Brookfield Zoo
8400 31st St, Brookfield, IL 60513 * 708-485-2200
Spread across more than 216 acres, this zoo houses thousands of animals from around the world. Zoo residents live in specially designed, walk-through environments so visitors can view them in natural settings. Highlights include the Living Coast, which showcases 60 species in recreated waterfalls and ocean depths reminiscent of the western coasts of Peru and Chile. You also don't want to miss the dolphins at Brookfield's Seven Seas Panorama.
Charlie Trotter's
816 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 * 773-248-6228
Offering an ever-changing menu, Charlie Trotter's is an experience you will not soon forget. The highly touted restaurant has received several awards, in addition to enjoying positive publicity from the Zagat Survey. The wine list has no rival in the city, which says a great deal. The eclectic cuisine offers unusual, yet pleasing combinations, and the smartly-clad staff is noteworthy, taking professionalism to the next level. Indeed, this is not your run-of-the-mill dining outing. Reservations, well in advance, are suggested. Jackets required, ties optional. EL: Brown Line to Armitage
Chicago Board of Trade
141 W Jackson St, Chicago, IL 60604 * 312-435-3590
The Chicago Board of Trade, the largest exchange in the world, holds court in an impressive Art Deco building. Visitors may watch the frenzied action of futures and options trading from the 5th-floor viewing center and be directed through the cryptic gestures by guides from the visitors center. A small museum and a film offer more insight into the business of trading. While you're there, note the aluminum statue of Ceres (Roman goddess of harvest) on the roof, and look for the lovely painting of her that was once on the trading floor and now occupies a place of prominence in the atrium addition.
Field Museum of Natural History
1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605 * 312-922-9410
The exterior of this hulking marble facility only hints at the historic treasures inside. The architect's goal was boldness, and he achieved it with massive columns and striking galleries filled with natural light. You are immediately greeted by two massive elephants and Sue, the museum's famous Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton (she was acquired for $8.4 million)! Keep going and you'll delve into paleontology, geology, botany, anthropology and much more. With nine acres of space, you never know what the curators will have on display, since they have more than 20 million items to choose from! This is a Mystery Traveler favorite, and a great place to spend a day.
Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
951 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302 * 708-848-1976
Renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright began building this house in 1889. As his style developed, so did the home, and Wright continued to make unique additions to it to suit his personal needs. Today, guided tours showcase his studio and its chain-hung balcony, along with a playroom designed for his children that offers treetop views. The architect's signature style and taste are clearly evident throughout the intricately designed home. Tours depart from Ginkgo Tree Bookshop.
