Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find restrooms?

Restrooms can be found on both the north and south ends of the oasis.

Where is the i-Pass booth?

The i-Pass booth is three locations south of the Chicago Southland Visitor Information Center.

What if I miss a toll?

You have 14 days to pay online at www.IllinoisTollway.com without a penalty.

What else can I see and do while I’m here at the oasis?

• Eat - there are many good options
• Explore - the Lincoln Highway Kiosk and the Lincoln Library Exhibit, both located at the south end of the oasis.
• Brochures - an additional brochure rack can be found at the south entrance of the oasis.

Where can I find additional information on the Chicago Southland?

www.VisitChicagoSouthland.com

General Chicago Southland Information

What is the Chicago Southland?

• Represents the south and southwest suburbs of Chicago
• Over 400 square miles
• Population is just under 1 million
• Major Interstates: 55,57,80,94,294 and 355
• Boundaries: North (Midway Airport), South (Peotone), East (Illinois State Line) and West (Homer Glen)
• Closest Airport - Midway International Airport (20 miles)

What is Visit Chicago Southland?

Visit Chicago Southland is the official destination marketing organization for the south metropolitan region, representing the south and southwest suburbs of Chicago. Working with the Illinois Bureau of Tourism, Visit Chicago Southland coordinates sales and marketing of the Chicago Southland as a destination for leisure visitors, meetings and conventions, group tours (motorcoaches), sporting events and other activities.

Accommodations:How can I book a hotel room?

Chicago Southland offers more than 5,800 rooms at 65+ hotels. You can book a hotel room using our Ares Travel link.

Downtown Chicago: How far is downtown Chicago from the oasis?

Downtown Chicago is about 27 miles from the oasis.

Pullman National Historical Park: How far is Pullman National Historical Park from the oasis?

Pullman National Historical Park is 14.2 miles from the oasis. More info can be found here:

Nearby Amenities: Where is the closest _________ to the oasis?

• Art Gallery: Union Street Gallery - 8.6 miles
• Brewery: One Trick Pony - 7.6 miles  
• Camping: Camp Shabbona - 8 miles
• Casino: Wind Creek Chicago Southland Casino (Opening Fall 2024) - 2.4 miles
• Family Fun Center: In the Game Hollywood Park - 12.8 miles
• Golf Course: Ravisloe Country Club - 5.2 miles
• Hotel: The hotels located in South Holland are the closest hotels to the oasis - 2.5 miles
• Memorial: South Holland Veterans Memorial - 5.3 miles
• Movie Theater: Marcus Theatres - Chicago Heights - 8.8 miles
• Outdoor Activity: Sand Ridge Nature Center - 7.4 miles
• Outdoor Art: Richard Haas Murals - 4.6 miles
• Outdoor Music Venue: Fox Pointe - 8.8 miles
• Pharmacy: Walgreens, 820 183rd Street, Homewood, IL 708-957-9402 - 3.7 miles
• Performing Arts Center: Freedom Hall - 11.3 miles
• Railfan Site: Homewood Railroad Viewing Platform & Park - 5 miles
• Restaurants: There are many restaurants located on the Halsted Street exit (Northbound Traffic) and Torrence Avenue (Southbound Traffic)
  • Pizza: Aurelios, Homewood - 5 miles  
  • Hot Dogs: Portillo’s - 2.8 miles
  • Pub: J.J. Kelley’s - 7.2 miles
  • Ice Cream Shop: SoHo Sweets Creamery & Café - 5 miles
• Shopping Mall: River Oaks Center - 7.6 miles
• Specialty Shopping: Downtown Homewood Business Association - 4 miles
• Sport Team: Windy City ThunderBolts - 11.2 miles 
• Sports & Entertainment Venue: SeatGeek Stadium - 20.3 miles
• Theatre: The Drama Group - 7.3 miles
• Trails (Hiking and Biking): Thorn Creek Trail System (17.2 miles, asphalt) - 7.3 miles