If you’re looking for a weekend getaway in the Land of Lincoln, look no further than the charming town of Oak Park, Illinois! This picture-perfect town in Illinois has all you need for a few days away from home: inspired inns, stylish shops, and delightful dining. So, pack your bags and head for Cook County!

The charming village of Oak Park is located just minutes from the Chicago Loop.

David Wilson/flickr Yet it feels a million miles away from the Windy City. No wonder Oak Park was once known as “the World’s Largest Village.” When here, consider staying at the Harvey House Inn, a beautiful Victorian home that’s been transformed into a charming bed and breakfast. The Harvey House riffs on Oak Park’s arty atmosphere. The inn takes its name and theme from the 1950 film, “Harvey,” based on the Mary Chase play of the same title.

Oak Park’s eclectic shops make for a delightful day (or three) of shopping.

David Wilson/flickr The village’s downtown, in the area of Lake and Marion Streets, bustles with boutiques, bistros, and a bevy of other locally owned businesses.

When your legs get tired, take a break in Scoville Park.

David Wilson/flickr Often considered the heart of the village, Scoville Park is the town’s historic green. Be sure to save time for a stroll or a little relaxation in this Oak Park favorite.

Architect Frank Lloyd Wright lived and worked in the village for decades.

Courtesy of the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust The famous architect made his home here for many years. He had a hand in the planning of the village, and the world’s greatest concentration of his building designs is located right here in Oak Park. Visit his home and studio, and if you have time, take one of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation’s architecture tours.

Check out Oak Park’s creative character.

Compound Yellow It’s great to appreciate the history of the village’s famous former residents. But be sure to take advantage of the galleries, studios, and performance spaces—like Compound Yellow—located in Oak Park today.

Find out why Oak Park enjoys its reputation as a destination for foodies.

Citrine Cafe Snag a seat at Citrine Cafe for European-inspired local cuisine.

Before you go, be sure to pay homage to Papa.

Ernest Hemingway Foundation of Oak Park No visit to Oak Park would be complete without popping into the birthplace of its most famous son: Ernest Hemingway. The home of his birth and childhood is now a museum dedicated to preserving the Nobel Prize-winning author’s legacy. After your visit, raise a toast to the writer at Hemmingway’s Bistro across the street.

 

David Wilson/flickr

Yet it feels a million miles away from the Windy City. No wonder Oak Park was once known as “the World’s Largest Village.” When here, consider staying at the Harvey House Inn, a beautiful Victorian home that’s been transformed into a charming bed and breakfast. The Harvey House riffs on Oak Park’s arty atmosphere. The inn takes its name and theme from the 1950 film, “Harvey,” based on the Mary Chase play of the same title.

The village’s downtown, in the area of Lake and Marion Streets, bustles with boutiques, bistros, and a bevy of other locally owned businesses.

Often considered the heart of the village, Scoville Park is the town’s historic green. Be sure to save time for a stroll or a little relaxation in this Oak Park favorite.

Courtesy of the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust

The famous architect made his home here for many years. He had a hand in the planning of the village, and the world’s greatest concentration of his building designs is located right here in Oak Park. Visit his home and studio, and if you have time, take one of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation’s architecture tours.

Compound Yellow

It’s great to appreciate the history of the village’s famous former residents. But be sure to take advantage of the galleries, studios, and performance spaces—like Compound Yellow—located in Oak Park today.

Citrine Cafe

Snag a seat at Citrine Cafe for European-inspired local cuisine.

Ernest Hemingway Foundation of Oak Park

No visit to Oak Park would be complete without popping into the birthplace of its most famous son: Ernest Hemingway. The home of his birth and childhood is now a museum dedicated to preserving the Nobel Prize-winning author’s legacy. After your visit, raise a toast to the writer at Hemmingway’s Bistro across the street.

If you’ve never visited the village of Oak Park, be sure to put it on your to-do list! If you already love it, what’s your favorite place? Did we miss anything?

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Oak Park, IL, USA