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Oak Park, IL is a small suburb of Chicago and is known for its beautiful parks, historic architecture, vibrant arts district, and diverse population. It is an attractive destination for those looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The reviews for Oak Park are nothing less than glowing. People love the historic homes that line the streets in this picturesque village. Residents often comment on the town's unique character created by its mix of old-world charm and modern amenities. Families with young children appreciate that there are plenty of parks and playgrounds to explore, as well as nearby museums and cultural events. Those looking to explore more of Chicago can easily hop on a train or bus and find themselves in the heart of downtown within minutes. Oak Park truly offers something for everyone!
based on 7 ReviewsGet to know Oak Park with the latest comments and reviews from people who live in or have visited Oak Park
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Not a bad place to raise a family - 12/16/2010
I have grew up in the Oak Park area and have lived in other cities in the country.
Oak Park is located outside of the city of Chicago. Though located reasonably close to the city life of Chicago, Oak Park is actually worth a closer look for those interested in architecture and the arts. There are several areas in Oak Park that have been designated as historic districts, which are rich in Victorian "Painted Ladies," Craftsman, and prairie style homes. Its downtown area has revitalized and is attracting "urban professionals." I also think it is fair to say that there is diversity among its residents and is liberal enough to support, if not welcome people of "alternative" lifestyles. Its residents also seem to be very liberal in their views and eco-friendly, where recycling is mandatory. Oak Park is home to authors, writers and musicians as well as corporate professionals. Notable past residents of Oak Park include Ernest Hemingway and famous architect, Frank Lloyd
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Don't believe the hype - 5/5/2010
If you don't know any better you might think Oak Park is perfect. However, if you are like me and have other places as a comparison, you know better. I will say that the tree-lined streets and architecture are beautiful. Being fairly close to Chicago is a plus (although whoever mentioned it was 10 minutes away must always sleep through half of the commute, it's 20 minutes, check the train schedule) and the schools are supposedly fairly good. Now that you've heard the main positives, here are the negatives: Crime, particularly theft, is a problem; the village govt. is mismanaged and in financial trouble; the village govt. is also FAR too controlling; don't get me started on the ridiculous lack of parking and overabundance of parking tickets (can't park in front of your house at night); property taxes are oppressive; while it's easy to get between Oak Park and downtown Chicago by train, nothing else is convenient and traffic is almost always bad on 290, the main highway through Oak
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Oak Park Liveability - 5/5/2009
Oak Park, Illinois, is a wonderful community that has a lot to offer to families wishing to live close to Chicago but not in it. It is a community that has pride in its sense of community. It is diverse (ethnically, politically, economically, and in other ways) and active (from organized art fairs to local block parties). Of course, the home are older and charming and the pleached streets and alley-based garages make it a pictureasque setting. The schools are great (our son attends Lincoln Elementary and has been blessed by skilled and dedicated teachers year after year). We live in what is considered "South Oak Park" (south of the 290) and we consider it, especially our area that is west of Oak Park Avenue, a hidden jem.
Oak Park has its drawbacks, too. It is expensive and it is "land-locked" (i.e., because it is so centrally-located, it is hard to get out of the Chicago area from
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Oak Park is a Great Place to Live! - 9/27/2006
I've been living in Oak Park, IL since June of this year. It has been a very pleasant experience so far! It is located 10 minutes outside of Chicago, yet it is a slower pace and a peaceful place to be. There is a great deal of diversity here--in terms of ethnicities.
It is a great place to raise a family and the schools are outstanding from what I hear--many Pulitzer Prize winners have come from OPRF High School. Also, the aesthetics of the village are pleasing to the eye. They have lots of trees and a great deal of greenery for someone to enjoy. It is very historic...many old buildings dating from the early 1900s or even earlier than that!
Finally, I can not forget to mention that it is the birthplace of Ernest Hemingway. Although he was not crazy about Oak Park, Oak Park is crazy about the fact that they are his birthplace! There is a museum dedicated to him, and many special collections can be found about him at the Oak Park Public Library.
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