Dupage County Gis Map Travel Guide

Introduction

Dupage County is located in northeastern Illinois, a short distance from the bustling city of Chicago. It is known for its beautiful parks, vibrant community, and rich history. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, Dupage County has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, and budget-friendly tips to make your trip to Dupage County a memorable one.

Top Attractions

Morton Arboretum

The Morton Arboretum is a 1,700-acre outdoor museum that features stunning gardens, woodlands, and prairies. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and families with children. The arboretum hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and educational programs.

Dupage Children’s Museum

The Dupage Children’s Museum is a fun and educational destination for families with young children. It features interactive exhibits that encourage children to learn through play. The museum is located in downtown Naperville, which is a charming and walkable community with many shops and restaurants.

Cantigny Park

Cantigny Park is a 500-acre park that features beautiful gardens, a golf course, and a museum. The park is home to the First Division Museum, which showcases the history of the U.S. Army’s First Infantry Division. Cantigny Park is a great destination for families, history buffs, and nature lovers.

Hidden Gems

Kline Creek Farm

Kline Creek Farm is a living history farm that showcases life in the 1890s. Visitors can explore the farm and see how people lived and worked in the late 19th century. The farm hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including a fall festival and a holiday market.

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve

Waterfall Glen is a beautiful forest preserve that features hiking and biking trails, a waterfall, and a lake. It is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The preserve is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and birds.

Butterfly House

The Butterfly House is a hidden gem located within the Peck Farm Park. It is a small greenhouse that is home to a variety of butterflies. Visitors can walk through the greenhouse and see the butterflies up close. The Butterfly House is a great destination for families with young children.

Food Scene

Portillo’s

Portillo’s is an iconic Chicago restaurant that is known for its hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and chocolate cake. The restaurant has several locations in Dupage County, including in Naperville and Downers Grove. It is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the area.

Quiubo

Quiubo is a popular Mexican restaurant located in downtown Wheaton. It features a variety of authentic Mexican dishes, including tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. The restaurant also has a lively atmosphere and a great selection of margaritas.

The Cellar Bistro

The Cellar Bistro is a cozy restaurant located in Wheaton that features a variety of American and European dishes. The restaurant has a great wine selection and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It is a great destination for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Dupage County has many free and low-cost activities that are perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Some of the best budget-friendly tips include:

• Visit the Dupage County Forest Preserves, which offer free hiking, biking, and picnicking.
• Explore the local farmer’s markets, which offer fresh produce and handmade goods.
• Take a self-guided walking tour of downtown Wheaton or Naperville.
• Visit the Dupage County Historical Museum, which offers free admission.
• Attend a free concert or event at a local park or library.

Outdoor Adventures

Illinois Prairie Path

The Illinois Prairie Path is a 61-mile trail that runs through Dupage County and several other counties in northeastern Illinois. It is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The trail offers beautiful views of the prairie and countryside.

Blackwell Forest Preserve

Blackwell Forest Preserve is a 1,300-acre park that features hiking and biking trails, a lake, and a campground. It is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families. The preserve also has several picnic areas and a playground.

Danada Forest Preserve

Danada Forest Preserve is a 783-acre park that features hiking and biking trails, a lake, and a stable. Visitors can take horseback riding lessons or go on guided trail rides. The preserve is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and birds.

Historical Landmarks

Historic Downtown Wheaton

Historic Downtown Wheaton is a charming community that features many historic buildings and landmarks. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour and see buildings dating back to the 1800s. The community also has many shops and restaurants.

Naper Settlement

Naper Settlement is a living history museum that features 30 historic buildings and landmarks. Visitors can explore the museum and see how people lived in the 19th century. The museum also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including a fall festival and a holiday market.

Fox Valley Trolley Museum

The Fox Valley Trolley Museum is a museum that showcases the history of electric railways. Visitors can take a ride on a vintage trolley and see historic trolley cars and artifacts. The museum also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including a pumpkin trolley and a holiday trolley.

Family-Friendly Activities

Bowlero

Bowlero is a bowling and entertainment center that features bowling, arcade games, laser tag, and a virtual reality experience. It is a great destination for families with children. The center also has a restaurant and bar.

Phillips Park Zoo

Phillips Park Zoo is a small zoo located in Aurora. It features a variety of animals, including wolves, otters, and bald eagles. The zoo also has a playground and picnic area.

Enchanted Castle

Enchanted Castle is an indoor entertainment center that features go-karts, laser tag, bumper cars, and a variety of other attractions. It is a great destination for families with children. The center also has a restaurant and bar.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

Underground Tunnels of Wheaton

Wheaton has a series of underground tunnels that were used for heating and cooling buildings in the early 20th century. Visitors can take a guided tour and see the tunnels up close. The tours are only offered on a limited basis, so be sure to check the schedule in advance.

Lilacia Park

Lilacia Park is a small park located in Lombard that features over 700 lilacs. The park is especially beautiful in the spring when the lilacs are in bloom. Visitors can also see other flowers and plants in the park.

St. James Farm Forest Preserve

St. James Farm Forest Preserve is a 612-acre park that features hiking and biking trails, a lake, and a stable. The preserve was once a working farm and has many historic buildings and landmarks. Visitors can explore the park and see the historic buildings up close.

Natural Wonders

Waterfall Glen

Waterfall Glen is a beautiful forest preserve that features a waterfall, a lake, and hiking and biking trails. The waterfall is especially beautiful in the spring when the snow melts and the water flows more heavily. Visitors can also see a variety of wildlife in the preserve.

Mayslake Peabody Estate

Mayslake Peabody Estate is a historic estate that features a lake and beautiful gardens. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the estate and see the historic mansion and chapel. The estate also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts and theater performances.

Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve

Fullersburg Woods is a forest preserve that features hiking and biking trails, a lake, and a nature center. Visitors can see a variety of wildlife in the preserve, including beavers, muskrats, and birds. The nature center also has exhibits and educational programs.

Vibrant Nightlife

Downtown Naperville

Downtown Naperville is a lively community that features many restaurants, bars, and shops. Visitors can enjoy a night out on the town and see live music, comedy, and theater performances. The community also