Wheaton IL

Wheaton, IL – Nestled in the heart of DuPage County, Wheaton blends small-town charm with big-city convenience. Known for its tree-lined streets, top-rated schools, and vibrant downtown, this suburban gem is perfect for families, professionals, and anyone craving a strong sense of community. With quick access to Chicago, plenty of green spaces, and a rich history, Wheaton warmly invites you to slow down, explore, and feel right at home.

• Population: ~53,000
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; cold, snowy winters and warm, sunny summers (20–85°F).
• Places To Visit: Cantigny Park, Cosley Zoo, Wheaton French Market, Billy Graham Center Museum, Downtown Wheaton Historic District.
• Top Activities: Biking the Illinois Prairie Path, visiting local farmers markets, exploring art galleries, attending seasonal festivals, strolling through nature preserves.
• Famous Food: Deep-dish pizza from local pizzerias, farm-to-table dishes at Ivy, and craft brews at Dry City Brew Works.

Wheaton, IL is a thriving suburb of Chicago known for its community charm, high-ranking schools, and strong local economy. The city supports a mix of public and private enterprises, making it a great place to work in a variety of industries. Healthcare, education, and professional services are some of the top sectors here.

Top 5 Jobs in Wheaton, IL

Wheaton, IL might be a quieter suburban town, but that doesn’t mean students can’t find great places to unwind, meet up with friends, or catch a break from class. With parks, cozy cafés, and fun local spots, there are plenty of ways to chill and enjoy student life in Wheaton.

Downtown Wheaton – This walkable area is full of charm, with small boutiques, great coffee shops, and cafes where you can grab a smoothie, meet friends, or get some light studying done. During warmer months, the French Market adds a touch of fun with food trucks and local vendors.

Wheaton Public Library – It might sound like work, but trust us—this library is more than just books. With comfy seating, private study rooms, and a peaceful vibe, it’s the perfect place to wind down or focus when you need a quiet escape.

Adams Park – Right near downtown, this park offers a chill atmosphere with walking paths, shaded lawns, and a fountain-centered layout that’s perfect for picnics or a relaxing afternoon with friends.

Seven Dwarfs Restaurant – A cozy local diner with a quirky interior and affordable, comfort-food breakfasts and burgers. It’s a feel-good place to chill, grab a bite, and soak in classic small-town diner charm.

Warren's Ale House – If you’re over 21 and looking for a more active night out, this spot is a favorite for local college students. Great food, live music nights, patio seating in summer, and a laid-back crowd make it an easy go-to for evening fun.

Cosley Zoo – Yep, there’s a zoo! It’s small, free for local residents, and perfect for a quick walk, date, or group hangout. Plus, who doesn’t love checking out adorable goats, ducks, and llamas?

Herrick Lake Forest Preserve – For nature lovers or anyone looking to clear their mind, Herrick Lake is just a short drive away. You can kayak, hike, or simply sit by the water with a good playlist or a group of friends. It's one of those hidden gems for mental refreshment.

Kimmer's Ice Cream – Just steps from the college campuses, this local favorite serves small-batch ice cream with fun flavors and delicious toppings. It's the perfect after-class or weekend treat spot.

Whether you want to explore local eats, enjoy the outdoors, or just hang with friends, Wheaton offers a mix of peaceful and fun places that make student life more than just hitting the books. The key? Find your vibe—and enjoy the local gems along the way.

Wheaton, IL, combines a charming suburban atmosphere with excellent educational opportunities. As a hub for high-quality education in the western Chicago suburbs, Wheaton and its surrounding areas are home to respected colleges and universities, both public and private. Here’s a guide to the top academic institutions serving Wheaton residents and students throughout DuPage County.

Top Public Colleges & Universities near Wheaton, IL

College of DuPage (COD) – Located right next to Wheaton in Glen Ellyn, COD is one of the largest public community colleges in the Midwest. It offers more than 170 degree and certificate programs, including strong transfer tracks to four-year universities and workforce development for in-demand careers.

University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) – School of Public Health in Wheaton – UIC’s Wheaton extension provides graduate-level public health education and professional development, ideal for students interested in public health careers without commuting downtown.

Elgin Community College – Serving residents in the broader Wheaton region, Elgin Community College is known for excellent associate degree programs in healthcare, liberal arts, and technical fields, as well as strong partnerships with local employers and four-year schools.

Northern Illinois University (NIU) – Naperville Campus – Just a short drive from Wheaton, NIU’s Naperville campus is a popular destination for Wheaton residents seeking undergraduate and graduate programs in education, business, and the sciences.

Waubonsee Community College – While a bit farther west, Waubonsee makes higher education more accessible to Wheaton-area students with affordable tuition and flexible course options in STEM, business, and liberal arts.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Wheaton, IL

Wheaton College – Located in the heart of Wheaton, Wheaton College is a nationally recognized Christian liberal arts college known for its academic rigor, global service, outstanding music and science programs, and faith-centered community.

Benedictine University – Just south of Wheaton in Lisle, this Catholic university offers highly ranked programs in business, health sciences, education, and liberal arts, with a focus on leadership and engagement.

North Central College – A short drive to Naperville, North Central is celebrated for its personalized education, strong teaching faculty, and vibrant student life, plus notable programs in business, science, and performing arts.

Elmhurst University – Located east of Wheaton, Elmhurst is known for preparing students for careers in nursing, business, education, and psychology, all within a collaborative liberal arts environment.

National Louis University – Wheaton – NLU’s small Wheaton campus offers adult and graduate learners programs in education, business, counseling, and social sciences—all with flexible scheduling that supports working students.

Whether you’re seeking the affordability and breadth of public education or the personal attention and strong values offered by private institutions, the Wheaton area offers exceptional choices for every student’s goals. No matter your path, these colleges and universities are here to help you succeed.

Wheaton, IL may be a suburb outside of Chicago, but when it comes to education, it’s a city that stands on its own. Families in Wheaton benefit from a range of exceptional public and private high schools, each offering unique programs, extracurricular opportunities, and strong academic foundations to help students thrive and succeed.

Here's a look at the top public and private high schools in Wheaton, Illinois—schools recognized for their commitment to academic excellence, student development, and overall quality of education.

Top Public High Schools in Wheaton, IL

• Wheaton Warrenville South High School – Known for its strong AP program, excellent arts and athletics, and a supportive learning environment, WWS consistently ranks among the top high schools in DuPage County.
• Wheaton North High School – With a reputation for academic rigor, diverse extracurriculars, and a standout STEM curriculum, Wheaton North prepares students well for college and beyond.
• Glenbard West High School (nearby in Glen Ellyn) – Just minutes from Wheaton, Glenbard West is a top-rated public school lauded for its rich performing arts program and honors-level coursework.
• York Community High School (Elmhurst) – While not within Wheaton city limits, many Wheaton families consider this high-performing school, which boasts above-average test scores and a vibrant student life.
• Naperville Central High School (Naperville) – Another nearby option for Wheaton residents, this school offers award-winning academic programs and a strong college preparatory focus.

Top Private High Schools in Wheaton, IL

• St. Francis High School – A leading Catholic college preparatory school located right in Wheaton, St. Francis is known for strong academics, spiritual development, and a sense of community.
• Wheaton Academy – A highly respected Christian preparatory school in nearby West Chicago that blends faith-based values with academic excellence and a variety of student-led opportunities.
• Montini Catholic High School (Lombard) – Serving many Wheaton families, this private high school offers a nurturing environment with challenging academics and a diverse student community.
• Benet Academy (Lisle) – An academically rigorous Catholic high school known for its college prep curriculum, commitment to character building, and top-tier faculty.
• College Preparatory School of America (Lombard) – A unique private Islamic school offering rigorous academics and a strong emphasis on leadership and global citizenship in a faith-based context.

Whether you're seeking the supportive structure of public education or the specialized focus of a private institution, Wheaton and its surrounding communities provide fantastic choices that help students shine academically, socially, and personally. Parents can feel confident knowing that these schools are not only top-rated, but also truly invested in their students’ long-term success.

Wheaton, Illinois, is a charming suburban city located about 30 miles west of downtown Chicago. While Wheaton itself doesn't host any major professional sports teams, its close proximity to one of the biggest sports cities in America means residents are just a short drive or train ride away from world-class sporting action. Chicago is the region’s hub for professional teams across all major leagues, and many Wheaton locals are die-hard fans of their city’s proud sports franchises.

Baseball – Chicago Cubs & Chicago White Sox (MLB)

• Chicago Cubs – The Cubs are one of the oldest and most beloved teams in Major League Baseball. They play at the iconic Wrigley Field, located on the city’s North Side. After a famous 108-year championship drought, the Cubs broke the curse and won the World Series in 2016. Legendary players include Ernie Banks, Ryne Sandberg, and more recently, Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo.
• Chicago White Sox – Representing the city’s South Side, the White Sox are another iconic MLB team with a passionate fan base. They have won three World Series titles, most recently in 2005. Greats such as Frank Thomas, Paul Konerko, and José Abreu have worn the Sox uniform with pride.

Football – Chicago Bears (NFL)

• Chicago Bears – As one of the oldest and most storied franchises in the NFL, the Bears have built a legendary legacy. Their home games are held at Soldier Field, a historic stadium that has been a fixture since 1924. The team has won nine championships, including the memorable Super Bowl XX in 1986. Some of the greatest players in NFL history have played for Chicago, including Walter Payton, Mike Ditka, and Brian Urlacher.

Basketball – Chicago Bulls (NBA)

• Chicago Bulls – No team represents Chicago’s golden era of sports quite like the Bulls of the 1990s. Behind the leadership of Michael Jordan, arguably the greatest basketball player of all time, the Bulls won six NBA championships (1991–1993, 1996–1998). Their home court, the United Center, remains one of the most electric arenas in the league. In recent years, players like Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan have carried the team forward.

Hockey – Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)

• Chicago Blackhawks – A proud Original Six franchise of the NHL, the Blackhawks have a deep and passionate following. They've claimed six Stanley Cup championships, including three recent titles in 2010, 2013, and 2015. With stars like Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, and Duncan Keith, the Hawks brought hockey dominance back to the Windy City.

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

• Chicago Fire FC – Established in 1997, the Fire won the MLS Cup in their debut season (1998) and have remained a staple of Chicago sports. The team currently plays at Soldier Field and is working toward building a new soccer-specific stadium. Players like Chris Armas and Shaqiri have made their mark in Chicago soccer history.
• Chicago Red Stars – Competing in the National Women’s Soccer League, the Red Stars have consistently been one of the league's top teams. Featuring national and international stars such as Julie Ertz and Alyssa Naeher, the Red Stars have brought glory to Chicago women's soccer and have a loyal fan base among Wheaton residents as well.

Though Wheaton may not host its own pro teams, the city's close-knit community and love for sports mean you'll always find fans proudly cheering on their favorite Chicago teams. Whether it's MLB in the spring, NFL in the fall, or the roar of a buzzer-beater at the United Center, Wheaton residents are never far from the action.

Wheaton, IL is a charming city with a rich history and plenty of small-town charm mixed with big-city convenience. Located just 25 miles west of Chicago, this DuPage County gem is packed with interesting details waiting to be discovered. Here are 10 fun facts about Wheaton that might just surprise you:

1. The Library is a Legend – The Wheaton Public Library has been named one of the top public libraries in the country. It's not just a place for books—there’s a cozy café, vibrant art exhibits, and even live music sometimes.
2. College Town Vibe – Wheaton is home to the historic Wheaton College, founded in 1860. Known as the "Harvard of Evangelical Schools," it played a key role in the abolitionist movement and even houses the original wardrobe from The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
3. The Most Churches Per Capita – Wheaton has a long-standing reputation for having more churches per square mile than most cities in the U.S., earning it the nickname “City of Churches.”
4. Prairie Path Paradise – Outdoor lovers rejoice! The Illinois Prairie Path, one of the nation’s first successful rail-to-trail conversion projects, runs right through Wheaton. It’s perfect for biking, jogging, or a peaceful walk through nature.
5. A Presidential Visit – President Ronald Reagan visited Wheaton in 1984 for a major campaign stop, drawing a crowd of thousands in the downtown area. It was a proud moment the city still remembers.
6. Home to the Cosley Zoo – This hidden gem is more than just a local petting zoo. Cosley Zoo cares for over 200 animals and offers educational programs focused on conservation—and admission is free for Wheaton residents.
7. Haunted Theater? – The historic Wheaton Grand Theater is rumored to be haunted! Over the years, several visitors and staff have reported flickering lights and strange sounds long after closing time.
8. Birthplace of a Vice President – Wheaton is the hometown of Vice President Charles G. Dawes, who served under President Calvin Coolidge and won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1925!
9. Downtown Charm – The city’s Downtown district is known for its vibrant mix of local shops, restaurants, and summer festivals. Every Friday in summer, the streets come alive with live music and fun gatherings.
10. Protected Prairie Views – The Lincoln Marsh Natural Area has more than 150 acres of wetlands, woodlands, and prairie—all within city limits. It’s home to herons, turtles, and rare plant species, making it an unexpected piece of wilderness in suburban Illinois.