South East Village

The community of South East Village is located just a few miles from Waubonsie Lake and offers peaceful suburban living with ample greenspaces and conveniences for shopping, dining and culture. This region is within the vibrant city of Aurora, Illinois and tucked below the Walter Payton Memorial Highway (U.S. Route 34), named after the iconic running back for the Chicago Bears. One of the primary attractions of living in this community is its proximity to Chicago, offering an approximately one-hour commute, which makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a suburban lifestyle with convenient access to the bustling city.

The residential streets are comprised of mostly traditional two-stories, well-kept split-levels and classic ranch-style homes. The individual residences sit on single lots and come equipped with tidy lawns, personal driveways and car garages. Most residents navigate the community by car, although most public transportation stops are along U.S. Route 34. The shady tree-lined streets provide a cozy feel and shade during the spring and summer. Home prices range from $180,000 to $388,000.

One of the standout features of South East Village is its plethora of parks and green spaces. “Our parks have so much to offer and have a little bit of everything for everyone,” says Raphael Martinez, Facilities Director with Fox Valley Park District. Ridge Park spans nearly 15 acres and offers a range of sports facilities, including a baseball court, basketball courts, and soccer fields. The park features a play area equipped with a playground, swings, and slides for children to enjoy. Ridge Park is committed to accessibility, with wheelchair-accessible parking lots and entrances, making it inclusive for all visitors. The park is pet-friendly, providing a welcoming space for pet owners to enjoy outdoor activities with their four-legged companions. Additionally, Andover Park is a modest space that provides various facilities, such as a playground, a multipurpose field and swings and slides. “Residents especially like the areas near our lakes and rivers, where they can walk along the water or participate in fishing, canoeing and other outdoor adventures.” In particular, Waubonsie Lake Park is perched on the banks of Waubonsie Lake, granting scenic views of the water. It is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts as the lake is stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass, gizzard shad and more. The woodlands offer naturally worn pedestrian paths, perfect for hiking and biking, while the waterfront picnic pavilion provides an alfresco dining experience with the rushing waters as a backdrop.

Residents with school-age children can choose public and private schools. Georgetown Elementary School sits at the heart of the community and has an overall Niche score of B-plus. Secondary students attend Fischer Middle School, which earns an overall Niche score of A-plus and Waubonsie Valley High School. Waubonsie High boasts an impressive Niche score of an A-plus with academics, diversity, and college preparatory initiatives earning the highest accolades. Waubonsie High also features an impressive track field and sports stadium.

Most food spots and eateries in South East Village are located are located along U.S. Route 34, including Ozzie’s Diner, a familiar favorite that serves classic American breakfast and lunch. If you dine here, you’ll notice that this inviting pancake house has its name printed on the mugs and branded on the burger buns. Chelio’s Pub & Grill is a laidback spot with classic bar fare. It’s the place to go to watch sports or try your hand at the Vegas-style slot machines. Chelio’s motto: “Good food. Good friends. Cold beer. We’re glad you’re here.”

When it’s time to do weekly grocery shopping, head to Jewel-Osco which provides fresh produce and unique spices for your everyday cooking needs. Retail shopping can be found at Ogden Hill of Montgomery, which features flagship stores such as JC Penney, Menards, Sam’s Club and Walgreens.

South East Village grants a quiet suburban living, with proximity to retail corridors and eateries, making it a sought-after place to call home.

Written By

LaTasha James

Photography Contributed By

Brett Bulthuis

Video By

Celeste Thoms