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Oakbrook Center, a premier shopping destination nestled in the heart of Oak Brook, Illinois, stands as a spectacular outdoor mall just 30 minutes from downtown Chicago. Conveniently located near I-88, this shopping haven is a beacon for those seeking an unparalleled retail and entertainment experience in Chicago’s western suburbs. Boasting over 2 million square feet of retail space, Oakbrook Center is one of the largest shopping centers in the country. Its expansive directory showcases a diverse array of department stores, specialty shops, and a wealth of unique dining and entertainment options. Whether you’re indulging in a shopping spree, savoring exquisite cuisine, or enjoying a night out, Oakbrook Center promises a memorable and all-encompassing experience for visitors of all tastes and preferences. With its strategic location and abundance of offerings, Oakbrook Center has solidified its place as a must-visit destination for those in pursuit of both luxury and leisure in the vibrant Chicago metropolitan area. Phone Number: (630) 686-34441. Oakbrook Center
Contact Information
Address:100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook, IL 60523, United States
2. Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, a captivating gem nestled in Oak Brook, Illinois, invites visitors to immerse themselves in the mesmerizing world of lapidary art. Established in 1962 by the passionate lapidary enthusiast Joseph Lizzadro, the museum has evolved into a treasure trove housing a world-class collection of Chinese jade and hard-stone carvings sourced from various corners of the globe.
Every Wednesday, patrons can enjoy Free Admission Days (excluding programs and group tours), courtesy of the generous sponsorship by RBC Wealth Management. The museum also offers tours upon request, providing an insightful journey through the intricate artistry and cultural significance of its remarkable exhibits. Educational programs and group tours are available with reservations, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the fascinating world of lapidary art. Additionally, the museum boasts a unique Gift Shop, perfect for those seeking one-of-a-kind souvenirs, and provides event rentals for those looking to host special occasions surrounded by the allure of lapidary craftsmanship. The Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art stands as a testament to Joseph Lizzadro’s enduring passion, offering an enriching experience for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious minds alike.
Contact Information
Phone Number: (630) 833-1616
Address: 1220 Kensington Rd, Oak Brook, IL 60523, United States
3. York Woods Forest Preserve
York Woods Forest Preserve, established in 1917 and proudly holding the distinction of being the county’s oldest forest preserve, beckons nature enthusiasts to immerse themselves in its serene 69.61-acre expanse. Located in Oak Brook, this verdant haven showcases picturesque oak woodlands, creating an idyllic setting for outdoor activities and nature appreciation.
Visitors to York Woods can traverse scenic trails beneath canopies of oaks that have stood for over a century, providing a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature’s timeless beauty. The preserve boasts picnic shelters, offering ideal spots to enjoy a meal amidst the tranquility of the woods. Birdwatchers are in for a treat, with opportunities to spot a diverse array of avian residents, including northern orioles, cedar waxwings, warbling vireos, mallards, red-bellied woodpeckers, and owls. York Woods Forest Preserve stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of natural landscapes and remains a cherished destination for those seeking solace and connection with the great outdoors.
Contact Information
Phone Number: (630) 933-7248
Address: 15W769 Timber Edge Dr, Oak Brook, IL 60523, United States
4. Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve
Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve, located in Oak Brook, Illinois, sprawls across 220 acres, serving as a thriving urban haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The preserve boasts a rich array of fauna, including nesting songbirds, migratory species, and a variety of mammals such as beavers and red foxes. Visitors can explore the preserve’s diverse offerings, including the interactive Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center and the historic Graue Mill and Museum, home to the only operating waterwheel gristmill in Illinois, all amidst a backdrop of scenic trails suitable for hiking, biking, and more.
Beyond its recreational appeal, Fullersburg Woods is at the forefront of environmental initiatives. A notable undertaking scheduled for the fall of 2023 will focus on improving water quality, involving the removal of a dam. This commitment to conservation aligns with the preserve’s rich history, dating back to its opening in 1920. Originally known as Brush Hill and later renamed after Jacob and Benjamin Fuller, the preserve underwent a transformative revival, emphasizing natural restoration, flood control measures, and environmental education. Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve stands as a testament to the enduring synergy between conservation efforts and the preservation of a diverse and thriving ecosystem.
Contact Information
Phone Number: (630) 933-7248
Address: 3609 Spring Rd, Oak Brook, IL 60523, United States
5. Oak Brook Park District Recreation Center
Oak Brook Park District Recreation Center stands as a multifaceted hub for community well-being, housing the Aquatic Center, Premiere Fitness Club, and administrative offices all under one roof. Serving as the central social space for the greater Oak Brook community, the Family Recreation Center offers a comprehensive suite of amenities, including park district administration and registration offices, the Cori’s Way Preschool wing, a spacious waiting lounge, and a state-of-the-art Fitness Center.
Committed to delivering top-notch park and recreational opportunities, as well as access to premier facilities and open lands, the Oak Brook Park District Recreation Center is a cornerstone for community engagement and healthy living. Whether residents are seeking aquatic activities, fitness programs, or simply a welcoming space to connect, the Family Recreation Center stands as a dynamic focal point, embodying the Oak Brook Park District’s dedication to enhancing the well-being of its community through diverse recreational offerings.
Contact Information
Phone Number: (630) 990-4233
Address: 1450 Forest Gate Rd, Oak Brook, IL 60523, United States
6. Willow Crest Golf Club
Willow Crest Golf Club, situated within the scenic expanse of Oak Brook, Illinois, stands as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts seeking an unparalleled playing experience. Located at the Oak Brook Hills Resort and designed by acclaimed architect Dick Nugent, this 18-hole championship course is renowned for its picturesque natural setting, gently rolling bent grass fairways, and strategically bunkered greens. With six ponds introducing unique water challenges, Willow Crest offers a distinctive and enjoyable golfing adventure for players of all skill levels.
Boasting PGA certified golf instructions and accommodating multiple teeing areas, Willow Crest Golf Club provides a welcoming environment for both seasoned golfers and newcomers alike. The course, Audubon Certified and measuring 6,433 yards with a par of 70 and a slope of 134, exemplifies the perfect blend of challenge and enjoyment. Whether refining your skills or savoring a round in the scenic beauty of Oak Brook, Willow Crest Golf Club invites you to elevate your game in a setting that seamlessly combines natural splendor with the artistry of golf course design.
Contact Information
Phone Number: (630) 850-5530
Address: 3500 Midwest Rd, Oak Brook, IL 60523, United States
7. Dean Nature Sanctuary – Oak Brook Park District
Dean Nature Sanctuary, nestled within the Oak Brook Park District, stands as a vital recreational and ecological gem in the region. This sanctuary boasts a unique blend of ecosystems, featuring oak savannah, wetland, pond, and prairie habitats coexisting in close proximity. With a commitment to preserving biodiversity, the Dean Nature Sanctuary is designated as a “passive park,” ensuring the protection of its natural diversity without housing traditional recreational facilities or athletic fields.
In a noteworthy collaboration, the Oak Brook Park District is partnering with Sweet Comb Chicago to establish a healthy apiary at the Dean Nature Sanctuary. This micro apiary aims to provide honeybees with essential access to native and nutrient-rich pollen, crucial for cultivating robust colonies. Recognizing the pivotal role honeybees play in pollinating plants crucial for human consumption, such as almonds, apples, blueberries, cucumbers, melons, and pumpkins, the sanctuary’s initiative aligns with the growing need for managed honeybees due to the decline in feral honeybee populations. The Dean Nature Sanctuary serves as a testament to the Oak Brook Park District’s commitment to environmental stewardship and the promotion of biodiversity.
Contact Information
Phone Number: (630) 990-4233
Address: 115 Canterberry Ln, Oak Brook, IL 60523, United States
8. Mayslake Peabody Estate
Mayslake Peabody Estate, home to the splendid Tudor Revival-style mansion known as Mayslake Hall, is a historic gem commissioned in 1919 by Francis Stuyvesant Peabody and designed by renowned Chicago architect Benjamin Marshall. Embracing the architectural elegance of England’s Tudor period, the mansion, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, stands as a testament to the opulent country houses of DuPage County during the Gilded Age.
Mayslake Hall thrives as a vibrant community space under the stewardship of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County. Beyond its architectural significance, the estate serves as a cultural education center hosting a myriad of programs throughout the year. From concerts, theatre performances, and art exhibits to engaging art and photo classes, Mayslake Peabody Estate invites visitors to connect with nature and each other while immersing themselves in the rich history and cultural offerings of this beautifully preserved estate.
Contact Information
Phone Number: (630) 206-9566
Address: 1717 31st St, Oak Brook, IL 60523, United States
9. Immersive Gamebox – Oak Brook
Immersive Gamebox in Oak Brook presents a revolutionary gaming experience, located conveniently on the second floor near Nordstrom in the mall. Offering a unique blend of technology and entertainment, this interactive venue transforms traditional gaming into a hyper-immersive 60-minute adventure. Utilizing projection mapping, touch screens, motion tracking, and surround sound, Immersive Gamebox provides fully-private digital rooms, making it an ideal destination for group gaming experiences with friends, family, or dates. Whether facing alien graders, navigating the challenges of Squid Game, or embarking on a rescue mission with the Pups from Paw Patrol, the venue caters to a diverse audience, with immersive adventures suitable for ages 3 and above.
For those seeking an extraordinary socializing experience, Immersive Gamebox redefines how video games are played, fostering shared play and creating lasting memories. Accessible from the Red parking garage, this Oak Brook destination offers a dynamic and interactive escape for gaming enthusiasts and casual players alike.
Contact Information
Phone Number: (708) 653-0591
Address: 545 Oakbrook Center Unit 545, Oak Brook, IL 60523, United States
10. Sandbox VR
Sandbox VR redefines the gaming landscape as the world’s most advanced virtual reality destination. Located on the second floor of the mall, just across from Distrik in the food court, Sandbox VR introduces a socially immersive gaming experience that transcends traditional virtual reality setups. This cutting-edge venue combines full-body motion capture and high-quality haptics, providing an unprecedented level of realism and complete immersion not achievable with home VR systems or other location-based venues.
Groups of up to six friends step into their own action movie at Sandbox VR, where they freely roam virtual spaces together and engage in games specifically designed for social interaction. From exclusive virtual worlds to collaborative challenges, Sandbox VR delivers an unparalleled adventure where teamwork is the key to success. Whether you’re a VR enthusiast or a first-time explorer, Sandbox VR invites you to discover a new dimension of entertainment, merging technology and social interaction for an extraordinary gaming experience.
Contact Information
Phone Number: (630) 320-8427
Address: 560 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook, IL 60523
About the Author
Matthew Mellinger
Hey there! I'm Matthew, and I'm a passionate traveler who loves to explore the US with my family of four. I'm excited to share my experiences and tips on how to make the most of your trips while traveling in the US.
