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....

Teach your kids they can achieve the impossible!

Mindsee.it

Featured in the Telepathy Tapes podcast.  Mindsee.It is a quick and mind-blowing tutoring program for children that teaches them to see through a blindfold - really!    

New York County

Miranda Levingston

New York City Metropolitan Area

Upper East Side

New York

Featured in the Telepathy Tapes podcast. Mindsee.It is a quick and mind-blowing tutoring program for children that teaches them to see through a...

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...

Name: ReggieSex: MaleBreed: Domestic Short HairWeight: 12 poundsAge: 5 yearsNeutered? YesChild Approval: Yes, any ageReggie is a "personal assistant" according to her personality profile on <a href="http://www.hinsdalehumanesociety.org/adopt/c11481/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">the Hinsdale Humane Society's website</a>. Want more info? Visit the Hinsdale Humane Society at 22 N. Elm St. in Hinsdale, or call over at 630-323-5630.

Sex: MaleBreed: Domestic Short Hair

Weight: 12 poundsAge: 5 years

Neutered? YesChild Approval: Yes, any age

Reggie is a "personal assistant" according to her personality profile on <a href="http://www.hinsdalehumanesociety.org/adopt/c11481/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">the Hinsdale Humane Society's website</a>. Want more info? Visit the Hinsdale Humane Society at 22 N. Elm St. in Hinsdale, or call over at 630-323-5630.

Reggie is a 5-year-old domestic short hair up for adoption at the Hinsdale Humane Society.

Reggie the Domestic Short Hair Waiting for Forever Home

Community Corner

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 week, cozy up at home and savor delicious dishes from your favorite local restaurants. With DwellSocial, the best of the...

This week, food events delivered to you from Brindille, George's Deep Dish, Frontera Grill, & more!

The nationally and locally acclaimed Pequod's Pizza is coming to Oak Park on Thursday, January 1st! Note that pizzas will be...

The famous Pequod's, caramelized crust pizza is heading your way. Order by noon.

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

Lunch & Learn

🌱 Patch AM: What’s behind this week’s felony...

Make time for This week, food events delivered to you from Brindille, George's Deep Dish, Frontera Grill, & more! on the Oak Park Patch…

🌱 Patch AM: What’s behind this week’s felony and DUI arrests in Oak Park?

Across Illinois

These IL Good News Stories Proved The Power Of...

Our favorite good news stories from throughout Illinois in 2025 are a true testament to the difference human connection can make. 

These IL Good News Stories Proved The Power Of Positivity, Presence In 2025

🌱 Patch AM: Senior Living Community Gets Best...

Also, don’t miss Enjoy a Jazzy Xmas Eve Dinner with Doug Lalli  on the Oak Park Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: Senior Living Community Gets Best Of 2025 Nomination 

Senior Living Community Gets Best Of 2025...

Patch and T-Mobile are recognizing the people, places and moments that made this year brighter. 

Senior Living Community Gets Best Of 2025 Nomination 

Seasonal & Holidays

🌱 Patch AM: How much unclaimed cash is headed...

Happening soon: Enjoy a Jazzy Xmas Eve Dinner with Doug Lalli  on the Oak Park Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: How much unclaimed cash is headed to Oak Park’s Beyond Hunger?

‘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

Community Corner

Reggie the Domestic Short Hair Waiting for Forever Home

Reggie is a 5-year-old domestic short hair up for adoption at the Hinsdale Humane Society.

Joe O'Donnell, Patch Staff

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

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

More from Oak Park-River Forest

Senior Living Community Gets Best Of 2025 Nomination

Housing Decisions in the Sandwich Generation Years

Not Ready to Move? You Can Still Start Planning

This week, food events delivered to you from Brindille, George's Deep Dish, Frontera Grill, & more!

The famous Pequod's, caramelized crust pizza is heading your way. Order by noon.

Lunch & Learn

Mindsee.it

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

Reggie the Domestic Short Hair Waiting for Forever Home

Reggie is a 5-year-old domestic short hair up for adoption at the Hinsdale Humane Society.

Joe O'Donnell, 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.

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

Joe O'Donnell, Patch Staff