Oakbrook Terrace, IL
County: DuPage
History
Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois is a small city located in DuPage County, in the northeastern part of the state. The city's history can be traced back to the mid-20th century when it began as a rural farmland area.
In the early 1950s, a group of local businessmen purchased land in the area with the intention of developing it into a large office and commercial center. This group formed Oak Brook Estates, Inc. and began promoting the area as an ideal location for business and residential development due to its proximity to major highways and the city of Chicago.
In 1956, the village of Oak Brook was incorporated in the neighboring area, and Oakbrook Terrace remained an unincorporated part of DuPage County. However, by the 1960s, Oakbrook Terrace had become a thriving commercial and business hub, attracting corporations and developers to the area.
In 1959, the Drury Lane Theatre, a well-known theater group in the Chicago area, opened its doors in Oakbrook Terrace. The theater quickly gained popularity and became a major cultural attraction, hosting notable performances and plays.
In 1972, Oakbrook Terrace officially became a city and gained its own municipal government, separating from the neighboring Oak Brook. The new city government focused on enhancing its business and commercial sectors further, making it a sought-after location for companies.
Over the years, Oakbrook Terrace has continued to grow and evolve. Numerous office buildings, hotels, and restaurants have been constructed, making it a prominent corporate center and a popular destination for business travelers. The city has also invested in infrastructure and amenities to cater to the needs of its residents and businesses.
Today, Oakbrook Terrace boasts a mix of residential, commercial, and retail spaces. The city is known for its upscale shopping centers, such as the Oakbrook Center, which attracts visitors from all over the region. Oakbrook Terrace remains an important economic hub in the region, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the overall growth of DuPage County.
Attractions
Oakbrook Center
This upscale outdoor shopping center offers a wide range of luxury and high-end retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Drury Lane Theatre and Conference Center
Known for its Broadway-style productions and elegant surroundings, this theater hosts a variety of shows and events throughout the year.
Mayslake Peabody Estate
This historic mansion offers tours and hosts cultural events and art exhibitions. The estate features scenic grounds, walking trails, and a beautiful chapel.
Oakbrook Terrace Park District
This park district offers various recreational facilities such as golf courses, swimming pools, tennis courts, walking trails, and sports fields.
Pinstripes Oakbrook
A unique entertainment venue that combines Italian-American dining with bowling, bocce ball, an outdoor patio, and various other games and activities.
Yorktown Center
Another popular shopping center in the area that features a mix of stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Oakbrook Terrace Historical Society Museum
This small museum showcases the history and heritage of Oakbrook Terrace and the surrounding area through exhibits, artifacts, and photographs.
The Clubhouse Oakbrook
A trendy sports bar and restaurant that offers live entertainment, a large gaming area, and an extensive menu.
Topgolf
A golf entertainment complex that offers a unique driving range experience with climate-controlled hitting bays, food, drinks, and fun games for all skill levels.
AMC Oakbrook Center 12
A movie theater located within the Oakbrook Center, offering a comfortable and modern cinema experience with state-of-the-art screens and sound systems.
Climate
Oakbrook Terrace, IL, experiences a continental climate. It is located in the midwestern United States and is characterized by four distinct seasons.
Summer: Summers in Oakbrook Terrace are typically warm and humid. Average high temperatures in July, the hottest month, reach around 84°F (29°C). However, temperatures can occasionally exceed 90°F (32°C) during heatwaves. Humidity levels can make it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months.
Autumn: Autumn in Oakbrook Terrace is mild and pleasant. Temperatures begin to cool down, with average highs in September around 76°F (24°C) and dropping to 55°F (13°C) in November. The foliage showcases vibrant colors, making it a picturesque season.
Winter: Winters in Oakbrook Terrace are cold and snowy. December through February are the coldest months, with average high temperatures ranging from 30°F (-1°C) to 38°F (3°C). Snowfall is frequent during this time, and temperatures can drop well below freezing, averaging around 18°F (-8°C) in January.
Spring: Spring brings mild temperatures and blossoming flowers to Oakbrook Terrace. March and April are transitional months, with average high temperatures ranging from 48°F (9°C) to 59°F (15°C). May becomes warmer, with average highs climbing up to around 71°F (22°C).
The climate in Oakbrook Terrace can vary, influenced by its proximity to Lake Michigan. The lake tends to moderate temperatures, bringing cooler summers and milder winters compared to areas farther from the lake. It is advisable to be prepared for a range of weather conditions throughout the year when traveling to or living in Oakbrook Terrace.
Neighborhoods
Oakbrook Terrace is a city located in DuPage County, Illinois. While it is a relatively small city, it features several neighborhoods that offer distinct characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Oakbrook Terrace:
Oakbrook Terrace East
This neighborhood is located on the eastern side of Oakbrook Terrace and is known for its residential areas. It features single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes. The area is relatively quiet and offers a suburban atmosphere.
Oakbrook Terrace West
Situated on the western side of the city, Oakbrook Terrace West is primarily a commercial area. It is home to a variety of office buildings, businesses, and retail establishments. Some notable companies have their headquarters or offices in this neighborhood.
Multi-use District
This neighborhood encompasses the Oakbrook Terrace Tower, a prominent landmark of the city. The area features a mix of commercial and residential properties, including hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, and high-rise apartments. It offers a bustling and diverse atmosphere.
Central Park Neighborhood
As the name suggests, this area is centered around Central Park. This neighborhood features a range of residential options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. Central Park serves as a community gathering place and offers recreational facilities such as walking paths, playgrounds, and sports fields.
Office Corridor
Oakbrook Terrace has a designated office corridor along Roosevelt Road, where numerous businesses and corporate offices are situated. This area is known for its professional and corporate environment, hosting a variety of industries and firms.
Residential Enclaves
Throughout Oakbrook Terrace, you can find smaller residential enclaves dispersed among the main neighborhoods. These pockets of residential areas offer a mix of housing options, often surrounded by green spaces and parks, creating a suburban feel.
Overall, the neighborhoods of Oakbrook Terrace offer a blend of residential, commercial, and mixed-use areas. Each neighborhood has its own unique character, catering to a variety of preferences and lifestyles.