Harvard, IL Homes for Rent

Harvard is a small town known for its historic downtown strip, local storefronts, and expansive nature preserves, creating a rural atmosphere. The town's pride is evident in annual celebrations like Harvard Milk Days, one of Illinois’ longest-running festivals. Downtown Harvard features numerous locally owned shops and restaurants, such as Starline Excursion Market and Bopp’s Bar and Grill, with dessert options at By the Dozen Bakery. For groceries, residents head to the nearby Walmart Supercenter. Lion Park, located across from the local library, offers a playground, softball fields, and a community pool, while Harvard Dog Park provides space for off-leash exercise. Rush Creek Conservation Area, with its 700 acres of woodlands, meadows, and wetlands, offers seven miles of trails for hiking, cross-country skiing, and horseback riding. The town's residential areas feature ranch, Victorian-influenced farmhouses, and bungalow-style homes, with newer traditional-style and custom-built houses emerging since the early 2000s. Harvard's main roads, West Brink Street and US Highway 14, intersect at the town center, making it easy to navigate. The Metra station provides convenient access to Chicago, and Rockford International Airport is a 45-minute drive away. For healthcare, Mercyhealth Hospital and Medical Center is 15.2 miles away. The neighborhood's crime rate is lower than the national average, contributing to its appeal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.