Nestled just a few miles west of downtown Chicago, Oak Park, Illinois, is a charming suburb that offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and culture. Known for being the home of legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright and renowned author Ernest Hemingway, Oak Park is a destination that seamlessly merges small-town charm with urban sophistication. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture buff, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Oak Park has something to offer for everyone.
Transportation
As one of the first suburbs out of the city Oak Park offers the best of both worlds with CTA options including a city bus and 2 ‘L’s to the Pace Suburb Buses and the Metra.
By Bus:
CTA Bus:
The Harlem Bus, 9, stops in the Oak Park area and goes to/from Rosemont’s Blue Line Station.
Pace Buses :
The Lake Street Bus, 309, has multiple stops on Lake Street, making this a convenient option to get around downtown. The 313 also has a few stops on Lake as well. Both of these buses can take you to/from Elmhurst.
By ‘L’
The Blue Line stop in Oak Park is connected to a pedestrian and car bridge right night to the on/off ramp for the highway as this portion of the Blue Line follows the highway. However, you can also go to the end of the line, Forest Park, and walk to Oak Park from there. The Blue Line is a 24/7 service. It goes all the way to O’Hare making stops in the loop, Wicker Park, and Avondale to name a few.
There are several Green Line stations throughout Oak Park. One of my favorites is the Green Line and Metra station. Here the connection between the L and Metra makes transfers easy. The Green Line also is a 24/7 service and heads into the city via the Loop directly connecting to several of the other l lines like the brown and orange. After the Loop stops it goes on towards the south ending at 63rd Street.
By Train
The Metra UP West to Aubourn/Chicago stops in Oak Park. This Metra station right in downtown Oak Park on Lake Street also doubles as a CTA greenline station.
By Car
Parking garages and street parking are available throughout Oak Park.
Shopping
Pumpkin Moon has trinkets and gag gifts sure to make you smile or perhaps even laugh out loud.
Shop homemade items where all artisans receive a fair wage at Ten Thousand Villages.
16 suitcases has unique clothing items color-coded so that you can find the perfect outfit for your skin tone.
If you are looking for local merchandise why not proudly wear an Oak Park sweater or t-shirt from Lively Athletics? They also have plenty of sports and athletic wear as well.
Find your song at Oak Park Records. Here you can look through new and used records. They also buy old records.
For bright retro and vintage vibes check out Festive Collection. Their home goods and knick knacks are cheerful and fun!
Wander through stories at The Book Table. This welcoming shop even had chairs set up for reading!
This adorable kids boutique, Sugarcup Trading, has fun clothing options and unique toys. I loved the wooden blogging toy set!
Activities
Looking for a laugh? check out Comedy Plex Comedy Club a new spot that hosts an open mic night.
Mills Park– This park is home to one of the several Oak Park Frank Llyod Wright Houses, Pleasent Home. With walking paths and benches, it’s a great place to take a breather and enjoy nature.
Watch a film on the big screen at Classic Cinemas Lake Theatre. On Tuesdays, they offer a $5 special!
Scoville is a nice park area right near the library with plenty of benches and shaded spots to read. It’s also a great space to build a snowman in the winter. We even saw a snow fort when we went on a snowy January day.
Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio offers tours that take you through these two locations. You can also look around Oak Park and spot several of his houses.
Madison Street Theater is a venue hosting plays and concerts. Check out their upcoming schedule.
Dining, Treats & Drinks
Looking for a local breakfast and coffee spot? Try Amelie Cafe. Grab a cup of caffeine and a bagel or crepe here.
Try a unique Mac & Cheese like Prosciutto Peas & Roasted Poblano Peppers or Buffalo Chicken Mac at Scratch on Lake. Their menu also offers burgers, wraps, and more. Prices start around $12.
Try a Donut Ice Cream Sandwich at Firecakes. A Chicago local chain and a favorite of mine. This place offers a selection of distinctive flavors and fun treats.
CANDYCOPIA has jars and bars of unique treats. Plus they also serve up ice cream and fun Sundaes like Circus Circus and Take Me Out To The Ball Game.
Looking for crepes? Try Crepas Culichi which includes Sweet crepe options like Carlota (lemon mousse, cookie crumble, and ice cream), and savory crepes. The brunch and dinner menus go beyond crepes offering sandwiches, pizzas, and more. They also serve coffee, adult beverages, and shakes! Menu prices start around $15.
Fair Ground Coffee offers a breakfast and sandwich menu featuring items starting at $5! This mini-chain is a great place for a caffeine refuel.
Walkability
Oak Park is very walking-friendly. We went on a snowy day and were impressed by how clear the sidewalks were! My only note is that you do have to push the buttons to activate the crosswalk signals.
Know Before You Go
Oak Park has a large downtown area spanning several streets and sections. Lake Street is a good starting point as it will take you to several side streets with dining and shops. Madison Street also has a couple of spots and holds the downtown of Forest Park.
If you are searching for a public restroom, the Library is located right next to Scoville Park on Lake Street.
