Located about ten miles west of Downtown Chicago, this diverse village attracts tourists with its handsomely restored mansions and historic Frank Lloyd Wright walking tours. But few Chicagoans know of the treasures Oak Park holds for those who believe any walk can be improved by a little shopping. 
Beyond the old and historic, Oak Park offers shoppers the new and the unique. Not high-end designer names, but high-spirited specialty stores like Pumpkin Moon, which carries a rare selection of eclectic, whimsical toys for both kids and adults. And the homegrown treasure, Majamas Boutique, tucked away on a side street in the Arts District – the only store in the country that carries the entire Majamas collection of maternity clothing as well as jewelry crafted by local artisans.
Your everyday comfort brands are here, too. Borders, Gap, and Old Navy are part of the busy Harlem Avenue shopping scene. But for the hometown feel of small, funky and unique specialty shops, just direct your feet to foot-traffic-only Marion Street and browse the wares of stores like Fitzgerald’s Fine Stationery, Kite Harbor and Scratch ‘N’ Sniff.
If you are a wine connoisseur, or appreciate a fabulous selection of fine wines, artisan cheeses and specialty beers, you must visit the locally owned and operated Cabernet & Company on Lake Street.
And for a magical experience in the world of books, stop by the Magic Tree Bookstore – not only is it one of the few independently owned children’s book stores still holding strong against the bigger chains, Magic Tree carries some of the most adorable gifts and literature for infants through teens.
The amazing Arts District (along Harrison Street from Austin Avenue to Elmwood Avenue) is a must see. You can spend an entire afternoon browsing the eclectic galleries, including Art Gecko, Ltd., Calypso Moon Studio, Expressions Graphics, Harrison Works, Janice Elkins' Gallery & Studio, Roaring Belly Glass Werks, and more. Drop by Bead in Hand for a look at their inspiring assortment of beads and beading supplies – one of the very best collections around. Be sure to grab a snack or coffee at The Buzz Cafe along the way.
Bound by Austin Boulevard on the east, North Avenue to the north, Harlem to the west and Roosevelt on its southern edge, Oak Park is easily accessible by both the CTA Green and Blue line trains, as well as the MetraUP-West Line trains and the Eisenhower Expressway.
With its close proximity to Downtown Chicago, more city dwellers should take advantage of the wonderful shops and outstanding restaurants that call Oak Park home. It's a breath of fresh air!
2006
Store openings:
Store closings: The Art House
What you’ll find here:
Art Galleries: Art Gecko, Calypso Moon Studio, Expressions Graphics, Harrison Works, Janice Elkins' Gallery & Studio, Morava Studios/Carefulpeach Boutique, Pamela Penney Textile Arts, Ridge Art, Roaring Belly Glass Werks, Unique Freaque
Clothing Boutiques:Ananas, E'Stylo, Majamas
Kids:Bugaboo Shoes, Magic Tree Bookstore, Rocking Horse Boutique
Home Furnishings:Antiques, Etc.
Gifts/Books/Specialty: Bead in Hand, Cabernet & Company, The Economy Shop, Fitzgerald’s Fine Stationery, Kite Harbor, Lickton’s Cycle City, Penzeys Spices, Pumpkin Moon, Scratch ‘N’ Sniff
National Chains: Borders, The Gap, Old Navy
Oak Park Farmers Market
Saturdays from June through October, 7 AM - 1 PM, at Pilgrim Church.
Nearby Shopping Destinations: Forest Park,
LaGrange
Photos courtesy of Majamas, Magic Tree Bookstore
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer - C. O’Neill.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. SeeMore Shopping incurs all expenses associated with reviews. Publ. 10/06.
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