West of Chicago

As you drive west out of Chicago, the country starts to appear. Rolling hills, winding rivers, and beautiful lakes fill the eyes. Only a short distance out of the city, West Chicago and Auroraland are connected to the metropolis by many routes. Chicago is connected to Aurora by the Metra (train) and I-88 (toll road).

The Fox River Valley

By the crossroads of IL 31 and IL 38 are the cities of Batavia, St. Charles, Geneva and Yorkville.These cities each possess a distinctive flavor of cultural influences developed over time. It is confounding to describe the charm of this area, for it is only something that can be experienced first hand. With the historic downtown areas, spacious parks, and recreation areas, these cities are a perfect fit for anybody.

Community leaders and residents are proud of the Fox River Valley -- its past and its present. The dedicated men and women who live, work, and volunteer in the area make this community a very special place. As Henry Ford said, "Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." The Fox Valley area is a success because of the people, businesses, organizations and local governments that work together toward a common vision -- the Pride of the Fox.

The area offers a variety of activities and ways to relax. Downtown St. Charles is brimming with antiques, quaint shops, museums, and unique restaurants. For more than 30 years, the Kane County Flea Market has brought some of the best in antiques, furniture, unique items and treasures to the Kane County Fairgrounds, located in St. Charles. Just minutes from downtown St. Charles, The Dellora A. Norris Cultural Arts Center includes a 1,000-seat theater and stage where audiences delight to famous entertainers, musicals and children's theater productions.