You don’t have to fight the crowds in downtown Chicago for museums, historic architecture or fine dining. A recent trip to Oak Park proved to have all this and more.
AFTERNOON
Start at the Ernest Hemingway Museum (200 N. Oak Park Ave., 708-848-2222, Oak Park) to see writings (including Hemingway’s childhood diary) and photographs of the author, born here in 1899, as well as other artifacts from the Hemingway family. Visitors can try out a Royal manual typewriter similar to the one Hemingway used. Younger children may get a kick out of the sound and feel of the pre-digital device. One block north is the Hemingway Birthplace Home (339 N. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park). The Victorian house, built in 1890 by Hemingway’s maternal grandparents, was restored in 1992 and includes several items that belonged to the family.
For an impromptu picnic lunch, get your hot dogs or cheeseburger to go from Tasty Dog (701 Lake St., 708-383-2645, Oak Park) and take lunch over to Scoville Park (800 W. Lake St., Oak Park). The nearly 4-acre park was designed by renowned landscape architect Jens Jensen and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Stop by the Horse Show Fountain, a replica of what was once a drinking spot for not just horses but also for people and dogs. The original was designed by Richard Bock, a sculptor who frequently worked with Frank Lloyd Wright.
Speaking of Wright, more of his designs can be found in Oak Park than in any other town. We like the self-guided walking tours, but guided tours are available from the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio (951 Chicago Ave., 708-848-1978, Oak Park). Unity Temple (875 Lake St., 708-383-8873, Oak Park) also has self-guided tours, but arranged tours are available by appointment.
EVENING
After so much time on your feet, treat yourself to a relaxing yet romantic dinner at Cafe Le Coq (734 Lake St., 708-848-2233, Oak Park). The French menu, music and wine of this charming bistro will wash away the day’s cares. Start with Kir, a drink made of liqueur and white wine, and sausage-and-potato appetizer with greens. For an entree, the boneless pork chop with polenta and mushrooms is heavenly. Finish with three mini-creme brulees (in caramel, chocolate and vanilla), perfect for sharing.
