Welcome to Gurnee
Gurnee, IL is where fun meets community—a lively suburb packed with entertainment, outdoor escapes, and everyday convenience. Just under an hour north of Chicago, Gurnee offers the best of both worlds with top attractions like Six Flags Great America, peaceful nature preserves, and a variety of family-friendly neighborhoods. Whether you're drawn to the area's energy or its comfort, the Leslie McDonnell Team is ready to help you explore Gurnee's unique charm and find your place in its thriving real estate market.
A Snapshot of the Area
20
Parks/Walking Trails
Median Home Price
50 mins
Drive Time to Chicago
80ºF / 30ºF
Summer/Winter Avg. Climate
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Spotlights of Gurnee
Outdoor Recreation
For nature enthusiasts, Gurnee provides easy access to some of Lake County’s most scenic outdoor destinations. Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve offers over 1,200 acres of wetlands and grasslands, with trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation. The Des Plaines River Trail, which runs through Gurnee, offers miles of scenic pathways perfect for jogging, cycling, or a peaceful afternoon walk. Whether you're looking for active adventure or quiet time in nature, Gurnee makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors year-round.
Dining & Local Favorites
Gurnee’s dining scene is full of variety—from national favorites to locally loved gems. You’ll find everything from casual diners and pizza places to sushi bars, steakhouses, and global cuisine. Locals flock to spots like Timothy O’Toole’s Pub for game day eats or Mama K’s for comfort food with a twist. With several restaurants located near Gurnee Mills and Grand Avenue, residents never run out of places to grab a bite, celebrate a special occasion, or enjoy a quick coffee date.
Convenient Location
Nestled between Chicago and Milwaukee along the I-94 corridor, Gurnee offers a prime location for commuters, frequent travelers, and weekend adventurers. O’Hare International Airport is just under an hour away, and access to Metra stations in nearby towns provides public transportation options for getting into the city. Whether you're heading to downtown Chicago for work or planning a lakeside escape to Wisconsin, Gurnee serves as the perfect home base with suburban comforts and city access.
Gurnee Attractions
Living in Gurnee
Gurnee offers a well-rounded lifestyle that appeals to a variety of homebuyers, and the local staples below are some of the biggest reasons people choose to settle here.
The Homes
In Gurnee, you'll find an appealing mix of housing styles—from cozy townhomes and updated condos to spacious single-family homes in well-established neighborhoods. Properties range from classic builds with traditional charm to newer constructions with open layouts and modern finishes. For buyers seeking extra space, Gurnee offers plenty of larger homes with generous yards and room to grow.
The Jobs
Gurnee sits in a prime location between Chicago and Milwaukee, giving residents access to a wide range of employment opportunities. Local job options are plentiful too, with major employers like Six Flags Great America, Gurnee Mills, and area schools and healthcare providers. Manufacturing, retail, hospitality, and logistics also play a strong role in the local economy.
The Schools
Families in Gurnee are served by Gurnee School District 56 and Woodland School District 50, both of which are known for strong academics and a focus on student growth. High school students attend Warren Township High School (District 121), which offers a wide array of extracurriculars and college prep programs. For higher education close to home, residents can take advantage of the College of Lake County or the University Center of Lake County.
The Amenities
Gurnee is packed with attractions and amenities for all ages. From thrills at Six Flags Great America to indoor fun at Great Wolf Lodge, there’s no shortage of entertainment. The Gurnee Park District provides access to community centers, sports fields, fitness programs, and seasonal events. Residents also enjoy a wide range of shopping and dining at Gurnee Mills and along Grand Avenue, as well as local parks, trails, and public golf courses.
Ready to Find Home in Gurnee?
Ready to find your Gurnee home? This welcoming village makes it difficult to pass up on a space to call home. The Leslie McDonnell Team is excited to start searching for homes for you, so give us a call today! You provide us with the specifics of where you want to live, and we find you options that cater to your wants and needs.
Selling a home in Gurnee? We can certainly help you out with that, too!