Discover Oak Park’s Hidden Gem – A living world of beauty

Oak Park Conservatory

Located in historic Oak Park, Illinois, the Oak Park Conservatory is a treasured landmark and one of the community’s top three historical sites. Free and open to the public, the Conservatory offers visitors a lush escape into nature with three distinct indoor showrooms — the Mediterranean Room, Tropical Room, and Desert Room — each showcasing a diverse collection of plants from around the world. Outside, the urban gardens continue the experience with native Illinois landscapes featured in the Elsie Jacobsen Discovery Garden and Rubinstein Garden. Sweeps of prairie grasses and native blooms welcome you at the entrance, inviting you to slow down and explore this hidden oasis in the heart of the village. Owned and operated by the Park District of Oak Park, the Conservatory provides year-round opportunities to connect with nature through programs, events, and community initiatives. Highlights include: • Seasonal Events: Enjoy festive gatherings throughout the year such as the Candlelight Walk, Shamrock Scavenger Hunt, and Halloween Fright at Night. • Plant &amp; Garden Markets: Shop a variety of seasonal plant sales, including the Winter Seed Sale, Valentine’s Market, Spring Plant Sale, Perennial Pollinator Sale, Succulent &amp; Cacti Sale, Fall Mum &amp; Bulb Sale, and Winter Greens Market. • Private Event Rentals: Celebrate life’s milestones surrounded by natural beauty. The Conservatory is available for weddings, showers, graduations, birthday parties, memorial services, and other special occasions. • Educational Programs: Participate in a variety of hands-on programs for all ages — from adult gardening workshops to free early childhood nature programs that inspire young explorers. Whether you’re a lifelong plant lover or simply seeking a moment of calm, the Oak Park Conservatory offers a space to reconnect with nature, beauty, and community — right in your own backyard.

Cook County

IL Patch Team

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Oak Park-River Forest

Illinois

Located in historic Oak Park, Illinois, the Oak Park Conservatory is a treasured landmark and one of the community’s top three historical sites....

Great Way Construction

Great Way Construction is a trusted remodeling and construction company proudly serving La Grange, Burr Ridge, and Chicagoland. Known for high-quality craftsmanship, clear communication, and a process built on honesty and professionalism, we deliver beautifully finished kitchens, bathrooms, basements, additions, and full-home renovations. Every project is approached with the same level of care—whether it’s updating a single room or transforming an entire home. What truly sets Great Way Construction apart is the owner-driven experience. Clients work directly with the owner from the first conversation to the final walkthrough. This hands-on involvement ensures accountability, personalized service, and a level of responsiveness that larger firms simply cannot match. Homeowners appreciate knowing exactly who is overseeing their project and who to turn to for updates, answers, and guidance. GWC's deep experience in communities such as La Grange, Elmhurst, Hinsdale, Oak Brook, Burr Ridge, and surrounding areas allows us to navigate local architecture, design preferences, and building requirements smoothly. From historic homes to modern remodels, Great Way Construction brings the expertise needed to honor the character of a home while elevating its function and style. Great Way Construction prioritizes transparency at every step. Clients can expect clear explanations of costs, detailed timelines, consistent communication, and no surprises. The team focuses on quality over quantity—taking on a select number of projects at a time to ensure each one receives the attention it deserves. Their long-standing partnerships with reliable trade professionals and suppliers help maintain consistency, accuracy, and efficiency throughout the construction process. With a reputation built on reliability, integrity, and exceptional results, Great Way Construction continues to earn repeat clients and referrals.

David Giuliani

La Grange

Great Way Construction is a trusted remodeling and construction company proudly serving La Grange, Burr Ridge, and Chicagoland. Known for high...

Crazy Bins

We are a new small business that offers a unique selection of new overstock and return merchandise from major retailers like Amazon and Target, all available for just $10 and gradually priced down to $1. Our inventory refreshes every Thursday, so there's always something new to explore. Whether you're hunting for a personal deal or looking for resale opportunities in your side hustle, our bins are filled with surprises waiting for you. Don’t miss your chance to uncover amazing finds in a fun shopping experience that keeps you coming back!

DuPage County

Lisa Marie Farver

Downers Grove

We are a new small business that offers a unique selection of new overstock and return merchandise from major retailers like Amazon and Target, all...

Dog Bathing and Grooming Appointments Available

Monica's Superior K-9's Dog Grooming Service

Monica's Superior K-9's offers professional and caring grooming services for your beloved canine companions. Our team of experienced groomers understands that every dog is unique, and we tailor our services to meet the individual needs of each furry friend. At Monica's Superior K-9's, we prioritize your dog's comfort and well-being. Our services include bathing, brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and styling. Whether your dog needs a simple wash and tidy or a full grooming session, we ensure they look and feel their best. We use only the highest quality grooming products that are safe for your dog's skin and coat. Our calming environment and gentle approach help even the most nervous dogs feel at ease during their grooming experience. Trust Monica's Superior K-9's to provide your dog with the love and care they deserve. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and treat your furry friend to a pampering session they'll enjoy!

Monica's Superior K-9's offers professional and caring grooming services for your beloved canine companions. Our team of experienced groomers...

Nazareth Academy

Nazareth Academy, a Catholic, coed, college prep high school in La Grange Park, IL, inspires academic excellence, faith, leadership, and service. Committed to a mission of educating the whole person, a Nazareth education helps students develop in Scholarship, Service, Spirit and Unity. Address: 1209 Ogden Ave, La Grange Park, IL 60526

Nazareth Academy, a Catholic, coed, college prep high school in La Grange Park, IL, inspires academic excellence, faith, leadership, and service....

Pamela Joy McKinnis nee Lazar, 64. Beloved wife of Michael McKinnis. Loving mother of Kelly (Matlock) Reeves. Cherished daughter of Marion and the late Seymour Lazar. Dear sister of Sherri (Beau) Gabriel and Jay (Jane) Lazar. Service Wednesday, October 30th, 4PM at Chicago Jewish Funerals, 8851 Skokie Blvd., (at Niles Center Road) Skokie. Interment private. In lieu flowers, donations to the charity of your choice would be appreciated. To attend the funeral livestream, please visit our website. <a href="http://www.cjfinfo.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.cjfinfo.com</a>. Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals - Skokie Chapel 847.229.8822

Pamela Joy McKinnis

Service Wednesday, October 30th, 4PM at Chicago Jewish Funerals

Obituaries

Western Springs

Hinsdale-Clarendon Hills

Burr Ridge

Oak Brook

Forest Park

Darien

Elmhurst

Lorraine Swanson

Oak Lawn

Join us for this 2nd Messiah Community Event where all Listeners and Singers are Welcome! Immerse yourself in the sounds of...

Sing-Along Christmas Messiah

'Severely Invading': La Grange Developer's Plan...

The developer says he is trying to be a courteous neighbor and take the situation into account. 

'Severely Invading': La Grange Developer's Plan Criticized

Politics & Government

New Bidding Rules Divide La Grange Officials

The dissenters warned that the rules could mean less competition and greater costs. 

La Grange Sees 'Overwhelming' Job On Lead...

A report on the project's costs was "somewhat depressing," the village president said. 

La Grange Sees 'Overwhelming' Job On Lead Service Lines

Woman Arrested For Battering La Grange Officer:...

In another case, a man was accused of stealing a car outside a La Grange restaurant. 

Woman Arrested For Battering La Grange Officer: Police

Crime & Safety

La Grange Home Site Of Prostitutes, Drug...

The owner said he liked parties and that he smokes cocaine and drinks most days, according to a police report. 

La Grange Home Site Of Prostitutes, Drug Parties: Cops

'I Apologize For My Face': Suburban School...

Two Argo members argued about their beefs with each other. The rest of the board listened. 

'I Apologize For My Face': Suburban School Board Bickers

Schools

Chicagoans Mulling Joining Lyons Township High?

Officials offer reasons for a high number of Chicago users' website visits. 

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