Oak Park, IL2020 Top 100 Best Places to Live in America

#37. Oak Park, IL

It’s true that Oak Park is a suburb of Chicago. But this village with 50,000 residents has its own strong identity that’s rich in arts, culture, architecture and community. Oak Park, which spans just four and a half square miles, has a diverse population, convenient access to public transportation and great schools. Centrally located between two major international airports, Oak Park is the perfect home base for raising a family, launching a business or advancing your education.

Top Industries and Employers: Healthcare, education and local government

Best Coffee Shop: Addis Cafe, which also serves delicious waffles and Ethiopian cuisine.

Best Local Beer/Brewery: Kinslahger Brewing Company is a community-focused brewery where you can grab a beer and snacks like pickled eggs or a fresh pretzel.

Must-Have Meal: Anything on the menu at Sen Sushi Bar, a tiny but delicious spot that locals love.

Best Co-Working Space: Suite Spotte, which offers shared spaces, private offices and meeting rooms.

Best Meetup Spot (When Meeting Up Is a Thing Again): BeerShop, a hybrid beer store and taproom with 16 beers on tap and more than 250 packaged beers for sale.

Creative Hub: Compound Yellow, an experimental arts community that hosts performances, workshops, exhibits, lectures and participatory art gatherings. 

Favorite Weekend Activity: Spending the day at Oak Park Conservatory, a warm and green sanctuary that feels like an escape from city life.

Free Way to Have Fun: Oak Park hosts free summer concerts in June, July and August at Scoville Park.

Local Dream Job: Home and studio tour guide for the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust, so you can show Oak Park residents and visitors Wright’s unique Prairie architectural style.

Read More:
Why Oak Park, IL is a Great Place to Raise a Family
I Hosted a Community Porch Concert – And You Should Too
Love Architecture? Check Out these 7 Unexpected Cities

– Sarah Kuta