The Park District of Oak Park serves the recreational needs of the 53,000+ residents of Oak Park, providing nearly 8,000 recreation programs and special events annually. Since 1912, our high-quality programs and well-maintained parks and facilities have dependably met residents’ diverse leisure, wellness, childcare, and other needs and helped to enhance the quality of life. Overseen by a Board of five elected officials, the Park District owns and operates a multitude of parks, centers, and special facilities, including:
- Seven neighborhood recreation centers at the following parks: Stevenson, Andersen, Barrie, Carroll, Field, Fox, and Longfellow
- 18 parks totaling 84 acres of parkland, including the unique urban forest Austin Gardens and our village green Scoville Park
- Dole Center which is home to the District’s Active Adult programming in partnership with the Senior Citizen’s Center of Oak Park & River Forest
- Three historic properties: Cheney Mansion, Pleasant Home, and Oak Park Conservatory
- Two outdoor swimming pools: Rehm and Ridgeland Common
- One indoor, year-round ice rink: Paul Hruby Ice Arena at Ridgeland Common
- One Gymnastics & Recreation Center
- One Environmental Education Center at Austin Gardens
- Six special facilities: Stevenson Park Active Sports Area featuring basketball courts and a skate park, Longfellow Park basketball courts, Barrie Park sports court, Rehm Trains, the Cubhouse preschool playschool play area, and the Hedges Administrative Center.
- One 42,000 square foot Community Recreation Center (CRC) with indoor track, gymnasium, fitness center, Esports Lounge, multipurpose and community rooms, and childcare for visitors.
A full schedule of recreation programs is provided by the District, including classes in fitness, swimming, music, dance, visual and performing arts, and sports. Recreation activities are available for all ages.
The District is a member of the West Suburban Special Recreation Association, which provides recreation services to physically and mentally challenged persons. Approximately 3,000 programs are provided yearly.
