Cantigny Park-Wheaton, IL
The humidity was almost non existent and the cooler temperature was a pleasant break from the scorching heat wave of early August. It could only mean that summer would soon be on it’s way out and it was definitely time to pack in all the outdoor fun that we could, before it was time to hibernate.
The question that remained was, what to do with two active boys that Mommy and Mema would enjoy as well.
That’s when I stumbled upon a real gem practically in our backyard. I had heard of Cantigny Park, (pronounced can tee knee) but I had never been there. The 500 acre park boasts breathtaking gardens, two museums, a 27-hole golf course, picnic groves, a playground, hiking paths, restaurants and gift shop. It all sounded wonderful to me, but would the boys remain entertained during our visit?
We parked near the military museum and my grandson’s eye lit up when he saw the Tank Park. There were nearly a dozen real tanks waiting for eager children to climb all over. And climb they did, even the 23 month old, up and down around and over, even shimmying onto the canons of some of the tanks. It was definitely better than any play lot we visited in the past. Our next stop was a visit to the First Division Military Museum (admission is included in your parking fee), where we saw a real life display of war history complete with the sounds of exploding shells and diving planes.
Back outside, we followed the creek that runs through the park and I found it to be the perfect backdrop for some candid shots of the boys. They tossed stones into the babbling water and looked for frogs and worms. By the time we made it to the Idea Garden they were just about out of steam. We headed to the shaded play area and after a quick snack returned to our car. The Robert R. McCormick Museum and remaining gardens would have to wait for another day.
Cantigny Park is located in Wheaton, near the intersection of Rt 38 (Roosevelt Rd) and Winfield Rd. It was definitely worth the drive and the $5 per carload admission. I’m already planning our next visit, the fall colors should be amazing there.
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Category: Chicago, entertainment, Illinois, New Posts, Summer
this sounds like a great place! wish it were closer
I know the feeling. With gas prices so high, we’ve cut out a lot of excursions
Sounds like so much fun, I had no clue and I live like 10 minutes from there! $5 is super cheap too!
Your boys would love it there, I should call you the next time we head out.
I’ve been meaning to go there–sounds fun!
Had no idea that was there! We have a lot of family in the area and this would be the perfect way to visit them with the boys without being stuck in a non-kid proofed house!