Oak Park River Forest Museum

About Oak Park River Forest Museum

Oak Park River Forest Museum occupies a restored 1898 landmark building at Lake Street and Lombard Avenue in Oak Park, nine miles west of Chicago. Visitors explore changing exhibits on local history displayed throughout the museum, along with a children's activity space. The museum houses thousands of photographs, vintage costumes, and artifacts donated by families and local businesses that document the area's past. The Jeanette S. and Ellis K. Fields Research Center provides access to the collection for those researching local history, with staff available by appointment to retrieve materials and orient visitors to the facility. The museum hosts special programs including history book clubs, cemetery walks, and architectural tours. A visit suits students, writers, researchers, and anyone curious about Oak Park and River Forest history, whether spending an hour browsing exhibits or conducting in-depth archival research.