Modern habitation of the area which, today, comprises Tinley Park began in the 1820s with emigrants from Europe and the eastern United States.

Inventor John Rauhoff developed and manufactured a waterproofing additive for cement called ironite, later used in the construction of the Hoover Dam.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Tinley Park was, and remains to be, an area of rapid suburban expansion to the west and south of the original site, with over 11,000 housing units constructed between 1970 and 1994.

[6] After its centennial (in 1992), Tinley Park has focused on the renovation of its historic downtown district, which encompasses the Village's original 1892 boundaries.

In this district, landowners are encouraged to maintain the sites' historic edifices, or to create new, but "historically-friendly", facades for otherwise modern buildings built in the last 30 years.

The amphitheater, which has hosted numerous musicians and festivals over its 30+ years in operation, features an overhead-covered seated section with open sides, and a large, sloping grass lawn area at the back.

[8] On February 2, 2008, a mass shooting occurred at Lane Bryant in Brookside Marketplace on the Will County side of the village.

The twice-annual[9] convention features dozens of kiosks, with breeders and vendors showing and selling their animals, as well as interesting gifts, pet supplies and more.

The popular event is held in the spring and fall[9] at Tinley Park Convention Center.

A small portion of Tinley Park students go to Lincoln-Way East High School.

A small portion in the southwest part of the village also attends Rich Central High School.