Until the 1970's, Oak Park was a dry town. Alcohol restrictions have since lifted, though as a relic of this law, there are still no free-standing liquor stores in the city, and some grocery stores do not sell alcohol.
Within Oak Park, some worthwhile bars include:
Poor Phil's in the Carleton Hotel specializes in seafood and has a large, rotating selection of beers on tap, including real ale. Though it exists in a hotel, it is not owned by the hotel. Its atmosphere is casual and its prices are reasonable.
Velvet Rope (728 Lake Street, just east of Oak Park Avenue) is a friendly environment for its lesbian clientele.
Avenue Ale House (825 S. Oak Park Avenue, near the Blue Line) offers quality bar food.
Bar Louie (1122 Lake Street, near Harlem) is a comfortable chain bar.
Owing to Oak Park's past prohibition, bars emerged on the borders of the city. The largest quantity of bars can be found on Madison Street in Forest Park, just west of Harlem Avenue. Roughly 16 bars exist on this stretch of about five blocks. All Forest Park bars are casual, focused on beer, and offer basic pub fare.
A popular spot for live music is Fitzgerald's , just across the street from Oak Park. Their bar has a friendly pub feel, and their nightclub next door offers a variety of reasonably-priced entertainment most nights of the week.
The Most Frequently Asked Travel Questions about Oak Park
Where To Stay & Best Hotels in Oak Park - updated Apr 2024
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