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....

Call 708-228-7150 to arrange for your first FREE lesson!

Doug Lalli - Jazz Musician, Composer and Teacher

Doug Lalli has performed as a jazz musician and bandleader in clubs, hotels and restaurants around the country for over 30 years. He now plays with the jazz trio at Tre Sorelle Restaurant, 1111 Lake Street in Oak Park every Sunday as well as various venues in Chicagoland. Doug's experience as a composer, arranger, band leader and teacher make him an ideal musical mentor. Whether students are elementary school students or experienced players, Doug prepares lessons and practice pieces to make the most of their experience and ability. An expert in all styles - classical, pop and jazz - he teaches students in his Oak Park studio, their homes or via Zoom. For more information, please visit his website https://douglallijazz.net, then call 1-708-228-7150 to set up a FREE first lesson!

Doug Lalli has performed as a jazz musician and bandleader in clubs, hotels and restaurants around the country for over 30 years. He now plays with...

Doug Lalli - Pianist/Composer/Teacher

Doug Lalli has performed in clubs, hotels and restaurants around the country for over 30 years. Settling in Oak Park, he now plays with the jazz trio at Tre Sorelle Restaurant, 1111 Lake Street every Sunday. He also uses his own musicianship as a performer and composer to teach others. So his students enjoy the benefit of one-on-one lessons especially designed for them based on their own experience and expertise. Doug’s 20-plus years of experience teaching, as well as his work as a performer, arranger and band leader, make him an ideal musical mentor for students of all ages, whether they’re beginners or advanced pupils. He teaches students in his Oak Park studio or via Zoom if they prefer. And he’s an expert in teaching all styles: classical, pop and jazz piano. For more information about lessons, please visit his website https://douglallijazz.net.

 Doug Lalli has performed in clubs, hotels and restaurants around the country for over 30 years. Settling in Oak Park, he now plays with the jazz...

From Team Off-Sites to Parties – Host It at Studio 928!

Art Studio 928 - Oak Park, IL

🎨 Studio 928 – Event Space in Oak Park, IL Looking for a creative, flexible, and light-filled space for your next gathering? Welcome to Studio 928, located at 451 South Boulevard in Oak Park – just steps from the train and surrounded by local art and culture. ✨ What We Offer 2,600 sq. ft. of open studio/event space Flexible layouts for workshops, meetings, celebrations, or team-building Floor-to-ceiling windows with amazing natural light Custom décor available for seasonal vibes or special themes On-site JBL sound system + multi-camera tech for hybrid events Tables, chairs, and linens included (up to 9 six-foot tables &amp; 40 chairs) Bassett-certified bartender service available (required if serving alcohol) Budget-friendly weekday and weekend rental packages Private Paint and Sips available - 10 person minimum 🌟 Perfect For Corporate off-sites &amp; team workshops Birthday parties &amp; bridal celebrations Community events &amp; pop-ups Creative classes &amp; private art experiences 🖼️ At Studio 928, we believe in the power of art to bring people together. Whether you’re hosting a board meeting, a paint-and-sip, or a fashion show, we’ll make sure your event feels inspired and effortless. 📍 Location: 451 South Boulevard, Oak Park, IL 🚇 Easy CTA &amp; Metra access | Downtown Oak Park dining + shops nearby 👉 For details, rates, and booking info, visit www.studio928.net or contact us directly at cheryl@studio928.net .

🎨 Studio 928 – Event Space in Oak Park, IL Looking for a creative, flexible, and light-filled space for your next gathering? Welcome to Studio 928,...

Moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming…

Laurie Christofano, Realtor | RE/MAX In The Village

Your next chapter, made simple. Buying or selling a home isn’t just about real estate, it’s about your life. Maybe your house feels too big now that the kids are grown. Maybe you’re craving less yardwork and more freedom. Or maybe you need more room for your busy, growing family. Whatever your “why,” I’m here to make the move easier, less stressful, and more rewarding. Since 2007, I’ve guided hundreds of Chicago-area buyers and sellers through one of life’s biggest transitions. My clients count on me for: ✨ Clear guidance at every step so you’re never left guessing. ✨ Smart strategies that get results, from creating buzz before your listing goes live to negotiating the strongest offers. ✨ Local know-how, with deep roots in Oak Park, Elmwood Park, River Forest, and across the near west suburbs. ✨ Options that fit your lifestyle, whether that’s a condo with zero maintenance, a ranch with no stairs, or the perfect family home in a welcoming neighborhood. When we work together, my focus is simple: your goals, your peace of mind, and your next chapter. 📞 630-248-1976 📧 laurie@OPRFhomesforsale.com 🌐 OPRFhomesforsale.com 🏡 RE/MAX In The Village | Chicago + Suburbs

Laurie Christofano, Realtor | RE/MAX In The...

Your next chapter, made simple. Buying or selling a home isn’t just about real estate, it’s about your life. Maybe your house feels too big now...

Chicago, IL - Does your sweet pea have the moxie to whip up delicacies like a celebrity chef and defend their creations as cameras roll?Fox's "MasterChef Junior" will hold an open casting call June 25 in Chicago in search of young culinary contestants between 8 and 13 years old.<ul><li><a href="https://patch.com/illinois/chicago/get-patched-subscribe-patch-email-0">Get news alerts, like Facebook pages and learn more about Patch</a>.</li></ul>The open call will take place at Doubletree Chicago - Magnificent Mile, 300 E Ohio St. Those planning to attend the open call should <a href="http://www.masterchefjuniorcasting.com/web/apply" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pre-register</a>, fill out an <a href="http://masterchefjuniorcasting.com/uploads/documents/app.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">application</a> and bring an apron.<a href="http://www.masterchefjuniorcasting.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Visit the MasterChef Junior casting website for more information</a>.

Chicago, IL - Does your sweet pea have the moxie to whip up delicacies like a celebrity chef and defend their creations as cameras roll?

Fox's "MasterChef Junior" will hold an open casting call June 25 in Chicago in search of young culinary contestants between 8 and 13 years old.<ul><li><a href="https://patch.com/illinois/chicago/get-patched-subscribe-patch-email-0">Get news alerts, like Facebook pages and learn more about Patch</a>.</li></ul>The open call will take place at Doubletree Chicago - Magnificent Mile, 300 E Ohio St. Those planning to attend the open call should <a href="http://www.masterchefjuniorcasting.com/web/apply" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pre-register</a>, fill out an <a href="http://masterchefjuniorcasting.com/uploads/documents/app.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">application</a> and bring an apron.

<a href="http://www.masterchefjuniorcasting.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Visit the MasterChef Junior casting website for more information</a>.

Does your child have what it takes to be the next young MasterChef?

'MasterChef Junior' Casting Call Coming to Chicago

Arts & Entertainment

Forest Park

West Side

Bucktown-Wicker Park

North Center-Roscoe Village

DuPage County

David Giuliani

Elmhurst

La Grange

Western Springs

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Square

Lakeview

This Christmas Eve treat the family to a delicious Italian dinner while enjoying a seasonal concert performed by jazz pianist...

Enjoy a Jazzy Xmas Eve Dinner with Doug Lalli 

Join us every 1st Saturday thru June.  Each Lunch & Learn will provide an opportunity to discover the "Steps to Christ" through...

Lunch & Learn

<a href="https://dianeglass.bhhschicago.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Diane Glass</a>, CEO of Chicago real estate brokerage <a href="https://www.bhhschicago.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago</a>, is pleased to share that the company collected close to 1,000 toys for the Marine Corps Reserve Toys For Tots Foundation this year thanks to generous donations from agents, their clients and members of our communities. Toys For Tots accepts new, unwrapped toys for less fortunate children throughout Chicago and its suburbs. 
Glass said, &ldquo;We want to thank everyone who donated toys during this year&rsquo;s Toys For Tots drive. It is inspiring to see the outpouring of donations from our communities. What a wonderful example of how each person&rsquo;s contributions can combine with others to meet a larger goal &ndash; making children&rsquo;s holidays brighter. We&rsquo;ve been working with Toys For Tots for decades and I can&rsquo;t think of a better activity to make children feel special and loved. Happy Holidays.&rdquo;
ABOUT BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES CHICAGO
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago is a full-service real estate firm with more than 1,000 real estate professionals and staff in 21 offices serving customers throughout the Chicago metropolitan area, the North Shore, West and Southwest communities, Southern Wisconsin, Northwest Indiana and Harbor Country, Michigan. Recognized as a Top Workplace in Chicago, their local roots are complemented by the extensive global reach of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, one of the nation&rsquo;s leading real estate brands. Clients can experience all-inclusive homeownership services from their affiliated companies: Prosperity Home Mortgage, Fort Dearborn Title, and HomeServices Insurance. Visit BHHSChicago.com.

Chicago

BHHS Chicago Collects Close to 1,000 During...

Diane Glass, CEO of Chicago real estate brokerage Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago, is pleased to share that the company collected close to...

BHHS Chicago Collects Close to 1,000 During 2025 Toys For Toys Drive

🌱 Patch AM: Snoopy Holiday Sip and Paint Art...

Spotted on the Oak Park calendar: Enjoy a Jazzy Xmas Eve Dinner with Doug Lalli 

🌱 Patch AM: Snoopy Holiday Sip and Paint Art Class  and 13 more events

Community Corner

🌱 Patch AM: What changes are coming to...

Make time for Bears Vs Packers Saturday Game Day on the Oak Park Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: What changes are coming to Elizabeth Court’s historic district streetscape?

Across Illinois

Prostitute Party House | $100K Coffee Heist | ...

Husky rescued from icy pond | Sex worker attacks cop | Pope reassigns bishop | Mom of 4 wins big on scratch-off | 

Prostitute Party House | $100K Coffee Heist | 'Giraffe Cat' Fears: Illinois News

Good News, Illinois: Sweet Treats, Decked Halls...

There's a spirit of cheer in the articles we spotlight in this week's Good News, Illinois roundup. 

Good News, Illinois: Sweet Treats, Decked Halls, More

🌱 Patch AM: Which Oak Park story drew the most...

And check out Saxophonist Tim Warfield's Brings Holiday Cheer to the Famed Jazz Showcase. on the Oak Park Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: Which Oak Park story drew the most clicks in 2025?

‘Living In A Work Of Art’: Oak Park Woman...

Samantha Lotti admired Frank Lloyd Wright homes but expected to buy one. Three steps in, ‘I fell in love with this house,” she said.

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Arts & Entertainment

'MasterChef Junior' Casting Call Coming to Chicago

Does your child have what it takes to be the next young MasterChef?

Morgan Searles, Patch Staff

Find out what's happening in Oak Park-River Forestfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

More from Oak Park-River Forest

Housing Decisions in the Sandwich Generation Years

Not Ready to Move? You Can Still Start Planning

Oak Park Conservatory A 'Hidden Gem' In The Community: Best Of 2025

Enjoy a Jazzy Xmas Eve Dinner with Doug Lalli

Lunch & Learn

BHHS Chicago Collects Close to 1,000 During 2025 Toys For Toys Drive

Oak Park Conservatory

Doug Lalli - Jazz Musician, Composer and Teacher

Doug Lalli - Pianist/Composer/Teacher

Art Studio 928 - Oak Park, IL

Laurie Christofano, Realtor | RE/MAX In The Village

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

'MasterChef Junior' Casting Call Coming to Chicago

Does your child have what it takes to be the next young MasterChef?

Morgan Searles, Patch Staff<img alt="Verified Patch Staff Badge" class="styles_Badge__np_hU" src="https://patch.com/img/cdn/assets/layout/badges/verified-patch-staff.svg"/>

Find out what's happening in Oak Park-River Forestfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Morgan Searles, Patch Staff