First Division Museum at Cantigny - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Cantigny Park is a lovely destination for those looking for a great outdoor experience. Located on 500 acres of land donated by the McCormick family, Cantigny features hiking trails, picnic spots and gorgeous gardens to explore. The main attraction of the park is its formal gardens and 30-acre lake, as well as the First Division Museum which commemorates WWI America's first major battle overseas. Visitors can also enjoy free concerts in summer and other sporting events throughout the year.

The Blackwell Forest Preserve is a natural oasis amidst the everyday hustle and bustle of suburbia. It's the perfect escape for outdoor lovers searching for large expanses of greenery and rolling hills. The preserve comprises 500 acres of forest landscapes which include small streams, winding trails, wetlands, prairies and two recreational lakes. Visitors can indulge in various activities such as biking, birdwatching, fishing and even horseback riding on the 20-mile stretch of trails.

The Chicago Golf Club is a prestigious golf club established in 1892, it has been a leader in the Midwestern golf community for over 120 years. With a challenging yet beautiful championship course designed by the legendary C.B Macdonald and Seth Raynor, this club is perfect for all levels of play. In addition to its stellar main course, the Chicago Golf Club offers a number of additional amenities including practice areas on teaching greens, bunkers for practicing sand play shots.

Herrick Lake Forest Preserve is a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience. Centered around the scenic Herrick Lake, the preserve offers many opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Visitors can take advantage of bird watching, kayaking, fishing, nature trails, and other outdoor activities. Additionally, several playgrounds make it perfect for families looking to spend quality time together in the great outdoors.

Cosley Zoo offers a great opportunity for visitors to get up close to and learn about some incredible animals. At Cosley Zoo, you’ll see a variety of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians native to the area. The zoo also features a petting zoo, allowing guests to pet and get to know goats, sheep and other domesticated animals. For more adventurous visitors, there are programs available that allow guests to observe animal care staff as they feed the animals and help out with other daily tasks.

McDowell Grove, is a stunning natural park that makes for a great escape any time of the year. Surrounded by nearly 400 acres of lush and diverse landscape, visitors can explore breathtaking trails that wind through trees and along the banks of Salt Creek. This part also offers plentiful recreational amenities: fishing opportunities at McDowell Lake, picnic groves, a large playground and even a nature center where you can learn about the wildlife and plantlife that inhabit the area.