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

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....

Drop & Dash Laundry Service is a locally owned and operated

Drop & Dash Laundry Service

Drop &amp; Dash Laundry Service is a locally owned and operated laundry service providing professional pickup and delivery across Chicago and surrounding suburbs. With facilities located at 5928 S Kedzie Ave, the company serves over 5,000 customers by offering convenient, reliable laundry solutions seven days a week from 7am to 7pm. Specializing in wash and fold services, Drop &amp; Dash handles everyday laundry, comforters, and bedding with care in their own dedicated facilities. They offer a standard 24-hour turnaround guarantee, along with specialized options including same-day service, delicate fabric care, and comprehensive commercial laundry programs for hotels, restaurants, and healthcare facilities. Customers can expect a seamless experience supported by a 4.7-star rating from hundreds of reviews and a user-friendly mobile app for scheduling and tracking. By managing their own drivers and facilities, Drop &amp; Dash ensures consistent quality and personalized attention for every residential and commercial order.

Chicago

Drop & Dash Laundry Service is a locally owned and operated laundry service providing professional pickup and delivery across Chicago and...

RowCal - Arlington Heights

Our mission is simple: make HOA management easier, more transparent, and more human—for boards, homeowners, and neighborhoods across the country. We believe strong communities start with clear communication, dependable service, and tools that help everyone stay connected. We combine local expertise with national resources, giving every community the best of both worlds. Our local teams understand the unique needs of each neighborhood, while our broader network provides the systems, technology, and experience to support communities of every size.

Eric DeGrechie

Glenview

Our mission is simple: make HOA management easier, more transparent, and more human—for boards, homeowners, and neighborhoods across the country....

British International School of Chicago, South Loop

The British International School of Chicago, South Loop is a leading private day school located at 161 W. 9th Street in Chicago, IL. As part of the global Nord Anglia Education family, the school provides a comprehensive international education for students ranging from preschool through high school. The school offers a personalized learning approach that integrates the National Curriculum for England and the International Primary Curriculum, alongside the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma program for high school students. With a focus on academic excellence, the curriculum is enhanced by unique collaborations with institutions like MIT and The Juilliard School, as well as a global partnership with UNICEF to foster social responsibility. Recognized as a top private K-12 school in Illinois, the institution is dedicated to developing resilient, creative, and globally-minded citizens. Families can expect a supportive, technology-enabled learning environment designed to prepare students for success at the world's most prestigious universities.

British International School of Chicago, South...

The British International School of Chicago, South Loop is a leading private day school located at 161 W. 9th Street in Chicago, IL. As part of the...

Mission Ready: Estate Planning Tips for Veterans

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River Forest

For many veterans, the home is the cornerstone of the American Dream they served to protect. But when it comes to "mission-readiness," many overlook how military benefits intersect with real estate and estate planning. Whether you used a VA loan or are looking to pass your legacy to your children, here are critical steps to ensure your plan is as disciplined as your service. 1. The "Trust" Factor with VA Loans If you bought your home with a VA-backed loan, you can generally transfer it into a Living Trust without triggering a "due-on-sale" clause, provided it remains your primary residence. This allows your family to avoid probate—the long, expensive court process of proving ownership after you pass. 2. Protect Your Tax Exemptions Illinois offers significant property tax breaks for disabled veterans. However, these don't always "travel" automatically. If you move your home into a trust, ensure your attorney includes specific language that preserves your right to the homestead and veteran tax exemptions. Also, check if these exemptions are portable for a surviving spouse. 3. Update Your Beneficiaries A common mistake is updating a Will but forgetting the beneficiary forms on life insurance (VGLI) or a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). The Rule: A beneficiary form overrides a Will. If an old beneficiary is still listed on your policy, they will likely receive the payout regardless of what your Will says. 4. Secure Your DD214 In the military, if it isn’t in writing, it didn’t happen. Your family will need your DD214 to access almost every benefit, from burial honors to survivor pensions. Keep a digital and physical copy in a fireproof safe and ensure your executor knows the location. About the Author: Cathy Yanda is a USMC Veteran and a REALTOR® with Baird &amp; Warner in Oak Park. As a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and Military Relocation Professional (MRP), she is dedicated to helping fellow veterans navigate the complexities of real estate and legacy planning.

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River...

For many veterans, the home is the cornerstone of the American Dream they served to protect. But when it comes to "mission-readiness," many...

Cathy Yanda, a REALTOR® with Baird &amp; Warner, defines her business by service, integrity, and deep local roots. As a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, she applies a "mission-first" approach to every client goal, whether you’re buying your first home in Galewood or right-sizing a family estate in Oak Park. For Cathy, real estate isn’t just about the transaction; it’s about navigating the most significant transitions of your life with a steady hand and a clear strategy. Specialized Services Senior Transitions (SRES®): Tailored guidance for clients 50+ who are right-sizing. Cathy understands the emotional and financial complexities of selling a long-time family home and specializes in making the process seamless. Military Relocation (MRP®): Expert support for active-duty service members and veterans. Cathy leverages her own experience to ensure you maximize your benefits and find the right fit, fast. Hyper-Local Expertise: Whether it’s the historic bungalows of Galewood or the Victorian classics of Oak Park, Cathy provides data-driven marketing to ensure your property reaches the right buyers. What Makes Cathy Unique The Veteran Edge: Discipline, logistical precision, and unflappable negotiation. Cathy manages the moving pieces of your real estate transaction so you don't have to. Deep Community Roots: Cathy is more than just an agent; she’s a neighbor. From organizing the annual community Toys for Tots drive to her active membership in the Oak Park Area Association of Realtors (OPAAR), she is invested in the long-term vibrancy of our area. Tech-Forward &amp; Human-Centered: Cathy combines modern technology—including the latest AI-driven marketing strategies—with genuine, one-on-one attention. She believes that while tools make the process efficient, human connection makes it successful. Ready to start your next chapter? Whether you’re scaling up or right-sizing, Cathy brings the experience and the heart to get the job done right. Connect with Cathy today.

Cathy Yanda, a REALTOR® with Baird & Warner, defines her business by service, integrity, and deep local roots. As a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, she...

Boutique Event Space for Creative Gatherings|Art Experiences

Art Studio 928 - Oak Park, IL

Studio 928 is a boutique event space in Oak Park and a light-filled creative studio designed for gatherings that feel personal, inspiring, and memorable. Located on the South Boulevard Murals Corridor in the historic district—just steps from the train—our space blends art, community, and celebration. We specialize in hands-on art experiences and creative events for corporate teams, families, and community groups. From paint-and-sip parties and Prairie-style faux stained glass workshops to corporate team off-sites, birthdays, and pop-up events, Studio 928 offers curated experiences with expert guidance and a welcoming atmosphere. Founded and led by artist Cheryl Vargas, Studio 928 is known for its intimate scale, thoughtful design, and experiences that make creativity accessible—no prior art experience required. Ideal for: Boutique private events &amp; celebrations Creative team offsites &amp; corporate gatherings Art workshops &amp; guided experiences Birthday parties &amp; milestone moments Community events &amp; pop-ups If you’re searching for a boutique event space in Oak Park that offers more than just four walls, Studio 928 is where people come to create, connect, and celebrate. 📍 451 South Boulevard, Oak Park, IL 60302

Studio 928 is a boutique event space in Oak Park and a light-filled creative studio designed for gatherings that feel personal, inspiring, and...

Animal control authorities removed cats and kittens living in squalor after getting a call about a hoarding situation at a Cicero woman's home. The Animal Care League in Oak Park was forced to euthanize 81 of the animals last week after they were transferred.  Tom Van Winkle, executive director of the Animal Care League, <a href="http://www.oakpark.com/News/Articles/06-30-2011/81_sick,_injured_cats_euthanized_at_Oak_Park_animal_shelter" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">told Wednesday Journal</a> that the animals had illnesses and contagious infections, including feline leukemia, which can spread quickly. "They were all extremely, extremely scared and unhandleable," said Van Winkle. "Whether most of them had it or not is impossible to tell. We didn't test all of them. Whether they had leukemia or not, they were suffering."

Animal control authorities removed cats and kittens living in squalor after getting a call about a hoarding situation at a Cicero woman’s home.

The Animal Care League in Oak Park was forced to euthanize 81 of the animals last week after they were transferred.  Tom Van Winkle, executive director of the Animal Care League, <a href="http://www.oakpark.com/News/Articles/06-30-2011/81_sick,_injured_cats_euthanized_at_Oak_Park_animal_shelter" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">told Wednesday Journal</a> that the animals had illnesses and contagious infections, including feline leukemia, which can spread quickly.

"They were all extremely, extremely scared and unhandleable," said Van Winkle. "Whether most of them had it or not is impossible to tell. We didn't test all of them. Whether they had leukemia or not, they were suffering."

Animal Care League Forced To Euthanize Cats, Kittens

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

Join us next Sat-Sun,&nbsp;Oct 3-4 for the 21st edition of the Oak Brook Artisan Market. This market has expanded to 115+ top area &amp; Midwest artisans in food, fashion, home goods &amp; art, thoughout picturesque Oakbrook Center.
* WHEN: Oct 3-4, 2026 | Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-6pm
* WHERE: Oakbrook Center | 100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook, IL | Just N. of I-88 at Rt. 83 &amp; 22nd St (see description of market location below)
* WHAT: Outdoor Market | 115+ Top Midwest Artisans | Food, Fashion, Home &amp; Art | Free Admission | Dog-friendly | Free Parking | Kid-friendly | Indoor Restrooms
* WHY: Shop small, local &amp; sustainable - with talented artisans &amp; small businesses who pour their passions into creating one-of-a-kind products.
How to find us? We'll be outdoors at picturesque Oakbrook Center in three areas of this beautifully landscaped shopping center:
<ol><li>On &amp; around the The Lawn (village green) near Crate &amp; Barrel (east of Macy's) and the big circular fountain.</li><li>Between The Lawn &amp; The District food hall near Alo, Vuori, Pottery Barn Teen/Kids, White House Black Market, Arc'teryx, Swatch, Hollister, and Blue Bottle Coffee.</li><li>South &amp; East of the Apple store near Zara, Abercrombie &amp; Fitch, Arhaus, Tecovas, Coach, Sephora, Chanel, Williams Sonoma, David Yurman, Tommy Bahama, Skims, Ralph Lauren, Rivian and Uniqlo.</li></ol>
RSVP &amp; let us know you're coming: <a href="https://oakbrookartisanmarket.com/RSVP" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://OakBrookArtisanMarket.com/RSVP</a> (Free admission &amp; parking both days), and for programming &amp; weather updates. Rain or shine event.
Are you a talented artisan looking to vend in the greater Chicago area?
Learn more about our curated markets in Oak Brook, Naperville, Northbrook, and Chicago (Fulton Market &amp; Ravenswood) at <a href="https://chicagoartisanmarket.com/vendors" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://ChicagoArtisanMarket.com/vendors</a>
Apply to vend at our markets at <a href="https://oakbrookartisanmarket.com/apply" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://OakBrookArtisanMarket....</a> , <a href="https://napervilleartisanmarket.com/apply" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://NapervilleArtisanMarke...</a> or <a href="https://chicagoartisanmarket.com/apply" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://ChicagoArtisanMarket.c...</a>.
(Vendors - we don't charge junk fees just to complete our app online.)
About Oak Brook Artisan Market:
<a href="https://oakbrookartisanmarket.com/rsvp" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Oak Brook Artisan Market</a> is produced by INV Marketing Group, a Chicago area company based in Oak Brook, IL that operates the <a href="https://chicagoartisanmarket.com/tickets" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Chicago Artisan Market</a> (Fulton Market and Ravenswood), the <a href="https://oakbrookartisanmarket.com/rsvp" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Oak Brook Artisan Market</a>, the <a href="https://napervilleartisanmarket.com/rsvp" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Naperville Artisan Market</a>&nbsp;(CityGate&nbsp;Centre) and the <a href="https://northshoreartisanmarket.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">North Shore Artisan Market</a>&nbsp;(Winnetka, IL &amp;&nbsp;Northbrook, IL) - with a new holiday market **coming soon** to the New Ryan Field in Evanston, IL. We’ve been showcasing &amp; supporting small businesses throughout Chicagoland for 20+ years. Founded in 2004, INV Marketing Group LLC also owns and operates <a href="https://stylechicago.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">StyleChicago.com</a> digital media properties and has produced nearly 200 signature events and pop-up markets in the greater Chicago area.

Local Event: Oak Brook Artisan Market - Oakbrook Center (Sat-Sun, Oct 3-4)

Oak Brook

Oak Brook Artisan Market - Oakbrook Center...

Join us next Sat-Sun, Oct 3-4 for the 21st edition of the Oak Brook Artisan Market. This market has expanded to 115+ top area &...

Oak Brook Artisan Market - Oakbrook Center (Sat-Sun, Oct 3-4)

Madison Street Theater

Chicago's premier all-psychotherapist comedy improv troupe returns to Oak Park! The doctors will see you now!Tix at www.therapyplayers.com

Local Event: The Therapy Players: I'm Oak-ie Dokie, You're Oak-ie Dokie!

The Therapy Players: I'm Oak-ie Dokie, You're...

Chicago's premier all-psychotherapist comedy improv troupe returns to Oak Park! The doctors will see you now!Tix at...

The Therapy Players: I'm Oak-ie Dokie, You're Oak-ie Dokie!

Concordia University Chicago

The Symphony of Oak Park &amp; River Forest opens its 95th season with a program featuring American music on Sunday, October 4, at 4 pm at Concordia University’s Chapel in River Forest.Associate Conductor Maurice Boyer leads the award-winning orchestra in Montgomery Variations Dedicated to MLK by Margaret Bonds, Folk Songs for Orchestra by George Walker, and New England Triptych by William Schuman.Walker and Schuman were both awarded the Pulitzer Prize.Also on the program is Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 23 with pianist Kuang-Hao Huang.A preconcert lecture begins at 3 pm, and a free reception follows the concert.Tickets are $30 through October 3, and $35 on concert day.A subscription for all five season concerts is available for $125.Students through college are admitted free of charge.For tickets or more information, go to Symphony OPRF.org, email <a href="mailto:theSymphonyOPRF@gmail.com">theSymphonyOPRF@gmail.com</a>, or call 708-218-2648.Free parking is available in the structure at 1124 Bonnie Brae Place, River Forest, and the Chapel is just west of the garage.The Symphony of Oak Park &amp; River Forest is funded in part by grants from Illinois Arts Council and the Oak Park Area Arts Council, in partnership with the Village of Oak Park and Illinois Arts Council.

Local Event: America 250

America 250

The Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest opens its 95th season with a program featuring American music on Sunday, October 4, at...

The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association

Dr.&nbsp; Annelise K. Madsen, curator at the Art Institute of Chicago, discusses the current exhibit Mary Cassatt:&nbsp; After Impressionism.&nbsp; Cassatt was a key avant garde figure and the only American artist to exhibit with the French Impressionists.&nbsp; She was commissioned to create a mural (triptych), Modern Woman, for the Woman's Building at the World Columbian Exhibition.Annelise K. Madsen is the Gilda and Henry Buchbinder Curator, Arts of the Americas, at the Art Institute of Chicago.
Our Monday Enrichment&nbsp;programs, on music, art, literature, science and social sciences, are&nbsp;always free to the public, with freewill donations appreciated. &nbsp;
For more information visit our website at <a href="https://www.nineteenthcentury.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://www.nineteenthcentury.org</a>. The&nbsp;Nineteenth Century Charitable Association is a 501(c)3 charitable organization, and an Illinois nonprofit organization. Our mission is strengthening our community through learning, giving, and sharing our landmark building,&nbsp;The Nineteenth Century Club. The Association was established in 1891 by a group of visionary women who believed education, charitable activities and civic involvement were vital elements in a thriving community. The spirit of the founders continues through grants, scholarships and public programming.&nbsp; We promote life-long learning through dynamic, multi-cultural programs featuring music, art, literature, science and the social sciences.

Local Event: Mary Cassatt: After Impressionism

Mary Cassatt: After Impressionism

Dr.  Annelise K. Madsen, curator at the Art Institute of Chicago, discusses the current exhibit Mary Cassatt:  After...

Salerno's Pizza & Pasta of Oak Park

Comedian Vik&nbsp;Balaji (Dry Bar, Zanies, Laugh&nbsp;Factory)&nbsp;headlines a night of comedy and dinner at Salernos in Oak Park on Saturday October 10th
Also on the show are rising stars Samir Adbul, Smooth and host Emilio Morrone!
Get your tickets on Eventbrite today and Use "Patch"&nbsp;to get 50% off your ticket (while supplies last)

Local Event: Dinner + a Show with Comedian Vik Balaji

Dinner + a Show with Comedian Vik Balaji

Comedian Vik Balaji (Dry Bar, Zanies, Laugh Factory) headlines a night of comedy and dinner at Salernos in Oak Park on Saturday...

1521 S. Linn White Dr., Northerly Island, Chicago, IL 60605

FEATURING ELDERBROOK LIVE AT SUNSET
The Wellness Retreat is taking over Chicago’s Northerly Island for one unforgettable day of movement, music, mindfulness and connection.
Move alongside leading instructors. Discover fresh ways to feel your best. Recharge by the lake, connect with your people and close out the day with a live sunset performance by Elderbrook.
This isn’t wellness as usual. It’s immersive, energizing and meant to be experienced out loud—together.
AND THAT’S JUST THE BEGINNING.

For more information, <a href="https://speakeasygo.com/the-wellness-retreat/the-wellness-retreat-chicago?eid=EVE-I2830I" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">click here.&nbsp;</a>

(Photo Credit: © 2026 The Wellness Retreat. All rights reserved.)

Local Event: The Wellness Retreat: A Festival Where Mind, Body, and Music Meet

The Wellness Retreat: A Festival Where Mind,...

FEATURING ELDERBROOK LIVE AT SUNSET
The Wellness Retreat is taking over Chicago’s Northerly Island for one unforgettable day of...

The Wellness Retreat: A Festival Where Mind, Body, and Music Meet

🌱 Patch AM: How new Wright Home volunteers are...

Make time for Oak Brook Artisan Market - Oakbrook Center (Sat-Sun, Oct 3-4) on the Oak Park Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: How new Wright Home volunteers are reshaping tours in Oak Park

Champaign County

Champaign

Death On University Of Illinois Campus Believed...

A person was found dead on the campus early Monday morning, according to university police.

Death On University Of Illinois Campus Believed To Be Accidental: Police

Crime & Safety

Across Illinois

Teen Shot During TP Prank | Boy, 13, Faces Hate...

Plus: Iconic horror movie star to appear at screening | Animal cruelty charge dropped in dog death | Happy ending in search for missing man

Teen Shot During TP Prank | Boy, 13, Faces Hate Crime Charge | How To Help After Devastating Fire: IL Weekend

Illinois' Best High Schools Ranked In New Analysis

See which public and private high schools landed on Niche's 2027 roundup of Best High Schools in Illinois. 

Schools

Rain, Storm Chances Begin Mid-Week For Chicago...

Dense fog will start the week on Monday, before dry conditions on Monday and Tuesday turn to rain by Wednesday.

Rain, Storm Chances Begin Mid-Week For Chicago Area

Weather

‘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

Animal Care League Forced To Euthanize Cats, Kittens

All animals from Cicero woman's home.

Aly Brumback, 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

Shape Oak Park: Everybody Can Put Down the Pitchforks

The Chicago Blues Angels - live on the Outdoor Rooftop

A Vintage Oak Park Condo With a Surprisingly Practical Side

Oak Brook Artisan Market - Oakbrook Center (Sat-Sun, Oct 3-4)

The Therapy Players: I'm Oak-ie Dokie, You're Oak-ie Dokie!

America 250

Mary Cassatt: After Impressionism

Dinner + a Show with Comedian Vik Balaji

The Wellness Retreat: A Festival Where Mind, Body, and Music Meet

Drop & Dash Laundry Service

RowCal - Arlington Heights

British International School of Chicago, South Loop

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River Forest

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River Forest

Oak Park Conservatory

Art Studio 928 - Oak Park, IL

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Animal Care League Forced To Euthanize Cats, Kittens

All animals from Cicero woman's home.

Aly Brumback, Patch Staff<img alt="Verified Patch Staff Badge" class="styles-module-scss-module__AKw7-a__Badge" 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.

Aly Brumback, Patch Staff