The Oak Park center point is around the area of Unity Temple and 1 mile southeast of Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio.
The climate in Oak Park is similar to Chicago, with pleasant temperatures during the spring and summer, cooler temperatures in the fall, and bitterly cold winters. During the winter months, tourism drops substantially because of the cold temperatures and biting winds. If you're up for it, visiting during the winter season can be very inexpensive, but be sure to pack layers. In the spring and summer, you'll enjoy much more pleasant weather, although the proximity to the nearby river can bring cool breezes.
The village celebrates the Fourth of July every year with a major event, drawing thousands of people from neighboring communities. This event causes price increases in hotel rooms in the area. Other Chicago events that can impact hotel prices in Oak Park include the Chicago Marathon and International Film Festival in October, the Chicago Auto Show in February, the Chicago Blues Festival in June, and the Chicago Jazz Festival in September.
If you're looking to score discounts with your AAA membership, check out the rates offered at Rodeway Inn Lyons, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Chicago West-O'Hare Airport, and Super 8 Chicago/Rosemont/O'Hare/SE. Other nearby locations that offer AAA discounts include Marriott Chicago at Medical District, Carlton Inn Midway, Quality Inn O'Hare Airport, and Hampton Inn Chicago O'Hare.
Military and government personnel can get discounted rates at hotels like Comfort Suites O'Hare Airport, Best Western Plus O'Hare International South Hotel, and Best Western Plus Chicago Hillside. There are no properties within Oak Park that have discounts available.
One of the properties in Oak Park that offers a high-value experience for guests is Carleton of Oak Park. Located on Pleasant Street, this boutique hotel sits in a historic district within walking distance of the downtown area. Beautifully appointed guestrooms include wireless internet access, kitchen areas with microwaves and refrigerators, coffeemakers, and soft bedding. The hotel also has two restaurants: Barclay's American Grille, serving American fare with a twist, and Poor Phil's restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Room service is available for dinner, and the hotel offers free parking for guests.
Another of the best value hotels in the area is Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Chicago West-O'Hare Airport. This location is in Hillside, which is about 7 miles from Oak Park. Amenities include an indoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary shuttle offering service around the hotel. Guests can also take the shuttle to and from the airport at no additional charge. Each of the 135 rooms includes a flat-screen TV, a refrigerator, and complimentary wireless internet access. Start the morning at the free breakfast buffet — serving eggs, bacon, fresh fruit, cinnamon rolls, coffee, and more — and review the daily newspaper.
Fans of Frank Lloyd Wright's world-renowned architectural designs will enjoy visiting the four blocks of Oak Park that include 10 residences designed by the modern master. Another top attraction is the birthplace of Hemingway, a Queen Anne-style house from the 1890s. After you visit the home, head to the Hemingway Museum, located within the Arts Center of Oak Park. The museum includes rare artifacts and special exhibitions, all focused on the literary genius. In the evening, catch a flick at Lake Theatre, a 76-year-old movie theater with an art deco-inspired interior and screenings of documentaries and art house movies.
If the craving strikes for cheese hit up the Marion Street Cheese Market. It earned a Michelin rating for great value and includes artisanal wines and cheeses for sampling and purchase. Shop at Muse, a retro-chic womenswear boutique on Marion Street.
No matter what brings you to Oak Park, there is plenty to do and see. Check out the budget-friendly hotel options in the area, or head to Chicago for luxurious lodging.
Below are reviews of the city of Oak Park, IL from an actual visitor's perspective.
Restaurant was good!
I like the restaurants, shops and coffee shops!
Oak Park is a great place to visit. It has many upscale restaurants and shops. Plus the Frank Lloyd Wright house to visit.
Small town feel with the advantages of a modern city!
Shops and restaurants!
Shops and restaurants!
Excellent shopping center and a beautiful neighborhood!
Oak Park is a charming city with excellent food, fascinating places to visit (Frank Lloyd Wright home and studio and more), friendly people, culturally mixed.
The hotel made us feel comfortable!
The hotel made us feel comfortable!
Excellent facility and very clean. Fantastic” village “downtown with many delightful cafes and charming unique dining options! Don't miss the best bookshop ever-The Bookshelf! Also don't miss visiting the home and architectural designs of Frank Lloyd Wright!
Lots of restaurants and shops. Close to family
I liked the look of the city, the shop called Jayne and all of the lunch/dinner options.
The shopping and local restaurants!
Great places to eat. Friendly people.
Quaint city with hometown feel. Lots of restaurants, parks and shopping.
Was only there for my daughter's wedding so we really didn't see much of the city