Oakley is seen as a more-affordable neighborhood with ever increasing property values as compared to nearby Hyde Park and Mt. Lookout. The many oak-lined streets and shopping within walking distance offer much to the people who live in Oakley. Convenience is highly regarded here with downtown only 12 minutes away. Oakley is a neighborly area surrounded by many prestigious neighborhoods, which have contributed to its growth. Oakley is now one of Cincinnati’s most popular areas with young professionals. One finds older homes (many renovated to keep up with today’s living demands) as well as new condominiums and apartments in this area.
Oakley was originally known as “Four Mile” and was a wagon stop in the 1850s on the Madison Turnpike now called Madison Road. The village of Oakley (named for the many oak trees in the area) was established in 1898 and then incorporated as part of Cincinnati in 1913. Oakley is home to Annie Oakley – a markswoman of worldwide fame.
Charming Oakley Square has quite a few local restaurants, pubs and boutiques including the iconic Aglamesis Ice Cream Parlor. King Arthurs Court Toys and Blue Manate Books are popular destinations for those with young ones. Habit’s Cafe, The Sleepy Bee Cafe and Red Feather Kitchen are just a few examples of where to have a meal. The Twentieth Century Theatre which was built in 1941 is a registered historic building and the site for concerts and private events. The square is the site for several community events including Oakley After Hours.
Kroger Marketplace (the second largest in the world), Target, Meijer, and other national brand stores are conveniently located in Oakley Station at the former site of The Cincinnati Milling Machine Company. This village-like area, has newly built apartments that are a stone’s throw from restaurants and stores.
MadTree Brewing has its facilities on Madison Road and is a very popular place to enjoy a crafted brew in its tap room or beer garden.
Hyde Park Plaza offers two major grocery stores and many specialty shops. Nearby is the Rookwood Pavilion and Rookwood Commons with many national brand stores and restaurants. Kenwood Towne Centre and Sycamore Plaza are approximately a 10-minute drive with many more shopping and dining opportunities.
Oakley Park Recreational Center features picnic and play areas with tennis courts as well as an aquatic area including a swimming pool, slide, diving board and splash pad. Baseball fields are also available.
Two of Cincinnati’s largest and most beautiful parks, Ault Park and Alms Park, are nearby.
Lunken Playfield (public) offers tennis, archery, golf, and baseball with a 10-minute drive