Center of It All
The City of Countryside is located in Cook County, primarily north of Interstate 55 (Stevenson Expressway) and Interstate 294 (Tri-State Tollway). Just 15 miles from downtown Chicago (the Loop), Countryside offers its residents and visitors access to Chicago while maintaining its older suburban charm. Countryside is a close-knit community with many citizens being second and third generation residents.
Get Your Kicks On Route 66
The City of Countryside and its Community Development Department have been named the Chicago/Cook County Regional Coordinator for the State of Illinois’ Route 66 Heritage Project.
The Heritage Project is a non-profit organization headquartered in Springfield that is seeking designation of Illinois Route 66 (Joliet Road) as a National Scenic Byway. Route 66 extends through Cook County via Chicago, Cicero, Berwyn, Lyons, Riverside, McCook, Countryside, Hodgkins, Indian Head Park and Burr Ridge. In the mid-20th century, the highway was the primary east-west corridor for the country. It now draws thousands of history buffs who travel Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica, California each year. Designation as a National Scenic Byway recognizes the significance of a roadway to the history, heritage, scenery and culture of America. The City of Countryside is currently working to potentially develop a Route 66 Museum and Visitor Center to showcase local history and the impact of Route 66 on the area.