Welcome to the Oak Park Area
Just 10 miles west of downtown Chicago, Oak Park is a visitor’s gateway to exploring the 18 communities in Western Cook County.
Oak Park and the area’s communities began on the American Frontier. In the 1830s and ’40s, the first settlers bought and sold parcels of land to travelers of the Galena & Chicago Union Railroad, the first train to run west of Chicago. As Oak Park continued to grow due to the suburban development boom following the Chicago Fire of 1871, the village embraced its rich heritage and continued nurturing its legacy to remain vibrant.
Today, visitors can discover this rich culture by exploring the massive collection of Frank Lloyd Wright-designed homes in the area, including the architect’s own home & studio and the recently restored Unity Temple; visiting Nobel Laureate and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway’s Birthplace, a beautifully preserved and antique-rich Victorian home; and touring George W. Maher’s Pleasant Home to marvel at its opulent art glass windows and ornate detailing.
Visit the community of Brookfield to explore the world-renowned Brookfield Zoo and take advantage of the village’s recreational amenities, including a kayak landing and extensive hiking/biking trails. The Village of Riverside, designed by acclaimed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, is home to an array of architectural treasures lining its charming roads.
Visitors will find the area’s range of attractions, shops, eateries, entertainment options and accommodations priced to meet any budget. With its convenient location hugging I-290 and accessible via both CTA and Metra trains, the Oak Park Area is the optimal setting for friends, families, or groups to visit or host a special event. Visit Oak Park, your experience awaits!
Visit Oak Park
www.VisitOakPark.com | (888) OAK-PARK