The best part about the holidays is watching your kids light up with joy. In Oak Brook, that’s not hard to do. Just 30 minutes from the city, this suburban gem delivers all the sparkle and cheer of the season — without the crowds or chaos. Whether you come for the lights, the laughs or the cocoa, Oak Brook makes it easy to fill a day (or a weekend) with family fun.
Here’s our parent-approved list of must-do fun for your own holiday-themed getaway to Oak Brook:
Lights, laughter and holiday nights
When the sun sets, Oak Brook shines — literally. Winter Lights at Central Park is a can’t-miss family favorite, with a half-mile of glowing displays that twinkle across the snow. Best of all, it’s free to attend and parking is free too, a refreshing change from the pricey ticketed light shows elsewhere in the suburbs.
The walk itself is stroller- and pet-friendly, and now includes a sensory-friendly time slot for families who appreciate a quieter experience. This wallet-friendly experience makes more room in your budget for what really matters: making memories together.
For even more holiday magic, mark your calendar for The Drake Oak Brook’s Annual Tree Lighting, a beloved kickoff filled with carols, cocoa and a special visit from Santa. Over at Hyatt Lodge, Prancer’s Pop-Up Pub transforms into a whimsical winter wonderland where families can sip cocoa.
Parent tip: Arrive before dusk, grab an early dinner, and watch Oak Brook glow to life — it’s one of those evenings that feels made for memory-making.
Sweet treats and Santa sightings
If your family’s holidays revolve around great food and sweet traditions, Oak Brook has you covered.
- Labriola Ristorante hosts its famous Gingerbread House Workshops, where on four weekend mornings in December, kids can build candy-covered creations while parents enjoy breakfast and coffee.
- The Drake Oak Brook goes all out with Teas & Tiaras, Holiday Afternoon Tea, and Brunch with Santa & the Grinch — experiences that make the holidays feel straight out of a storybook.
- Pinstripes keeps spirits bright with Brunch with Santa on select weekends, complete with photo ops and a cozy indoor setting perfect for kids of all ages.
- Lucca Osteria & Bar adds a dash of Italian warmth with its festive Brunch with Santa, featuring kid-favorite pancakes, a Build-Your-Own Hot Chocolate Bar, and live holiday music. Families can also help spread cheer by bringing a toy for Toys for Tots.
Parent tip: Don’t forget your camera — between frosting-smudged smiles and Santa photos, you’ll want to remember this one.
Daytime delights: fun for kids (and kids at heart)
Even in the daylight, Oak Brook brims with activities for curious kids and families looking to explore.
- Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art — Discover sparkling gems, crystals, and the breathtaking Castle Lizzadro, a hit with budding scientists.
Photo credit: Only in Oak Brook - Fullersburg Woods Nature Center — Take a peaceful trail walk and visit the 13,000-year-old woolly mammoth skeleton, a guaranteed kid-pleaser.
- Mayslake Peabody Estate — Step back in time with a Historic Mansion Tour or stroll the scenic grounds together.
- Pinstripes — Challenge the kids to bowling or bocce before grabbing lunch.
Photo credit: Only in Oak Brook - Puttshack — Try high-tech indoor mini golf with glowing courses and friendly competition.
- AMC Oakbrook Center 12 — Catch a holiday movie and recharge with popcorn before your next adventure.
- Wonderverse — Let big kids and teens dive into themed attractions, arcade games, and immersive fun.
Parent tip: Everything is close by, so you can mix nature, play and exploration without spending half the day in the car.
Stay the night — and make a weekend of it
After a day packed with holiday fun, Oak Brook’s hotels are ready to wrap your family in comfort and cheer. Book The Drake Oak Brook’s “Dreaming of Drake Christmas” for a two-room suite bursting with décor, cookie kits, and a special delivery from Santa himself.
Or stay at Hyatt Lodge, where the Santa Suite and Deck the Hall at the Lodge events make spirits bright.
Every hotel — from Le Méridien to Residence Inn to Hyatt House to Marriott to DoubleTree — is close to the action, with cozy pools, festive touches and space for everyone to relax.
Plan your Oak Brook holiday getaway
From cocoa to carols and lights to laughter, Oak Brook makes the holidays easy — and unforgettable. Plan your family’s getaway and see why this destination shines brightest at Christmas. Dig in more:
- Discover the best in shopping, dining and entertainment in Oak Brook
- Plan a special holiday experience at your hotel of choice — find out more about Oak Brook’s hotel lineup
This content is sponsored by Only In Oak Brook. Learn more at onlyinoakbrook.com.
