability and student support. Its business and education departments are among the best in the region.

Morton College – Based in Cicero, Morton College is Illinois’ second oldest community college. It serves a large portion of Berwyn students, offering two-year degrees, transfer programs, and career and technical training in a supportive environment.

Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) – NEIU is well respected for its diverse student body, affordable tuition, and strong programs in education, the arts, and sciences. The campus is easily accessible from Berwyn and welcomes many first-generation college students.

Top Private Colleges & Universities Near Berwyn, IL

Dominican University – Located in nearby River Forest, Dominican University is known for its strong liberal arts foundation, excellent business, social work, and health programs, and commitment to social justice. The campus has a welcoming and inclusive community.

Concordia University Chicago – This private university in River Forest offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, including education, business, and health administration. Concordia’s smaller class sizes allow for personal attention and support.

Elmhurst University – Just west of Berwyn, Elmhurst University is a highly regarded private institution. It is known for its strong nursing, music, and business programs, as well as hands-on learning opportunities and a beautiful suburban campus.

DePaul University – Although located in Chicago, DePaul is easily accessible from Berwyn and is one of the largest Catholic universities in the country. DePaul offers hundreds of academic programs and is especially strong in business, computing, and the arts.

Saint Xavier University – On Chicago’s southwest side, Saint Xavier is a private Catholic university celebrated for its nursing, education, and business programs. With a focus on ethical leadership and service, it provides a supportive environment for personal and academic growth.

No matter your goals or interests, the Berwyn area features outstanding public and private options for higher education. With excellent faculty, strong academic programs, and welcoming campuses, these institutions help students achieve their dreams and make a difference in their communities.

Berwyn, IL may be a small city just outside of Chicago, but it’s home to several standout high schools that provide students with top-notch education, strong community support, and a wide range of opportunities. Whether you're looking at public or private options, Berwyn offers environments where students can grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

If you're a parent or student exploring your high school choices in or near Berwyn, knowing which schools rise above the rest can help you make an informed decision. Here’s a closer look at some of the best public and private high schools serving the Berwyn community.

Top Public High Schools In Berwyn, IL

• J. Sterling Morton West High School – Located right in Berwyn, Morton West serves a diverse student body and offers a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, career readiness programs, and extracurricular activities. The school also places a strong emphasis on developing responsible, informed citizens.
• Riverside Brookfield High School – Just a short drive from Berwyn, this high-performing public high school is known for academic rigor, outstanding athletics, and arts programs. Its college prep curriculum and supportive environment prepare students for success beyond graduation.
• Oak Park and River Forest High School – While not directly in Berwyn, OPRF is a top choice for families willing to look slightly beyond city limits. The school boasts a wide range of honors and AP classes, strong arts and athletic departments, and a commitment to equity and inclusion.
• Lyons Township High School – With campuses in the nearby suburbs and a renowned reputation, LT offers students opportunities in science, technology, and the humanities. Their block scheduling and dual-credit programs give students a head-start on college.
• Proviso Math and Science Academy – One of the most competitive and academically challenging public high schools in the region, PMSA accepts students from Berwyn and surrounding areas through an admissions process. The school is recognized for its focus on STEM and high test scores.

Top Private High Schools In and Around Berwyn, IL

• Fenwick High School, Oak Park – A Catholic college preparatory school with a legacy of excellence. Fenwick offers rigorous academics, a wide variety of clubs, and a network of successful alumni. It's a top pick for families seeking a values-based education.
• St. Laurence High School, Burbank – A coeducational Catholic high school known for its focus on leadership, innovation, and service. St. Laurence combines technology with traditional values to help guide students toward their goals.
• Trinity High School, River Forest – An all-girls Catholic private school with a reputation for academic achievement and empowering young women. Trinity offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, providing global education in a nurturing environment.
• Walther Christian Academy, Melrose Park – A faith-based school that attracts families from Berwyn and beyond. Walther Christian emphasizes strong academics, spiritual growth, and community involvement, making it a well-rounded choice for students.
• De La Salle Institute, Chicago – Though located a bit farther in Chicago, De La Salle is a private, coeducational high school that many Berwyn families choose. Known for its strong academics, STEM options, and inclusive culture, the school prepares students well for college and career paths.

Choosing the right high school is a big step—one that can shape a student’s future. Thankfully, whether public or private, Berwyn and its neighboring communities offer strong educational choices rooted in academic integrity, support, and student success.

While Berwyn, Illinois, doesn’t host any major league professional sports teams of its own, it's just a short drive from one of the country’s most legendary sports cities—Chicago. That means Berwyn residents enjoy easy access to world-class sporting events across football, baseball, basketball, hockey, and soccer. This close proximity has fostered a passionate community of sports fans who proudly support Chicago’s professional teams.

Here’s a look at the professional sports teams that Berwyn locals proudly rally around:

Baseball – Chicago Cubs & Chicago White Sox (MLB)

• Chicago Cubs – One of the most beloved teams in baseball, the Cubs play at historic Wrigley Field on the North Side of Chicago. They famously broke a 108-year championship drought by winning the World Series in 2016. With a rich history and devoted fan base, the Cubs are a staple of Chicago sports life.
• Chicago White Sox – Representing the city’s South Side, the White Sox secured a World Series title in 2005, ending their own 88-year championship drought. They've had standout players over the years like Frank Thomas, Paul Konerko, and José Abreu.

Football – Chicago Bears (NFL)

• Chicago Bears – One of the founding franchises of the NFL, the Bears boast a storied history that includes nine league championships, with their most recent Super Bowl victory in 1985. Known for a devoted fan base and a strong defensive tradition, the Bears play at Soldier Field, offering Berwyn fans top-tier football action just a short ride away.

Basketball – Chicago Bulls (NBA)

• Chicago Bulls – An iconic franchise worldwide, the Bulls reached their peak in the 1990s behind the leadership of Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen. They won six NBA championships during that era. Although they’ve gone through rebuilding phases in recent years, the team continues to draw big crowds and loyal supporters from all corners of the Chicago metro area, including Berwyn.

Hockey – Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)

• Chicago Blackhawks – One of the NHL’s "Original Six" teams, the Blackhawks have won six Stanley Cup championships, most recently in 2010, 2013, and 2015. Known for their intense rivalries and energetic games, they play at the United Center, also home to the Bulls.

Soccer – Chicago Fire FC & Chicago Red Stars (MLS & NWSL)

• Chicago Fire FC – Named in honor of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, the Fire won the MLS Cup in 1998, their inaugural season. Now playing at Soldier Field, they bring the excitement of soccer to fans across the region, including Berwyn.
• Chicago Red Stars – Representing the city in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), the Red Stars have been home to standout players like Julie Ertz, Alyssa Naeher, and Casey Short. Their competitive spirit and community involvement have been inspirational to young athletes in the area.

Berwyn, though small in size, benefits greatly from its close ties to Chicago’s rich sports culture. Whether you're cheering at a game or watching from a local bar or home, being in Berwyn means you're part of something much bigger—a city that lives and breathes sports history, competition, and community pride.

Berwyn, IL is a vibrant, historic city located just west of Chicago. Known for its beautiful bungalows and strong sense of community, Berwyn has a personality all its own. Whether you’re new in town or a lifelong local, here are 10 fun facts about this charming city:

1. Bungalow Capital – Berwyn is famous for its Bungalow Belt, boasting one of the largest collections of Chicago-style bungalows in the nation.
2. Route 66 Runs Through It – The legendary Historic Route 66 runs right through Berwyn on Ogden Avenue, making it a classic road trip stop.
3. Home of the Spindle – Once home to the quirky 50-foot sculpture of eight stacked cars known as “The Spindle,” Berwyn hit pop culture fame after it appeared in the 1992 movie Wayne’s World.
4. Diversity at Its Heart – Berwyn is a diverse, thriving community where residents speak more than 30 different languages at home.
5. Berwyn Route 66 Museum – The Berwyn Route 66 Museum celebrates the city’s link to the famous highway and shares its place in American travel history.
6. A Theater Gem – The 16th Street Theater is one of the most respected small theaters in the region, offering original and thought-provoking performances.
7. Fiesta Time! – Each year, Berwyn hosts vibrant festivals like the Houby Day Parade and Taste of Cermak Road, showcasing the area’s culture, food, and community pride.
8. Cermak Plaza’s Quirks – Cermak Plaza once featured weird and wonderful public art installations, making shopping there unlike anywhere else. It’s still a local favorite for retro vibes.
9. Top Spot for Foodies – From authentic Mexican taquerias to Polish bakeries and Italian delis, Berwyn’s dining scene is a hidden gem for anyone who loves to eat.
10. Berwyn’s Big Heart – The city is known for its neighborhood pride and community involvement. Local residents often help one another through events, volunteer programs, and block parties throughout the year.