Villa Park, known as the "Garden Village", was originally two subdivisions-the Subdivision of Villa Park and the Subdivision of Ardmore. The two were officially incorporated into one village in 1914, establishing the "Village of Ardmore". Ardmore was legally organized and incorporated on August 8, 1914 with a population of 300. The name was changed to "Village of Villa Park" on September 17, 1917 after a great deal of debate between the east and west ends of town- Summit avenue was the dividing line. Since then it has grown to be the "Keystone of the Western Suburbs".

Recreation is provided by the Village Government under the administration of the Park and Recreation Board appointed by the Village Board of Trustees. There are a total of 10 parks with a total land area of more than 45 acres providing baseball diamonds, picnic areas, grounds, ice skating rinks, tennis courts, and two outdoor swimming pools. Plus a sporty 9-hole golf course.

Villa Park has 17 churches in the community and a complete list can be obtained through the Chamber of Commerce