EXPLORE OAK PARK AND BEYOND NAMES ZAPWATER COMMUNICATIONS AGENCY OF RECORD

CHICAGO, IL (February 3, 2026) – Explore Oak Park and Beyond, the state-certified convention and visitors bureau for Western Cook County, formerly known as Visit Oak Park, has named Zapwater Communications as its public relations, influencer marketing and branding agency of record.

Explore Oak Park and Beyond represents 19 distinctive communities throughout Western Cook County, including Bellwood, Berkeley, Broadview, Brookfield, Elmwood Park, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Hillside, La Grange, La Grange Park, Maywood, Melrose Park, Northlake, North Riverside, Oak Park, River Forest, River Grove, Riverside, Schiller Park, and Westchester.

“This partnership is especially meaningful to me, as Oak Park is not only an iconic destination but also the community I call home,” said David Zapata, CEO and Founder of Zapwater Communications. “Having lived in Oak Park for many years, I’ve experienced firsthand the depth of culture, history and neighborhood pride that make this region so special. We’re honored to work with Explore Oak Park and Beyond and to continue expanding our portfolio of local and regional clients, helping destinations in our own backyard gain broader visibility and recognition.”

Under the partnership, Zapwater will support Explore Oak Park and Beyond in showcasing the region’s diverse appeal, spotlighting iconic attractions such as world-renowned architecture, rich cultural and historical assets, vibrant art scenes, classic Chicago dining, outdoor trails, family-friendly experiences, and unique, lesser-known hidden gems.

The destination is steeped in compelling stories and cultural touchstones including Oak Park as the home to the world’s largest concentration of Frank Lloyd Wright–designed buildings and the Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum, while neighboring Hillside is the final resting place of Al Capone. These notable landmarks are just a glimpse into the depth and character that define the region and continue to captivate visitors.

As agency of record, Zapwater will lead a comprehensive and creative communications strategy encompassing media relations, influencer marketing and branding services, designed to elevate destination awareness on a local, regional and national level. The account will be managed out of Zapwater’s Chicago office headquarters.

For more information about Explore Oak Park and Beyond, visit www.oakparkandbeyond.org.

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