Minooka was -- and still is -- the highest point in Illinois on the Rock Island Line.
Early railroad workers called Minooka "Summit." Interestingly, there is no hill by the train tracks. The tracks were actually lowered in the 1920s so trains could make the grade into Minooka's tracks, which lie 13 to 15 feet below the level of city streets.
Moving to Minooka
How Much Will it Cost?
Minooka is a "bedroom community" of Joliet, Il., 9.5 miles away. It nudges the I-55 and I-80. The 10,924 residents love living here, even though rental apartments in Minooka are 51.9% higher than the national average.
When Should I Start Looking?
It's best to search dally, because if you snooze you lose here for apartment rentals in Minooka. Your best bet for renting an apartment will be at the end of the spring or winter semesters when people are beginning to migrate. Minooka is very stable, and only about 9% of the residents are renters.
WhereShould I Look?
Minooka's livability is extremely high for Illinois. To the west of downtown on and near
Minooka Road and Ridge Road is the preferred area to find an apartment for rent. Here you'll find the greatest number of stores, eateries and services. There are a lot of one-bedroom apartments for rent in this area. According to one survey, 50% of residents in Minooka lived in the same house five years ago. People just don't leave very often once they get here.
What Do I Need?
Bring the "usual" to secure a rental home in Minooka. Have your credit score, letter verifying employment and salary, and a copy of your last paycheck stub. When it gets serious, you'll need cash in the form of a cashier's or Bank check. Prepare for first month's rent and that good old security deposit. Unless you have a pet, that's all you'll usually have to show. Bringing your pet? A letter from your former landlord stating how perfect it behaved is a good idea.
Neighborhoods in Minooka
Minooka is very community-oriented. Holiday specials, pancake breakfast fundraisers and more are common happenings. Much of Minooka remains agricultural on the outskirts of town.
Central Minooka: This is the historic part of downtown, along East Mondamin Street. A number of "reconstructed" old buildings dot this quiet clean area. The Shrimp Barn Restaurant is inside one of the most interesting.
Eastern Minooka: Heaps Giant Pumpkin Farm is in this area - a real Fall treat. Pick your own pumpkin off the vine, enjoy hayrides and a corn maze.
Southeast Minooka: The beautiful rolling hills of Heritage Bluffs Golf Course dominate this area.
North Minooka: Creekside Natural Farm has prime produce and fresh brown eggs from their pastured chickens just a short drive north of town.
Living in Minooka
Shopping
The Tawny Tortoise is a quirky little shop of "violets for the soul", but you can also buy real violets here, too. From handmade art glass pieces to kid's toys to gourmet foods to knick knacks, the friendly staff is happy to explain the origins of the crafted art pieces that were for sale in the store.
Dining
Cookies Restaurant has the best prime rib in Minooka and a warm, friendly atmosphere in the historic downtown area. Don't want beef? Try Tuscany Chicken Breast Filet sauted with fresh mushrooms and spinach, then topped with melted Provolone.
The Minooka Creamery is a little place on the borderline of Minooka and Channahon, serving ice cream mixed in with your choice of different toppings and candies. A local favorite is the Oreo and Cookie Dough Tornado.
Nature
Heritage Bluffs Public Golf Club, just south of Joliet, is one of Illinois's highest rated golf courses. Whether you're a serious or casual golfer, play across its rolling scenic acres.
Explore the 29-mile DuPage River Trail on foot or on a non-motorized boat on the river. Bike and hike along the DuPage River from the I&M Canal at Lake Chaminwood north along the West Branch to Illinois Prairie Path in Naperville and along the East Branch to the DuPage Forest Preserve.
Transportation
You'll have a co-dependent relationship with your car here. Fortunately, I-80 and I-55 both cut through town. Joliet is the next largest city and sits 9 miles away. Limited public transportation is provided through Grundy County Transit. The closest METRA train service is in Joliet. Chicago Midway International Airport, 34.9 miles away, also serves Minooka.
