Top 10 reasons why Forest Park should be your next stop

With so much to see and do in Forest Park, one stop is never enough. Whether you stopped in Forest Park to grab a bite to eat or look for that perfect gift, you’ll quickly realize you simply must come back. With all the unique indie shops, local eateries and one-of-a-kind events, there’s always something new to discover — and trust us, you won’t want to miss a thing.

• Entertainment – If music is your passion, Robert’s Westside will be your new favorite home for live music and community events. Showcasing artists of all generations and genres, it’s the perfect spot to meet up with friends, grab a drink and listen to some tunes. Challenge your team of sleuths to an adventure in one of four unique escape rooms at the 5-star-rated Escape Factor. For a nostalgic bowling experience, Circle Lanes is the place for bowlers of all ages and skill level and baseball-loving kids and adults will love the batting cages at Play It Again Sports on Madison.
• Dining – Forest Park is the place for food lovers. From Mexican and Italian to classic American fare, coffee cafes and everything in between, 40+ dining options offer a wide range of cuisine. Grab coffee at Kribi Coffee Air Roastery and breakfast at Louie’s Grill or Madison Park Kitchen. Dine at classics like O’Sullivan’s, Jimmy’s Place, Fatduck, Shanahan’s and Caffe DeLuca — or recent additions like NRebozo, Piacere Mio and Scratch Public House. Longstanding spots like Elba’s Golden Steer Steakhouse (since 1969), Parky’s (since 1947), Starship (since 1977) and Goldyburgers (60+ years) are a must try, and Twisted Cookie, Brown Cow Ice Cream Parlor and La Maison de Bonbon a the perfect stops for dessert.
• Shopping – You’ll find just about everything you need at Forest Park’s unique mix of independently owned shops. If antiques and vintage are your thing, Forest Park Emporium, Diana’s Finer Things, Krenek’s Antiques and Dodgerie should be your first stop. Team Blonde is chock-full of fabulous fashion and sustainable gifts, and nearly everything at Accents by Fred is handmade. Tempting teas and accessories await you at Todd and Holland, tools and things at good old fashioned Schauer’s Hardware, and everything musical at Kagan & Gaines Music Co. Personalized customer service is the icing on the cake.
• Madison Street – Residents and visitors alike give Madison Street an A+ rating for walkability. Whether you walk or drive to downtown Forest Park, it’s easy to shop, dine and explore Madison Street from one end to the other…and there’s plenty of on-and-off-street parking. Plan to spend the day!
• Small Businesses – ‘Behind every small business, there’s a person with a dream.’ Forest Park is full of dreamers…and that’s what make this village so special. When you shop, dine or use the local services of our small businesses, you’ll experience the creativity of our dreamers, makers and shakers.
• Longstanding Businesses – There’s something to be said about the longstanding businesses in Forest Park. Their success and longevity are part of their story…and ours. Ferrara Candy Company has been creating sweet treats in town for over 115 years. Also celebrating many years in business is Famous Liquors (90), Mohr Oil (74), Riveredge Hospital (62) and Farmington Foods (52).
• Events – Forest Park is your stop for fun…and our events will keep you coming back for more. Makers’ Markets and Garage Galleries for art lovers. Cemetery bike tours for curious history buffs. The frighteningly fun Casket Races (you’ve never seen anything like it!) No Glove Nationals 16” Softball Tournament (be sure to visit the Softball Hall of Fame!), a spring and fall Wine Walk and more.  Check out our events page for more information.
•  Kids & Family – There’s no shortage of family recreational and entertainment options. The Forest Park Aquatic Center is top notch and there are programs, classes and events for all ages through our park district, library and community center. Be sure to check out Let’s Play Work – a grown up friendly kid space where parents can chill or get some work done while the kiddie’s play, and don’t miss a trip to Junction Diner – the train-themed restaurant on Madison.
• Art, Makers & History – Between businesses and residents, there’s an artist on nearly every corner – including four businesses honored with an ‘Illinois Made’ award. Art lovers will enjoy Arts Alliance of Forest Park Maker’s Markets, Tellers’ Nights and Stoop Sessions. Forest Park Theatre offers Free Shakespeare in the Park, and Historical Society of Forest Park offer cemetery bike tours and more for history buffs to sink their teeth into.
• Community – Whether you’re looking for a great location for your business or a community to call ‘home’, Forest Park is the perfect choice. From start to finish, the Village makes the process of opening a business easy – and you won’t find a more welcoming community.

There’s a reason why people keep coming back. Whether you’re a visitor, resident or business owner, there’s just something about Forest Park that sticks. A sense of community that permeates every corner. Countless shopping and dining options. Friendly neighbors looking out for each other. Fun, family-friendly events. Great services and so much more. Forest Park is just 10 miles west of downtown Chicago, and multiple transportation options, major streets and highways make getting to Forest Park a breeze. With so much to discover, make your next stop Forest Park…for a day, a weekend or a lifetime.  

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