September 11, 2026
Patriot Day Ceremony
A meaningful remembrance ceremony at City Hall honoring those impacted by 9/11, offering local residents a moment to unite and reflect within their community.
Des Plaines offers a variety of housing options, including single detached homes and both large and small apartment buildings, with a range of unit sizes from lofts to spacious four-bedroom residences. The neighborhood includes about 40 inviting green spaces such as Highridge Knolls Park and Algonquin Woods Preserve, providing ample opportunities to connect with nature. Its generally flat terrain supports bicycling as a convenient mode of transportation. Residents benefit from convenient access to around 20 grocery stores, especially along Metropolitan Way, and diverse dining establishments. The area also hosts several primary and private schools. Multiple bus lines, nearby train stations, and highways ensure good overall accessibility.
The character of Des Plaines is exemplified by its calm atmosphere. This part of the Chicago metropolitan area is quiet, as the streets tend to be reasonably tranquil - although there are still several louder areas, especially near I-90, I-294 or one of the railway lines. Finally, there are over 150 public green spaces close by for residents to visit, including Prairie Lakes Park and Robinson Woods Preserve, which results in them being very easy to access from the majority of locations within Des Plaines.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
This man‑made lake at the heart of the neighborhood provides a distinctive natural focal point—residents often spot fish, crayfish, turtles, and even the famed ‘giant snapping turtle’ while boating or lakeside, giving Shagbark Lake its unique charm in Des Plaines.
Just east of Shagbark Lake is the sprawling 76‑acre Lake Park, featuring walking and biking trails along Lake Opeka’s shoreline, paddleboat and kayak rentals, fishing opportunities, and a scenic 18‑hole par‑3 course that make it a top local green space.
The neighborhood lies just a short distance from access points to the Des Plaines River Trail, offering multi‑use trails for cycling, walking, and running through forested corridors and riverbanks—connecting Shagbark Lake’s residents to miles of scenic outdoor routes.
Located on Lake Opeka’s banks near Shagbark Lake, this casual yet elegant dining spot housed in a converted church offers Mediterranean‑inspired dishes, a raw bar, outdoor lakeside seating, and a beautifully atmospheric setting beloved by locals.
Shagbark Lake falls within Community Consolidated School District 62, whose nearby elementary and middle schools (such as Forest Elementary) serve local families, making the neighborhood especially attractive for those seeking well‑regarded school access.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
A meaningful remembrance ceremony at City Hall honoring those impacted by 9/11, offering local residents a moment to unite and reflect within their community.
This free, family-friendly festival at Lake Park offers carnival rides, live music, food vendors, a petting zoo, and more—perfect for residents near Shagbark Lake looking for seasonal fun close to home.
View event details →An annual, family-friendly bike ride and woods walk sponsored by Bike Walk Des Plaines, ideal for active locals seeking outdoor recreation near Shagbark Lake.
A helpful health-focused program in the local library where residents can learn practical strategies about managing diabetes and nutrition—relevant and accessible to the community.
An ongoing exhibit showcasing local photography by members of the Camera Club—great for Shagbark Lake residents interested in community art and culture throughout September.
Stories, updates, and things to know in Shagbark Lake
Local characteristics and demographics for Shagbark Lake
