More About the Oak Park, Illinois Area

Oak Park, situated just 10 miles from downtown Chicago and Lake Michigan, and nestled between O’Hare International Airport and Midway Airport, is itself a vibrant, cultural center. The Village appreciates art in all its different forms. Take a stroll down any of Oak Park’s quaint, tree-lined streets, and witness the world’s greatest concentration of Frank Lloyd Wright homes or gorgeous Victorian and Queen Annes in any of the 3 historic districts, or spend some time in the Harrison Street Arts District. Stop in any of the antique shops and over 40 studios showcasing the works of local artists. The Oak Park Area Arts Council and the Oak Park Art League contribute to the dynamic, artistic community life. For the literary arts, visit any of the local bookstores, cafes, or the 3 libraries and enjoy author readings, writer workshops, book discussions, and literary events. Get your tickets early for a live-performed Shakespeare play in beautiful Austin Gardens, or relax in Scoville Park any Sunday evening while you and your family listen (or dance!) to a local band. For more music and theater, see performances by The Village Players or The Open Door Repertoire. Have dinner afterwards in one of the many acclaimed restaurants or intimate cafes.

 

   

 

While it might be easy to sit back and enjoy the architectural and natural beauty of the town, Oak Parkers are on the move. The Park District of Oak Park offers a wide variety of programs for every age that include choices like sports, gardening, pottery, and salsa dancing. Two large public pools offer summertime fun. Activities take place in 22 parks and recreational facilities operated by the Park District, as well as the YMCA, gyms, and fitness centers. Opportunities to play organized or spontaneous activities abound here. Tennis, ice skating, (indoor and out), roller blading, baseball, basketball, soccer, hockey, walking and running are some favorites. Senior living centers afford seniors the pleasure of relaxation, interests groups, and activity. Transportation is never a problem thanks to the Oak Park shuttle, 2 el train train stops, (the Blue Line and the Green Line), one metra stop, and the nearby highway.

 

   

 

Many people move to Oak Park for its reputable educational opportunities. Superior public schools, both at the elementary level and Oak Park and River Forest High School, provide parents with the assurance that their children are well-prepared for the future, and provide home owners with the stability of high property values. Parochial, Montessori, and other innovative private schools provide parents with diverse choices for their children. There is also an abundance of daycare centers and preschools with highly qualified teachers. Local businesses and professional organizations readily lend their time and resources in support of schools’ programming. In Oak Park, education is a community effort, and the whole community benefits from its success.

 

   

 

While you may be drawn to Oak Park by its picturesque neighborhoods or its artistic, active community, it is its small town friendliness that will keep you here. Summer block parties, Saturdays at the Farmer’s Market, The Day in Our Village, and the Ethnic Fest are examples of how this community frequently comes together to share in good conversation and family fun.