Without leaving Chicago, you can see far-off and ancient civilizations thanks to the Oriental Institute Museum. The Institute Museum, a part of the University of Chicago campus in Hyde Park, houses top-notch anthropological and archaeological displays regarding the first human civilizations that emerged in the East. Visitors can reflect on man's accomplishments as they examine rare artifacts from historic nations including Turkey, Israel, Egypt, Mesopotamia, Iran, and Palestine. Afterwards, browse the "Suq" (Arabic for "market") for Eastern finds and unusual gifts. Guided group tours and workshops are available to ease the trip for you.
The Museum of Science and Industry makes science fun with interactive, educational exhibits that stretch the imagination. Spend time in a 13-foot (4.0-meter) heart as you learn about how yours works. Find out how technology has influenced history by stepping back in time on "Yesterday's Main Street." Marvel at the life-size replica of the German submarine U-505 and also the command module of Apollo 8. Watch action-packed films in the museum's giant-screen Omnimax Theatre or take a ride down a coal mine. And don't leave without picking up some great souvenirs at The Big Idea museum shop.
From a modest beginning as Valparaiso Little Theatre Guild to a full-fledged theater, Chicago Street Theatre has made a mark in the performing arts scene of Indiana. This intimate theater, which has a seating capacity for 130 spectators, offers a repertoire of dramas and musicals that are scheduled throughout the year. Owing to its extensive renovation in 2008, the auditorium is fitted with state-of-the-art sound and light technology which enhances the fun of watch the stellar performances of the artists. Parallel to the theater performances, the Chicago Street Theatre also hosts concert series, inviting a number of local and national artists/ bands on tour. Call ahead or visit their website to know more.
DuSable Museum of African American History is an unparalleled place to salute the contributions made by African-Americans to world history and learn about their culturally rich heritage. The iconic museum showcases extensive collections of award-winning paintings, photography, sculptures, and other works by various African and African-American artists. Original slave documents and civil rights memorabilia are also displayed here. The museum hosts numerous public programs throughout the year, including lectures, special exhibits, and workshops. An incredible place of immense significance, a visit here is a must as it is a much-needed history lesson.
Situated at the southwestern tip of Lake Michigan, Whihala Beach is a picturesque spot for lazing under the sun. At one end of this beach lies Whiting Lakefront Park from where you can see right up to Downtown Chicago on a clear day. It is also bound by the Whihala Beach Bike Trail throughout its length, where cyclists spend many pleasurable hours. Picnic tables, gazebos and boat landings make it a pleasure to spend some time here. Else, just find a cozy bench and admire the gray-blue water, the often turbulent skies, and gulls flying above the lake. There is ample space nearby for parking your car.
If you want to see the University of Chicago art collection, the David and Alfred Smart Museum of Art is the place to go. The gallery holds the primary pieces, including works from ancient China, Europe in the Renaissance era and The Middle Ages, and paintings by the Chicago Imagists. Owing to the location on the campus of the University of Chicago, the university students are actively involved in the upkeep of the museum, reflecting the influence of art on academia. Stop off in the quaint Smart Museum Café for a repast during your tour. In summer, you can dine outdoors at the Eden Sculpture Garden. Check out the gift shop for a memento of your visit. Admission is free.
The auditorium at Kenwood Academy plays host to various theater groups and performances by dance troupes like the Hyde Park School of Dance. Various academy meetings and seminars are also held here. The space in the auditorium is well appointed with great sound and light facilities. The high tech sound system ensures that the acoustics in the auditorium are top notch.
The renowned John Humphrey House is a renowned historic home in Orland Park, Illinois. The site was constructed in 1881 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places on August 1, 2005. It is a monumental house and is open for general public viewing on the 2nd Sunday of each month, between 2:00p to 4:00p. These tours promise an enticing view of the Orland Park History.
Porter County Public Library System is a must-visit attraction for any traveler. The library is very well arranged and it is home to numerous books, archives and magazines.
The planetarium is part of the Challenger Learning Center, where visitors can experience the magic of the night sky as well as a variety of entertaining and educational shows. The 40-seater, full-dome theater has planetarium shows like (Back to the Moon for Good, Black Holes, Dawn of the Space Age) and many more options for all age groups, and also boasts of and the only laser show like (ElectroPop, Fright Light, Hypnotica), a one of a kind experience in Northwest Indiana. The venue is ideal for group outings and corporate events.
The Wood's Grist Mill is located in Deep River County Park and was built by John Wood in the early 1800s. The Mill Museum is spread over three floors i.e. the first floor showcases artifacts that belong to the Wood family, the second floor displays a model of a one-room school, a general store setting, and a typical bedroom of the 1800s. The Mill and its equipments are housed on the third floor where milling operations used to take place. When here, visitors will get a chance to see demonstrations of the ancient corn-grinding process, learn how the mill was originally powered in the bygone era, and also purchase stone-ground cornmeal processed in the Mill. Admission to the Mill is by donation, and the park in which the mill is located offers picnicking and hiking opportunities to its visitors. The Historic Grist Mill is open seasonally from May 1 through October 31, and remains closed on Monday and public holidays.