If you have an itinerary opening, consider adding any of these half-day excursions to give your visitors a taste of Chicago sites beyond the city.
Explore beyond the city limits
Frank Lloyd Wright Buildings
Oak Park has more examples of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work than anywhere in the world. From private residences like three Queen Anne-style “Bootleg Houses” to public-access properties like the unprecedented Unity Temple, your clients can see the evolution of Wright’s famed architecture style through one fascinating tour of Frank Lloyd Wright structures in Chicago. Stop by his inspiring home and studio, the low and long Prairie-style Frank W. Thomas House or the medieval Tudor Revival-style Nathan G. Moore House. Various locations, Oak Park, IL
Brookfield Zoo
Whether your groups want to marvel at polar bears, get close to bottlenose dolphins, wander through wetlands to see alligators or encounter a kingdom of big cats, there’s a ton to explore at the Brookfield Zoo. 8400 31st St., Brookfield, IL
Baha’i House of Worship
One of only seven in the world and the only one in North America, this structure on the shores of Lake Michigan is the largest and oldest Baha’i House of Worship in existence. Visitors of all faiths are welcome to the temple to pray, meditate, or take in the peaceful gardens and intricate architecture. 100 Linden Ave., Wilmette, IL
Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center
At the poignant Illinois Holocaust Museum, your groups can remember the past and honor the memories of those who were lost with exhibitions that feature more than 500 artifacts, virtual reality experiences, and contemporary artistic responses to genocide. 9603 Woods Dr., Skokie, IL
Arlington Park Race Course
And they’re off! Send your visitors to the Arlington Park Race Course for an afternoon of live, exhilarating thoroughbred horse racing, fantastic food, winning wagers, and great sights from a six-story grandstand. In other words, your groups will have a blast here — bet on it. 2200 W. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights, IL
Chicago Botanic Garden
Nine islands, four natural habitats, 24 gardens and 384 acres filled with flowers, scenic waterfalls, native prairies, and warm greenhouses — it’s all here at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Even better? This picturesque paradise offers tours that are completely customizable to your group’s interests and physical abilities. 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe, IL
LEGOLAND® Discovery Center
Inside LEGOLAND®, your groups can get lost in all things LEGO. Reach out and touch the stars in 4-D cinema, ride a dragon through the Medieval LEGO Castle, see iconic Chicago landmarks in MINILAND®, learn top LEGO-building secrets, and more. The Pirate Adventure Island exhibit features hidden sea creatures, a crystal cave, and more swashbuckling fun. 601 N. Martingale Rd., Schaumburg, IL
The Morton Arboretum
For a foray into nature, book a tour at The Morton Arboretum. There, across 1,700 acres, your visitors can do everything from walking among ancient oaks to exploring a one-acre Maze Garden. 4100 IL-53, Lisle, IL
Ravinia Park
Give your groups “the sound of summer” at Ravinia Park, Chicagoland’s premier outdoor concert-park. Summer home of the renowned Chicago Symphony Orchestra and host to acts like Maroon 5 and The Judds. Ravinia has stars on the stage and stars in the sky — plus restaurants, a carousel, and a sculpture walk. 200 Ravinia Park Rd., Highland Park, IL
Route 66 Raceway
Have groups who love cars? They won’t want to miss the Route 66 Raceway. This fast-paced stadium has everything from full-throttle drag racing that reaches nearly 300 miles per hour to down-and-dirty demolition derbies. 3200 S. Chicago St., Joliet, IL
The Tempel Lipizzans
Groups will marvel at the impeccable equestrian performances at stable and performance hall The Tempel Lipizzans, featuring magnificent white Lipizzan steeds as they perform acrobatic feats during a choreographed performance set to classical music. After the performance, visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour through the stables. 7000 Wadsworth Rd., Wadsworth, IL
