Must See Sights and Landmarks in Oak Brook Area

"Play and learning are bridged together at this museum, where kids can: tackle the Cloud Buster, a 30-ton, 37-foot-tall steel dreamscape that celebrates adventure and risk-taking — qualities that are inherent to childhood — excavate dinosaur bones, explore the way water moves through pulleys and pipes, pretend to fight fires, and discover how our skyline full of buildings is created through architecture and engineering."

"There is no admission fee to enter the Navy Pier, which offers free fireworks shows throughout the year and hosts a lineup of free entertainment and music each season. Head to the Navy Pier to see local arts and crafts vendors presenting their wares and to enjoy the scenic views of Lake Michigan."

"Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most popular attractions, and one of the most popular destinations in the Midwest. While there are fees at many of the attractions at Navy Pier, there are some that are free. One of the best reasons to visit is the view, which is (of course!) free!"

"The current building was designed by Loebl, Schlossman and Bennett in 1957, although the Chicago Loop Synagogue was founded in 1929 for Jewish workers downtown and visitors. A must-see here is a wall of stained glass crafted by Abraham Rattner. Open Sunday, October 20, from noon to 5 p.m."

"London House Chicago is another spot that offers terrific panoramic views of Chicago. Though this time the elegant tri-level rooftop bar of the lavish hotel looks out over the Chicago River and the hustle and bustle of Michigan Avenue. There is often something special going on up on the London House rooftop but at any time the few down the river is astounding."

"Located at the start of the Magnificent Mile, LondonHouse Chicago offers modern chic rooms with full amenities. Some rooms have floor to ceiling windows overlooking the river. Don’t forget to check out the lobby bar or rooftop restaurant with views of the river."

"Despite the name, there’s nothing British about this downtown hotel, but it’s Chicago royalty for its trendy rooftop bar with some of the city’s best views, plus its ideal location and contemporary-vintage style."

"Potter Palmer, Marshall Field, Daniel Burnham, David Adler and Bruce Graham are just a handful of the notable burials at Graceland Cemetery in the Uptown neighborhood. While cemeteries may creep some people out, this one is notable for being a lush, tranquil place for Chicagoans to relax and enjoy the silence. The 2,000 trees and 50 species here are certified by the Morton Arboretum and carefully maintained."

"Although cemeteries can be eerie to some, this spot is anything but scary. Bring a blanket, your favorite book and pop a squat under one of the many honey locust trees for a relaxing day in the shade."

"Near Irving Park Road, this graveyard has crypts that are almost as strikingly designed as the city skyline. A number of Chicago's most…"

"Among the 26 different gardens here are the three-island Malott Japanese Garden, the 5-acre Evening Island, and the Grunsfeld Children's…"

"Great service and an excellent environment; Logan square is a nice slice of heaven on earth. The employees and staff are always friendly and attentive, a..."

"The early bird not only gets the worm, it also gets the breakfast deal at Cozy Corner. Stop in between 6 a.m."

"So come here for the pancakes, but stay for the Gallagher flashbacks. Plus the friendly staff is awesome, and will instantly make you feel like a regular. View this post on Instagram"

"Tufano's has been around forever, and for good reason — they serve old school, no-frills Italian for a great price. A half order of their signature lemon chicken with potatoes is only $9.50, or go for the classic chicken/veal marsala, which will easily last you two meals. Located not too far from the UC, it's a great place to get a quality meal before a Bulls or Hawks game."

"Tufano’s was established in 1930 and has stayed in-family ever since. Served in a casual, unassuming atmosphere, the dishes at Tufano’s include familiar pasta favorites as well as more special items like Tilapia Vesuvio and Lobster Ravioli. At UrbanMatter, U Matter."

"American , Pasta ,  Italian"

"Set 6 floors up at The Peninsula Chicago, above Michigan Avenue, Z Bar is an upscale, refined and internationally inspired rooftop bar, offering amazing views over the central parts of Chicago. Out on the comfy and luxurious outdoor terrace you can indulge in both globally inspired cocktails and tasty bites, all served in a sophisticated yet lively and upbeat lounge atmosphere. Z Bar also offers a monthly 'Wanderlust Cocktail Class', if you want to deep-dive into the making of perfectly crafted cocktails."

"It’s easy to feel instantly important upon entering Z Bar, a new upscale lounge in the Peninsula Hotel. Stroll through the foyer to discover several scenic murals depicting Chicago’s iconic bascule bridges and a dramatic bean-shaped skylight, along with ample portraits of pugs—a playful homage to manager Maria Zec’s fondness for canines. Head outside to check out the sweeping city skylines, then retreat inside to the rooftop’s focal point: a large, oval-shaped bar, where an ace beverage team awaits."

"Bars Hotel bars Streeterville. The Peninsula's stunning rooftop lounge has it all: posh surrounds, quality craft cocktails and a roster of delicious shareable snacks. But it's the unique views that will keep you coming back again and again."

"Close to both the Lincoln Park zoo and Lincoln Park, RJ Grunts is the perfect restaurant to park your stroller at after a day of running around. They have a stroller valet (and regular valet if you have a car) to keep everything safe while you enjoy one of their famous burgers with chips. They think about the little things here — kids’ meals come with unspillable cups, animal crackers and crayons on old-style cafeteria trays."

"RJ Grunt’s is the original Lettuce Entertain You entry, and its longevity means you might wait in long lines for its extensive weekend brunch buffet."