Lake Villa, otherwise known as the “Gateway of the Lakes Region,” is located in Lake County, 4.5 miles from the Wisconsin border and is approximately 42 miles from the Loop. Lake Villa is surrounded by several ponds and smaller lakes that have led to the area’s well known historic tourist industry. With plenty of recreational activities such as swimming, volleyball or boating, Lake Villa is a great location to live with many homes located on lakefront sites. The pleasant community boasts plenty to see, do, and experience. Click here for more The nearest expressway to Lake Villa is I-94, making it easy to get to either Chicago or Milwaukee by car. Those wanting to commute via train can catch the North Central Service line at Lake Villa Metra Station, which will take riders to downtown Chicago. Lake Villa, established in 1901, began its roots as a train depot and a resort hotel built by major merchant E.J. Lehmann. Due to the area’s rolling landscape and collection of natural lakes and ponds, the village became a popular resort town among the affluent. Lake Villa’s landscape has been drawing visitors to the area for over a century. The village borders on Grant Woods Forest Preserve and offers many lakes for boating and swimming. Parks and playgrounds are found all over Lake Villa, each providing its own unique entertainment. Lake Villa hosts an array of celebrations and festivals throughout the year to bring its community together. Annual events include the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, an Easter egg hunt, the Memorial Day Parade, a summer celebration and the Lake Villa Pageant, where the Lake Villa Queens are crowned.