Location: Oak Forest
Top Things to do in Oak Forest
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The 10 Best Things to Do in Oak Forest, United States
Oak Forest is a suburban city about 24 miles (39 km) south-southwest of downtown Chicago in Bremen Township in Cook County, Illinois, United States. The population was 27,962 at the 2010 census.
Restaurants in Oak Forest
1. Lake Katherine Nature Center
Overall Ratings
5 based on 119 reviews
Reviewed By EJJourney
Lake Katherine is a botanical garden in Palos Heights, right off Rt 83 near 76th that includes woodlands, prairie, wetlands, and formal gardens. There is a nature center that is fun to check out, a mile loop walking trail around a ten acres lake. I rented kayaks for 2, single but they also have canoes, and double kayaks for rent. There are workers who give you life jacket, brief kayaking tips, and help you get in/out of the water. No escorted. Calm waters. We saw heron, geese, ducks, turtles, and fish. Very pleasant. I reserved ahead (very easy with phone call) and was glad.. Some people came in as we were there and asked about renting a kayak... No luck, they were all booked up. The nature center closes @4, so that is the latest you can kayak. Free parking. You can bring a picnic lunch if you want. Beautiful grounds. They also rent out for events.
Tomorrow is the Butterfly Festival. Lots of things to do check out the web site. Kid friendly. Bathrooms on site.
2. Rock Island Public House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 15 reviews
Reviewed By Jane H - Blue Island, IL (Chicago)
One of the best bars in Chicago if you are a beer lover! Terrific selection of unique beers such as Saisons, IPAs, Wits, and Ales. The owners work hard to bring a unique selection of small breweries' special kegs as well as seasonal favorites. Due to heavy support from beer aficionados, the menu turns over every 2-3 weeks with some choice selections tapping out in just a few days. Check the FB page for updates on fresh taps.
Ambience is hipster chic--but not annoyingly so. There is a funky collection of historic artifacts on Blue Island and the Rock Island train line scattered around, some epic pinball machines, assorted mounted dead things, some fun board games for free play, and a rotating "gallery" space along one wall. The tvs are generally not a highlight, but you can always watch the Hawks games. Priorities, ya know.
Nice beer garden which gets heavy use in summer, but is also used from March-November (they have propane heaters).
No food, per se, but there are numerous great options on the same block, and they don't mind you bringing in takeout. Occassionally, they host special events, including concerts and food trucks.
All-in-all, a great joint to shoot the breeze, discuss things, pontificate and drink great beer.
3. Standard Bank Stadium
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 10 reviews
Reviewed By lynne p - Hobart, Indiana
This is an OK stadium, nothing to write home about. It's affordable fun if you want to get out and see a game. I don't think it's worth driving 45 minutes for as we did. It's one of the most plain/simple ball fields I've ever seen. Stadium not very large. You have to walk around behind stadium to use bathroom facilities. Concessions OK, nothing special - cheap hot dogs. Small souvenir store. No cup holders in or around seats. Lots of activities/entertainment for kids. Not enough music or rallying of fans. Again if you live in the area go try it out and bring the kids.
4. Marcus Theatres - Orland Park Cinema
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 151 reviews
Reviewed By Michael F
Looking to take family to see a movie over Christmas holiday season? Marcus offers a great movie experience. Reclining chairs and full service bar and restaurant really amplify your experience. Great service and a great experience. Only advice, down load app and buy tickets in advance. As with all movie theaters walking up and buying tickets is a thing of the past.
5. Hailstorm Brewing Co.
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 43 reviews
Reviewed By GoatWhacker - Midwest USA
I've been here several times. Located in an industrial park and the interior has an industrial feel with pretty spartan plastic tables and chairs. Lots of barrels that I assume are full of aging beers. High ceilings, exposed ducts, etc. Seems to have people of all ages and has sort of a community feel.
Dog-friendly, maybe a little too friendly as some of the dog owners don't keep an eye on their dogs at times.
I have had no problems with the service. Even when it's busy the bartenders are efficient, and I don't think I've ever waited more than a minute or two to get a beer. They have various food trucks on weekend evenings, but this place is focused on the beer. They have several styles available and I have been happy with almost all of them.
I give them 5 stars since what they do, they do very well. This is a place to go drink great beer.
6. Village of Robbins-Open Air Market
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 4 reviews
Year-Around-Open Air Market. Become a Vendor or Shop til you Drop! Buy or Sell new/used merchandise & collector's items. Food Vendors welcome with prior certifications/authorization. Cartoonist, Mimes, Face Painters, Magicians, Comedians, Hypnotist, Puppeteers, Impersonators, Jugglers, Choirs, etc., are also welcome. Must be at least 21 years old to perform your talent/pay a fee. Make our space your place!
Reviewed By Joseph I - Crestwood, Illinois
My Dad & I come here at least 2 or3 times a year, they do have a lot of items for sale , lawn mowers to fruits & vegetables to whatever,, open air market that need's a more updated look, cleaner..walking area thru-out the market.
7. Bremen Grove Dog Park
Overall Ratings
5 based on 7 reviews
Reviewed By TwinBritts - Oak Lawn, Illinois
After participating in the online contest to try and win Oak Forest a new dog park - what a surprise to find we came in 2nd place (still a great prize was awarded for 2nd!) I've since joined with my two brittany spaniels and they absolutely love the ungroomed areas and very large space they can explore. I like that it IS groomed in many areas so I can walk out an keep an eye on them while getting exercise for myself. I love this dog park.
8. Hollywood Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 10 reviews
Hollywood Park features year round fun for all ages! Go-Karts, Mini Golf, Indoor Bumper cars and more! Our game room has nearly 90 video, prize and ticket games for all ages. Try our homemade pizza, chicken wings and other delicious made to order items. Hollywood Park specializes in the BEST birthday parties, group outings, field trips, overnight lock-ins, company parties, graduations and more!
Reviewed By bizzee1 - Chicago, Illinois
Took 8 and 5 year old grand daughters for a day out. We went on the bumper cars, miniature golf and go karts. So much fun! There were a lot of arcade games and nice prizes that could be won. Unfortunately, there were a LOT of children there from various summer camp programs in the city so it was pretty crowded. We got there about 11:00 (they open at 10:00) and we were able to do the things we did before the crowds begin to arrive.
Sandy is the lady that sold us our tickets and gave us directions. Her customer service skills were top notch. She made us feel valued by taking time to give us useful advise and even walked us through the park.
I will definitely go again and take my 15 year old grand daughter. I will also recommend to my friends, with children and those without. There is something to do for every age range. The fees were reasonable $7 for go carts, $3 for the rock climbing wall and $3 for bumper cars.
While there was food sold, we didn't get any so I can't comment on that.
9. Fannie May Outlet
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 30 reviews
Reviewed By elizabeth h - tinley park
If your a chocolate a logic like your frilly ,a good place to go. WARNING Can be habit forming.Have many of my Fannie Mae favorites a good value.
10. George Dunne National Golf Club
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 10 reviews
This 7,170-yard course is located in the middle of a forest preserve.
Reviewed By TwinBritts - Oak Lawn, Illinois
We live across 159th Street from the golf course and cannot tell you how beautiful the walking path is that surrounds the golf course. The course itself is beautifully kept and is always filled with golfers when we walk the 1mi., 3mi. or 7mi. paved trail that surrounds the course. So, even though we don't golf, we're still rating it 5 stars!!!
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