Crystal Lake has been long known for its shimmering glacier-created spring-fed lake. Located 50 miles northwest of Chicago in McHenry County, it is a short drive from O’Hare International Airport and near several major highways and interstates. The Metra transports 1,400 Crystal Lake riders daily on the Metra/Union Pacific Northwest line, from 2 stations.

Regional planners expect continued growth in both residential and commercial areas. The city currently enjoys an excellent variety of casual and fine dining along with excellent shopping and entertainment. The arts are showcased at the Crystal Lake Raue Theatre and Woodstock Opera House. The city has some of the areas largest employers. City officials continue to develop ways to expand industrial and commercial interests so they can maintain the low municipal tax rate.

There are still working farms and agricultural-related business in the area. The balance of homes, commercial, recreational and open land gives the city a delightful ambiance. Excellent schools, library and park district enrich the daily lives of the nearly 40,000 residents.

The community boasts exceptional park facilities including 16,000 acres of parks and open space as well as the beautiful 230-acre Crystal Lake. The lake is used year-round for swimming, boating, fishing and when winter arrives, ice skating and ice boating. There are 2 private country clubs with golf courses and many public courses.

A new facility, to open in 2010, is Vulcan Lakes, a 462 acre facility which will offer an unprecedented recreational opportunity with swimming, fishing, boating and hiking. 

Crystal Lake residents live in a pleasant, friendly, small-town atmosphere while enjoying the many amenities of a world class city, an hour away.