Local Perspective / Personal Story
I didn’t grow up in Orland Park, but between living here briefly, working here for the last 20 years, and practically growing up at Orland Square Mall, it feels like a second home. I started in real estate with RE/MAX, continued my work through EXP, and over the years I’ve helped countless Orland homeowners buy, sell, upgrade, downsize, and navigate everything in between.
Back when I was a kid growing up in Mokena, Orland Square Mall was the place to go. It was loud, packed, busy, and full of energy. Kids today will never understand the thrill of being dropped off at the mall with ten bucks and no cell phone. Now, living in Frankfort and keeping my office in Orland, I’m here almost every day meeting clients, grabbing lunch, or navigating traffic like someone who’s driven these roads for decades.
Between friendships tied to local schools, years spent working in town, and a long history of real estate transactions here, I know Orland Park from both sides. It’s one of the most established and resource-rich suburbs in the southwest region, and this guide is meant to give you a realistic feel for what daily life here is actually like.
Why People Love Living in Orland Park
Orland Park is the kind of suburb where you can handle most of your life without leaving town. Shopping, dining, parks, schools, fitness, and transportation are all built into the community. The village is clean, well maintained, and intentionally planned, which makes everyday routines simpler and more predictable.
It appeals to a wide range of residents, from families who want space and structure to longtime homeowners who value convenience and stability. Orland does not feel trendy or rushed. It feels established and functional, which is exactly what many people are looking for.
Dining & Local Favorites
RoccoVino’s
A comfortable Italian restaurant that’s been a go-to for years. It’s the kind of place people return to for celebrations, family dinners, and familiar favorites.
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant
One of the busiest and most recognizable spots in town. Popular for date nights, group dinners, and weekends, and consistently reliable.
Parks, Trails & Outdoor Living
Outdoor space is a major part of Orland Park’s identity. The village has extensive walking paths, bike trails, forest preserves, and well-developed parks. Centennial Park alone offers enough amenities to fill an entire weekend.
Whether you’re walking, biking, or just looking for green space close to home, Orland makes it easy to stay active without having to plan far ahead.
Shopping & Essentials
Orland Park functions as a retail hub for the southwest suburbs. Between Orland Square Mall, LaGrange Road, and 159th Street, nearly every major retailer and daily necessity is close by.
For many nearby communities, Orland is where people go when they need to run errands, shop for something specific, or handle multiple stops in one trip.
Annual Events & Community Life
The village hosts events throughout the year, including summer concerts, seasonal festivals, farmers markets, and park district programs. These events are well attended and often draw people from surrounding towns.
There’s a strong emphasis on family-friendly activities and community involvement, which helps Orland maintain a connected, lived-in feel.
Commuting & Transportation
Orland Park offers solid transportation options for both commuters and local drivers. The 153rd Street Metra station, access to I-80, and major routes like LaGrange Road make it easy to move in multiple directions.
Whether you work in the city, travel regionally, or stay close to home, the infrastructure supports it.
Fitness & Wellness
Fitness and recreation are easy to access in Orland. The village has large fitness centers, specialized studios, and major recreational facilities.
The Sportsplex and Centennial Park Aquatic Center are especially popular and serve residents of all ages.
Big Picture Living
Living in Orland Park is about convenience, consistency, and access. It’s not flashy and it’s not trying to be something it isn’t. Instead, it offers a dependable suburban lifestyle with strong infrastructure, plenty of amenities, and room to settle in for the long term.