Things To Do
in Orland Park

Orland Park, located in Cook County, Illinois, is a vibrant suburb just southwest of Chicago. It is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, abundant green spaces, and a strong sense of community. The town offers a mix of residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, and recreational facilities, making it an attractive destination for families and visitors alike.

With its proximity to the bustling city of Chicago, Orland Park combines suburban tranquility with easy access to urban amenities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Orland Park
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local favorite, Egg Harbor Cafe, known for its delicious breakfast options and cozy atmosphere. After breakfast, head to the Orland Park Farmers Market for fresh produce and local goods.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Orland Park Sportsplex, where you can enjoy various indoor sports and activities. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll through the Centennial Park Aquatic Center and enjoy the scenic views.

evening
:

Dine at The White Chocolate Grill, renowned for its upscale American cuisine. After dinner, take a night walk at the nearby Orland Park Village Center, where you can enjoy outdoor seating and live music during the summer months.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Enjoy a morning hike at the nearby Swallow Cliff Woods, where you can explore the trails and enjoy nature. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy at one of the park's scenic spots.

afternoon
:

Visit the Orland Park History Museum to learn about the local heritage and culture. After that, check out the Orland Square Mall for shopping and light lunch at one of the food courts.

evening
:

End your trip with dinner at Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant, where you can pair your meal with a selection of their house-made wines. If you have time, catch a movie at the nearby AMC Orland Park 20.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Burger Meal$12
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza Slice$3
🎟️Movie Ticket$12
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of parks.
  • Proximity to Chicago for urban amenities.
  • A variety of dining and shopping options.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Traffic can be congested during peak hours.
  • Weather can be harsh in winter.

Places to Visit in Orland Park

Visit one of these nice places.

Centennial Park

A beautiful park featuring a lake, walking trails, and scenic views, perfect for capturing nature shots.

Orland Park Village Center

An outdoor shopping area with vibrant landscaping and artistic installations, ideal for urban photography.

Swallow Cliff Woods

Known for its rich natural scenery, this area provides stunning backdrops for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Orland Park

Orland Park offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects its suburban charm and multicultural influences. From family-run diners to upscale restaurants, there's something for everyone’s palate.

Orland Park Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Deep Dish Pizza

A Chicago classic, this hearty pizza features a thick crust filled with cheese and toppings, topped with rich tomato sauce.

Must-Try!

Italian Beef Sandwich

Thinly sliced beef served on an Italian roll, often accompanied by sweet or hot peppers.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Orland Park Farmers Market

Held weekly during the summer months, this market features local produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Orland Park experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging between 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C). Winters can be cold, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 35°F (-6°C to 2°C), often with snowfall. Spring and fall are mild, providing comfortable weather for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly smile and greeting when encountering someone is appreciated.

Personal Space

Respect personal space; maintain a comfortable distance during conversations.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and use utensils properly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Orland Park is generally considered a safe community, with a low crime rate compared to larger urban areas. Residents and visitors should still practice common safety precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings, not leaving valuables in cars, and locking doors. Emergency services are readily available and responsive.

Tipping in Orland Park

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service staff 15-20% in restaurants. For other services like taxis and hairdressers, a similar percentage is expected.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is less commonly used but still useful for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy mild weather with blooming flowers; it's a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm temperatures make it perfect for outdoor dining and visiting parks, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Fall

Experience beautiful foliage; it's an excellent time for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snow can make outdoor activities challenging, but it's a great time for indoor attractions.

Nightlife Guide

Orland Park at Night

Orland Park features a laid-back nightlife scene with a variety of bars and restaurants offering live music and entertainment on weekends. Popular spots include local pubs that host trivia nights and lounges with outdoor seating. While it may not have the bustling nightlife of Chicago, residents enjoy a friendly atmosphere with a strong sense of community.

Hiking in Orland Park

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Palos Trail System

A network of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, offering beautiful nature views.

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve

Features scenic trails and a picturesque waterfall, perfect for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Orland Park by plane.

Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)

Located about 20 miles north of Orland Park, this airport offers numerous domestic flights and a few international options, providing convenient access to the area.

Getting Around

Walkability

Orland Park is moderately walkable, with many neighborhoods having access to sidewalks and walking paths. The downtown area is compact, making it easy to explore shops and restaurants on foot. However, some suburbs may require a car to access amenities and attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Orland Park is home to a large number of families, attracted by good schools and recreational facilities.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals live in Orland Park, commuting to Chicago for work and enjoying suburban life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

A popular sport in the region, with local youth and adult leagues often participating in competitions.

Soccer

Youth soccer leagues are prevalent, with many parks and facilities dedicated to the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Orland Park can be busy during rush hours, especially on major routes like La Grange Road and 159th Street. Public transportation options include Metra train services connecting to downtown Chicago. While driving is common, biking and walking paths are available for shorter distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Orland Park.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes; just ask the server for recommendations.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several places provide gluten-free options, but it's advisable to check with the restaurant beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Orland Park has access to several healthcare facilities, including urgent care centers and hospitals. The Advocate Christ Medical Center is one of the main hospitals serving the area, providing comprehensive medical services. Residents and visitors can find primary care doctors and specialists in the vicinity.

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