Chicago suburb activities

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Chicago is the third largest city in the nation. Its sprawling suburbs are filled with commuting city workers, and are also vibrant communities in their own right. With land sparse in the city, and many families living in the suburbs, attractions such as shopping malls, amusement parks and museums find the open vista of a suburban town an ideal place to call home. There is always something for the family to do in suburban Chicago.

1. Brookfield Zoo

   • The Brookfield Zoo is in the Chicago suburb of Brookfield, about 15 minutes southwest of the city. The zoo can easily fill a day for the whole family, with dolphin shows, Stingray Bay and many animals to visit. Exhibits include grizzly and polar bears, zebras, elephants, giant cats, reptiles and more. The zoo offers daily group tours and has a children's zoo and a family play zoo for the little ones. Two restaurants and a gift shop are also available for visitors.

     The Brookfield Zoo

     3300 Golf Rd.

     Brookfield, IL 60513

     708-688-8000

     czs.org

   Arlington Park

   • Arlington Park racetrack is in the northwest Chicago suburb of Arlington Heights. Arlington has been the home of thoroughbred horse racing since 1927. Establishing itself as the home of Chicagoland horse racing, Arlington even hosted the 2002 Breeder's Cup, the first time that race had been run in the Midwest. Arlington offers a full season of races from April until October. Guests can cheer on their favorite horse from the grandstand or a private suite. Several different restaurants and bars are available for a meal after the race.

     Arlington Park

     2200 W. Euclid Ave.

     Arlington Heights, IL 60006

     847-385-7500

     arlingtonpark.com/node/1811

   Six Flags: Great America

   • Six Flags Great America & Hurricane Harbor are about an hour north of the city of Chicago, in the suburb of Gurnee. This combination amusement park and water park has enough rides, shows, food and shops to entertain the family. From roller coasters like The Dark Knight Coaster, to the Little Dipper for smaller kids, everyone can find something to suit their taste. The park also has dining options and hotel accommodations. Six Flags Great America is a seasonal attraction, open May through October. Hurricane Harbor, the water park, is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

     Six Flags Great America

     1 Great America Parkway

     Gurnee, IL 60031

     847-249-4636

     sixflags.com/greatamerica

   Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra

   • The Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra makes its home in the southern Chicago suburb of Park Forest. As of fall 2010, the orchestra will be celebrating its 33rd season. The 75-member orchestra plays a full season of concerts in various nearby community venues, and performs regularly at the Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center. The orchestra partners with a few local restaurants for those looking for dinner before or after a show. Information regarding dining options is available on the orchestra's website.

     Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra

     377 Artists Walk

     Park Forest, IL 60466

     708-481-7774

     ipomusic.org

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Chicago suburb, Great America, Flags Great, Flags Great America, Arlington Park, Illinois Philharmonic, Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra