About the neighborhood

Bellwood offers a peaceful village atmosphere with low noise levels and easy access to approximately ten nearby green spaces for outdoor relaxation. The housing mostly consists of charming single detached homes and duplexes, many built before the 1960s, providing a variety of two and three-bedroom options. Its convenient location ensures that grocery stores and several restaurants are close at hand. Educational options include both public and private elementary schools nearby. Transportation is supported by proximity to highways, accessible parking, and a few bus lines, along with the convenience of nearby train stations on the Union Pacific West line.

Characteristics

Transportation

This village is moderately suitable for people who like to travel as pedestrians; running daily errands is convenient without a car. Although riding is facilitated by the generally flat terrain, Bellwood is not particularly bike-friendly because there are a limited number of bike lanes. Getting around by car is convenient in this part of the Chicago metropolitan area. Most homes for sale are a reasonably short car ride from the nearest highway, and parking is easy. In contrast, traveling by public transit is challenging in Bellwood. Nevertheless, it is easy to come across a nearby train station, such as the Bellwood and Melrose Park on the Union Pacific West, from the bulk of homes in the village. The village is linked by a few bus lines, and bus stops are ordinarily around the corner.

Services

Locals will welcome the proximity to primary schools, which are within a short distance from vast majority houses for sale in Bellwood. However, locals may find it challenging to get to high schools as pedestrians. House buyers have the option of public and private schools at both the elementary and high school level. When it comes to food, the closest supermarket in Bellwood is usually only a reasonably short pedestrian trip away. Moreover, Bellwood is a good place in which to eat out, and a limited variety of coffee shops is available as well. Home buyers can find a fair number of nearby clothing stores.

Character

No matter what type of character home buyers prefer in a village, Bellwood is a fairly good option. Although the ambience is not the most lively in this part of the Chicago metropolitan area, its busier streets are still quite dynamic, and with its approximately 10 bars, it is easy to find a place to grab a drink since they are generally located close by. Saint Charles Road in particular offers a wide variety of nightlife. Bellwood is reasonably good for those who need quiet surroundings, as noise from streets and other parts of the city is rarely an issue, however noise can be bothersome closer to one of the railway lines. It is easy to reach parks in the village since there are around 30 of them close by for residents to explore.

Car friendly7.8

Good access to freeways and/or major arteries, with a low chance of parking problems

Cycling friendly4.8

Somewhat suitable for bicycle commuting and/or recreational cycling

Pedestrian friendly5.6

Some day-to-day needs are within walking distance

Transit friendly3.8

Transit is available for some trips

Restaurants6.8

Wide variety of restaurants within a short drive, including some within walking distance

Groceries7.0

Wide variety of groceries within a short drive, including some within walking distance