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Local Activities
Lake County and the Chicago Metro-Area offer a wide variety of activities to round out your forum experience. This page contains suggested destinations based on a variety of interests.


Lake County Area

Chicago Botanic Gardens

A can’t miss! One of the top most visited botanic gardens in the US, with 27 spectacular gardens on 385 acres. The Garden is a place of ever-changing beauty that you can stroll through in all seasons.

Buy tickets in advance, $17 admission + $8 parking. Eat at the café, or pack a picnic!

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Local (Close to hotel)

Par King Mini Golf

A staple in Lake County for over 25 years, this mini golf course has two 18-hole courses, 19 moving obstacles and seven water holes. You’ll find both a fun and challenging experience for pros and first time golfers alike.

$10. Cash admission only. ATM on-site.

Afterward, walk across the street to grab a taco at Fat Rosie’s or spoil yourself with some of the best steakhouses in Lake County at Wildfire or Fleming’s.

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Crane’s Landing Golf

Located at the Marriott Lincolnshire Resort. Book a tee time and play this gorgeous 18–hole course.

Head over to Half Day Brewing Company for American food and local brews!

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Chicago

Architectural Boat Tour

Hear how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the world's largest cities in less than 100 years. In just 90 minutes, you'll get the best overview of Chicago’s architecture and its history.

$55. No pre-booking necessary.

Afterward, walk over to London House Chicago for a drink on their rooftop for the best views of Chicago. Lunch and Dinner recommendations nearby: The Purple Pig Restaurant (upscale), Billy Goat Tavern (American food and Chicago classic).

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Navy Pier

Eat, drink and play at Navy Pier!

Ride the world famous Centennial Ferris Wheel, grab a beer and listen to live music at the brand new beer garden. Purchase the original Rainbow Cone (a true Chicago staple), and stroll the board walk for some amazing picture and people watching opportunities.

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Wrigley Field Tour

Tour the legendary home of the Chicago Cubs that has captivated baseball fans for over 100 years.

90-minute tour, $30. Pre-booking recommended.

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Grab a bite to eat at Big Star, which has some of the best tacos in Chicago, and Jeni’s for the best ice-cream cone you have ever had! Afterwards, head east to check out Belmont Harbor and walk the lakefront–if you head north you will run into Montrose Beach!

Chicago White Sox Game

Watch the Chicago White Sox beat the Rangers on the southside on June 19.

$20-$100 per ticket. Pre-purchasing recommend.

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Nearby is the always exciting Chinatown neighborhood where you'll find retail, restaurants, detailed architecture, and more. Pop into the colorful storefronts to shop for exotic teas, handmade ceramics, hard-to-find beauty products, and unique jewelry.

Lincoln Park Zoo and Comedy Show

Start off with visiting the FREE Lincoln Park Zoo in Lincoln Park.

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Then catch a show at one of the most famous comedy clubs in the world, Second City. It has been around for over 60 years and has consistently been a starting point for many comedians, award-winning actors, directors, and others in show business, including Bill Murray, John Candy, John Belushi, Eugene Levy, Catherine O'Hara, Chris Farley, Mike Myers, Steve Carell, Jordan Peele, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Stephen Colbert, and many others.

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There is no shortage of food options in Old Town, some stand outs include: The 3 Arts ClubHappy Camper PizzaOrso’s ItalianSummer House Santa Monica, and Blue Door Farm Stand. Reservations are recommended for all restaurants.

Chicago Museums

Chicago’s amazing Museum Campus houses three of the city’s leading institutions all in one place. Spend a day exploring natural history and world cultures at Field Museum, underwater worlds at the Shedd Aquarium and far-out galaxies at the Adler Planetarium—and all from a breathtaking lakefront vantage point. The Museum of Science of Industry is just a short 10-minute cab ride south.

Hop on the Lake Shore Drive bus or walk north on the Lake Front Trail to get some iconic selfies in-front of The Bean (Cloud Gate). You will find beautiful views of the lakefront along the way and you'll discover the Art Institute.

Adler Planetarium

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Field Museum

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Museum of Science and Industry

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Shedd Aquarium

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Chicago Art Institute

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