Things to Do in Edison Park

Edison Park is quintessential Chicago. Existing on the outskirts of Chicago, this neighborhood is part of what locals call “the bungalow belt,” known for the row of bungalow-style homes. Upon closer inspection, each home contains ornate details reminiscent of craftsmanship from a bygone era, the same can be said for the community itself. Known as an active neighborhood, Edison Park is a prime location, accessible to downtown Chicago and to surrounding suburbs allowing for a variety in amenities and entertainment. For those ready to explore, here is a list of things to do in Edison Park.

6730 N Olmsted Ave, Chicago, IL

 

Residents wait all year for Edison Park Fest. Beginning as a simple sidewalk sale in 1972 on Northwest Highway, the neighborhood street festival has expanded to a city-wide event with local vendors setting up stations, carnival attractions and games for children, and live music serenading attendees. All proceeds go towards funding community programs and beautification projects.

Get a taste of Edison Park during restaurant week, a rare opportunity to try the best of local restaurants. Each vendor offers samples of the food and wine from the neighborhood eateries, allowing residents to stroll among the dozens of booths, discovering new spots and returning to old favorites. Restaurant week typically falls at the end of January and the beginning of February. 

 

A good farmers market is a summer staple. Minutes from Edison Park, Park Ridge has curated a mixture of regular and rotating vendors from the area to share their goods with the public, such as local artists, farmers, craftsmen, bakers, and even beekeepers. Bringing farm fresh produce and small-batch products to the city's outskirts, the Park Ridge farmers market is a favorite among residents. Located in the center of the neighborhood, market-goers can enjoy a convenient location surrounded by all that Edison Park has to offer. 

100 S Western Ave, Park Ridge, IL

 

For those who want to appreciate and make art, Brickton Gallery & Art Center is a fantastic choice. Existing as a non-profit organization designed to educate and enrich the community, the art center displays local and renowned artists in their exhibitions as well as multiple courses open to the public. By teaching art therapy and art education, residents can connect to art and its benefits in a whole new way.

 

8031 Floral Ave, Skokie, IL

 

In beautiful preservation of immersive history, Skokie Heritage Museum allows visitors to see the exhibits in the museum and visit the log cabin of the township’s founder. Experiencing what life would be like in the 1800s through reenactments and spending time in the cabin, students and adults have a rare opportunity to live history. Hiking and bike tours are also available, connecting nature and the city’s heritage.

 

5 S Prospect Ave, Park Ridge, IL

 

Pickwick Theater is a local gem. Preserved in its art deco style, the theater creates an atmosphere of glamor for movie-goers. Integrating modern perks such as comfortable seats and the latest digital projectors, visitors can watch new releases surrounded by pristine 1920s design.

6755 N Northwest Hwy, Chicago, IL

 

Named after the town and its namesake Thomas Edison, Edison (Thomas Alva) Park is perfect for little kids who want to play in the playground or explore the model train sets. The historic fieldhouse is a community center for the neighborhood, drawing lectures, classes, and seminars for the entire community to appreciate. Art classes in multiple mediums, such as ceramics, painting, and mixed media, are perfect for kids.

 

6083 N Northwest Hwy, Chicago, IL

 

Roden Branch of the Chicago Public Library offers endless programs for all residents. From story time sessions to performances by local artists, individuals have a variety of activities for curious minds at their fingertips.

601 N Martingale Rd, Schaumburg, IL

 

Few spaces capture the joys of childhood like LEGOLAND. Located just minutes outside Edison Park, families can explore new LEGO sets, buy limited edition sets, and play with the new releases. Exclusive rides and other attractions are also available for those eager to experience creativity and excitement.

529 Forestview Ave, Park Ridge, IL

 

Wildwood Nature Center is ideal for families and nature lovers. This park has hiking and biking trails surrounded by wildflowers and lush trees. Their Nature Nook is designed to educate and entertain young minds who want to learn more about nature, providing books, interactive games, and puzzles. The prairie path provides a beautiful view of the pond and the forest, allowing visitors to explore.

 

W Harts Rd, Chicago, IL

 

Bunker Hill is a fantastic spot to escape into nature. With streams, trails, picnic groves, and the Sidney Yates Flatwoods, visitors can take a stroll amongst nature, practice birdwatching, and walk their dogs.

 

N Branch Trail System - Brown Paved Trl, Niles, IL

 

Splendid and sprawling, the Forest Preserves of Cook County have multiple locations connected by a prairie path. Just outside Edison Park, residents can go for a jog or a hike under the arbor of trees on one of the trails. Multiple events are hosted by the preserve each year, like a chance to make art in the park, play local soccer and baseball games, and a birdhouse-making contest.

If you are ready to dip your toes into Edison Park real estate, reach out to Lisa Sanders to find your perfect home.