40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (2024)

The top stops along the way from Oklahoma City to Grand Rapids (with short detours) are Millennium Park, Horseshoe Hammond, and The Art Institute of Chicago. Other popular stops include The Gateway Arch, Silver Dollar City, and Cloud Gate.

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Tulsa Zoo

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Zoo

Zoos & Aquariums

The Tulsa Zoo is one of the largest and most popular zoos in the U.S., and it's perfect for all ages. It has a huge variety of animals, including African lions, Australian kangaroos, South American jaguars and Malayan tigers. The zoo also has a Safari Train, which riders can ride around the park. There are also various exhibits that visitors can explore, such as an underwater viewing station that invites guests to view the playful creatures from below.

We LOVED the zoo so much last weekend that we bought the year membership so we can keep going this summer! I personally hadn't been in years I think my oldest was 4 part time we'd gone & he about to be 8 so several years & so much had changed! They've added several exhibits, upgraded the playground, added restaurants & a family area for feeding young ones, changing them, or just a quiet place to catch your bearings from all the activity! The animals were very active when we went, chimpanzees & sea lions really put on a show for us!! They're opening the new Zoorassic World exhibit this weekend (we got a small sneak peak see pics) & we are all so excited to go see it! It will be open until September so make sure to see it if you go in the next few months! I had so much fun I felt like a little kid again, my son can't wait to go back, & we've decided to have his little brothers Wild One party there in July!! Highly recommend the Tulsa Zoo if you get the chance!

Kendra Marshall — Google review

It was my first time visiting Tulsa Zoo & I would definitely recommend it.We visited on a Sunday and arrived about 11 am.The wait time to purchase tickets at the gate was a bit long. We purchased the majority our tickets online, but we needed to purchase 4 more at the gate. Our wait time to purchase tickets at the gate was about 15-20 minutes.The line for members & online tickets moves much faster!We enjoyed all the exhibits & park...especially the Dinosaur Exhibit!The Dinosaur Exhibit is a temporary exhibit through the end of summer 2022. There is an additional cost to enter.My only reason for 4 star review is restroom cleanliness. I'm happy they take such good care of the animals, exhibits, habitats and grounds but the restrooms need more frequent cleaning.Overall...great zoo to visit!

Angeline Decorah — Google review

This Zoo is such a nice place to visit. It brings me my childhood memories. I also like that they have a trail of different in-house themed enclosures for desert, sea, rainforest, and tundra environments. Though it is still best for animals to be in their natural habitat, the animals here look healthy and well attended.

kris ordinado — Google review

I have loved the Tulsa Zoo for years. The Wild Kingdom is an excellent addition. This was our first time experiencing it. Also, the zoo is super child friendly! They have playgrounds that are better than city park play grounds! Finally, the accessibility ♿️ of the park is tremendous. The photos are of two of the bathrooms we saw. Tremendous job!

Connie Westerman — Google review

This is a great Zoo for the size of the city and community it is in. The facility always keeps getting expanded and refreshed and is the perfect place for families and kids for spending the afternoon or longer. It is well organized and maintained and the exhibits are informative and interesting for all age groups. I have been an occasional out of State visitor when visiting the area over many years, but going to this Zoo with kids and other family members is always a fun and relaxing experience. There is also a little train that goes around, adding to the enjoyment and mobility around the place. Well worth the visit.

Jay D — Google review

Quiet a nice zoo. Been to many across the U.S. and this is a favorite. Our visit was over Thanksgiving week so the zoo had already switched over to it's winter displaying of animals. Some were inside and not able to be seen outside but it didn't effect the experience. This zoo is laid out extremely well. The course you follow wound through so many interesting sights that it didn't seem long or tiring, even for an old man like me. My two grandsons, ages 8 and 3, had a blast. There is a very good and fairly large playground near the middle of the journey so adults can sit and rest while the kidos burn off energy. Great idea. Price was right. Not too crowded. Weather was great, especially for late November, and I was with some people I dearly love. Very great experience.

Brent Presnell — Google review

My family loves the Tulsa zoo! We have the annual membership and it is well worth the price. We go monthly and most time every other week. It’s become our favorite family tradition! My daughter loves seeing the moneys and goats. The updated playground can keep her entertained for hours, if we let her stay that long. The staff is always so nice and welcoming to us and every guest. The animals seem very content, happy, and well taken care of. I recommend the Tulsa Zoo to everyone who visit Tulsa and to anyone in the area with children the membership is worth it!

Paige Diaz — Google review

My wife and I loved our visit. There is a wide variety of animals to see. Make sure to look out for non-caged native creatures also. Keep an eye out for "Easter eggs", hint: look for the wood carved owl sitting up in a tree near a food court. The Train ride is inexpensive so make sure to take a ride. We can't wait to go back!

Tom Lewis — Google review

The zoo is always a great time. The landscaping is really nice. The recent updates to the animal enclosures are so natural and spacious. Certain times of day, however, the glass is impossible to see through due to it being so reflective. It is great to check your hairdo, but disappointing when you know the animal is so close.I am also disappointed in the train ride from the sea lions to the entrance. If you love large a/c units and warehouses, you will find it very educational. It would be nice to not be charged for that half of the train ride.We have family passes, which I highly recommend if you’re going to visit a few times a year.

Lacy Darden — Google review

Beautiful day! Reasonable cost for entry. Sad Red Pandas weren't out on display yet, but hopefully soon. The animals that were out were beautiful and fun! Had a great day! Cannot wait to go back!

Jennifer G — Google review

I’m a bit disappointed… the tickets were expensive for a half zoo. They were updating a lot wich is fine but nothing on their website. The animal houses closing at 4 pm but entering the zoo is until 4. Makes no sense since you won’t make it to see the entire zoo. Half cages were empty but paying the full price. The restaurants were mainly closed abs the one that was open sells chips and other snacks for a horrendous price. The gift shop only for rich people since a toy cost 30-40$!! I guess you have to decide on your own if you can afford it. Kids will definitely have fun but I would not go there again. The map very confusing and the way the zoo is organized very strange… we walked in circles a lot and wasted so much time. Please make sure you come at latest at 1 pm to the zoo to see snd enjoy it all.

Anja Yasutake — Google review

Cleanest zoo I've seen yet I think. My daughter loved it. They have a really big playground area for them to play and the exhibits are actually out and about. They have nice statues for u to take pics of the kids too

Kody Clark — Google review

Nice large Zoo with a ton of exhibits. Cute little train does a loop around, and can catch it halfway if your're tired and need a lift back to the front. It drops you off right by the carousel. Plenty of cool indoor exhibits as well. Also a petting "children's zoo" and playground for the kiddos. Overall a nice place to spend a few hours.

Timothy Fitzgerald — Google review

This was actually a little sad for me. The very first thing we saw were the chimpanzees. They were laying around on the higher planks so it was difficult to see them. They weren't asleep, they were just laying there. One was munching and getting some water and seemed just fine but the other two looked sad. I visited all the other enclosures and other than maybe the bear who stayed in it's cave or the tiger that laid in the shade a few feet from a pool, everyone seemed pretty happy and cared for, but those chimps make me sad. I hope they're doing things to ensure the happiness of the animals there. It was pretty clean and the employees were helpful. The elephants were awesome and there's supposed to be more elephants coming. Everything drink and food-wise is pretty expensive but that's to be expected. If I went again, I'd go in the cooler weather and maybe see some happier faces lol

Seraphim Angelic — Google review

I'm giving the zoo five stars because I believe it is usually a five star experience.We really enjoyed it - gorgeous flower gardens, enough indoor options to give us a break from the heat outside, and the animals were will cared for. My kids loved riding the carousel, as well.Buyer Beware: ask what exhibits are closed before purchasing tickets.We were told at ticketing that the train was closed and we were okay with that. We were not told that half the zoo was closed. We hit blockades everywhere and finally went back to the carousel to ask the ladies how to get to the lions, giraffes, rhinos, and such. With orange blockades closing off walkways and an actual gate closing another, we went in circles for a while before finally asking. Yeah, literally half the zoo was blocked off.That was really disappointing. We're visiting from Texas, so we aren't members who can just return a different day. I wish we had been told before we purchased tickets.Even with that, it was still a fun experience and a beautifully maintained zoo.

Lori Stead — Google review

Great zoo. Allow at least 2-3 hours. Lots of fun play spaces for the young ones as well as beautiful animal exhibits. They have penguins among their animals . I would love to visit here again!

Loretta Divine — Google review

4.5

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4.0

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6421 E 36th St N, Tulsa, OK 74115, USA

(918) 669-6600

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The Walmart Museum

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Museum

History museum

The Walmart Museum is a must-see when in Bentonville, Arkansas. The museum features exhibits on the companys meteoric rise to retail domination and includes an old-style cafe.

Great timeline of Sam Walton and the raise of Wal-Mart. Very limited items to view but neat to see the items they did have, including old store ads. My favorite item was Sam’s red Ford 150 along with his handy shotgun. This is not a big museum and you can cover all the rooms one to two hours. They have a nice ice cream shop to enjoy when you finish. It was a good time!

Josh Edwards — Google review

Great experience, your able to learn the history of Wal-Mart and see how Sam Walton involved the company through out the years, and see Sam Waltons life story. The admission is free, and you get to create your own bee.

Nicholas Montierth — Google review

Although this place is small, but packed with info. It displays the history of Walmart and sam’s club. Me. Sam Walton attitude of how he see things. It’s a free tour. The staff was friendly and helpful. The location is currently under construction, so they moved it to down the street and fit everything in one room. If you have half and hour to spare, you should stop by. And the town is very cute to walk around too.

Wind Napol — Google review

Went there over Spring break! Absolutely enjoyed their hospitality! The front check in lady and guy were awesome! And the museum was definitely worth visiting! I felt so inspired to follow my dreams like Sam Walton!

Psalms 27 — Google review

It was interesting to see some history and highlights of the Walmart story but this was not much of a museum. I was a little disappointed. I recommend seeing it for yourself though.

Lance Gibler — Google review

Disappointed that the actual museum was not back open yet. The 'heritage lab" was underwhelming. We made the most of it and at least saw the original location.

Jen — Google review

Visited the temporary location today. It was a nostalgic journey in time. Walmart is truly an iconic American establishment. Very cool!

Amit Chopra — Google review

Neat museum! Worth going inside when you are in town to check out Walton's 5-10. Its free and has some neat artifacts from the early days of Walmart and Sam's Club. One thing that amazed me was the digital display showing the new Walmart's added each year since its beginning.

Kevin Maloy — Google review

Interesting whether you shop at Walmart or not. Walmart is a brand you commonly see all over America, but I didn't know the details this museum offered. As you might expect, the exhibits are glowing and celebratory of their founder Sam Walton, including his office preserved behind glass, his pickup truck, and his wife's wedding dress. No matter how you feel about Walmart, seeing the full timeline from it's founder's birth to the present is a fascinating story of innovation, business, branding, and extraordinary success. There are surprises and nostalgia as you learn about Walmart trying to compete and keep up with changing times. Try some Grapette soda! Please note: The 5 & 10 storefront is the entrance to the museum. Inside the door you will find the gift shop and ticket desk.

LastStraw — Google review

Such a great informative museum!! My step-dad has worked for Sam's club for over 20 years and he enjoyed it! Their first time in Arkansas and I couldn't not take them to this cute museum!!

Latoya Teller — Google review

A very interesting museum! The story began with the denial of lease renewal to the founder, to running a nationwide business and how humble he was attributing his success to his employees. It goes without saying that stories of 'Karens of the era' are equally intriguing. It is also fun to appreciate the products of the time. I was there in summertime when the cafe was selling a honey ice-cream.

small potato in the US — Google review

The WalMart Museum is under renovation, it might take a year or so. But two blocks down the street, there is the Walmart Lab, a good size and interesting exhibition about this empire.

Bella — Google review

4.6

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4.5

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240 S Main St, Bentonville, AR 72712, USA

(479) 273-1329

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Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

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Art museum

Museums

The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is a renowned art museum in Northwest Arkansas that features a wide range of works from celebrated artists. The museum has beautiful grounds and offers miles of free bike trails for visitors to enjoy.

Wonderful art museum. And the staff were fantastic. I missed out on getting a (free) ticket to see the Frank Lloyd Wright house, so they let me see one of the paid exhibits for free instead. The Dirty South special exhibit was challenging and thought provoking and very well produced. The art galleries were well laid out in (mostly) chronological order, with plenty of room for everyone who wanted to get up close to the artwork.

Kaye Dacus — Google review

Beautiful trails with art all along the way. The Narcissus balls are mesmerizing. They reflect the sun and the clouds and the other balls with their reflections and on a windy day with high cirrus clouds it's like watching a movie. It changes and the changes as well. There are so many fun and whimsical pieces of art that the walk is a true treat. My favorite portrait in the gallery was Kindred Spirits. The food in the restaurant is delicious and the restaurant is well placed at the end of the gallery. All of the docents are helpful and friendly. Highly recommend, especially the trails.

Martha Huffman — Google review

A wonderful experience. The museum is really good and the temporary exposition of Diego Rivera is worthy. The trails are by far the best thing about it, you can walk around 3 - 4 miles in the forest and watching some curious sculptures, and if you have a bike you can go down special trails for them which looked thrilling

Ricardo Antonio Rosales Garcia — Google review

All respect to the Louvre and the British Museum, but this is the best museum I've ever visited. It has huge exhibit space with excellent permanent and temporary exhibits, miles of walking & biking trails, drop-in creative spaces for kids and adults, even live opera performances in random galleries. And Listening Forest was enthralling. I went through the whole thing 4 1/2 times.

Strangers' Gardens — Google review

This is a world class museum. The structures themselves are architectural marvels laid into the landscape in brilliant and unique ways. Even the freaking dam underneath is innovative (take the free tour).On top of that the free collections that you can just go see anytime are fantastic and varied. There's a lot to walk around for or just sit and get comfortable. I haven't even gone to a pay exhibit yet, but will in the future.I can't really understand someone not visiting if they are anywhere in NW Arkansas. It's worth the trip, multiple times and people in the wider region should be taking advantage too.

Justin Charles (Ozark Explorer) — Google review

This place is amazing! An incredible collection of American art. And incredibly it’s free (except for certain exhibits). Definitely one of the best art museums in the country. The architecture of the place is worth seeing as well. I highly recommend waiting to see the Kusama infinity room. It’s an incredible piece of art and was the highlight of my visit. Almost decided not wait but so glad I did!

Dave Cudlipp — Google review

A lovely way to spend several hours. I was fortunate enough to visit when school had started so the galleries were not overcrowded. The buildings and surroundings are almost as wonderful as the art contained inside. Lots of staff to answer questions. Was able to get tickets to the Frank Loyd Wright house so I took that self-guided tour. South Stopped for a glass of wine in the restaurant and enjoyed the music at happy hour in beautiful surroundings. As I was leaving I noticed many locals out taking advantage of the many trails and walking areas around the museum. Could not be better!

Fran Keal — Google review

Took my family there on quick educational get away. My oldest had written an essay about this place for school which prompted us to check it out. Well it did not disappoint. There were a lot of exhibits to tour and learn about. This is a big place so be prepared to do a lot of walking. Even still, it is worth the travel.

Jay Way — Google review

Nice place especially if you appreciate art! I'm more of a nature type of person and the hiking paths was more my style. The building and water surrounding was beautiful! Also it's the best price, free (some things you can pay for)!

Robbie Kudelka — Google review

It was fun to just go in and see different artists work. For one of the areas that I went through, in American history, there was landscape paintings. Those art pieces brought peace to me and took me to this state of mind that I was there in the moment watching this scene right in front of me. Once I moved towards modern art it definitely gave me new perspectives towards life. Definitely recommended this museum for those interested in both historic and modern arts.

Pippi Ross — Google review

I am a huge fan of the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. I live locally, so I am blessed enough to check out the museum a few times per year. It is definitely at the top of my list for places to bring visiting family and friends. The trails around the museum are great for walking, biking, hiking and enjoying the outdoor art. The inside is equally interesting, especially because they are always moving things around and featuring new pieces. You never step into the same museum when you go to Crystal Bridges, because the art is a living thing that they don't stick in a spot to be forgotten or glossed over. Some pieces, naturally, are the foundation of their collection, but because everything around changes it is exciting and makes you look at the art in a new way. On a lighter note, you may even be inspired, as were my out of state friend and I, to try a new hairdo! Get out, have fun, and spend a day or two exploring this really special spot in Northwest Arkansas. Another major bonus? The museum has free admission so you can save your money for their restaurant or coffee bar on the main floor! Yum!

Michelle Henry — Google review

Enjoyed the museum a lot. When in the area again, I will visit. I would like to see more of the outside sculptures next time. Hopefully I will have a electric wheelchair so I can get around easier. I could only manage a small area but got some nice photos. The inside had so much to see you can't absorb it all in one visit.

Christina Varnum — Google review

I can't believe there would be a better venue for exhibiting artwork in the U.S. Just an amazing facility and grounds; well designed and maintained. There is an impressively wide collection of works that change and rotate on a regular basis. This recent trip was my second (the first was within a few years of opening), and I look forward to returning after renovations are completed in a few more years.

Jeff B — Google review

The museum itself could be an amazing experience if you were not stared down by staff making sure you are wearing a mask.The coffee bistro is super cute. They had simple syrup!One of the employees his name was Kurt and he was cold and almost rude. I asked him if he thought the coffee was good,.he said, I can try it, if I don't like it I can get my money back. He said everyone has their opinion.That was not what I wanted to hear about the coffee from it's seller. His counterpart, she was so nice.We walked from one end to the other just to be told we couldn't take our coffee.onto the art museum part, and the outside viewing areas we not open. It was a disappointing trip for sure. Nothing could be shown there that would encourage me to go back.

Malissa Mello-Garrison — Google review

I have been to Crystal Bridges about 10 times since it has opened. I have also been a member and gone to events there. Never had anything less than a stellar experience. The staff is great, the facilities modern and accessible. The main galleries always hold something new and the outdoor exhibits are magical. The museum is free but the paid installations are usually the best thing going on. Favorite visits lately include the Listening Forest & Diego Rivera.

S. M. Schultz — Google review

We spent about 2-3 hours here and didn't even dent all that is to discover & explore at this amazing museum! The awesome art to see starts outside with the shining tree and the overall amazing architecture of the entire facility inside & the exterior grounds which was so well thought out & designed. Though this a museum of American art, I consider it a world class museum that is well worth any drive from any part of the USA! Absolutely Splendid!!

Doug Ford — Google review

Crystal Bridges is a top notch museum located in Bentonville, Arkansas. Admission is always free for the main art galleries and they are definitely very interesting and thought provoking. I spent about 2 hours going through the museum at a quick pace, but you can spend more or less time depending on how much you stop to appreciate and read about the art. They do seem to have special events and they started a new live singer series - which was incredible!

Mayur Patel — Google review

Our girls loved it. Although I absolutely love the art, it was a nice day to be outside so we focused more on them. We will def go back there is still so much that we didn't get to see. Also, they were having a wedding.. and it was absolutely stunning! Got a glimpse of the bride as well, and she was very beautiful and elegant! Congrats! If you see this!

Donita Linn — Google review

Oh my, I already want to go back next time I’m in the area! This place is hugge, inside and outside. So many exhibits and things to see here, could easily be here for 4-5 hrs at a time! General admission is free, you have to purchase tickets to view the current exhibition. I love that it is right in the middle of the “forest” with trails and greenery that you can see from inside while exploring the museum! Simply amazing ! Something for all ages as well ! Restaurant and cafe on premises, also saw some ppl eating a packed lunch in the dining area!

Lauren (Rose) — Google review

Great museum, wonderful painting collection. Beautiful trails. Free admission. Free parking lot. There were a few temporary exhibitions that it had a charge.Nice and friendly staff. I can't wait to go back.

Bella — Google review

Crystal Bridges is a perfect place to spend a winter day. Free admission. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains with trails all around. Went on a spontaneous trip for my brother’s birthday. The Human 1 exhibit and all types of unique art and culture spread around. Found parking on the bottom level stayed around 2-3 hours and enjoyed this wonderful Art Museum.

Christina Bethalee Thompson — Google review

4.8

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5.0

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600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR 72712, USA

(479) 418-5700

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Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

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Wildlife refuge

Nature & Parks

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a 450-acre facility that provides a safe haven for abandoned and rescued lions, tigers, and other big cats. Visitors can enjoy tours of the refuge while also learning about these magnificent creatures through educational talks. The unique design of the refuge allows visitors to observe the animals from various angles, including an open-air tram ride around the habitats and walking down the center of the sanctuary.

This is a beautiful retreat for the wild animals that otherwise we're not taken care of. I was totally appalled with hearing the stories on how big cats get bread treated and disregarded. It's a real shame. This place and these cats are definitely a must see if you anywhere near the area and even if your not anywhere near find the time and check it out. There's also rooms which is a dream of mine one day I will be able to!!!

Erin Larson — Google review

We spent two nights in a safari lodge. The accommodations were wonderful, with a comfortable bed, coffee maker, microwave and small refrigerator (stocked with muffins, oatmeal, fruit cups and juice since there is no restaurant on-site), back patio with table and chairs overlooking a field and trees, access to a hot tub and more. Our lodging also included amazing tours. The staff and interns were helpful and informative, and always willing to answer questions. We were sad when our time ended!

Dolly Werner — Google review

This place was amazing. We took our two young grandchildren 1 and 2. They lived seeing the cats and bears. We could tell how passionate all the care takes were about the lives of every animal there! I would highly recommend all to visit and support this place!!! While on the tour the guide was very knowledgeable and made sure that the kids could see and we could get nice pictures of these beautiful animals! The animals pasts are very sad but with the best outcome possible thanks to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge!!!

Tracy and Bill Butler — Google review

2022.03.11 I had a great time on the tour. The open air tram went around the outside of all the habitats. If the animals were outside of their dens, it was easy to see them. I think it is a great design to see animals like this.Before or after your tour, you can walk down the center of Turpentine Creek and see the same animals from a different angle. You will also get to see a few not visible from the tram tour.I had a great time and will definitely go again.

Vince Hamilton — Google review

We visited in the winter and I didn't expect to see too many animals but there were a surprising amount of beautiful big cats playing and lounging outside despite the cold temps.Our group took the tram tour and although it was open air, the staff offered us blankets to keep warm, which was incredibly thoughtful.The tour was fun and informative and there's lots to explore on foot as well. I saw lions, tigers, no bears though. Oh my. They were hibernating and I can't blame them.The staff were all friendly and talked about the cats like they were family. And it was a nice facility where they genuinely care for the animals. It's a True Sanctuary after all.We will 100% be going back in the spring.Also tons of RV spots and nightly rental cabins. And it's Eureka Springs which is FULL of amazing restaurants, hotels, and shops. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.

Jared Hollenbeck — Google review

Great place doing wonderful work. Love seeing all of the animals and hearing their stories. Can do a tram ride as well as a walking hour. They have added on a lot over the years. Even have lodging there now if that is something you want to do. Great for big groups. Would recommend if coming to the area.

Angelique Turner — Google review

Fun and educational with a higher purpose. This place takes abused, neglected wild animals, mostly big cats, and gives them a place to live out the rest of their lives as wild animals. The only contact is for veterinary care. Some of these animals have heartbreaking stories, that finally get to have a happy ending thanks to this wonderful place. Go early in the morning to hear the lions caroling! This is the best way to see these gorgeous creatures up close, while still supporting their happily ever after.

Natalie Mast — Google review

What an amazing place with an incredible mission. Be sure to book a tour in advance, though we were able to call and reschedule ours a few hours later on the same day just fine due to a sudden conflict. On the tour, they will tell you all about the animals that they rescue, their background, personality, and more. Some of the big cats have a very sad story and it’s amazing that this sanctuary rescued them and gave them a second life here.During a tour, some animals will simply be resting away from your view area and you might not see them, but that is normal just like any zoo. Several big cats like to come walk up close as well. They are all behind massive fences, so there is no danger of them getting too close. Our tour was an absolutely incredible experience.They also have an amazing gift shop with a plethora of gifts and souvenirs. It’s another great way to support their cause and we purchased a few items there as well.

T. C. — Google review

This place is awesome! Great for people of any age. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and did a wonderful job! We even went early on a cold morning and they still had a positive demeanor. Lots of awesome cats to see and a great gift shop too! Definitely check these guys out!

Eluria Finn — Google review

I admire the work and education that they do here!! It was well worth the visit. The lion caroling was a highlight!! It feels good for the proceeds of my visit and gift shop purchases to go toward the care of these animals, a mission every staff member takes to heart.

Jason Mullins — Google review

This is a great refuge and they don't have contact with the animals so they prioritize both the animals and the people safety. Great one to support! They've taken a lot of other animals from so called sanctuaries that weren't treating their animals right. There are some sad stories but these cats and bears are prioritized now and they are not made to perform on tours which is good. You are able to do a self guided tour so you can take the guided tour and if you don't see the animals on that tour you can catch them on the walkabout. It was very enjoyable and I felt good about supporting this Refuge!

Amber Kalish — Google review

We had a great visit at Turpentine Creek. The walking tour was pretty good, but the guided tram tour really impressed us. We loved seeing the animals, but we also enjoyed hearing their stories. They are doing good work at this refuge.

Chad White — Google review

We went during the hottest part of the day and a lot of the animals were inside their shelters. We still had fun and their were still plenty of others to see. The tour guide was very knowledge, especially for an intern so I enjoyed the tour a lot.

Darcie Blackerby — Google review

Amazing place for a great cause. I have gone here two times now and both experiences were amazing. The second time I stayed in a bungalow on the property to be close to the cats. Super clean and cute on the inside. The tour of the place is great, you take a tram around the place and the tour guide tells you about each animal! Warning, the stories are sad but they are all safe and well taken care of now! This is a non profit organization that you can tell truly cares about these beautiful cats. They also have bears! They also have wheelchair accessible ramps and mounts for the tram ride!

rid char — Google review

Our family absolutely love coming here. The interpreters are always super friendly and knowledgeable. Our room is always clean. We always spend the night and take two (free) tours while we stay.We like the 4pm tour because it's the last tour of the day and the cats seem more active. We've also noticed more activity at the 9am tour as well. The tours generally last about 45 minutes. There is also plenty to see on foot after the tour is over, as well as a gift shop.We stay in the Tree House and it is very unique. The kids love climbing a ladder to their loft beds. The loft is tall enough for an adult to stand up in (at least in the center). The beds are just mattresses on the floor but the kids say they're quite comfortable.The queen bed downstairs isn't my favorite, I have to admit. When two people are in the bed it seems to make you gravitate towards the middle. However, opening the windows and being able to hear lions caroling nearby makes up for it.The room comes quite well stocked. They provide breakfast items, a microwave, plenty of coffee, tea, an extra fan, TV with a few channels, plates and cups, plastic cutlery, paper towels, and even a wine bottle opener.I must also mention the bathroom. There isn't much of one to speak of. It does come well stocked with a hairdryer, plenty of soap and shampoo, and makeup removers... but it is very, very small. Very. Small.The private deck in back is very nice. There is a table with four chairs and it's a perfect place to spend the evening if the weather is nice.All in all, if you are a cat person, I thoroughly recommend Turpentine Creek. It's an experience you'll remember.

Molly J C — Google review

4.8

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4.5

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239 Turpentine Creek Ln, Eureka Springs, AR 72632, USA

(479) 253-5841

5

Thorncrown Chapel

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Church

Sights & Landmarks

This beautiful church is made of wood and glass and its windows offer a wonderful view of the surrounding countryside. The church was designed as a place for visitors to enjoy moments of peace and serenity, and it is an amazing sight to behold.

So lovely!! I don't think I took enough photos and I definitely would love to go again. Perfect place for wedding, engagement or anniversary photos! Anyone who loves photography and old chapels would LOVE this place. My kids and husband enjoyed it as much as I did. I look forward to visiting again when vacationing in Arkansas.

Elo?za — Google review

A beautiful chapel with unique architecture. A great place to stop by and pray or meditate. I wouldn’t recommend it for small children due to the need to sit and be quite.

Wes Smith — Google review

What a unforgettable moment in time. I can't even explain all the feelings of being inside this chapel and marrying the one I love. Absolutely stunning and beautiful.

Dawn Nichols — Google review

Calm, beautiful and magical. If you're ever in or near Eureka Springs, definitely make sure you take a few minutes to stop by and check out this marvel in the woods. It shouldn't take more than that, as its just one chapel, but you'll feel like you have walked into an elven structure or something out of a fantasy novel. Be sure to check the times online beforehand though since hours do change daily.

Courtney C. — Google review

Very beautiful chapel that’s completely worth a stop. Gorgeous views and stunning architecture. It’s so pleasant and delightful. You can bring the whole family, sit inside or browse around. It’s free, which makes it even more of a treat to enjoy!

Sheena Youngers — Google review

Thorncrown Chapel is easily on of the most incredible wedding venues I have ever shot at, period! The light inside the building is like no other and you don't even need to bring any florals or decorations, it's all there! I personally had a super easy time communicating with the staff there, they were all really nice to work with during the wedding.

Kari Bjorn Photography — Google review

Most beautiful architecture. Free to visit and donations appreciated. Couldn't see it from the parking lot but just a short walk down a nice path and it's beauty will pop out as you get closer. Photos don't do it justice. The glass is amazingly crystal clear! I wish my windows at home were like that!

Julie Heeren — Google review

The architecture in this place is amazing! It blends in well with the surrounding landscape. The chapel itself is very serene and is a great place for prayer or reflection. Don’t expect much more if you are planning on visiting.

Dave Cudlipp — Google review

What a lovely little chapel! The construction is beautiful as is the setting. This is a very peaceful spot to simply sit and be. This was our main motivation for driving down from Branson and we didn't regret it. It was a bit crowded when we went and a large charter bus full of people was pulling in as we were leaving. So glad others get to enjoy this spot but I didn't feel like I could fully explore. There's always next time!

M. Morales — Google review

Visited the old (built 1980) and the new (built 1986). It started to rain as we were walking toward the Chapel, and I took it to mean God would like it if I took my time to enjoy Him, so we stayed awhile. Quiet, serene, peaceful, close to nature, it faces a woodland with shelf rocks and treetops. I enjoyed several minutes to pray privately, and there are copies of the Bible around to read if you like (try Psalms 6 and 8 - very appropriate!).You'll receive a handout when you first come in, explaining the story of the Chapel. They, of course, accept donations. Services on Sunday are offered at 9am and 11am.

Patti Harriman — Google review

This is breathtaking and beautiful. The detail and magnitude is unreal. It's a really picturesque drive to the chapel and very worth the trip. It's only about an hour from Branson, so an easy stop if your in the area.

Arkansas mama — Google review

Absolutely beautiful inside and out. We had our dogs with us so my husband had me go in alone. I walked in, so beautiful and a calming music played. I sat down and closed my eyes. There was a quiet calm that came over me.I went out to my husband and told him to go in. Just feel the zen, I told him.It didn’t cost anything when we visited but there is a place for donations. We visited in late September 2023

k “Chatkat” boeds — Google review

Thorncrown Chapel is outside Eureka Springs in a wooded area off of highway 62. The entrance comes pretty quick and is located in a turn on highway 62, so maybe slow it down and keep your eyes open. It seemed easier to spot the entrance when headed in the north/west direction out of Eureka springs on 62, it being on the right just entering a turn. The entrance road seems to continue in that direction by just veering to the right.The other direction (south east off highway 62, towards Eureka Springs) may be harder to spot, as it's in the middle of the turn (on your left). You also kind of need to make a U turn entering the the entrance road from that direction. The entrance road itself is kind of narrow and hilly as it runs into the woods to the parking area.There's a decent sized parking area that is free to park as you visit. The chapel itself is a very short walk on a path from the parking area. You first pass another smaller building on the right, that I think was an office, as you walk to the chapel. I do not remember seeing any restrooms on site, (but could be wrong) so it's probably a good idea to think about that before you visit, just to be on the safe side.Thorncrown Chapel itself is a really nice Chapel constructed with stone, a lot of wood and glass. It's not overly large in size, but is fairly tall. It has a really nice design. They do not charge an entrance fee to visit. But they do ask that you consider making a donation to help offset the costs to maintain the site.They also ask that you only take pictures of the inside of the chapel, from being seated in one of the pews. I moved to a different pew to give me different angles and views for the pictures that I snapped. They also ask that you bring no food or drink into the chapel. It was very quiet and serene and beautiful. It is a really nice place. Very much worth a visit.

Sponge Bob — Google review

This steel and glass church is beautiful. It's in such a pretty location too. Same architect who designed the Mildred B Cooper Chapel in Bella Vista. Worth a stop to see and experience it. It's breathtaking.

Roberta Peek — Google review

4.8

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4.5

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12968 US-62, Eureka Springs, AR 72632, USA

(479) 346-0245

40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (32)

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

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6

Silver Dollar City

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Amusem*nt park

Water & Amusem*nt Parks

Leafy theme park with rides & waterslides, plus demos of basket weaving & other old-timey pursuits.

We were just there last week and pleasantly surprised that the park was full of greenery trees and flowers everywhere giving us lots of shade from the heat. It was busy not overcrowded like the Disney world. This park was better than Disney. We could relax and enjoy the rides. Just a different atmosphere. Their rides esp the water rides were awesome! So impressed with how friendly staff and people were to us. It made our trip so worth while. Thank you for the hospitality!

J Sheldon — Google review

We really do enjoy this theme park!!! The atmosphere is is nice, they are rides for all ages ( the roller coasters are AMAZING), the scenery is wonderful, and we only had a problem with one worker. (She was running the kiddie coaster.) I removed a star because the first day we went was absolutely packed. I get it, it is a theme park so it is going to be busy, but this was a weekday and we were literally shoulder to shoulder with everyone! They were understaffed and the lines for all the rides were so long! I feel like on days it is going to be super busy they should NOT allow so many people to come in. Besides that I would definitely recommend this theme park.

Rebecca Schnetzler — Google review

This park is truly one of a kind. It's a theme park that has a unique, old-fashioned feel to it, which sets it apart from other theme parks. The rides are thrilling and exciting, but there are also plenty of fun activities for those who don't like rides. The food is delicious, and there are plenty of options to choose from. The staff is friendly and helpful, and they go out of their way to make sure you have a great time. The park is also clean and well-maintained, which makes for a pleasant experience. Overall, I would highly recommend Silver Dollar City to anyone looking for a fun and memorable experience!

Aliyah Thompson — Google review

Silver dollar city is a beautiful park with a lot of activities,events,foods and rides. There were restrooms and chairs to rest. They will provide detailed map of silver dollar city like name of rides, shows with time, restaurant using numbers. There is a regular to diamond VIP pass, you can upgrade when you want. Water is free all over park. Foods we're amazing. Beverages can be refilled at any shop by paying money. Saloon show was amazing, filled audience with laugh and entertainment. All rides has their height limit for kids to ride. Safety measures are followed throughout park. There are multiple areas to visit. You should be ready to walk a lot. Beautiful park with entertainment and many things to enjoy.

Venkatlaxmi Vic — Google review

I went at Christmastime and the lights were just spectacular. I've seen a lot of light shows and displays but nothing like this! It was just amazing and I didn't even know where to look first. Also, the rides were a blast. I love roller coasters and Silver Dollar City did not disappoint. So fun!

Kristina Hernandez — Google review

This is a unique amusem*nt park. The mining village theme for the buildings is good. The humour associated with the narration of its mining history and the tour guides stories were very much enjoyable. One of the tour guides asked for tips which will only be used to "help children" and he has five children :-D. Another one asked riders of the train not to activate the emergency brake if they don't have an emergency because if they did, "one will be provided for them" :-D.The roller coasters here are of the moderate thrill type and are quite enjoyable. Christmas season is particularly good because of the lighting. This is one of the best I have ever seen. Nearly the entire theme park was beautifully decorated with lights.For me personally, the jewel on the crown was the Marvel Cave - a 500-foot deep cave with an underground waterfall.

Praghalathan Kanthakumar — Google review

Our first time here. We were impressed with the family friendly atmosphere and the amazing Christmas lights. Our teenagers' expectations of the rides were far exceeded. They even asked to come again in the future. The layout of the park takes a bit of getting used to. In the large crowd (I heard there was record attendance on the day we were there, 12/30/21), I don't feel like we were able to see everything and not being familiar with the layout hurt us. The lines for dining were excessive but I'm not sure if that is normal. The teens had the express passes and felt like they were able to enjoy the experiences. My husband and I just took in the sights and enjoyed taking in things slowly. The show, Home for the Holidays was excellent. Again, when you can impress everyone in the group including teens, you are doing it right. The food at the buffet was not good, bland and heavy, but I have no way of knowing if that's normal or a result of large crowds and short staffing. I would be willing to try again. Overall, I highly recommend Silver Dollar City for the excellent family experiences.

Jennifer Abrell — Google review

We really enjoyed our time here. We got the "after 5" tickets and had plenty of time for the kids to ride what they wanted and adults time to shop. We absolutely LOVED the vendors in the barn! Honey pecans! YUM! The gentlemen with the furs were so sweet and taught us all about the different furs! The rest of the employees were so engaging and helpful! All the fall decor was super cute! Employees were all so polite and helpful! We will definitely return!

all on fishing 524 fishing — Google review

Having only been to Six Flags theme parks around the United States, this little park really surprised me! First off, the staff is so fun and you can tell they really do enjoy what they are doing. Very helpful too. The main rides are fun, my personal favorite was Time Traveller and Wild Fire. The view you get from Wild Fire is breathtaking! I highly recommend going in the off season. We happened to be there yesterday (April 21st, 2023) and legit had no lines and got to ride everything 4 times each. It was perfect! Great weather too. I will say some parts of the park are a little steep to walk but overall it wasn’t bad. I can’t wait to come back here! Also, if you choose the “Free Parking” line and go to stop 5, there is a bus that picks you up right there and drives you to the front so you don’t have to walk. When you are ready to leave just find the stop 5 pick up and the bus will take you back! It was super convenient and was great because of how tired we were by then lol.

Kayla Thonesen — Google review

I have a few complaints and suggestions but over all we had a great time. Our boys are 15 & 17 and hard to entertain but they enjoyed the park and it’s rides. We did a 3 day pass most will tell you two days is fine. I however enjoyed taking our time and seeing every show and eating at our leisure.

Steve Horvath — Google review

I have been coming to this park since I was a little girl and now I'm bringing my little ones! I have been to the park hundreds of times and it's worth it every year!! I have really enjoyed getting to grow up coming to the park and seeing all the changes and improvements! All the rides are thrilling and all of the shows and shops are worth seeing!! A perfect family friendly park to visit! It's also worth mentioning that over the years the park has seemed busier and busier and they have even expanded their parking lots. I used to live in Springfield Mo which is not very far from the park but since I have moved to Fayetteville AR, over 2 hours away I have found it's better to buy the trail blazer passes that last all season. With how busy the park gets almost every day it let's us skip the lines to the roller coasters and gives us more time to really enjoy the park. Without the trail blazer passes you will easily spend over an hour waiting in line for any of the rides. We once waited over two hours just to ride time traveler. So it's definitely worth getting trail blazer passes! Also, the different festivals each season is amazing and they have the BEST Christmas lights in the whole world!!

Chrissy Snow — Google review

We had the pleasure of attending Harvest Fest this year! Plus, it was my birthday. We had such a great time. The tasting pass is excellent! Can't wait to go for Christmas too! We had a group of 8 and had a blast! The food was so delicious and comforting! The lines for the harvest themed food were extremely long but flowed quickly and efficiently. We only rode 1 ride due to the misty cold weather. The decorations and pumpkins were amazing! It was so beautiful and tastefully done. Can't wait to go again next year!

Kristen Davis — Google review

What can I say, we love this place! We have been visiting as a family since we moved to Missouri 5 years ago. Last year, we finally became Season Pass members, and it was so worth it! I bought 2 for our family of four, and they both came with free friends passes and we used those for the other 2 of us. I love the Pioneer theme, like Dollywood, and all the rides and artisan shops. The live shows are great too. But my very favorite things that they offer are the seasonal festivals and food/drink passports. We loved the garden fest in Spring, seeing the Circus in the summer, and the pumpkin dance party in the fall. Then of course, tonight we went to our favorite Christmas lights festival! The food passport is around $35, and you get to choose 5 seasonal choices from the different food vendors. We buy 1 and share. It is definitely worth it for the price and food selections! Our favorites are the soups, skillets, and funnel cakes!

Nicole Hood — Google review

Over 6.5 million Christmas lights, it looks like pure Christmas magic! The whole family enjoyed it especially all the rides and the 20-minute train ride. We did have to wait about 1.5 hours to ride the train and to get on was like letting sheep out, there was no rhyme or reason and people cut you in line. They should have a better system for this because my parents are disabled and they were getting cut and almost did not get a seat on the train after standing for far too long in that line. We only went for 3 hours but if you pay all of that money, make it a whole day thing and get your money’s worth. The lines were way too long, I felt like I was at Disney World but without the fast passes. For a family of 4, 2 kids and 2 adults, it was about $300 for 3 hours and most of that time was spent split up and waiting for the train and waiting for the roller coaster rides. Since it was right after Christmas, all of their Christmas items in the gift shops were 75% off but finding your way around the place was a nightmare and the workers in the shops were not helpful. We spent so much time trying to find something that was located in the giftshop and none of the three workers we asked, told us it was located there. Too many slopes too, hard to get around if you’re disabled or older. Good thing it was not snowing or icy outside because it seemed it would be difficult to get around on the uneven ground.

Samantha Baldyga — Google review

This place is AWESOME! Tons of things to do for a full day of fun for ALL ages. Everything is kept clean - even the bathrooms! Lots of shade! Workers were friendly and always helpful. Definitely check out Marvel Cave tour and Time Traveler. I got better ticket deals online. We went during a weekday & it's was perfect!

Aide Morales — Google review

We came on a Saturday evening after 5 so we were able to purchase the $40 per person half price tickets. It rained for a little while, but we were still able to ride Fire in the Hole (this is the last year it will be in operation), go through Grandpa's house, and see plenty of shops and interesting sights during the rain. All of the employees were extremely helpful and nice. Time Traveler and Powder Keg were mine and my husband's favorite rides. Our teenage daughter thoroughly enjoyed the ABBA tribute band in the Amphitheater and she and our 9 year old nephew both enjoyed the outdoor jazz band. We definitely want to come back when we can purchase a season pass (much cheaper than purchasing full price tickets for more than one day) because there is so much to see and do. We definitely got our money's worth in the few hours we were there and even got to stop and see the beautiful nightly fireworks show up close as we were exiting.

Kirbi Poindexter — Google review

Get ready to pay up. It's a great family friendly amuseement park. There's plenty of food, crafts, and rides, but you better bring plenty of money. It costs dearly. There's a cave tour at the beginning of the park. Be sure to check it out. (My personal favorite ride is the Time Traveler. Amazing experience!)

Alex Hennis — Google review

First time going. I was impressed. The hidden star is the cave tour though. If you are um....let's say um ...a little more blessed downstairs then a couple of the rides are going to be a no go due to seat design(was no way, no how). But the rides were pretty fun. My lady enjoyed all of them. The glass blowing demonstration is cool. I just wish they spoke more on technique but who am I? Didn't get to see a lot of the craftsman demonstrations. But I will next time. This place is good family fun for less than big time theme parks. Food is relatively inexpensive for being locked in a park .

Daniel McGowan — Google review

Have loved coming here since I was a kid. They do a great job of bringing back the memories while constantly having new things to see and do. Rides are state of the art, shows are really fun, craftsmen are masters in their trade.Whether you like rides, shows, shopping, history, food, cave exploration, etc. this is a must experience place for you!For those with allergies they have a list online of which dishes/restaurants are allergen friendly. Great food options!

Elizabeth Fehring — Google review

Had a wonderful family visit. We stayed at the RV park and spent two days at the theme park. A great place for all. Nice rides, lots of live craft, arts and cooking going on. We saw some good musical entertainment as well. A much friendlier atmosphere than many places.

Richard Krueger — Google review

SDC did not disappoint! 1st time being there and it was perfect timing with it being the holiday season. So our family got to enjoy the Christmas lights, it was incredible. It was like a little village with various different kinds of things to enjoy. While the tickets may seem pricey, there were plenty of fun. During the cold season, not all the rides were open but it did not affect the overall experience. It was a lot of walking and we had a 5YO, so I’d recommend plan accordingly.

Lyn Nguyen — Google review

4.6

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4.5

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399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy, Branson, MO 65616, USA

(417) 336-7100

7

TITANIC Museum Attraction

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Museum

Specialty Museums

The TITANIC Museum in Branson, Missouri is an attraction that features replicas and artifacts from the original ship, the Titanic. The museum is a reconstruction of the ship, anchored in water to recreate its at sea look. The museum is open to the public and allows guests to experience what it was like aboard the doomed vessel with first-hand experience.

I’m not a huge lover of museums but this was well done. Loved the audio device to use during the self guided tour. Very friendly staff and characters / roles they played to add to the experience. Fascinating facts and history along with real artifacts from the Titanic. We spent a little over two hours and really enjoyed the experience. Lots to see and learn. I would recommend.

Travis Johnson — Google review

Loved this place. Has some really cool items from the Titanic. A few interactive things you can do. Lots of History. Can't wait to go back. Great experience. Love the deck set up and it's the same temp that it was on the night Titanic sank. Also, you can touch and artificial Iceberg and put your hand in a bowl of water that's the same temp as the Ocean when the Titanic sank.

Deborah Lutz — Google review

I've been wanting to see this museum for years and it was worth the money and the trip. The staff is dressed in clothes that the titanic crew would wear, they were friendly and informative. You get an audio guide to give you info on the exhibits and artifacts. You get to touch and iceberg, experience the water temperature, and see lots of artifacts. You get a boarding pass of a real life passenger and at the end you see if you survived. It left a deep impression on the history of the titanic.

Sylvia Schmidt — Google review

Very knowledgeable staff. We all got a card of a passenger and then was able to see if our passenger survived at the end of the tour. It is self paced which is nice. Per instructions, we were to stay in our car and wait for a text. This never happened, so glad we went in and checked as this was not the case. Wearing a mask was annoying and staff policing it was annoying, "has to be over your nose", etc.

A. Kottke — Google review

So much history and so beautifully displayed! The actual artifacts and the replica of the ship is great! You are provided with little audio players to carry with you that give you information depending the number you enter. We ordered tickets ahead of time, very smooth. All around A+! Check it out!

Aide Morales — Google review

We had such a great time! Really enjoyed having a real passenger on our ticket and got to see what happened to them.The staff were really friendly and interested in the stories they told. You could tell they were passionate about the stories and people that were on the titanic.There was a live pianist in the the room where the musicians’ stories were told and he played absolutely BEAUTIFULLY.They had good audio tours and had an audio for the kids as well where the story had move voices and characters explaining what you were looking at.I only leave one star out because there wasn’t very much to interact with. You could trick your hand in the freezing water or the attic, shovel fake coal, and climb the slope of the deck, but there wasn’t any other interactive things to do.The gift shop was pretty reasonably priced for a gift shop as well. We spent 2 1/2 hours in there and got our mint’s worth out of it!Would definitely recommend.

Emily Dye — Google review

We really enjoyed this attraction. It’s a self guided tour and you’re provided with an audio tour guide that allows you to listen about different exhibits at your own pace. They had separate kids audio tracks too.It was neat getting a passenger card to read about them and having to search at the end to see if you survived or not. We enjoyed the interactive exhibit a lot.Only some of the areas you’re allowed to take pictures in and the staff isn’t allowed to touch your phone so they can’t take your picture on the grand staircase.Wouldn’t recommend for small kids, but older elementary and up would enjoy.You can order tickets ahead of time for certain times to “board” or buy at the desk. Id recommend buying ahead of time.

Sydney Woodward — Google review

This was a very interesting look into the technology of the time paired with the human condition. Many names and faces were connected to personal stories. This event will always be intriguing, and the museum has amazing exhibits and informative staff. Some items were copyrighted, so photos were not allowed.

Jeff Leif — Google review

It was very enjoyable. A lot of history, artifacts, and pictures. The outside is impressive, the first class rooms, and the Grand Staircase were my favorite. We went on a Saturday afternoon and it was not too busy.

Frisco Newruff — Google review

This was a fun and informative experience with multiple “relics” from the famous ship. Guests are provided with devices to listen along the tour. We had tickets for 2:30 pm but didn’t enter until close to 3. It was PACKED. We mistakenly thought that there would be one group of people during each time slot but it was difficult to view all of the exhibits with so many people. My favorite part was the grand staircase!

Jill — Google review

We had a great time going through the museum and seeing interesting facts, photos and some Titanic Items from the ship. It takes about a good hour or so to go through depending on the crowd and time of day you book the tour. It is cold in the museum and you may want to carry a jacket. My wife was happy she had her jacket that day and she wore blue jeans. Staff was very friendly and overall we had a great visit.

RICHARD BURNHAM — Google review

Neat museum, with lots of history and artifacts about the titanic. There is an actual size grand staircase and other ship like things. They give you a paper card with a name of a passenger that was actually on the boat and in the end you get to see if you perished or survived. I did feel it was a bit overpriced for just a walking through museum, there wasn’t any interactive stations or things like that. Went on thanksgiving day, and it was very busy, to be expected tho.

Lauren (Rose) — Google review

I enjoy history so seeing an attraction like this is of great interest to me. I was able to visit the Titanic museum in Pigeon Forge and while they are very similar there are differences. The facility was set up well. The stories provided by the staff and audio system were able to keep your attention. The only distraction, and I don't know how the facility could make remedy is, the children running around. They were understandably bored after a few rooms. While their parents/guardians wanted to read and listen, they ignored the inappropriate behavior of their kids. Maybe post a warning to watch your children or risk being asked to exit? There were several distinct and separate tantrums. The other option is a rating of not recommended for younger children?

Dave Eyman — Google review

4.6

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4.5

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3235 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616, USA

(800) 381-7670

8

Sight & Sound Theatres

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Performing arts theater

Concerts & Shows

Theaters

Sight and Sound Theatre is a Christian performing arts theater company that produces innovative productions of Bible stories. The company has been praised for its high quality performances, and its shows can be compared to the likes of Disney productions.

Simply incredible! We had a great view even from the upper deck. We were fortunate enough to be able to watch the performance of the Jesus play. It covered the life of Jesus from the beginning of his ministry through his crucifixion and Resurrection and then Ascension. The special effects were right on cue and you were definitely a huge plus to the entire performance. Nothing cheesy here extremely professional and wonderfully composed on all levels

Boyce McElveen — Google review

An amazing experience, definitely a must see! The way they do these productions is simply spectacular! We would love to come back for a different live show!You can buy concessions and gifts before the show, during intermission or after. We found there was enough time to do our shopping during the intermission. The candied nuts are very good!They tell you to get there early and I for sure recommend doing just that! Traffic in and out is very congested but it moves fairly quickly as they have attendants guiding you to open spaces, definitely makes it go smoothly, but you still want to arrive the 1 hour early so as to avoid any lateness because traffic is thicker closer to show times.Seat cost is high but definitely worth it!Food/drinks/gifts are priced as you would expect, higher then average, but it's about the experience so spend as much or as little as you'd like.

J. H. — Google review

Wish I could say TEN STARS!!This immersive experience exceeded our expectations and dreams. We just had NO idea what we were in for...Acting, amazing sets, lighting, important message about Jesus Christ and God, animals, costumes, vocals, technology, audience participation, seating, everything was new to us.10 hours driving was well worth it. Highly recommended.I will follow for future shows.

Esther Moore — Google review

We just went to see Jesus show. The acting, music, whole experience was so powerful and very edifying. All the staff are so friendly and go above and beyond to make the day a special experience. You will be blown away and even moved to tears. It will far surpass your expectations. For parents with littles: they do have boosters available at the back of the room for your little ones so they can see the show even if they are shorter. Highly recommend!Also.. this was my fifth sight and sound show and if you want the best seat suggestion?? Choose center and as close to the center aisle as you can get... It's the best experience!!

Bethanyk — Google review

An amazing theatre! Stories of the Bible are a brought to life in these dramatic musical dance productions. We went to see The Miracle of Christmas about the birth of Jesus Christ, and it was beautiful! The sound system is tremendous and stage sets are larger than life. Both the front and sides of the theater are used in the production. There are concession stands with food and drinks and a gift shop as well. I recommend arriving 45 minutes early because it will take some time to get parked. I consider Sight and Sound Theatre one of the best in town.

Allison Beebe — Google review

This is the 3rd time seeing Esther and it was just as awesome and edifying as the first two times. The staff are all so kind and the atmosphere is great even when busy. Traffic is crazy getting in but the staff has a great set up and system and get everyone parked quickly and orderly. The same for the inside.. very well laid out and it flows great. We have sat closer to the front, on the sides and in the middle center. Middle center is best but there really isn't a bad seat. You will be blessed if you attend. Well worth the money. We do wish they had season passes for the live shows since we only live 2 1/2 hours away and come fairly often.

Arkansas mama — Google review

We have seen many shows here. They are each unique and spectacular in making stories from the Bible come to life. Queen Esther used the entire room for so much of the show that it felt like you were immersed in the story from start to finish. We highly recommend going!Some shows we enjoy sitting closer to the stage to see the action and animals up close. However since they used so much of the surrounding stage for Queen Esther we recommend sitting further back.(They don’t allow photo/video recording during the show so these are from before it started and during intermission)

Daniel Sanders — Google review

Total immersion in the story of Queen Esther. Powerful message and lovely depiction of one of my favorites Bible women. Suggest not being in a hurry to leave so you can see the stages in full light. Quite the engineering masterpiece.

Debbi McGinnis — Google review

Absolutely loved the Story of Esther. The set transitions were flawless. The show went fast! Costumes amazing. The music score was phenomenal Definitely put on your trip agenda. The only item that needs attention is the music overpowered the actors voices. We could understand the flow because we know the story. We heard others around us say the same. We were treated to a quick back stage tour by a dear friend!

Susan Marcum — Google review

"Queen Esther" is a mesmerizing spectacle, both in its storytelling and its theatrical presentation. Set in a beautiful theater that enhances the experience, the show combines historical drama with romance. Esther's rise from obscurity to Persian queen is portrayed with emotional depth. Rich in narrative, the characters are compelling and the costumes and set design are visually stunning. It's an inspiring story of faith and bravery, showcased in a breathtaking theatrical setting. PROTIP: be sure to look at your ticket to see what entrance you should use.

Josh Edwards — Google review

Sight and Sound Theater is located in Branson Missouri. We saw their performance of JESUS. What a fantastic show they put together. I’d like to show you pics of the production but because of copyrighted material and the fact that i don’t want to spoil it for you, I’ll just post the stuff you’ll see outside the show.Our group of four had such a great view of the production. The stage is like nothing I’ve ever seen before. The lights and sounds and the actors did such a great job. I will definitely come back to see more of what they offer.

Missouri Kev — Google review

Absolutely excellent! The Jesus show was amazing. The actors and actress were very talented and they also used live animals. They animals seemed like they were well treated from what we could see. This was a great show for the whole family. The theater itself was spectacular and we really liked how the stage wrapped around the front half of the auditorium. Throughout the performance there was great sound effects, scene changes and theatrical specials effects. Very awesome! You just have to see it for yourself. There lots of free parking and the building itself is huge. Sitting on top of the hill, you can’t miss it. Recommend!!

trl1971 — Google review

Visited to see a fantastic production of the story of Queen Esther.This place knows how to handle the crowds from the moment you enter the parking lots until you leave. Plenty of people directing traffic, handling ticket sales, will call, concessions, gift sales, and ensuring you know where your seats are located.Production was amazing. How they are able to incorporate so many set changes into such a small space is quite a feat. Character costumes were well done and the actors were all well rehearsed.Food/gift prices are all reasonable. Staff is very friendly. I would definitely recommend you visit if you are able. Plan ahead and Set aside a few hours for the show plus 20 min intermission, you won't regret it.

Jason L — Google review

This was such a treat. We loved enjoying the whole theater in its entirety from the beauty of the place to the wonderful performance. We saw them do the production of Jesus, and I would recommend anyone to go see it. The staff is very friendly at the snack bar and the food and drinks are nice too.

Kelly Lilley — Google review

Incredible experience! The play, Esther, was amazing. The actors were passionate. The stage props were an engineered marvel. This production will move you.

Alex Hennis — Google review

Watch several other shows here but I would have to say this was the best of them all. Queen Esther great presentation. Actors were fantastic, sound and stage phenomenal. Snacks and gifts are as expected. A little pricey, but that's what you get to cover cost. I am still amazed how the side of the stage comes to life, and this time so much animation in moving scenes, no lack of ti'm very smooth presentation.

James Keeter — Google review

What can I tell you about my experience here other than it was amazing! An unforgettable event like no other. If you follow my reviews you know I am picky. I have been in many world class venues and events in several Countries and this venue and show are at the top of my list.

Maurice Garlet — Google review

Words cannot describe this venue with justice. It is an absolutely phenomenal and meaningful experience to immerse oneself in the portrayals presented. We WILL be back. And bring others along. Thank you for everything you are doing to bring these as tires to life.

Kathy Foster — Google review

There is no way a review can come close to explaining the quality of this show. It was a truly amazing production, with probably a million dollars worth of props on that stage! I watched it and will definitely be coming back again, even though it took me 12 hours to get here!

Robert Biddle — Google review

Beautiful show. My family went to see Esther, and it was amazing. The set and production was just perfect. The performers had amazing singing voices. If you are debating going to sight & sound theater I say go! All of their shows I've ever seen have been amazing

Ali Stiles — Google review

We watched Jesus before and now Queen Esther. I love seeing the Bible come to life. The actors and actresses do a great job! The set builders and those that do the lights and sound for the show do an amazing job! I can't wait to see more.

Shawlyn Fraughton — Google review

WOW!!!! JUST WOW. I have never in my life seen a production like this and I’m a Broadway fanatic. We were lucky to sit front row, right in the aisle where the horses and actors stroll by, it was so cool I still am mind blown. The stage wraps around to both sides so be prepared to look around following the actors and the story. I hear if you have neck issues it’s good to sit close to the aisle but more in the back so you can see it all happen around you without having to look side to side sharply. I will say being in the very front was an experience on its own but do note you will turn your head a lot which didn’t bother us a bit. This was such a talented cast with such a detailed and extensively crafted set that consistently changed and morphed with the story it was one mind blowing moment after another. My face hurt from smiling it was such a beautiful and awe striking show to witness. If you are a fan of the theater, Broadway, or just pure phenomenal talent, you gotta see this show, religious or not, it’s a fantastic show and it will leave you impressed regardless. There’s animals of all kinds, beautiful music, comedic moments and an audience that embraces clapping and shouting an amen when you feel the need to. It is as causal as you want it to be. I saw people in nice church clothes to Nickelodeon street clothes. Just come as you are, come comfortable and don’t be intimidated by the car traffic or the lines inside, they move fast and every staff member we encountered was so kind and friendly. I will say it is so important to come about 45 mins early- the traffic takes a minute for parking and you can’t get in until intermission if you are late. Honestly I can’t say enough amazing things about this theater and I cannot wait to see more shows in the future. If Esther is still showing, GO. It’s a powerful story everyone should witness at Sight and Sound. And get a pretzel, soooo good!!!

One Hungry Possum — Google review

This is a MUST SEE production. We went and saw Queen Esther, and it was fabulous. The parking is very well organized, with people guiding you to your parking spot. They have people all over the building to guide you where you need to go or ask any questions to.The building is beautiful on the outside and the inside. There are concessions and a small area for buying memorabilia or copies of the productions they put on there.Inside the theater you sit down to a giant screen that pulls up to show you this magnificent construction of buildings that rotate and move. The buildings open up to show you inside each room. They really utilized the stage space well.They have animals in the production. They walk up and down the aisles. The singing and acting is top-notch. They had to have close to 100 actors and actresses. The costumes are beautiful and amazing.They have an intermission in the middle to get concessions or go to the bathroom. Some people went up to the stage to check out the design of the set. It was just so extravagant and beautiful.The production was very moving. They made you laugh and cry and feel a desire to be a part of the show. At the end there is a calling for those who want prayer. Such a life changing show.

Nicole B. — Google review

4.9

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5.0

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1001 Shepherd of the Hills Expy, Branson, MO 65616, USA

(800) 377-1277

9

Fantastic Caverns

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Nature & Parks

Gift shop

Fantastic caverns is a vast and beautiful underground cave that was discovered by John Knox in 1862. Today, visitors can enjoy a guided tour in a Jeep-drawn tram through the cave, which is located just northwest of Springfield. The cave has a fragile backdrop of ancient features and only allows for controlled tours through the fascinating underground landscape.

Being disabled on an electric scooter, this place was VERY accessible, & the staff very friendly & helpful. Loved the jeep tour! Nice visitor center with many interesting things to look at. The grounds are well kept and beautifully serene. We were passing by, & couldn't resist stopping in because of the jeep tour since I miss out on caving. Lovely way to pass an HR or 2!

Kim Filkins — Google review

I found this place just by going on Google Maps and looking for things to do in Springfield this past weekend. I'm SO glad I found this location tucked away where it was. I had an absolute blast here! The tour guide was amazing, very knowledgeable and able to answer a very wide margin of questions! The tour lasted about an hour overall, but what you learn and see is worth all the time spent there. The cavern is very warm as well, especially during the months like March here in Missouri. The employees were extremely nice and pleasant to talk to. I loved every moment of being in the cavern. They have a lot of souvenirs that you can purchase and while I was there the majority of the items were 50% off! I would definitely recommend everyone there for a nice guided tour through an amazing cavern!

Jay — Google review

This was a nice activity that did not cost our family of four a hundred dollars. Our son actually could enter for free (5 and under). The tour is pleasant and worth a trip once. Our guide was fun and knowledgeable. Google maps takes you right there otherwise it would be hard to find. It is in the middle of nothing but farm land and limited signage.

John Hartmann — Google review

Very interesting cave and the tour guides were great. I wish the experience had been a little longer, and that the signage once we were closer was better.After seeing what felt like hundreds of signs on the interstate, once we were close and trying to get there the signs stopped and we almost didn't go because it felt like we had gotten totally lost -- and then the cave was there.Overall I'm glad we found our way and got to see it as the formations were really interesting and beautiful.

Morgan Perry — Google review

Such a fun tour—you sit the whole time and they drive you around the caves. They give you science and history, demonstrations about the original discovery and exploration to the secret speak easy during prohibition.There is a trail you can walk down after to enjoy the wooded bluff. Very peaceful!

Lauren Milam — Google review

Awesome experience for the family. Worth the stop. Had to wait a little after buying the tickets but the visitor’s center has a large gift shop, antiques and other historical artifacts from the caves past on display to entertain you for a bit. The tour is a little over an hour. The tour isn’t rushed. The propane powered Jeep takes stops along its route in the cave to let the tour guide share great insight into the caves history and features. Watch your head as in some parts of the cave you will have to duck. The cave truly is fantastic!

Joel Hernandez — Google review

AMAZING!!! This was a last minute decision today! WOW!! My husband and I loved this tour. Our guide Heather was fantastic! Very knowledgeable and very informative. Such a great stop! $33.91 per person (with tax) and at the end you get a photo! (Typically, photos taken are extra, but here it’s included. Nice surprise) I get cold easily so I took my blanket with me. Grab some popcorn for the ride. It’s tasty! Highly suggest this tour.

John & Marcia Arpin — Google review

Did this tour with my 6yr old son as we were passing through the area. Didn't bring our dogs with us as my mom opted to stay at the campsite with them but thought it was really cool how pet friendly this place is and will allow you to bring them along for the ride. My son and I both really enjoyed the tour and our tour guide. My son talked the whole ride and our guide never once seemed annoyed by his silly questions/comments. The drive going out to the location itself was very scenic and beautiful to top it off. Would definitely recommend this attraction to anyone in the area!

Heidi Halwa — Google review

Such a cool experience and the kids loved it! It is easy to do. Just show up, hop on a tram, and get a great tour of the caverns. It was nice for families because you don't have to herd kids through a cavern that could stress you out more than be a fun event. Rather this tour will give you the experience without any unnecessary stressors.I'd also recommend walking the property by the stream. It was beautiful.

Ryan Carey — Google review

The most amazing experience ever! This cave tour was so breathtaking. You will learn so much about the cave as well as seeing the most unbelievable rock formations and stalactites on your journey through the dark and mysterious cave. The tour guide was so spectacular and knowledgeable about all the history of the cave. I absolutely loved it.

jennifer agrenot — Google review

Great time at Fantastic Caverns. Very interesting and informative guide provides detailed history. From ticket booth to jeep easy and convenient. Good for seniors and those with cave phobia as there is no walking. Beautiful grounds. Nice gift shop. Recommended.

Janet B — Google review

I have been trying to get here for over 30 years, now I'm kicking my tail for not making it a priority. I will return & it will be much sooner than 30 years LOL. I'm horrible with names, our lady guide was phenomenal ❣️ It's about an hour excursion, information packed. Absolutely amazingly fantastic experience. Great for all ages. It's cool, 60°s F so dress accordingly, they have warm clothes for sale in the gift shop as well as lots of other goodies. Please remember gratuity 💕

Angela James — Google review

What a FANTASTIC tour! Perfect for families and the older crowd not interested in a walking tour. Our tour guide Darla was great. She took the time to answer all questions even when a youngster asked if she liked her red jeep. It was informative, interesting and fun.

Yoli Reynolds — Google review

I love anything outdoors, and visiting Caverns is one of those places I must visit. This was the first time I visited a Cavern that drove into the Cavern in a trailer. Our guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. She did an awesome job at explaining and giving details at every point we made a stop. There's also a gift shop inside, and I found some amazing natural products like the ones you see in the photos. I've been collecting artisan soaps along the way. Most of the soaps I've purchased are from local family-owned stores. I have to say the smell and quality are amazing.

Gloricel Rios — Google review

Visited the cave on a weekday evening, and there was no wait. The tour guide was knowledgeable and she seemed to genuinely love her job. The experience was unique since you ride through on a tram. However, the tour was short (under an hour) considering the admission cost. There are some tight spaces where you will have to lean forward. You should also consider buying your tickets individually as each ticket comes with a free photograph.

Johnson — Google review

Call me slow, I won’t mind. But this was my first trip through the Fantastic Caverns. I loved it!I was a little claustrophobic in the beginning as you ride down into the mouth of the cave but the tour guides are great at keeping you informed and distracted.The Fantastic Cavern cave is beautiful and very well preserved. The tour is very informative and comfortable. Tours are hourly, with the last departure happening at 4pm.

Karen Dubya — Google review

Fantastic Caverns is a wonderful little surprise just outside Springfield Missouri. We had a group of eight, four adults, four children, and we were able to get on a tour within 10-20 minutes of arrival. The unique thing about this cave tour was that the whole tour is done from the comfort of a trailer being pulled by a Jeep. This makes it a great choice for young children, elderly or any visitors with mobility issues. Mark, our tour guide, gave us all the pertinent safety info before we headed out. During the tour he stopped and got out at specified stops along the way to give us a little history on the cave, and to show off the magnificent structures inside. This made it easy to get some good photos inside. He delivered the history and stories about the cave with all the wit and humor you expect from a great tour guide. If you are in the area, I recommend stopping in and checking it out.

James Marsh — Google review

Went on a field trip with the kids and had a great time. It is very clean and looks freshly remodeled. The gift shop has some nice merchandise at reasonable prices. The guides were friendly and spoke loud and clear so you could hear them. Everyone had a good time.

Jason Stewart — Google review

This was a really fun experience! A great way to spend the afternoon, walk around the property and amphitheater area, and walk around the inside and gift shop. The tour lasts an hour, and it is perfect temperature inside. Be prepared for a couple drips of cave water on you! Almost everyone in our group got at least one! I absolutely loved our tour guide, a really enthusiastic older man. He explained the history really well, and cracked jokes and very enjoyable. Overall a fun place to visit if you want to spend a few hours learning about an old cave, and seeing some beautiful rock formations!

Maria Foster — Google review

We had a good time. I'm glad I was able to manage the ride. That being said, I do want to mention a few things for any using walking assistant items. It is a long walk from parking to inside (the first picture just takes you to the line-up going down to the building). There is plenty to see and read about while in-line. Luckily there wasn't a line that day. There is a nice gift shop to look at while waiting for your turn.The one big complaint I have is getting in and out of the restroom. I had a small wheelchair and barely made it in. I couldn't close the door and it was to tight to get the chair turned. While trying to back out I would get hung up on something sticking out from the wall. Thankfully another guest helped me back up to get out.I was able to get on the tram (with some help) and enjoyed the cave. I was shaky by the end and getting off was trickier. It's hard to find attraction you can do when you have limitations. I'm glad this was worth it.

Christina Varnum — Google review

Spent $30 per ticket. It was a nice cave to not have to walk. Had it not been for the educational stops, it would not have lasted the hour it did. I was expecting a longer ride, but it is actually kinda short. This should be more like a $20 to $25 ticket. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and had a great personality. The gift shop was nice also. This ride is also dog friendly.

Jenny Atwill — Google review

4.7

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4.5

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4872 N Farm Rd 125, Springfield, MO 65803, USA

(417) 833-2010

10

Six Flags St. Louis

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Theme park

Water & Amusem*nt Parks

Huge amusem*nt park with high-speed coasters, kids' rides & water slides, plus live entertainment.

Love this smaller six flags park for it's unique coaster collection - Boss, Ninja, Screamin Eagle, American Thunder, River King Mine Train, etc. Just has a nice park layout and other guests are all very friendly and didn't mind sharing insights to tips or directions within the park. As a single rider, I got to ride with numerous other people who were all.very friendly. Overall great crowd and a nice park.

John Niehaus — Google review

Compared to the other 6 flags I've visited, this one is much lower quality. The employees serving you just look at you waiting for you to speak, then they serve you while continuing to not speak to you. This happened multiple times throughout our experience at the park.All the rides were only running one train, so for a ride thats 3 minutes long it's about 5 minutes to get one wave of people through the ride.Of all the six flags I've visited, this one rests at the bottom of the list, it's not held up to the same standard.

Colton Crouthamel — Google review

Really enjoyed all the steel coasters. The wooden ones are nice but they are rough, I can't ride them back to back without a break. Reline the tracks with metal tubing. They need to redo the walkway to The Boss coaster. It's ridiculously long with too many stairs.

B Winkler — Google review

Finally had a chance to check this place out.. it was awesome! Line waiting was reasonable, food cost was average for theme parks in the Midwest... The atmosphere and esthetics we're all great to me. And the kids well, THEY LOVED IT!!!

Ricky Johnson — Google review

Six flags of Sadness, 1/2 the rides are closed or broken. No water slides, no wave pool, no lazy river. Expected better on Memorial Day… seriously. Not worth the $50 ticket price. We are from Iowa and we’re planning to go to 2 more six flags in Texas. But not anymore. What a waste. And before the owner responds I should say, I am 50 years old and remember this park as a kid an have fond memories. I wish I could hand them down but no we won’t be giving six flags another chance. Sad to see an Another American icon ruined by poor management and greed.

John Doe — Google review

Ummmm what the actual heck? Why? These prices are outrageous!! Unacceptable and no wonder it was dead on a Saturday in summer. I have enjoyed six flags for over 25 years, and my children enjoy it as well. But shutting down the most enjoyable rides like the thunder river... stop it. Fix it, please. Our future generations would appreciate the decision making adults in this business keep it as classic as it has been for decades.

Kandah Taylor — Google review

A lot of the rides inside both the park and hurricane harbor were closed. The ones that were up and running were a lot of fun though. The food and drinks are pretty pricey but there are some fast food places nearby to choose from. We arrived when it opened, left for lunch then came back until they closed. Despite the amount of rides that were down, my kids (8, 12 and 14) all still had a lot of fun. I’m not a fan of roller coasters or rides in general myself and I still had a good time watching them all have fun.We also took advantage of Hurricane Harbor. A few of the slides were closed which made the lines of the ones that were open very long. 45 mins for a water slide just isn’t worth it to me.

Amanda Williams — Google review

I always loved going to this thing park as a kid. Now I get to take my kids to it. The lines are usually really long on the bigger rides, I would recommend getting the flash pass if you can afford the extra money. The Batman and Mr freeze are one of my favorite rides including the log flume also, if you plan on going more than two times for the year I would suggest the season pass, you also get food discounts and merchandise discounts with that and premier parking and also access to the water park. The water park is always really crowded into this hard to get on the slides. Overall a very good theme park.

Kevin Sletten — Google review

I'm going to brag on your staff! Everyone was super friendly and helpful when I didn't know where to go to activate my season pass! The rides that were open were fun and just what this working mom needed to remind myself why I work so hard. The rides batman, boomerang, and fireball had the most fun people as operators! They really kept the energy upbeat and silly. I wish just once that Mr.freeze would be working when I go as I've been for years and manage to have never seen it up and functioning. The games are challenging but still fun to do even when you miss every shot like me lol. I can't wait to go again and again this season! Thanks for keeping me young at heart and giving my kids the gift of amusem*nt.

French toast — Google review

I always get the memberships for my family and pay monthly due to being on a fixed income and the payment plans are very good. I have been going to six flags since I was a little kid and now I take my kids and we always have a blast. Do to staffing issues over the last 2 years only certain rides are open but it's still a blast.

Angel Kaelin — Google review

Fun place to let loose and enjoy with family and friends. The food and drink options are pricey but that's any amusem*nt park. Rides were alternated back and forth to what was available to ride, I'm not sure if it was short staffing that caused this. It would be nice to see more water refill options throughout the park though. Great time overall.

JD Offield — Google review

Six Flags is a must-go on your summer break. The food might be a little overpriced but it has many restaurants near it that you can leave the park at any time and go eat for cheaper. Long lines under the sun so make sure to stay hydrated and to put sunscreen on every two hours or so. Also make sure to arrive early and go to the mr freeze ride first because the wait for that ride is insane so the earlier the better. If you have a flash pass waste it on this ride!! And most importantly have fun, stay safe, and be kind!

Noor Issa — Google review

Great park. Clean and inviting. New and fun old coasters. Nice layout and organized. Parking is at front gate. We got in fast and hit ride after ride.

Duke Ensell — Google review

Overall this Six Flags is pretty decent. We came on Wednesday during summer and the crowd was not bad at all. The food is overpriced but they do have lots of places to cool off and get out of the heat. There could be a few more bathrooms or signs to bathrooms but otherwise this was a good, safe, fun, experience. We purchased all of our tickets passes and parking online. I do recommend doing that to save money.

Kelli Brown — Google review

Weather excellent today with very few waits more than 15 minutes which is fast! Great rides and entertainment this year. Get your season passes and come see! Lots of fun for all ages😎 a few water park and a few rides were not open. The fireworks were awesome! Excited both sides and traffic was minimal.

J “Fast Eddie” Chowning — Google review

Staff was excellent dealing with a major ticket scanning issue. Bought tickets in August for Fright Fest and all 6 tickets were scanning as invalid. Had to wait in a very long line to speak with guest services who printed out new tickets which in total took up 45 minutes we could have been in the park. Then we had issues getting our fast passes into the Haunted Attractions. Again, tickets scanning as invalid. Every Haunted Attraction took anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes to get into because our tickets wouldn't scan so the fast pass was useless. Thankfully we ran into Shaun at Jingle who sped up the process a little bit when we went into Slaughterhouse. I will not bother with a Fast Pass again.

Holly Clark — Google review

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11

St. Charles Historic District

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Historical landmark

Sights & Landmarks

Historic Walking Areas

I love visiting this charming, historic part of Saint Charles. The Christmas Traditions event is so enchanting and really puts visitors in the Christmas spirit. The local shops carry such unique gifts and products, some of which are handmade that you won't find elsewhere. The local restaurants, cafés, bakeries, ice cream parlors and coffee shops offer great cuisine and dining experiences, some with relaxing, scenic views along the Mississippi, and the local bars offer lively nightlife. You must visit historic Saint Charles--what a lovely place to visit!

Vipila Bathvar — Google review

What a great place to walk around and explore on a nice day. The historic district has many small boutiques and shops housed in old buildings original to the beginning settlement of St. Charles. It is a lovely area.

Logan Schoch — Google review

I love coming here at any time of the year, this place is always thriving with new people and new attractions. I especially love halloween season! Rain or shine they always say and they mean it! Perfect place to go when you just want to get away from everything and take a nice stroll down this beautiful historic district. The riverwalk is even a HUGE plus! Just make sure to pay attention to weather and the river for flooding, but besides that this place is a wonderful area to just go to, to get out of the house. Will ALWAYS recommend!

Emily Seabolt — Google review

The setup around Christmas is great. Lights, music and the vibes makes it a great event!!

Rishikesh Nalapur — Google review

Went here a few days before Christmas and it was the cutest! Carolers, roasted chestnuts, horse drawn carriage rides. Christmas oozed out of every corner and it was a delight!

Kristyn Schultz — Google review

I like to visit St. Charles Historic district and walk on Main street. On this place, a lot of small souvenirs shops could be visited. The unique architecture and atmosphere could be seen from attached photos.

Plamen Kolev — Google review

Old St. Charles is quaint and full of historical charm. The shops range from cute and quirky to artsy and beyond, with something for everyone, and there are many nice dining options along the entire length of the brick-paved streets. Great place for a lazy stroll and a day full of fun along the Missouri River.

Path Finder — Google review

A good mix of history, shopping and food. Nice flow, but car traffic can be intense at times. It would have a total different feel if there was no auto traffic, because you can't loose yourself in the time period with a late model car going by.....

George Scott — Google review

4.8

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4.5

(1399)40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (79)

Katy Trail, St Charles, MO 63301, USA

12

Saint Louis Zoo

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Zoo

Zoos & Aquariums

The Saint Louis Zoo is a world-renowned institution and one of the top zoos in the country. It features animals such as penguins, bears, and elephants, as well as a train ride. Admission is completely free for visitors, but some attractions are ticketed.

What a great time! This was for my sons class field trip. The animals were all out, not hiding in the back. I love that people have to make reservations to be there. I think that helps so it is not so crowded. So much better not walking into people every time you turn around. Was able to get some great pics of the animals. Enjoy!!

Courtney Peridore — Google review

The zoo is free, but the parking is $15.We started our day with a behind the scenes giraffe tour. I posted a tour review under the link for the giraffes.We also watched a mini sea lion show. It was a mini show because they are practicing for the full length shows that will start in a couple of weeks.The zoo is kept clean, and the people who work there seems to really love their jobs. Most of them were very happy to share so much information with us about the animals. Many of the buildings are historical, with a few that were built for the World’s Fair.The exhibits had information for each animal. I appreciate the numerous signs asking patrons to not bother/harass the animals, and a phone number to allow anyone who witnesses concerning behavior to report it.I would love to see most of the animals in bigger enclosures. Even if that meant they had fewer varieties of animals. I did appreciate that most of the exhibits had a wide variety of live plants and trees in them.Our funnel cake was delicious. The gift shop staff was very nice. We loved our visit!

Tammy Bayer — Google review

The most beautiful and fun part of the St. Louis zoo are the gorgeous native wildflowers in bloom! I loved to see interesting pollinators at work. Great idea to start replacing the stinky fuel trains with electric trains. I prefer the train ride connection around the elephant house as opposed to the stinky train rides through dark tunnels. We were expecting to see more sights from the train and we can't recommend the added expense! The penguin and puffin indoor exhibits were a fantastic way to cool off from the heat and sun. They are so amazingly cute! I loved walking through the butterfly enclosure for close encounters with a nice variety of butterflies. The grizzly bears were fascinating to see eating what looked like frozen blocks of food. They showed their intelligence using various strategies to break apart the food blocks. I was deeply sad to witness the tiny enclosure for the polar bear and wish it a happy and free life in a better, more wild place. I hope that it can be given more room to move, swim and be free. 🐻‍❄️ This zoo would get a higher rating from me if it weren't for how upsetting it is to see our cramped polar bear friend trapped and sad.

Melinda Guinn — Google review

What a day! We have been to this zoo over a dozen times, and it never gets boring. The additions for various animals and new habitats make it a fun time. The zoo is all about learning and entertaining for all generations. Whether it's the dinosaurs or the penguins or any other species. It's a good time for all of us.

Anthony Franklin — Google review

As a St Louis resident, the STL zoo is my number one favorite place to hang out in the city.Whether it’s busy or slow, hot & humid or cold & rainy this is always the place I am always drawn too.If you are just visiting the city the zoo needs to be on your list of places to visit.It has 2 entrances and both are easily accessible. It’s free to enter and there is so much to see. Every person who works here is friendly, knowledgeable and works to create a great experience.The facilities are always clean and there are so many vending choices that there is rarely a wait. You can also always bring your own picnic in and eat in the grassy field areas in the middle of the park. It’s a nice quiet space with picnic tables and lots of grass to get away with your group for a bit and eat or just chill for a bit.If it’s super hot or cold you can always count on enjoying the bug house. It’s indoors and it’s wonderful for kids. Then at the end you can walk through the temp controlled butterfly dome which is just amazing.Seriously do not hesitate to visit this place, it’s a true gem of the city.

Day June — Google review

Great zoo. We were traveling through the area and stayed an extra day based on the recommendation of friends. We were not disappointed in the least. We spent the day there with our 3-year old and had a great time. The zoo has a great layout and is very clean. Staff was also very helpful and friendly.

Bill McLead — Google review

I love the St. Louis Zoo! It’s really the perfect size where you can see everything in one visit but there is still a lot to see. The Penguin exhibit is one of the nicest I’ve ever see and definitely my favorite of the exhibits and it was the only place besides food vendors and gift shops that we ever ran into lines even when there tickets were sold out. If you’re going during busy times- weekends, holidays, spring break, summer break I’d definitely recommend making reservations ahead of time. It also took us about 45 minutes to park on a nice day so keep that in mind parking when you’re planning your day at the zoo.

Amanda M — Google review

Beautiful zoo! And it is free! They charge for a few of the attractions but they are geared more for smaller kids (Dino, train, petting stingray.) The bird house was one of my favorite exhibits. We also loved the penguin exhibit and how close we were able to get to them. It felt like we entered their habitat, but without disturbing them. Oh, and the Grizzlies! Really, a great zoo.

M Dowd — Google review

This is one of the best zoo in the US. This place is huge. It’s FREE. Only charge $15/ vehicle for parking. It’s a lot better than Washington DC Smithsonian zoo. Each habitat was well maintained. Animals were healthy and happy. Be sure to bring good walking shoes. We spent about 3.5 hours here. And walked about 4 miles. We wanted to see all of them. And for us the highlight was definitely penguins exhibit. We got to see them so close. This is by far my favorite zoo.

Wind Napol — Google review

Fantastic zoo!!! If you plan on seeing the whole thing, I would highly suggest planning for a whole day there as the zoo is huge!!! The dinosaurs are worth the money, super cool, and the kids loved it! The train is nice but you're not allowed to bring any stroller on which can be difficult when you have small children. This zoo is so much fun, and is great exercise!

Savanna Sprague — Google review

Amazing! If you love penguins, you have to go to this zoo. It's free to visit, but $15 to park. For $8, you can get a wristband to ride the train all day long. It is great for traveling between sections of the zoo, especially on a hot day.

Nikki S — Google review

Free zoo! Visited on Labor Day weekend (Saturday at 11 AM). It took a long time to get parking and it was hard to find spots (there is a fee to park). A lot of people parked across the bridge and walked.It was very hot out so many of the animals were sleeping. We were able to bring in reusable water bottles and a few snacks.The butterfly room is really special. I would recommend going early in the morning.

Gwenevere Mueller — Google review

What can I say. You can't beat free. But for real this zoo was amazing. I wish I had more time to visit all the exhibits. The park was clean and wasn't overcrowded when I went. They have a huge selection of animals to look at. Plenty of spots to sit down and eat and of course gift shops . I'll definitely want to come back if I visit Saint Louis again. It's a great spot for family trip.

Jonathan Disney-Fanning — Google review

This is a beautiful zoo located in Forrest Park! It was very clean and had wide, accessible paths. Staff were very friendly and accommodating. We went on a Monday at opening. It is free to get in and view your favorite animals!! I would check the website for the things that cost money. There is a mini train that encircles the property that does have a fee, for instance. Parking at the site is $15. My husband and I parked at a free lot, near the art museum, that was a 5 minute walk away! Loved this place!

Amanda Coyner — Google review

We loved going to the Zoo! Growing up in San Diego we always loved the San Diego Zoo so it was a fun experience and see another large Zoo. Free admission is amazing! Buying the additional attractions is a fun plus for those who want a few extra things to do. The wrist bands made it easy to walk into the extra attractions without having to keep track of tickets. It was clean and well kept. If you are a member of the Zoo the attraction tickets are 50% off. If you are a member of any local Zoo they will honor the 50% off as long as you show the active membership. I didn't know that until I walked up to the window to purchase our tickets, so that was a bonus! We went during the Halloween season and the decorations were awesome! We ate lunch at the Lakeside Cafe. The lines looked long but they were pumping food out quickly. The standard kid friendly options are available and some adult options as well. They did offer alcohol, limited selection but it was offered at a reasonable price actually. The food wasn't crazy priced either, but what you would expect from any fast food place in 2023. Getting around was easy even when it got congested with people. It was a cooler day when we went so the animals were active and out playing. Overall it was a great experience all day and we will definitely make our way back to spend more time looking at all the animals.

Natalie Clough — Google review

This zoo was really good. We had some of the best animal experiences we have ever had with the penguins and polar bear. We went on a weekday and the weather was cold. It was not busy and the animals were active. We would happily return or recommend to others.

Douglas Hutchings — Google review

Nice zoo. Wasn’t crowded at all. Very hot out would recommend bringing personal fan or coming on a cool day. Gift shop items were reasonably priced. Also if you choose to touch the sting rays be aware of the fact that there Is no soap to wash your hands with. Everything was good except for the fact that you still need to pay for refills with the souvenir cup otherwise great experience.

Kyliebella — Google review

This free zoo is such a gem. I absolutely love the penguin exhibit. It's cold! There's also a very cool area for children to play and have up close views of animals along the Primate Canopy Trail. There's free street parking or paid lots.

Bonnie Robinson — Google review

Loved our time there! Even though a lot of the animals were MIA this time of year and it was under 40 degrees out, but the ones that were out and about were so fun to watch. Parking was $15, but free admission! That’s amazing that such an awesome zoo is free to the public.

Mel P — Google review

What a great zoo! It was truly a beautiful set up and maintained zoo with plenty to do! The admission was free for the entire family which is a huge plus, and there are a few paid attractions in the zoo which were worth the money, but entirely optional. The food was tasty and prices fairly. The animals looked to be well taken care of and had nice big enclosures. The zoo was huge and had much more to do and see than we were expecting coming from a smaller city with a much smaller zoo. Spent 4 hours here and honestly could have spent even more time to see and do everything. If you enjoy zoos at all this is absolutely a must visit if you're in the area!

Adam Theroux — Google review

We’re from Las Vegas and absolutely LOVE this zoo! It’s FREE ADMISSION and placed in a gorgeous park setting. Food is great, employees are always super nice, and the zoo is large! Lots of wonderful animals to see. If you’re in the area, it’s a MUST visit attraction❤️

Gigi Olsen — Google review

4.8

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4.5

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1 Government Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA

(314) 781-0900

13

City Museum

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Museum

Performing arts group

The City Museum of St. Louis is an impressive performing arts center made entirely out of found objects. It provides a fun and frivolous setting for artists to exhibit their work, while also being a serious architectural and artistic project.

This place is ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! If you get a chance, go! Doesn't matter if you have kids or not. The art is wonderful and the kids had an absolute blast! So much to see and do. My kids and I spent 4 hours here and I feel like we barely scraped the surface. The cave system is awesome. And all the slides take it to the next level!

Heather Melton — Google review

Amazing place for everyone. Toddlers to bigger kids to teenagers and adults. You could spend hours here and keep finding amazing things. The food isn't crazy experience either so you can spend the day here. They were super great with our large group over the weekend. We had about 90 people in our group and they were super accommodating and there were no issues.

Jess Finn — Google review

This is the most amazing museum we've seen. It is a total immersive experience that bring you from one world to another completely different world. It has an aquarium, and many indoor and outdoor playground, plus an open rooftop. It is literally a playground for both kids and adults. What are you like to climb and crawl, or just walk without any strenuous moves, there is always a path to explore all the hidden gems in this museum in ways that you are comfortable. And it has so many spaces and so many ways to see things that you can spend days getting lost in these world. And even if you come back again and again, the experience can still be completely different. We highly recommend this as a must visit if you ever come to St. Louis.

Michael Wu PhD — Google review

City Museum is one of the hardest places on earth to describe. It’s fun for kids and adults alike to explore this massive building with all sorts of oddities, places to crawl and explore, and climb. You might be crawling through narrow spaces on your hands and knees or suddenly exploring caves. They have an outdoor area with massive metal structures to climb as well as a unique rooftop area (open seasonally during the warm months) with things that you must see to believe.I highly recommend getting knee pads for just about anyone who is going to explore anything here. You have to explore and play at your own risk and be cautious. If you do have kids with you, it will be easy to lose them as some slides go between floors and it may not be quick or easy to catch up.The space is well maintained and the staff is generally very friendly and helpful when needed. There are snacks available on the second floor and there’s a bar on the third floor. They have lockers available to rent and it’s worth it to have a place to stash items since you will work up a sweat and it may be easy to lose valuables.This is one of the most unique places I’ve ever been to and something that I’d consider a must visit attraction for anyone coming to Saint Louis for the first time. Don’t skip this and take your time exploring since there’s a lot to see.

David Kitsberg — Google review

Absolutely perfect. I loved every bit (except the architecture and bug rooms). One of the first things we did was go to the circus harmony show. The cast did a amazing job. My favorite part was the aquarium. Didn't order food but the restaurants smelt awesome. The tunnels around the building have quite a few tight squeezes. Perfect place for children with tons of playspace.

Kriz Stuckey — Google review

I truly love this place. If you go to St. LOUIS, the City Museum is a must-see/do! Since college, I've enjoyed exploring this multi-story playground filled with amazing works of art and pieces of St. Louis. I had the privilege of bringing my kids for the first time and they had a blast.

Angie G. — Google review

You have got to take your children here! I visited as the parent of adult children. I wish I had taken my kids here. This place is amazing. Be sure to give your kids a quiet break every once in a while because it’s really overwhelming for little ones. The employees are polite and thoughtful and knowledgeable. There’s something for everybody here to see or enjoy. The views from the rooftop are nice. The young man running the Ferris wheel day I visited was very entertaining and really seemed to enjoy his job. I wish someone would check on the antique cabinets because items are falling off the front of the shelves. I’m looking forward to returning

A. — Google review

Such a cool concept. A beautiful and strange interactive experience that was just as much fun for me as it was for the kids. Only thing that prevented this from being five stars was the rooftop closed during our visit, after we had bought tickets for it, due to heat/lack of staffing before we got up there and they do not offer refunds, only rain checks. Since we aren't from the area (and I'm sure a large number of other visitors are not local) there's no way we'd have been able to come back.

Sara Strauss — Google review

What an absolutely awesome experience for kids and adults! You have to be fairly nimble but there's fun to be had from all. Even just walking through and checking things out is pretty neat. One of our favorite Parts was the seven story slide, it was really fast and an absolute blast! Parking was easy and a good time was had by all. The only negative that I can really think of is St Louis is not nearly as nice overall as many big cities I've been to but, of course, this has nothing to do with the quality of the museum.

Matt Diebolt — Google review

Love this place! The most extreme climb is definitely on the rooftop. If you’re coming for a single day then just get the roof pass and do it. Such a fun place to spend hours, always something new, food, everything to stay entertained.

Adam Kramer — Google review

This has got to be one of the most unique places I have ever been. Literally everywhere you look is a place to climb or slide. A lot of this place is mosaic tile that is absolutely beautiful. We spent around 3 hours here and didn't get to see the whole thing because of how massive this place is. We have a 3 year old that would not sit still, he had to see and explore everything. There are endless thing for kids to do here. Unfortunately we were not able to get on the roof because of weather, but we still had an amazing time. Id recommend this place if you have kids and want to see something like you've never seen before. I cannot say enough about this place and how much fun we had, we will definitely be back!

Jason Jones — Google review

If Mad Max had a Kids Palace this would be the destination!! What an adventure. So much climbing and birth canals secret tunnels!! make me wish I had knee pads and a headlamp. There is so much to climb!! Then Slide! It’s one big cavernous Jungle gym! Your inner child will be revealed and there is even an old school pinball section.We didn’t get a chance to see all the outdoor activities like the Ferris wheel school bus etc… because it was winter;(

RayView — Google review

The City Museum is unique in the way that it feels like intentional chaos. It’s almost like an interactive art museum. The playgrounds/ climbing/sliding structures are very unique. Most of them go from one floor to another (I think there were a few that went between three floors). The day that we went the museum was packed and with the play structures being so big and behind walls and going floor to floor, it was extremely stressful trying to keep up with the children with our group. If you are expecting an organized, learning environment for kids, this is not it. This isn’t the kind of museum that has different learning stations, everything just randomly turns into something else. You go from a winding metal structure for kids to climb on to a wall of antiques with no explanation. The one real station I saw amidst the chaos was a toddler area where some big kids had taken over and there were no workers to be seen. We were there for several hours and I only ever saw one worker. There’s no one there to help parents FIND their kids when their kids go down a slide when the sign says it ends on one floor but actually ends on another. There were also several things that stood out as red flags to us as being safety concerns/ not up to code.Maybe it’s not always as busy as it was the day that we went but it was stressful as the parents trying to keep up with kids that go up a set of stairs that go behind a wall and it takes you 5 minutes to find where it comes out.I will say that the food from the restaurant we ate at was good. (Alcohol available- and after spending time in that museum- I can see why.) 😅The gift shop souvenirs were about as random as the museum which was kind of funny. My aunt and I joked that the t-shirts in the gift shop should say “I survived the City Museum with all my kids.”

Hannah Tindall — Google review

The most redeeming quality of this place is all of the stuff that has been kept out of a landfill. Props to the artists who’ve created a fun place to explore.My 80s kid at heart did appreciate that there was a lot of space for free play, climbing, exploring.But… There were WAY too many people in the facility. My husband commented that this may have been where Covid originated. I understand that they are making $20-30 per person, so packing them in makes more money. But limiting the number of people would increase the quality of the experience so much more.Gift shop idea- sell headphones or ear plugs!!!It felt like half of the facility was food places, gift shops, and kiosks where you can spend more money.There appears to be plenty of space in the building that isn’t being used. I’d consider visiting again if they open up new spaces to explore. Otherwise, I most likely won’t return.

Tammy Bayer — Google review

This place is so special! It's unlike any other attraction you've ever been to. There is just so much to see and explore, I feel like you can keep going again and again and you'll find something new every time. it's great for all ages - we were a huge group from ages 2-13 plus adults and everyone had the best time. The ONLY thing I will tell you is all the nooks and crannies make it super easy to get lost so you do have to keep a very careful eye on your kids, including knowing where they are going to end up when they go down a slide. But it is absolutely worth the extra effort. We love this weird wacky wonderful museum!

Rachel Shapiro — Google review

Whoever said this place isn't for adults must be old or boring!! 2 adults in their 30s had a wildly fun time for nearly 5hours! The roof is underwhelming, you don't need to pay more for it. But the inside (and outside) are a blast. Be sure to find the 10story slide (it's kinda hidden in what feels like a boiler room). The circus was cute, and the aquarium had some interesting fish. My only comment is that the seahorse has a sign about how they mate for life and dance with their partner twice a day... but there's only 1 seahorse! I really wish they would adopt another one because that's heart breaking. Oh and your knees will be sore after climbing all of the steel tubes!

Bollens — Google review

My son had a good time. He is 10. He definitely saw it is a cool adventure. If there was a way to ensure he couldn't be taken or hurt without my knowledge, I could have let him run free a little more but I felt like I'd lose him if he got out of my sight because this place goes on and on! Lol. So I was overprotective and followed him around. Every thing was really cool. Unfortunately after walking thousands of steps to reach the top they said you can't slide with a small bag. I had to bring my bag to be able to pay for our way in, etc. So that was unfortunate after walking so many stair cases. Maybe a sign at the bottom saying no bags allowed? 🤔 it was hot, but overall the place is very cool and very fun for a kid to explore. We may come back some day and try again when he's older.

Meredith Smith — Google review

So much fun. And so big. You can explore for 8 hours straight and not see it all. There's so many little surprises and nooks and crannies. A great place for kids to go and get some of their energy out.The halloween decorations are a nice touch and makes for a spooky good time.

Derek Wolf — Google review

This place is incredible. It's nonsensical. I don't understand any of the why or how. It's like Dr. Seuss came back from the dead and took up welding.It's incredible fun no matter your age. There's stuff you can climb on. There's stuff you can climb through. There's places you won't fit. You'll probably get lost. Your kids will get lost. You'll leave with a different set of kids than what you started with. It all somehow works out in the end.There's not much to say other than bring some knee pads and have fun in this gem of a place. This place is the best thing St. Louis has to offer.

Greg Eakins — Google review

First off this place is extraordinary, it is fun even for a 16 to 30-year-old, I wasn't expecting to see a grown adult have fun inside the caves and all the places you can crawl. It's a place where you can learn and have fun at the same time. I would recommend it for any age. The only thing I recommend for families with kids is that SUPERVISE YOUR KIDS, and know where they are at all times, YOUR KIDS CAN GET LOST IN THERE.

Malakh Carcamo — Google review

4.7

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4.5

(6680)40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (94)

750 N 16th St, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA

(314) 231-2489

14

The Gateway Arch

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Monument

Sights & Landmarks

The Gateway Arch is an iconic monument in St. Louis, Mo., commemorating the exploration and settlement of the American West. The arch was built in the early 60s and is a massive 630-foot-tall structure topped with a striking metal entrance facade. The top of the arch offers stunning views of both the city below and the surrounding countryside, making it an excellent tourist destination for those visiting St. Louis with children. The Drury Plaza Hotel St.

Super cool experience! The pods in the tram are tiny but we got to ride in one ourselves, so nice to not have to sit in one with strangers. The door is glass which is awesome as you can view what the inside of the Arch looks like on your ride up and down. 4 min up, 3 min down. Husband is claustrophobic but was OK on the ride! Time at the top is short but plenty of time to take pictures of just look and enjoy the view. Our group was only about 11 people total so not crowded at the windows at all. The museum is interesting with lots to read. Cafe was expensive but food was OK. Tour guide for the tram was upbeat and friendly. The Arch was definitely the highlight to our trip to St.Louis! And the small state park surrounding the structure was nice as well.

Nicole P — Google review

It's cool to see. I don't know that I'd need to do it more than once. Buy tickets in advance. You can also check the website around 900a and see if they are any available tickets. I checked and got a ticket for the same day. You have to go through security as it's a national landmark. They have a museum area after that and other setups to learn about the arch and its history, there is a gift shop and cafe inside. Line up at your time... there aren't many people lining up until about 4-5 min prior to the scheduled time. You stand in line for a while before you get to go back. There really isn't a benefit because you get assigned a group 1 through 9. You sit with your group in the pod up and down...maximum of 5 people

Emily Anderson — Google review

Great place to visit! Lines all ran smoothly and it was an orderly transition from the check-in to the top and back down. Some unique history all the way from out greeting to a little movie to the facts projected on the doors that let you on to the tram. 4 minutes up and 3 minutes down. Yes, the tram is small but you can see the inside of the arch via the window/doors on the side. They allot the group 9 minutes at the top which is more than enough time to get some great photos. I’d recommend the movie on the building of the arch as it helped to make sense out of the architecture and the construction. The museums in the area were also very informative. Highly recommended.

Bryan Brendley — Google review

I had never really wanted to visit the Arch but I thought I'd give it a go and I was pleasantly surprised. A beautiful museum to see before you have to purchase anything at all. Definitely go to the top of the arch. Amazing views. And if you get there at noon you can see the shadow perfect between the two legs of the Arch!!!

Oliver Smith — Google review

Wonderful experience! It was cool driving through town and seeing the arch get bigger and bigger as we got closer. Then to be standing under it was amazing. The view from the top and museum were fabulous. The tram ride was faster than expected. We’ll worth the time and Money!

Bonnie DeHart — Google review

We had the chance to visit a couple of times. It has an incredibly beautiful atmosphere. It looks so beautiful from the outside. It makes me happy every time I see it. The museum is incredibly beautiful. There is a very beautiful narration. Everything is simple and technological. The main problem here is going upstairs. It's incredibly claustrophobic. Unfortunately, you can't find a satisfying window when you go upstairs.

mehmet ali y?cel — Google review

Worth doing it to check the box, but not sure I’d feel the need to do it twice. The whole thing is about $15+ per person to take the tram (a claustrophobic Ferris wheel ride staring at concrete) up to a small room to look out tiny windows. I had more fun taking pictures for tourist families than I did staring out the tiny windows. Cool view, but a little anticlimactic for the price. The museum looked cool, but unfortunately we were in a bit of a rush and didn’t get to check it out.

Michael Magnus — Google review

I came to the Arch as a child and my son is now 10 years old so it was time to create the memories with him. He had learned about the Arch at school and now he's been able to witness it first hand. Overall it was a great experience. A little crowded and had to wait for a chance to get my son up in the windows to see the sights and get photos of him. A security lady asked us to leave as I was grabbing a couple photos we had waited on other people to move on, for my son's memory book. I explained to her we had to wait on all of the other people to be able to look out. Maybe she was having a bad day. Regardless the trip was nice and the other employees were all super nice and professional. The landscaping and surroundings were all beautiful.

Meredith Smith — Google review

It was such a cool experience to see in person. It's a lot bigger than I expected. We went there early in the morning, and there was no one around, so we got a lot of time for pictures and just enjoying the arch. By the time we did the sightseeing outside and went up into the arch, we were done by 1130 or so, and it got busy quickly. Would recommend if you are able and around the area.

Tara Miller — Google review

The Gateway Arch is an amazing work of engineering and design. The tour was good but the narrator spoke so fast I could only understand bits and pieces of the story. The ride to the top was awesome and the view was incredible. They really could use an updated version of the videos though. I felt like I was sitting in an elementary classroom watching an old documentary. Not a good feeling. The parking was much to far from the entrance and the signs were poorly placed. I have bad knees and back. I park with a handicap tag but could not find the parking for handicap. The parking cost was too expensive as well. If you fix a few things mentioned you could easily reach a five star rating. All that said, I do recommend this business. It is worth seeing.

Palomar 6592 — Google review

Should be on the to-do list for everybody visiting St Louis. The Arch itself is huge and you can go up all to the top. Tour guide Sandy was awesome and very funny. The museum is just as impressive as the Arch itself. The history and development of St Louis is clearly explained. Well done. Museum itself is very clean and modern.

Jochem van der Leur — Google review

Well done National Park Service! I bought tickets online about a month ahead of time. I was able to have the tickets on my phone. We arrived about 30 to 45 minutes ahead of our tour time to allow for the security check. At the appointed time we were directed through the tour. The tour guides were courteous and very helpful answering questions. The views from the top are spectacular and for me, well worth the price of admission. The ride up and down is a little bumpy and the pod is a little claustrophobic, but should be no problem for most people. There is a historical museum after entry and before or after the tour that is worth a walk through. There is a concession stand of sorts as well as a souvenir shop. Overall, a great experience!

Robert Ball Jr — Google review

Great experience. You go up a very small tram elevator and it's pretty cool. They have a small museum inside, obviously the gift shop, and a few places to eat inside. Would highly recommend if not afraid of heights and not afraid of being an enclosed spaces.

Ashley Davis-Reyes — Google review

We went on a Saturday and it was fairly busy. We did the tram ride to the top of the arch and it was under $20 a person. Our son was free since he's a wee tot. You enter at the bottom and go through a security check(similar to at an airport). Then you can walk around and learn all the history facts. There is a little cafe and gift shop in that area, as well. If you have a ticket for the tram, you continue on to the next area and guides put in groups. The rest is a quick history lesson then an even quicker ride to the top. You get around 10 minutes to look out of little windows at everything around you then you hop back in your tram and head down. It's a really quick experience but also a neat one. The trams are quite small and fit 5 people snugly(see video). If you're claustrophobic you might consider skipping the tram. If you park by the water, be prepared to climb several flights of stairs. We did it taking turns carrying our 40lb son and the thigh burn was real😅

Desiree Landry — Google review

This is one of my favorite place to visit. It always amazes me with its beautiful and unique architecture. We could go up the arch. Better if you buy tickets in advance online. You need to go through the security check. There could be line depending on the crowd and time of the day. However queue passes fast. There is a museum after you pass through security, which is beautiful. You could enter either of north or south entrance to take tram to top of arch. They also got a decent cafeteria inside if you are hungry. I recommend one should take this tour and go top of arch. It never fails to amaze you. I love going to St. Louis because of this Gateway arch.

Ranjitha Raghu — Google review

4.7

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4.5

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Gateway Arch, St. Louis, MO 63102, USA

(877) 982-1410

15

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

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Historical place

Sights & Landmarks

The Abraham Lincoln Home National Historic Site is a house where Abraham Lincoln lived and worked from 1844 to 1861. The house is located in downtown Springfield, Illinois, and visitors can learn about the life of Lincoln as a lawyer, politician and finally as President of the United States during their tours.

The house was very interesting. The tour guide was good. He should definitely go through it at least one time in your life. Just to say you did it. There's so much in this town to look at it definitely will take a couple trips especially if you're doing a weekend adventure.If you're wondering this is a free tour. You do have to ask for tickets and the visiting center.

Jess — Google review

We stopped in here on our national park tour that we do.It was amazing it was very well done.The home is well restored and exactly like it was when Lincoln lived there.The staff at the visitor center was friendly and helpful and helped answer all of our questions.The movie is nice to see and well worth the time

Alan Brown — Google review

What a lovely National Park. Not only is Abraham Lincoln's hone super interesting and authentic, but the street is lined with historic homes and interesting information. When touring the home, you go upstairs and use the original handrail that Lincoln used...one of the young girls (maybe 11yo) in the group said "I am never washing my hand again, I touched where Lincoln touched." It was very cool. Shannon was our tour guide, volunteer, and she was great!! Worth the trip!!

Karen Gale — Google review

This is a must do for anyone coming close to Springfield! You get to walk through the only home Abraham Lincoln ever owned! It is furnished with most of his original furniture. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and entertaining. Admission is free, you just have to get tickets before your tour. The parking lot is a pay lot. It was busy today so we got tickets for later in the day. That way we had time to go though the Lincoln presidential library. Which was excellent as well. I highly recommend everyone to come and enjoy this experience!

Mikha’el Cline — Google review

It's a great place to visit for all ages. I visited this place during the spring break 2022 with my 5 year old toddler son. If you are going there for the first time, here is the few information:1. Tour to Lincoln's home is free, but it is guided one. It leaves every 30 min, so try to put your name down as soon as you get to the museum2. The parking is free and that is in front of the visitor center. No worries - there is enough parking spot.3. If you are with kid, let your kid participate in the Junior ranger program... it takes only 15-20, but the fun part is they get certificate signed by the ranger and also a Junior ranger badge. This one is free as well.4. Take a walk outside the Lincoln's home on the brick-road. You will feel you have gone 200 years back in time-machine.

Madan Kundu — Google review

This is a must see National Historic Site. You get to walk through Lincoln’s home. See his actual furniture including his writing desk. Also, walk his yard and neighborhood as it was in the 1850’s. It’s all well presented. Storyboards everywhere. The visitor center has a great movie and shop. I came here once before in 1968 for a grade school trip. The National Park Service restored it in the 1980’s so now it’s much better experience than the old days. Go visit Lincoln’s home

RV Traveler — Google review

This was a great little stop on our road trip through Springfield. While you did have to pay for parking if you parked in the lot, which was inexpensive, the rest of it all was free. It was interesting to see and hear about Lincoln’s life and walk through his home. The tour guide was helpful and kind. They shared a plethora of information. Definitely stop by if you find yourself in Springfield.

Denai C — Google review

I’ve been to the Lincoln Museum and Presidential Library many times. I’m so mad at myself for not getting to his crib. The staff are all National Parks staff and they are wonderful, informative and helpful. The visitors center has a ton of info and a short on Lincoln in Springfield. The home is meticulously restored. Walking the streets of Abe’s neighborhood will catapult you into the mid 1800’s.

Thomas Aussem — Google review

I would diffently recommend going here. You get to learn a lot about him and his family and friends. You get to walk around his town and see how he lived and what he did on a daily basis. My favorite part was going through his house and touching the railing that he touched. I think everybody would love to tour his house. It's really fun.

John Snow — Google review

The museum and historic houses encompass a beautifully preserved historic area near the old capital building. Our tour guide was incredibly Insightful and knowledgeable about the site, and she was pretty cute too. You have to get a tour ahead of time in order to see the house but it is free because of Robert Lincoln selling it to the state for $1.. Lots of awesome history here definitely recommend checking it out

Wisco Simple — Google review

What a cool experience! I very much enjoyed visiting here. The old neighborhood is wonderful as well as the visitor information center with s very nice gift shop, movie theater, bathroom & lots of education. Staff was very friendly & helpful. Theres a guest book you can sign. Parking is $2. Tours are free.

Elizabeth Ann — Google review

Our family was privileged to have a wonderful park ranger lead the tour of Lincoln's home. He was incredibly knowledgeable and answered all of our questions. I didn't realize the entire block is a historic site and many neighboring homes are open as exhibits with artifacts.

Bonnie Robinson — Google review

The Lincoln Home National Historic Site was the first stop on our "Lincoln weekend" in Springfield. While born in Kentucky, Abe Lincoln moved to Illinois while young with his family. The home still stands, although much of it was restored and repaired. They did a fantastic job of finding period-specific furniture and furnishings based on drawings and photos.You start in their welcome center/gift shop. There is a brief presentation before you set out to see the house. It was a rainy day, but we did not let them stop us. The attached photos do the house justice, so I won't go into much more detail about what we saw. I already said I was impressed with the restoration and furnishings. Much of my comments are represented in the photos.This home is only a part of a restored neighborhood of homes. These were the homes of Lincoln's friends and neighbors. Many are open to the public. Because of the weather, we chose to defer this part until our next visit.This is a must-see for Lincoln fans and historians. It was well worth the price of entry (free).

Bob Rosenthal — Google review

This is a fantastic place to visit if you're interested in history. The tour guide is very knowledgeable and really brings the site to life. You'll learn a lot about President Lincoln's life and the historic significance of the site. One of the things that I really enjoyed about the site is how well-maintained it is. The grounds are clean and the buildings are in good shape, which makes for a really pleasant experience. The staff is also incredibly friendly and helpful. They're always happy to answer any questions you might have and make sure you're having a great time. There's plenty to do and see, whether you're interested in history or not. You can take a free guided tour of the site, explore the visitor center, or just wander around and take in the sights. Overall, I would highly recommend the Lincoln Home National Historic Site to anyone looking for a fun and educational experience.

Aliyah Thompson — Google review

After many years of wanting to visit, I finally made it. Not only President Lincoln's home but a other neighborhood homes are presented to help us recreate what it might have looked like in the 1840-60s. The tour of the Lincoln home is a guided tour by a park ranger so you get to hear interesting back stories that set the context. The house is well preserved, and I heard 60% of everything in there is original.

Venkat Chandramoleshwar — Google review

Bestttttt ! Highly recommended to each person who r interested ! Very much beautiful place for one day tour…. Stuffs r very helpful ! Visitor center is d best information center & quick watching short theatre too !

Sayani Chatterjee — Google review

4.8

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4.5

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413 S 8th St, Springfield, IL 62701, USA

(217) 492-4241

40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (110)

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

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16

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

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History museum

Museums

Library

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is a must-see for history buffs. With an expansive array of exhibits, the center tells the full story of Lincoln's life in unique ways. The multimedia installations and hologram theater make it one of a kind, making it one of the most popular attractions in town.

There's no better place to learn about the life of Abe Lincoln than at this museum.I would recommend it for families or school groups. Personally, the ideal minimum age is probably around 10+ as getting the most out of each exhibit requires patience and reading. My boys are a bit younger and it was tough for them to stay focused till the end.Any weather conditions are fine because the museum is entirely indoors. It was pouring rain during our visit; the staff was kind enough to offer plastic bags to house each of our wet umbrellas.Don't bother bringing food or drinks in. They won't allow them, but if you forget you can rent a locker for a quarter.You should allocate 3-4 hours of time here in order to enjoy each exhibit and both theatre shows.Keep an eye out for the Abe Lincoln impersonator that will occasionally pop out and roam around. He's happy to greet you and discuss anything from his life, including his wrestling career!!You won't regret your visit here.

Corey Mitchell — Google review

This Museum is AWESOME. For everyone who wants to know about Abraham Lincoln's life, I highly recommend it . Mostly, don't miss none of the projection shows. We weren't able to see all due to some technical issues they are having that day and one show was cancelled. All the museum's employees were great. Thank you

Pierra Altesse — Google review

Made my semi-annual visit to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum this afternoon and it never seizes to immerse my curiosity and attention. Very cool being able to view an original copy of the Gettysburg Address written in Lincoln's own hand. The two theater shows are both absolutely incredible. Both sections of Lincoln's life are fabulously brought to life. As an historian, I fully appreciate every aspect of this museum and can't wait to return.

Kaleb Huffman — Google review

Really nice museum. It has a ton of stuff to look at, very well presented. You will learn things you never knew. Covers Lincoln’s life from his childhood to his death. There are a couple shows that are worth a watch, too. Kids and history buffs alike will enjoy this.

Hudson Witzig Gomez — Google review

Went for the first time today and it was wonderful! There is so much to read and learn that I’m sure I missed a lot! The exhibits are wonderfully done, so many beautiful things to see. They have many authentic pieces behind glass and they had 2 amazing short shows today, they were so neat! Definitely not what I thought I was walking into. The staff was very nice, helpful, and informative. I will definitely be back and I’m sure I will find a ton that I missed! I also strongly suggest doing the scavenger hunt they provide, it makes you really look for the information and adds some extra excitement to it! They have an online version or a hard copy!Even the gift shop had a ton of cool stuff!! I couldn’t believe this experience was only $15! A really good price for the education and fun! The staff also informed us a new exhibit will be opening in March, I am excited to go back and see it!

Lakota Page — Google review

I learned so much about Abraham Lincoln at the Museum. It was educational. I was very intrigued by the map that showed the progression of the Civil War, with the names of the battles and how much territory was gained/lost, and how many deaths. I didn’t realize how much heck he got from the press. There is a whole section of cartoons from the newspapers at the time of the elections through the Presidency. I also didn’t know that Booth was a fairly well known actor. This is definitely a must see! We did walk over to the Library too, but to look at the books you need an appointment. But there were a few things displayed around the main floor you could look at.

Jan Bishop — Google review

One of my favorite places to visit in central Illinois. My wife and I carried our 2 grandsons 12 and 8 years old and they loved it. Mitch Adams is our favorite volunteer. He loves Lincoln and sharing knowledge with others about this great museum and library. Well worth the trip.

Tommy Jones — Google review

4.8

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5.0

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212 N 6th St, Springfield, IL 62701, USA

(217) 558-8844

17

Starved Rock State Park

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State park

Nature & Parks

Hiking Trails

Starved Rock State Park, an area of historical significance, boasts canyons, trails and waterways suitable for hiking, fishing and boating. The park offers a lodge and cabins for visitors to stay in. One of the main attractions is the Starved Rock itself which is easily accessible via a short trek. There are numerous paths meandering through cliffs and rivers that provide scenic views throughout the park.

Starved Rock State Park is an excellent place to hike. The actual starved rock is a very cool place to look around and it is not a very hard or long path. There are plenty of good hiking paths that go throughout the cliffs and rivers. The restaurant and conference center are a good place to rest and have great views. The restaurant’s food is not exceptional but it is pretty good. The nachos are very good.Starved Rock State Park is a unique state park and one of my favorites.

Christian Tong — Google review

This is a good park. However, the visitor center and trails nearby can be very busy on weekends. We had to park in overflow parking and hike in.We had much better luck heading east to the other parking lots away from the main area.Huge rock formations and tons of places to explore. My kids loved it but we saw many frustrated parents trying to us a stroller. If you have someone to lift a stroller up and down stairs, it won’t be bad but overall the park is NOT stroller friendly.Beautiful bluff and great photo ops.There are lots of little places where the trail is not clearly my defined and you can go exploring a little.The staff was great and all the facilities were clean. There is nice restaurant and lodge if you need a bite to eat or place to rest.

Sailor Traub — Google review

What an amazing place to hike! The canopy keeps it very cool. I came early (6:45am) on a week day and did not see anyone until after 9am. Very cool to see the different Canyons and elevations along the hike. The stairs are no joke! It’s a moderate hike but lots of cool stops to see along the way, including waterfalls!

Lisa Meminger — Google review

What an incredible and beautiful state park! Might be the prettiest place I’ve been to in Illinois, it’s such a nice break from the city and it’s not a super far drive. The trails are very easy and beginner friendly, there are some steep staircases and a few uneven parts of path but mostly flat trails. I will say that if you are expecting to see waterfalls, you should go 1-2 days after a big rain storm otherwise they’ll probably all be dry, especially during the middle of the summer. I also recommend going early, even if it’s on a weekday. We got there at about 10:30 and it wasn’t super busy, but by the time we got back from hiking around 1:30 it was insanely crowded, and hiking is a lot more fun in my opinion when it’s empty. Overall, I would definitely recommend visiting here on a day trip, I can’t wait to return myself!!

Robbie Austin — Google review

We arrived early and saw St. Louis Canyon before the crowds arrived. We had lunch in the visitor center, which was decent. After lunch we started out to see the eastern part of the trails.The trails were very well marked and maintained. We covered west as far as St. Louis Canyon and east as far as Wildcat Canyon in about 18,000 steps on our step counter. There are a lot of stairs! The canyons are well worth the hike. We would like to return in the Spring when the falls are at their fullest.

Pam M — Google review

Located about an hour and half away from Chicago. This is a good place for hiking. In the spring and summer you’ll be able to see waterfalls up close. If you come in the winter, you’ll see like a winter wonderland because some of the waterfalls will be frozen and covered in snow. They have paved paths which makes things easier. Adequate amount of parking. You can pack a lunch and sit in the main picnic area. There is a visitor center with restrooms.

Nicholas P — Google review

Wonderful place, we have been seeing signs for this place for years and finally got to come and see it. The ice was just melting and it was a little muddy but man what a great place. Good walk ways great views of waterfalls and a historic place. This place has it all. Even the girl in gift shop was helpful.

Ryan — Google review

We visited Starved Rock December 10 2022. We stayed at Getaway which is about 20 min away for the weekend. Overall, our experience at this state park was excellent. The trails are well maintained even in the late fall. We hiked for about 4 miles seeing the river views and the canyon views over about 2.5 hours. It is difficult to navigate a stroller/wheelchair along most of the trails in this state park so I recommend getting information ahead of time if you need accessibility. The features and varied topography were amazing; we will definitely return here again. About half of the hike we took was along a wooden or paved path. There are a lot of stairs, many more than they explain. Be prepared to go up and own more than 9 flights over the course of your hike. We had mild weather at about 40 degrees overcast with little wind. Its a great time of year to hike if you don't mind cold weather!

Leah Sorensen — Google review

It is very peopley here. I did go on a weekend and expected it to be more populated but WOW. It’s not a holiday weekend thing, this is a popular place and local attraction that tons of people in the Midwest come to see (some even further) Either way, if you can stand bumping elbows every now and then it’s not too bad. It is very pretty. There are a lot of stairs on some of the trails. Definitely bring some water!!

Alexis Beran — Google review

I have a special fondness for this state park as it's a great place for outdoor activities. During our visit, we trekked for 3 hours, exploring both the Wildcat Canyon and the La Salle Canyon. Although there aren't any waterfalls in the summer, the hike remains incredibly enjoyable.

Justin Zhang — Google review

Great hike! It has quite a few stairs on different trails, but we had lots of fun. The visitor center has a nice food court, and you can get ice cream too. The camping ground is great! We stayed in a shaded camp, great for keeping it cool during the warm days. Great place for star gazing of you stay in the no shade campsites.

Fernanda Duque — Google review

I have lived in Illinois since 2007 and wanted to visit Starved Rock so bad. November 19,23 is the first time I have had the pleasure of visiting and I was so glad I did. It was a wonderful time. There's lots of stairs so bring water and even a snack. There's a gift shop with super cute items in it. I want to go back because it was such a great time.

Alexis Gaul — Google review

Nice place to hike! 13 miles altogether on the hiking trails. Went after a slight snow and it was beautiful! Lots of wooded paths. Very well marked and maps. Nice visitor center with restrooms and refreshments. Waterfall is super cool. Several lookout points overlooking the IL river and lock/dam. Dogs welcome! Everyone here was very friendly. Second time hiking here and will return again!

Brian J. — Google review

Nice big park. Trails for hiking an a big waterfront for fishing or watching the boats. There was a picnic area an boat dock just down from the visitor center area. Port a John's there for when the center isn't open. We did the st Louis canyon trail.. beautiful spot. We saw cliff swallows flying around the top of the canyon. That was neat!!

S Hoover — Google review

Tremendous park and trails, amazing campground facility as well five minutes up the road. We hiked four of the trails and loved the clean landscape, variations in altitude, and river and woodland views.Staff are attentive and care greatly for the park.The campground is amazingly clean and quiet. Bathrooms are typical camp baths.A really fun weekend for the family with plenty of fresh air and exercise.

Jonathan Johnson — Google review

What a great state park to hike around and explore. The visitors center was clean and inviting. There is a little place to grab some treats and food called the trailhead.There had been little rainfall around the time we were there so sadly the waterfalls were not flowing 😞 the trails were well marked and the YOU ARE HERE maps were placed all over.Definitely a state park to add to your bucket list!

Denai C — Google review

Beautiful scenery in the state park along with decently maintained trails. In some parts there have been a few steps sticking out in odd places where rain has washed it away. Besides that, it is a very well maintained park. I easily spend 2-3 hours here. It’s a huge park to explore!

Brianna Cosgrove — Google review

Beautiful park to see the fall colors. Lots of hiking trail, the trail to LaSalle canyon has beautiful fall colors, restrooms are clean. Parking is easy during early hours, trail gets crowded later during the day. Would recommend.

Samruddhi Kapileshwar — Google review

We went when the waterfalls were dry so I was kind of disappointed but still had a good time. Spent over 3 hours walking the trails and enjoying the sites of nature. Very beautiful park. Loved the canyons and the views of the dam. Will definitely be back when waterfall season hits up again.

T. R. Justus — Google review

Starved Rock is a great state park for visitors to check out. It has pretty easy hiking so it's great for kids. Parking can be difficult sometimes in the summer as it's a popular place. It can also get a little crowded at certain times. My kids really like going and it's easy to let them wander because the paths are mainly boardwalks with railings and/or easy to follow. This park is dog friendly and, as all State Parks in Illinois, has a leash law. There are also cabins that you can rent and a hotel with a restaurant and pool. The fudge in the gift shop is a must. This is a great place for family photos and wedding photos. Have fun.

bob qualkinbush — Google review

Beautiful place to bring kids and family. This place is a challenging hike that will push the inner athlete in you. Even though it's beautiful, don't underestimate this park at all not for the faint of heart.

Manuel Arevalo — Google review

4.7

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4.5

(1424)40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (126)

Oglesby, IL 61348, USA

(815) 667-4726

18

Harrah's Joliet

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Hotel

Casinos & Gambling

Casinos

Harrah's Joliet is a riverfront casino hotel that offers various dining options, a bar, and live music. It is conveniently located near the train station, making it an ideal choice for travelers. The rooms have deep tubs suitable for soaking and provide guests with a comfortable night's rest. However, additional fees of around $20+ are added to the room rates, which may not be favorable to some.

This is a very quiet, discreet hotel where the beds are clean and comfortable. An ideal location when you need to spend the night somewhere that resembles the comfort of home. The addition of the casino is an extra perk that brings late night food options and a little bit of fun gaming before heading for bed, so it's a great location! Will definitely choose again in the future.

Mario E — Google review

I stayed here primarily because it's the closest hotel to the train station. The tub was deep enough that I could soak (I'm 5'10"). I had great nights rest. I wasn't too happy about some of the extra fees they add to your room (~$20+). So add $20 to whatever price you see advertised. I'm not a gambler so I didn't enter the casino.

DeMarco Davidson — Google review

After being a frequent guest (DIAMOND ELITE LEVEL) at this casino and hotel for more than 2 decades. I really have to re-think going back. I was there on Sunday night and had a horribly embarrassing and humiliating experience at the main casino bar. I approached the bar for a Heineken. Next to me at the bar was a co*cktail server. She called out her order to the bartender and then asked him "did you take a $20 from the bar"? "I'm pretty sure I put a $20 down on the bar". The bartender, Marc, looked her in the face and said "No" The co*cktail server looked at me and there I was standing with a $20 in my hand. She looked at me again and again. Then, the other bartender with dark hair leaned-in toward the co*cktail server and said "do you want me to call surveillance"? She again looked me over and then said "Yes" So...now I know that she thinks the $20 in my hand was stolen from her. People sitting at the bar were looking on as I said to her: "Do you really think I took your money"? She said "Oh, no...I didn't think that" I was the only one within reach of her money with the exception of the bartender that emphatically denied taking it. Surveillance informed them that the bartender, Marc, that said he didn't take it off the bar...did INDEED take it off the bar. Is he very forgetful or a liar that steals money? CLEARLY, the server thought I took her money and others sitting at the bar watch intently at the drama. I was mortified and humiliated beyond measure. i informed my casino host via text of the incident and he apologized and said his boss was informed. I half-expected a call, email or text from someone at Harrah's, but it seems they're perfectly content to have pretend nothing too bad happened. They could have asked for a review from surveillance without the implied accusation that I was a thief and spared me the embarrassment and humiliation. It's not likely I will return to Harrah's or other Caesar's properties. There are too many choices to return where I'm treated so poorly.

Gerard McGuiggan — Google review

Easy in and easy out. Rooms were large and very nice, no smoke smell. Service is excellent at the front desk. Game floor was not crowded and plenty of table games. My $69 room cost me $150.....dang marketing and betting losses! It was worth it, I'll be back.

H.R. Cook — Google review

Terrible, terrible experience. While we were sleeping in our room, we were woken up at 1am by the people who were staying next to us. They were arguing, screaming, and slamming doors continually. This continued on for almost 1.5 hours. In this time, we called down to the front desk asking for security to manage the situation. This just kept continuing and we decided at 2am that we would just go home. We couldn’t sleep with all the screaming and slamming doors. When we went down to the front desk to check out, the woman said that security didn’t get a chance to make it up to the floor to handle the situation. So we paid to stay the night in the hotel and only got to sleep for 2 hours… The staff didn’t seem to care at all.DO NOT RECOMMEND.

Darbi Ahlf — Google review

The pros are that every staff member was very kind and helpful in the casino and hotel. Our room was pretty big and mostly clean. The bathtub was massive and water pressure was excellent and hot. The sundries shop at the front desk had a wide variety of items you may have forgotten. Lots of affordable restaurants within walking distance of the hotel and parking was simple. When we came in at 10pm to retire for the evening, the lobby smelled like fresh pizza. The cons are that our room's previous occupant left their used coffee bag in the machine and a half pot of stinky burned coffee. Some how, house keeping missed that. There are soap dispensers in the shower for shampoo and body wash but they were topped off with water to appear more full, so they hardly made any suds. Every pop machine we encountered was broken and the ice machine on our floor was not working. Your key card won't allow you to take the elevator to any other floor so we couldn't try other ice machines. And you should expect some late night intoxicated folks on the weekends, hollering in the hallway and waking you up if you turn in early. Overall decent experience.

IH Rivera — Google review

It's so sad how they treat my husband because my husband has a Defibrillator/pacemaker and was scared to go through metal detectors and told them he had no problem with them hand searching him, they refuse to let him in unless he went through the metal detectors.. I highly recommend if somebody has this kind of disability and is scared to go through metal detectors. I would go to Bally's in Chicago At least they will hand search you and treat you like a guest and not a inconvenience and tell you to leave

Rhonda Kurylowicz — Google review

The staff was very friendly and attentive, from the casino floor to security to the hotel staff. We got a non-smoking King room and the room was spotless...very clean! The bathroom had a hairdryer that worked!!! The tub was massive... definitely room for 2! Private toilet room, soap/body wash provided, and plenty of towels.The casino gave some, took some away, and then let us walk away with some. New and (best of all) old school slots, a nice variety of dollar, quarter, and penny slots. The tables were open, and there was room to sit at anyone you wanted to.There is a little cafe serving good sandwiches and Starbucks. 2 bar areas w/staff pouring cold beer and stiff drinks.This was our 2nd stay here and we'll be back!

Mark Hodson — Google review

Front desk concierage when we checked in was the least helpful man ever. We asked about Valet parking which they no longer have. I then had to pull teeth to figure out where to park. Room is spacious, and very warm. Air conditioning has one setting and DOES not work. Bedding. Pillows are lumpy, sheets are scratchy. I could hear them crinkle us. For 250 a night, complete rip off.

Veronica Allyson Miller — Google review

Stayed here for a show at the Rialto Theater. It was a quick two block walk to the show. The room was a king, and was very spacious. It was also quiet given the street and river traffic out the window. The best the best thing was the bathroom. The tub was huge, great water pressure, and a lot of hot water. The stool was closed off in its own separate. We did pay $15 for early check in, as we showed up around 2:00 pm and check in is at 4:00 pm

Shawn Artis — Google review

What happened to this casino??!! It's dead up in here feels like being at a bingo hall... You guys have to do something else to bring the excitement back here once again or just shut this place down. Too big of wasted space for this cemetery they want to call a casino

MR. Marcus — Google review

Gambling is what it is...a risk you take; but at least LIVEN this place up!!! Compared to Rivers this place feels like work, not as bad as Hollywood but very close. Pump some good music through the place, get the crowd jumping, have more fiery give aways, be more creative! Joliet should be a place people from Chicago and Indiana should want to take a drive to; a fun hot spot! More winning not a repast.

Renaldo Bogan — Google review

Some rooms need updating (ours didn't this time), coffee pots need deep cleaning or how 'bout replacing them. Very comfortable couch and bed, we had a great night sleep. Brought beers, vodka, bloody mary mix for a great morning 😉 watching football games in our room is fun when you come prepared as we did. Our munchies include chips crackers cheese and spanish style antipasto 😋 Have fun and enjoy your stay!!

anita a — Google review

Phenomenal Management. Willy is one of the rare gems in this world. The way he handled my reservation error was accommodating when I needed it. Rochelle was also very attentive and welcoming. I couldn’t be more thrilled with my stay and the service of the staff

J Cole — Google review

I enjoy the location here. It was my first time. Pizza is good. The casino floor is open in new slots. Parking free across the street. The room was nice. Spacious, and the air conditioning was super cold. Bed was comfortable as well. The best thing about my experience was the front desk supervisor, Tanya. She was absolutely a sweetheart and caring exceptional customer service. She is very knowledgeable and she was very helpful at everything. She is a rare worker these days. She should be promoted, and her skillset and passion for her job would add great value for her organization. Just the overall customer service level. I was going to 4 star rate. I'm a very honest reviewer, but my interactions with her she went above and beyond, so it's 5 stars across the board!!!! Fantastic

Rustan Porter — Google review

Very clean casino. Have stayed at the hotel a few times and the rooms are NEVER that clean. Last time there was toiletries left from the previous guests with opened coffee bags. This time, there was dried up toothpaste in the sink and hairs in the shower. Luckily we were only there for 1 night so I waited to shower when I got home to my clean shower. Don't really recommend the hotel AT ALL but the casino is great and very clean.

Lisa Moxley — Google review

Dated hotel with a casino attached. Our room was nice and very open. Lots of space. I looked at past reviews to note the regular rooms were not great, so I upgraded to the premium 'river view' room.Like I stated, the room was nice. The view was OK. Yes we saw the river but we also had a great look at the pawn shop next door. Hmmmm....We did not eat at this location.It was within walking distance to the Forge.I wasn't very happy with the service. All 4 handicapped spots were taken and we were told to park across the street. Very convenient for a handicapped with luggage.

Jeff — Google review

We attended a Holiday party here for my husband's workplace get together. The Italian food was pretty good for being banquet style and at a Casino.

Laura Murphy — Google review

19

The Morton Arboretum

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Arboretum

Nature & Parks

Diverse 1,700-acre nature preserve with a maze garden & tram plus picnicking, hiking & biking.

We went to see lights at night at the arboretum.What a great walk through lighted trails!! Synchronization music and lighting was beautiful and worth it to watch and listen. Very nice one mile walk, enjoyable view with campfires set up to warm up, and hot drinks stops for those that need warm up from inside 😀. Warm restrooms were also available. Overall perfect evening, glad we were able to make it before the end of the season. Tickets were selling out on line very quickly. So if you are planning next year to visit you better grab tickets before they sold them out!!!

barbara quintanar — Google review

My family and I have been members of the Arboretum for over 10 years! We’ve been able to make so many memories there, it is our go to when out of town guests are visiting and it has been a great educational resource. Our favorite event of the year is Illumination which has become a family tradition. The grounds are amazing and you’ll never run out of new things to do!

Marie Nealon — Google review

Really nice place to walk, relax, ride a bike or just drive and get out and sit. The main entrance has a kids area, gardens, a maze, and plenty of sitting areas. The rest of the park has a lot of trails, sculptures and places to rest. Very clean. Has a gift shop and cafe, i formation center and tram tour service(extra fees). Bathrooms were well taken care of and the staff were all very friendly.

JC Olson — Google review

This place is huge. Prepare to do a lot of walking. I loved the Children's Garden which had ton of interactive activities. The maze was fun. The sculptures were very unique. The food in the cafeteria area was not the best. The gift shop had ton of amazing merchandise. I will definitely visit again.

Pamela Benitez — Google review

This place is very vibrant during autumn. A lots of activities going on, hiking and trailing are for all ages. You can see trees with different colors and perspective. Definitely we’ll be back next year…

Ramiro Aranda — Google review

This was the coolest place!! We went for the Illumination which is around Christmas time where they’ve got all the trees lit up and so much more. So many cool light displays!!! Multiple concession stands on the path which include soft or hard drinks. Spiked hot chocolate, YUM! A very cool and unique experience and I can’t wait to come back again! Make sure to check out the breathing tree!

Brian J. — Google review

This is a huge and beautiful park that I've visited a couple of times and each time has been a little bit different because of the rotating exhibits and gardens. The walkways are wide and the trees are not densely packed so you will have large open areas with no shade. The west side of the park is much more prone to mosquitoes so prepare yourself if you venture on that side.The art exhibits that are incorporated within the park are absolutely beautiful, and the park is large enough you wouldn't be able to get to everything in a full day there. My only complaint is that the park lacks enough signage so while there are many things to explore, you will get lost trying to find them and/or frequently encounter other lost guests who ask you for directions.

Diana L — Google review

Relaxing, calm, meditative, and a plant diverse place to walk and explore. I love seeing the larger than life garden sculptures, and every time I go I discover a new path. Cross country skiing is accessible and a lot of fun here. The trails provide a nice variety of hills, scenery, and are beginner to intermediate in challenge. The Light Show in the winter is impressive, family friendly, and has a lot of variety in music and type of lights. There is so much to do at the Arboretum including classes and events, so a membership is worth it.

Briana Schwabenbauer — Google review

It was fun but better in the summer if you have a picnic or go with a group. Long driving trail (almost an hour) and many walking trails. The special events are worth the trip. Been to the Christmas light show many times.

Frank Cavanaugh — Google review

Love all the sculptures and displays throughout the arboretum. Could spend hours walking among nature. Beautifully kept and lots of trails to explore. Don’t forget your bug spray! Free for members and $5 per guest with a member

Mona — Google review

September it's beautiful for hiking, we did 6 miles and this place always delivers. Love the trails, maintained well and the art and nature are well incorporated together. Will definitely try to come every month to explore the changes that every season brings in thes place.

Risto Andonovski — Google review

The day I was there it was rainy, but I still loved it! Just to drive and see all the beautiful scenery and art sculptures. Learn about the differant trees and plants from the states around that you never saw before was awesome. I can't wait to go back again it's my #1 spot to go again on a short vacation. Don't miss the acres of beautiful sights of nature, you won't regret it, you'll fall in love with the place!! Until we meet again!!💚💙💯🫶

Kathy DeLaCruz — Google review

Beautiful during the fall and blissful during the winter. No matter the season, there's always something to enjoy in this beautiful place. It is great for to hike, run, read, and just enjoy spare time. Their cafe/restaurant offers lots of delicious and healthy food options. This is, overall, just a great place.

V Mendes — Google review

Fell in love with this place. If you live in the city it's quite a journey getting there but it's worth it. Tranquil trails, great restaurant and cafe, and the plants are beautiful. My favorite part was the beautiful sculptures and red winged blackbirds. I would recommend bringing water and bug spray, the ticks were out.

Michaela Washington — Google review

Beautiful views, amazing place to spend the day enjoying nature. Definitely wear your walking shoes because this place is huge! Maps are also a must if wanting to find all the human +nature statues, which I feel could have used more directions on the trails. Gift shop had some really cool items though it is on the pricey side, drinks and food on the high end as well, it was $6 for a small hot chocolate ; otherwise would give 5 stars.

Amber DeLong — Google review

Anyone going here for the sculptures in many of the most viewed pictures, the exhibit is sadly over. Fortunately, the exhibits are updated, just have to check their website. Many trails to walk, with paved and wood chip covered trails. A visitor center with food/drink, and lots of areas for children as well. A must see if you're looking for a place to enjoy (easily) a few hours of nature near the Chicago area, and worth the trip to see by itself!

Breanna Plach — Google review

Love the Arboretum. We are members. We got married here so there are many special memories. Love the children's garden and maze garden. Sculptures on display are amazing and add fun to the adventure. Light show in winter is a fantastic event.

Jacquelyn Jancius — Google review

Just an amazing place and you need to drive to go to the different areas. There are 5 intriguing sculptures done by a Polish artist and they are amazing. You can get your steps in for the day as you will need a day to see a lot. I loved the labyrinth and we saw a sycamore caterpillar 🐛 there! The gift shop is lovely and well designed.

karina k — Google review

We enjoyed the short hikes and reading the informational displays along the hiking paths. The scarecrows were displayed along the short Meadow Lake Trail. There were some stalls set up by the visitor center where you can purchase food with tickets. When my kids were younger, they used to enjoy the Children's Garden. In that area, there were many plants in the ground with signs labelling the plants. We enjoyed both the colorful trees and the flowers. We spent four hours walking around the East side and never made it to the West side.

E W — Google review

Went for the holiday light show and it was fantastic! Music and lights at night in the Arboretum is a fun event for dates, families, friends and groups. Hot chocolate, coffee and a few cold weather adult beverages add to the experience. Their were also a couple bonfires you could gather around to enjoy. Super friendly and courteous staff throughout the Arboretum.

Kit Wolf — Google review

Last time we went here was when it was a drive through so this time thought there would be more since we were walking. Coolest part was the 6 minute illumination of the trees. But they got rid of the giant chandelier this year which I loved. I do think that could have used more lights especially around the pond. Light up the pathway to go back like you do the parking lot! A lot of areas that you could still light up. Overall we had a beautiful night being outside I. The Arboretum.

Teresa Prior — Google review

4.8

(11970)40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (137)

4.5

(986)40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (138)

4100 IL-53, Lisle, IL 60532, USA

(630) 968-0074

20

Skydeck Chicago

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Observation deck

Sights & Landmarks

Located on the 103rd floor of the former Sears Tower, Skydeck Chicago provides visitors with breathtaking views of four states. The unique viewing platform The Ledge lies 4ft outside the building dimensions and offers brave visitors unrivaled views over the city. With museum-quality exhibits and a 60-second ride up to the 103rd floor, Skydeck Chicago is a must-see attraction in Chicago.

Amazing!! It was a great experience. We visited on a Monday afternoon so the wait wasn't long but they make the line interesting with photo opportunities and interesting local facts. We bought the tickets and within an hour we were finished and walking out the lobby doors with an incredible experience and photos. I highly recommend this experience if you have the time. We may have to come back to get the night time experience. Simply amazing!

Steve Koz — Google review

Absolutely exhilarating though I backed onto the ledge and didn't look down! We went during golden hour though I think the lighting for pictures would've been best at dusk or night. The weather was perfect on Saturday so we could see for miles! The staff was really nice and directed us to the shortest line! I think it's great that there's a time limit for everyone and that you're able to get back into line if you want to take another look or get more pictures! We only waited about 15 minutes each time, and went up on the ledge twice. The gallery preceding the elevator to the 103rd floor was really informative and taught me a lot I didn't already know about Chicago or other tall buildings. The money is totally worth it! Get tickets ahead of time!!!

Melinda Bianchi — Google review

Everyone should experience Chicago from the top as well as from the river and the neighborhoods. We really enjoyed the exhibit leading to the lookout, too. Some in our group stepped out onto the glass ledge very reluctantly, but all enjoyed mastering the challenge. The views were breathtaking.

Jackie James — Google review

So, there I was in Chicago, with just a day left to explore. I had heard about the Skydeck at Willis Tower, but I hadn't really planned on visiting. I thought, why not give it a shot? It's one of those things tourists do, right? And wow, am I glad I went for it. The moment you step onto the Skydeck, it's like the whole city opens up in front of you. You're way up there, on the 103rd floor, and the view is just mind-blowing.But here's the real showstopper – the glass box, also known as The Ledge. When you step out into it, there's this thrilling, almost surreal feeling. You're suspended in the air, with Chicago's streets and buildings far below. It's exhilarating and a little bit nerve-wracking, but in the best way possible. You're literally standing over the city, with nothing but glass under your feet!I spent a good amount of time just soaking in the views. You can see for miles – the skyscrapers, Lake Michigan, and on a clear day, even beyond the city limits. It's not just a tourist attraction; it's an experience that gives you a whole new perspective on Chicago. It's a must-do for sure, especially if you want to feel the heartbeat of the city from an entirely unique vantage point.Honestly, it was the perfect end to my Chicago trip. It’s one of those experiences that makes you appreciate the beauty and scale of a city. So, if you ever find yourself in Chicago with some time to spare, definitely check out the Skydeck. It's a memory you'll cherish long after you're back on solid ground.

Kelly Darwin — Google review

The family came on a business trip with me to Chicago and we stay near the Skyjack Chicago where we could go out on the LEDGE in a glass box. The kids were excited and sacred at the same time to do this! We had a blast and the weather was phenomenal and when I mean that it was cold, but bearable!!! The line was long so make sure you purchase tickets in advance and get what is needed. They only allow you a couple pictures with your phone and then the professional picture! The gift shop was cool as well with plenty of souvenirs.

Patrick Kelly — Google review

Had a blast and if you take your time in the history/ picture taking part you can easily spend an hour inside making it worth the price. The view is also beautiful allowing for views one every side of the building and making the price of $39 worth it. Definitely a fun experience to do while in Chicago!

Kaellolain 361 — Google review

Such a stunning experience. Although for standing in a deck and clicking some stunning photos is a task as they gave a short time so it’s recommended to go with just 2 people at a time so that you can get a decent picture in a short time. Although there are places where you can get a great view to capture yourself. Also sunset is perfect time as you can see both day and night views.

Sampada Bhutkar — Google review

Super attraction! Fortunately it was not very busy. Got to the 103rd floor pretty quickly. Stepping onto the viewing "box" can be a challenge if you are leary of heights. Great views on a clear day. We had a smokey view from the Canadian fires. Highly recommend this place!

Tim S — Google review

Very nice place to check out. The views are incredible! Better management is needed, though, on how much time people can spend taking pictures. The time clock doesn't work for all groups who are there to enjoy the place.

Mak BH — Google review

It is one of the very touristy things to do just to say that you've done it. We went in the morning and were able to get through it pretty quick as there weren't that many people there yet. The elevator ride was cool as it lists how tall the building is compared to the others in the world. The view from the top was pretty good as it was a clear day. For the Ledge part, you have 90 seconds to take your photo before being ushered out, so plan accordingly on how you want to take your photos. You can also purchase the pre-set photos that they take for you in the beginning and also at the ledge.

Charlie Te — Google review

Very nice views, a bit crowded, so the time on the glass ledge is very limited. I liked that there were plenty of food options on the 1st floor and also enjoyed color factory while I waited for my time slot. The store is really well stocked and the prices weren't too bad.

elizabeth leon — Google review

The customer service here was phenomenal. They noticed my birthday crown and offered me a birthday button to wear, which was super cool! The views were gorgeous! Overall, it was a great way to kick off our Chicago/Birthday Trip!We bought the City Pass as well, which we highly recommend for the best value!

Haylie Clark — Google review

Nice place, you can see all 4 corners of Chicago. We went during weekdays and wasn't crowded so we could stay more time taking pictures. We bought some souvenirs but then find out that the same souvenirs you can get them on CVS or Walgreen at 1/3 of the price.

Holly Wang — Google review

A great experience. Leading up to the elevator ride up, you walk through an immersive experience through the history of Chicago. Once you're up, you have a great view of the city. There was a short line for the ledge. They have workers there to help guide and keep the line moving. They take a professional photo that you can purchase when you leave.

Keys B. — Google review

We were able to book tickets for Skydeck through the CityPass app (this was such a great decision). We arrived at the building and followed all the clearly marked signs to the elevator for the Skydeck. The employees were all friendly and helpful in directing us where to go. They give you about 2 minutes to take pictures on the ledge itself. The views from the windows are also great. We booked for about 9:30 in the morning and that seemed to be a good time.

Leah Day — Google review

Great views of the city and beyond, weather permitting. They have fun informational displays to wander through before you go up, and lots of space up top. The glass ledge is a hit with nearly all visitors. Gave me a touch of vertigo. Staff was professional and polite.

Jacob Anawalt — Google review

I came here during the week at about 1pm on a Monday mid May and there really wasn’t too much of a wait. I purchased our tickets online as we entered the building. Honestly, I had not been to the tower in about 3 years, there was obviously major renovations to the basem*nt where you board the elevator to the Skydeck. ( Which really improved aspects of visiting the Willis tower) There was such cool decor and interactive features you could take photos next to. I particularly enjoyed the walk towards the elevators. You get up there fairly fast, so remember to bring some chewing gum for your ears. But once you’re up there it is absolutely spectacular. My favorite part was veering over the side that faces the lake. It was so beautiful, honestly who knew there were so many different shades of blue out there in Lake Michigan. My kids loved the opposite side that faces the city view because that’s where you get to stand on the glass ledge and see the city below you. You get about 2 full minutes to stand in the glass box they stick you in. You can take your own photos and you also have the option to purchase a photo they snap of you once you’re in there. They sell pretty gifts there but they are very pricy so don’t forget your loot. Absolutely highly recommend stopping at this Major Chicago Gem.

Lola Love — Google review

Absolutely breathtaking experience. The sights from the top height is exhilarating yet beautiful. It’s an amazing view and standing by the ledge is a little scary but worth the photos. This is definitely a must see if you’re coming to Chicago!

Crystle S — Google review

Always enjoy my trips to Chicago. This was my first visit to the SkyDeck. Absolutely fabulous! Terrific view of Chicago City ! Visited on weekend on Saturday ! Waiting time for lift was around half an hour ! Supporting staffs and good restaurants ! really enjoyed it 😃 Lot of points to take pictures !I think they overpriced for photos ! If they cut it to half, most of the tourist would probably take it 😎

Kanchan P. Adhikari — Google review

Breathtaking experience with ledge and 360 degree panoramic views of Chicago. The path the leads to elevator is modernized and you can spend easily 30 minutes exploring things even before you go to the Sky deck.There are many food courts and several other amenities in this tower.

Chetan Motamarri — Google review

Fun experience. Keep in mind that there may be some waiting times. We used our Chicago pass for entry. If you're with a big group I would recommend getting the express passes.The route to the observation deck is actually quite fun as it provides some backdrops for photo ops and some educational information on Chicago buildings and culture.They take green screen pictures shortly after entering the line and upstairs at the ledge they take two professional pictures that you can purchase. downstairs for $31. The friendly staff is also very helpful and happy to take pictures with your own phone. You have about 1 minute to take your own pictures while on the ledge.

Ayse — Google review

Skydeck Chicago is an absolute highlight of any visit to the Windy City! This iconic attraction, located atop the Willis Tower, offers an unparalleled experience that combines breathtaking views, thrilling heights, and a dash of history.The highlight is undoubtedly The Ledge—a series of glass boxes extending from the skyscraper, allowing visitors to stand suspended 1,353 feet above ground level. The adrenaline rush and panoramic views of the city are truly unforgettable. The knowledgeable staff adds to the experience, providing insights into Chicago's rich architectural history and pointing out notable landmarks.The journey to the Skydeck is an adventure in itself, with a high-speed elevator whisking you to the top in a matter of seconds. Once there, the 360-degree views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan are simply awe-inspiring. The interactive exhibits on the history and construction of the Willis Tower engage visitors of all ages.Timing your visit during sunset is highly recommended, as the city transitions from day to night, casting a warm glow over the skyline. The facility is well-maintained, and the crowd management ensures a comfortable experience.Skydeck Chicago is a must-visit for tourists seeking an exhilarating and panoramic introduction to the city. From the moment you step onto the glass floor, you'll understand why this attraction deserves its five-star rating. An absolute Chicago gem!

Sayak Das — Google review

It was my first time here. I'm glad I came to visit the & see the view. It's amazing day or night. I didn't like that they rushed us out of the deck for pictures, but it was nice. Apparently, they only give you 2 min to take pics, which is crazy for the price you pay, but either way, it was a great experience. 👌💯

Sandra C. — Google review

Beautiful view and one of the tallest skyscraper in the US. Enjoyable experience as well with what they call «the ledge». Highly advise to book this one through the City Pass as you will have access to the priority admission which allows you to skip a few queues.

Valentin LABOURDETTE — Google review

It was a nice experience. They show you the history of Chicago and all the work the city made to survive.The view is breathtaking. The Ledge is at the 103 floor. The whole experience lasts about 30 minutes regularly.I did take my time to explore and read almost everything.

Ronald E. Miranda Lazala — Google review

If you're visiting The Ledge, buy your tickets for about the time you plan to be there. You don't have to show up exactly at this time, it just helps the exhibit control the chaos. There's an amazing museum after check-in leading to the elevators that take you up, so give yourself 30-45 minutes to enjoy all that as well. The elevator ride is ridiculously quick at under a minute. You can hang out on the Skydeck for as long as you like. Once at The Ledge, you can get back into the queue as many times as you like. They only give you about 90 seconds on The Ledge, a little more for larger groups, so have your poses planned in advance. I suggest visiting well before sunset, as photos can be washed out by the sun behind you. However, just after sunset and before dusk is beautiful. And when it's finally dark out, the city lights are wonderful viewing, but pictures can get lots of glare and reflection off the glass. Once back on the ground, they will sell you photos and digital copies for an expected premium, $35-50.The Ledge exhibit costs about $35/person, so it can be expensive for larger groups/families, but overall it's a wonderful experience. Research your parking options ahead of time, or expect to pay about $50 on top of the exhibit fees.On a personal note, the entire staff from building entry, up to the top, and back down on the ground were extremely helpful, friendly, and professional.

Aaron Reible — Google review

A must go places if you are new here.Take pictures in the ledge, very unique experience. Because I was there alone, I asked the staff taking a lot of pictures for me, they were very patient which I am very grateful for.Met a group of nice people from Alabama. They even said hi to my parents when we were FaceTime. ✨If you guys are seeing this, hi!

Yifan L — Google review

Best views of the city! Be sure to get the expedited ticket if you can or else there will be long wait times. The expedited entrance came with the 5-city pass which I also recommend if you’re in Chicago for the weekend!

Charles Vega — Google review

This is well worth every penny. Not only will you get fabulous photos on The Ledge, there’s some incredible history of the city that you get to see while you’re in line. Go at sunset!!! Check the website for times that are busy. We bought tickets on site and walked right in.

Meridith Spencer — Google review

4.5

(29948)40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (144)

4.5

(17832)40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (145)

233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606, USA

(312) 875-9447

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21

Six Flags Great America

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Theme park

Water & Amusem*nt Parks

Six Flags Great America is a vast and sprawling amusem*nt park situated in Gurnee, Illinois. The park boasts of over 100 rides and attractions, including numerous roller coasters for those seeking thrills. Visitors can also take a break from the rides by visiting Gurnee Mills shopping center located nearby. Recently opened to the public, Six Flags Great America welcomes all visitors with no waiting lines in the park.

Fantastic time had. Was my first time visiting and I loved it. As others have said, several rides weren’t open like the joker, and a few others but I still had an awesome day out. So many other cooler rides around. The funnel cake was epic and meeting bugs bunny was nice. I throughly enjoyed myself and would come back. Not so many people as like at Disney or universal so I don’t know if maybe cause I went on a work day Friday but I loved that. No waiting time on most rides (though the Goliath and the flight roller coasters had hectic lines) but everything else you walked right into the ride. A great day out.

Chosani Mbewe — Google review

Great park. My only complaint is they aren't very good at pairing single riders which really bogs down the lines (even more so on coasters that are only running one train). While they have an impressive coaster lineup, numerous of their coasters are clones or have been cloned at other parks so there's only a handful of "unique" coasters. Don't get me wrong all the coasters are fun but The Whizzer is about the only one so unique that you can't get that experience at another park.

John Niehaus — Google review

Had. A blast the three of us went it was awesome got on rollercoaster 🎢 I never thought I would. We went early on Saturday so the flash pass wasn't needed to skip the line. Everyone that worked there was very friendly and nice!!! I bought my season tickets online so everything was ready for us to get into the park, with ease!!!

Cameron Roberts — Google review

Small but well organized park with rollercoasters! A small area allows you to walk the entire park in 10-15 minutes on foot, drinks are sold everywhere, there are smoking areas and restaurants with food, and comfortable places to relax. The park is very interesting, each attraction has its own history, which goes back years, reminding that nothing new has been invented since then, but there are favorite classics that people love to ride. There are a lot of people on holidays and weekends, and you have to wait in line for a long time, it is better to come on Monday or Wednesday. I really liked the park, but there are not enough sweet desserts! I would like a greater variety of sweet buns, donuts, and possibly cakes!!! I recommend

Two wheels for soul — Google review

I visited Six Flags a few times this year. I will say getting a season pass is worth the value if you go more than once (even only twice). The pass includes parking, discounts on certain food and drinks in the park. Plus discounted tickets for friends and family.Six Flags offers many attractions for thrill seekers. I love the selection of Rollercoasters they have. The wait times weren't terrible, though I went on weekdays. I also brought my 8 and 6 year old children for Boo Fest recently and I was very impressed with how many attractions they had for little ones. The decorations were fun to look at and the rides kept them busy. There are dozens of food options and they do offer themed foods from time to time (Oktoberfest in September and October). The food can be pricey but, the quality is good. I bought a pass for next year, I used to go a lot when I was younger and it's still a great amusem*nt park with plenty to do. The longest I waited for am attraction was about 50 minutes.

Jeffrey Arias — Google review

Six Flags Great America is a FANTASTIC theme park! Not only does it have a bunch of coasters and spinning rides, but it has a LOT of rides for kids under 48in. At least 16 that I can think of, and about 12 of those kids under 42in can also ride. Their app has gotten really good; you can mobile order from a lot of different restaurants, see show times, and access the flash pass. The park is clean, the entertainment is top notch (I don't think I've met entertainers who are nicer than the ones here at SFGA, and they're super talented...and I go to Disneyworld a LOT, lol) food is good, and all the employees that I've ever encountered are kind and willing to help you. This review is ONLY for the main park. The waterpark is not open for the season yet...but we love it there too, especially since they added mobile ordering over in that section. You can only enter the waterpark from outside, there is no longer an entrance from inside the park. There is a six flags great america Facebook page for people who are fans of the park, and you can get a daily alert for up to date information about the park and meet new coaster enthusiasts, which will enhance your experience at the park.

Danielle O'Hara — Google review

The rides were pretty fun and overall a decent experience. Don't let the empty lines fool you, you'll be in line for hours if you don't have a "Flash Pass" it really is the pay to win system that gives people with money the most. So If you can afford it buy some of those passes, if not pass on six flags and go to kings island instead.

Alex Salazar — Google review

What a fun experience for our family!! So many rides for so many different thrill-seeking levels. I recommend buying tickets online about a month in advance - that seemed to be the lowest price. I also recommend going on a weekday. The lines were longest right after lunch (around 1pm - 4pm) If possible, get there 30min before it opens to get a good parking spot, lather on sunscreen, and wait in line for the gates to open. I also suggest bringing along lunch/supper. You are able to leave and re-enter the park as long as your hand is stamped, so save some money and pack food in the car. Tip: freeze the lunch meat and keep in a cooler w/ice packs in your car. It will be nice and cold for lunch (a bit icy, but good on a hot day!) and still cool/safe enough for supper.

Katrina Meinel — Google review

Great time on the X-flight, Raging Bull, and The Viper.Really good rides. Some cool things for the kids. Fright fest is dope too! Great decorations and interactive bits throughout the park.Def a money grab. Regular nachos are going to be $18. Beer is $15. Everything is pricey here.Worth noting that if you go during the weekend (or any busy time) then you’re best off getting a fast pass. We got screwed by the place after waiting 45 min in line for raging Bull only for them to shut it down. Because of that we only rode 3 rides after being at the park for an entire day.

Jeremy Miller — Google review

Six Flags Great America is open y’all. Today was a pretty good day. There was literally no line in the park. We have waited long enough.

Neville Reid — Google review

The rides were great! Definitely got an adrenaline rush for sure. However it was the 4th of July so the only water ride they had was packed! And halfway through our day all the rides overheated and shut off. We waited about an hour or more and left due to maintenance taking a while to get everything back up. Slice of pizza was 20 bucks but it was good and vending machines charged 5 buckaroos for beverages. Definitely won’t be coming back until things cool off.

JANIE CHAMBERS — Google review

Great place to visit with family and kids. Lots of awesome rides. We enjoyed the each and every ride. Gotham City Rail ride is ready great. Food option are also nice and shops are open till 11.

Surendra Gurjar — Google review

Six Flags is definitely a thrills over atmosphere kind of park. There are some areas that they paid decent attention to though like Battle for Metropolis. If you're not into thrill rides, you might not get your money's worth as there are lots of crazy rides, a decent number of kids rides and not much in between. Plus of course, there are the lines on busy days. If you are an adrenaline junkie though, this is the perfect place for you.

Patrick Villacorta — Google review

This is such a bittersweet review. Our family enjoys coming here with our season passes because we live nearby. the rides are great and the park is clean. They have an amazing variety of adventurous rides to family rides. And the kids sections are great. They've been doing a lot better with their entertainment this summer than in the past. If you're coming here for just the day, I would not recommend it. The prices are skyrocketed and the parking charges are unjust. You will pay around $20 bucks for a mediocre/poor meal. Spend your money somewhere else. For being one of the only amusem*nt parks in the area, I expect a lot better.

Becka Irving — Google review

FRIGHT FEST!!! GREAT TIME!! It's expensive to get in to six flags and it's costly while your in there. It's worth it when you get inside and get on the rides, and do the haunted houses. It's a cash less place so load your cards or have credit available. Parking is a nightmare and far to walk but it's a huge place. The scary characters walk around and they have scary zones so it's still a great time if you don't get the fright fest tickets. The kids will absolutely love what's going on and have a blast with all the scary characters walking around. The lines for waiting are big but generally move quite quickly. Hope you enjoy!!!

Thomas R — Google review

Six Flags Great AmericaNot bad. I've seen pictures of this place. I finally got to see it.Very enjoyable. Good food. Good rides. I only have ONE ISSUE. Why did they remove the batmobile. I came JUST TO SEE THE BATMOBILE. WHY DID YOU REMOVE IT.Highly Recommended

Kalvin Hang — Google review

22

Horseshoe Hammond

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Casino

Casinos & Gambling

Hotel

Horseshoe Hammond is a casino and entertainment venue located by the lakefront since 1996. Managed by Caesars Entertainment, it employs over 2,200 people and boasts a riverboat-style design from 2008. The large gaming floor holds over 300 video poker machines, 700 new slot games, sportsbook betting options and various table games. This full-service casino offers restaurants, bars with delicious drinks like margaritas and great food including tasty pizza.

It was clean my beds were very comfortable! The staff was very friendly and helpful! We had a problem with the toilet 🚽 and when we came back it was fixed and working ! If I go back to Hammond I will definitely stay at this hotel 🏨!

A'lisa Hopkins — Google review

I give you one star. Your gift giving is cheap. You don't have enough winners. The food in the steak room isn't good nor the decor. It use to be a fun place but it's not anymore. Time for a change.

Dorothy Norris — Google review

First visit. Big casino and Nicely laid out is specific gaming areas. Table poker over there, craps over here, etc. It does permit smoking and you'll know at the front entrance. 1 point off for that

Jeff Owens — Google review

Fun place to get out the house play slots win jack pot. Nice atmosphere all but the smoke not a smoker i like fresh air. Smoke not good for lung cancer. Fresh air good if they had smoker room for the crack heads.

Charlene Jones — Google review

I loved it there yesterday,it was fun. The machines are my money 💰 thou,😁😁😁😝. I had a glass of margarita and left. But I would recommend a smoke free partition cus everyone don't smoke but want to partake in other casino activities.

Wade Seton — Google review

Other than dry cleaning my pockets, I had fun here. Would have been nice if the slot machines weren't incredibly tight like a duck's butt in water lol. Clean well laid out and very organized. Unfortunately the buffet closed awhile back, but there are a few options on the main level. Too much room dedicated to the sports book lounge that could have had slot machines in them. This limited some gaming options.

Todd Lewis — Google review

Since I didn't win any $ on the slots, it was just ok. The staff was helpful and friendly and the parking was well lit and abundant. My bf went thru $290 and I went thru $80 in about an hour.

Heidi Bartels — Google review

Friendly staff, Drinks come pretty quick when you push the button at a machine. Dealers are nice and helpful if you've never played a game before. There is a large verity of machines. They also have a buffet with a really good selection of different kinds of food. I look forward to coming back and playing there again. Just next time let me win some money and not break even.

jonathon bohling — Google review

We were here for a concert and security had no idea what they were doing, three separate lines to tell you to go to a different line. Most attendees missed the opening band (Lorna Shore). Drinks are reasonable, but the slots are garbage. Go to the Hard Rock instead if you're in the area

Chris Redar — Google review

Went to the Jeff Dunham Show and the Theater was AMAZING! Casino was awesome and loved the smoking section. Gaming and smoking a cigarette is a great experience. Lines for the food was a bit rough though seemed like they need a little help with organization. Overall neat and good experience

Christian Jones — Google review

Horseshoe is my favorite casino! I’m not much of a gambler, but once in a while I like to come here. The drinks from the bar are wonderful! My favorite is the margarita from the bar in the back. They also have a good selection of food and their pizza is great!

Martinez — Google review

As much money as I have spent this year at the Horseshoe they ought to let me win a few jackpots, lol. Other than that I love the Horseshoe. The staff is nice. They have new slot machines. They just need different food. It gets very boring eating the same thing over again. I love to eat a good meal on Sundays if I'm at the horseshoe. The buffet needs to reopen and they just need to have the food covered this time. They had the best buffet to me. There was this one particular slot attendant tho who was very rude to a guest. I was standing right there. The slot attendant didn't have a smile on her face or anything and that made me uncomfortable and she wasn't even there to help me. She was there to help the other guest.

Nichole Kelley — Google review

Terrible Stinky cigarettes smoke,Smells 🚬, Terrible staff Attitude if you ask a question or need help with something and not just one ALL And the staff in the cashier cage lol they think there God... Buffet still closed Covid is over.. No Attraction Machines are TIGHT All the time, Plenty of other Is Casinos to go to and spend my money at. C ya Horseshoe....

Lawrence Riggio — Google review

I'm a seven star member and the horse doesn't make you feel like one. It is impossible to get ahold of the reward desk. Every time I call , no one picks up or they hang up on me. At this point I weather send my money at the HardRock casino. There's a pretty good chance I will not return back to horseshoe.

Tilman Colbert Jones — Google review

My recent visit to Horseshoe Hammond Casino was focused on the venue's entertainment aspect, rather than its gaming offerings. The performance venue struck a unique balance between size and intimacy, capable of hosting well-known performers while maintaining an intimate atmosphere that amplified the live show experience.One point to note for future visitors is the venue's valet parking policy. We were surprised to find a $50 CASH ONLY valet fee. Thankfully, we noticed this ahead of time. It's a detail that those planning a trip here might want to keep in mind, particularly if they're attending a popular event.Inside, the venue featured two bars in the lobby, providing easy access to refreshments before the show or during intermissions. Although a couple of bars inside the concert hall were closed during my visit, the availability of beverages was not an issue. The seats were comfortable, equipped with cupholders for convenience—an appreciated detail that added to the overall enjoyment of the show.I didn't need to use the restrooms during my visit, so I can't comment on their availability or cleanliness. However, given the overall well-maintained state of the venue, I would assume these facilities follow suit.In conclusion, the Horseshoe Hammond Casino is more than just a gaming experience. Its entertainment venue, with its substantial size yet intimate feel, is a noteworthy destination for live performances. Whether you're a fan of big-name artists or local talents, this venue, with its comfortable setting and distinct attention to detail, provides an enjoyable setting for an evening of entertainment. Just remember your cash if you plan to use the valet service!

James “Liam” Biggerstaff — Google review

Took in a live show at the casino. The box seats were great and the staff was very well organized. Overall it felt like a great place to see a live performance, especially if you can get seats on the upper level.

Lawrence K — Google review

This isn't like the location I've visited in Maryland. The customer service was excellent. However, It's dark and not welcoming. The machines are old, and I'm praying my bank debit card is okay because their ATM machines were malfunctioning, multiple ones. I was so excited to visit this casino based on my visit to the other. It was quite disappointing. My party left and we went to Hard Rock Casino. We didn't win big, but it's brighter, it has newer machines, and the energy is far more exciting.

Da Cali Dream & Nice Fantasy — Google review

23

The Art Institute of Chicago

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$$$$expensive

Museum

Art museum

The Art Institute of Chicago is a world-renowned art museum with over 3000 pieces spanning 5000 years of artistic innovation. The museum is located in Grant Park on the city's front lawn and features one of the largest school of architecture in the world.

Thia museum was enormous and I am pretty sure a week in this place still wouldn't be enough time. I wish I would have had more time to appreciate each piece but what I did see was amazing in every single way. The museum is beautiful, spacious, and clean. They have attendants in every room to help you find your way. I would absolutely recommend a visit here and be prepared to spend the way and wear comfortable footwear. They have 4 levels and multiple buildings and wings. I typically don't use elevators unless its a high rise but I did today. There are multiple entrances and exits as well.

Cassie Ware — Google review

Forever captivated by the beauty and history encapsulated in the Art Institute. Not a place to visit too often as the gallery is largely full of permanent installations, but there is always some sort of special exhibition/gallery taking place when they are open. Entire building is extremely clean with staff and maps scattered around in order to make your experience more enjoyable. Many famous works that one recognizes from pop culture or past studies are able to be seen here. One of the top art museums in the world and an undeniable staple in Chicago’s history. Do not miss out on viewing everything it has to offer.

Dylan Ivanov — Google review

What else is left to say about this incredible museum, which houses so much of the world's amazing art and history? Even people who aren't art buffs will find something to appreciate here (or at leastsomething familiar!). My only gripe about my visit was the extremely long line for the coat check. The staff were working hard to move it along, but we still incurred about a thirty minute wait at drop-off and then again at pick-up during our March visit. Try to avoid checking anything if you can, so you can get in and enjoy the museum.

Alyssa, waywardblog — Google review

Amazing art museum that is 100% well worth the visit. It holds everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts and mummies to modern American paintings like American Gothic and Nighthawks. You can easily spend more than 3 hours here. I would highly recommend visiting.

RV — Google review

Very good museum, almost good at everything! It's just one little thing I'd like to say is that it's too big and the instructions are not very significant ( I understand it's for the better look but I got lost and missed some beautiful moments for 3 times....). I hope they have a better touring guidance or audio guide so that I have some clues of sequels in each exhibition area.Otherwise wow!!! It's like I've never seen so many beautiful stuff performed at once place in a good way, especially the Japanese area, they tried very hard to make the ambience feeling like the Japanese vibe, super impressive. I would say the way of exhibition is better than the Met in New York City.

孫紹庭(Shao-Ting Sun) — Google review

Amazing museum with a large collection of works from important artists. The layout is well thought out and flows from one area to the next. Though large, not overwhelming in size. If you can plan a day there you will be pleased in what you cover.

V — Google review

A truly impressive museum. A collection of impressionist art only to be rivaled by some of the great museums in Europe. Beautiful and massive building with seemingly unending collections of art from every time period. You could spend a whole day there, with a break for an excellent cappuccino in the delightful modern wing cafe.

Sydney Michaeli — Google review

It is so famous that I had expected the exhibit to be as informative and comprehensive as the British Museum or the Metropolitan. That might be too challenging. The display in each section is lack of clear plot/storyline, by which I mean the items are like various bread slices in a basket, correlated but not unable to compose a full piece. I understand this is an art museum, so the explanation notes mainly focus on art perspective. Still, for visitors who might come from different backgrounds, the museum could have done a better job of interpretation.

Cidane CG — Google review

This is a stunning collection of artwork from so many famous painters and sculptors. The price is a bit high ($32/adult), but children 13 and under are free. The building felt like a maze at times and there were alarms constantly going off as people stood too close to artwork. Despite those minor inconveniences, this remains one of my favorite art museums!

Bonnie Robinson — Google review

My first time attending as an adult, I had a much bigger appreciation for the arts now versus as a kid. It was absolutely breathtaking, and we didn't get to see everything!! We were there for 3 hours and were amazed at all the pieces located here. I would wholeheartedly come back and make it an entire day. I felt like a tourist in my own city.

Laura Soria — Google review

First time visit to this incredible museum. Very busy for a Friday afternoon. Spent 2.5 hours here and only saw a small part of the collection. Utilized the cellphone app to get around the museum and view the essentials. Recommend booking tickets online. Will definitely be back.

Howard Rowe — Google review

An absolutely amazing art museum and a must see of Chicago. I visited on a Monday morning which had significantly less crowds than the weekends. Entry was quick and easy and I saved on tickets by using the Citipass. Keep in mind tickets for non residents are more expensive. The entry way is beautiful and it's very easy to navigate around the museum due to the signage and provided maps. I especially like that there is a list of must sees on the back of the map for those who only have a short amount of time to visit like I did. My favorite areas were probably the Impressionists and Ancient Egyptian pieces. The layout is easy to navigate and separated in distinct periods that makes sense, nothing detracts from the pieces themselves, and it's overall an amazing experience. I can't wait to revisit with plenty of time to thoroughly explore all the exhibits.As for accessibility: there were plenty of wide open spaces and wide open doors for wheelchairs/walkers/etc. to navigate through. There are handicap accessible ramps into the buildings as well as elevators to reach the different floors. There's wheelchair rentals near the coat check as well. https://www.artic.edu/visit/accessibility

Danielle Johansen — Google review

Beautiful museum with an expansive collection of paintings and sculptures. You can easily spend hours here roaming the beautiful hallways and staircases. It’s free on certain days for Chicago residents so it made the experience even better. I’d recommend to check this place out when you come to Chicago.

Steven Mejia — Google review

For this particular occasion we went for the Pablo Picasso exhibit. We paid $5 as Illinois residents and it is worth mentioning that the museum is free during weekdays.The building itself is admirable, very well taken care of inside and outside. All of the exhibits are being looked after as there are hundreds of art pieces on a daily basis.Whether you’re are someone who is into sculpting, painting, architecture, mosaics, or any other form of art, the Art Institute of Chicago has something to offer.Definitely looking forward for more exhibitions.

Burrito — Google review

Incredible experience! If you can, plan to spend hours exploring this beautiful place. The nice experience starts right as you arrive and check in your coat. They are very organized and efficient. Their food ordering process is very efficient, too. The grilled cheese with goat cheese, fig, and arugula is by far the best grilled cheese I have ever tasted. Their exhibits are very diverse and well presented, and there is something for every art preference.

meralis — Google review

Beautiful building filled with beautiful paintings. I especially enjoyed the Monet collection. I thought I would be taken by the lilies, but wheat piles just took me to another dimension, and i was sober, alright ;). I also liked Van Gogh and other impressionists. The collection of eastern ceramics and wall paintings was also impressive. We stopped by only for few hours, so we didn't see everything, but i definitely plan to come back ;).

Katar?na Kme?ov? — Google review

This place is immense and worth every penny of the admission fee. See some highlights like American Gothic or that famous Seurat painting at the park you recognize from studying pointillism back in school. But don’t miss some hidden gems: creepy Goya etchings from 1800s Spain, the picture of Dorian Gray from the 1945 film, and a fascinating collection of miniature rooms that look ready for Stuart Little to move in. They also have a very wide range of Picasso styles collected under one roof and the impressionism section truly is a must-see!

Stephen Dysert — Google review

Fantastic collection of art, something for everyone here. Wonderful place to spend a few hours browsing and enjoying the art. Photos encouraged. Free storage of larger bags. Don’t miss the impressionists collection. Stunning.

Neil Sickling — Google review

The Art Institute of Chicago is situated right in the heart of the city, next to Millennium Park. Its central location makes it convenient to access, but be prepared for weekend crowds and potential parking challenges.Inside, the museum offers a diverse array of exhibits from around the world, including renowned works like Van Gogh’s masterpieces. A treasure for art enthusiasts.For those who may not be expert level art lovers, the visit can be short(30-40min) However, it’s still a worthwhile experience

Reg C — Google review

This is one of the best museums around. I like the impressionist exhibits. Show Case Monet Renoir Manet Vincent Van Gogh also. The exhibits and paintings are so wonderful to view. Very nice experience. A must visitnif you are in Chicago. We also visited the Picasso special exhibition too.

Matthew Ng — Google review

My visit to the Chicago Art Institute was an unforgettable journey through art and history. The museum's layout is brilliantly designed, making it easy to navigate through the diverse exhibits without feeling overwhelmed or restricted. Each section flows seamlessly into the next, offering a sense of freedom and exploration, yet with a thoughtful arrangement that guides you naturally through the art.The curation of the exhibits is exceptional. Each piece is placed with intention, creating a narrative that invites deep reflection and appreciation. The range of artwork, from classical to contemporary, is presented in a way that tells a story, capturing the essence of different eras and styles.In addition to the exhibits, the Art Institute offers a coat check service and includes a delightful cafe on the upper level, where visitors can enjoy coffee and some light snacks while taking a break from the art.I wholeheartedly recommend the Chicago Art Institute to anyone visiting the city. It's not just a museum; it's a journey through art that is both enlightening and inspiring. The thoughtful layout and curated exhibits make it accessible for all, from art aficionados to first-time visitors.

Jonathan Vu — Google review

Lovely as always but super busy during Spring Break week! Took the 1pm free tour which was outstanding and so educational without being academic and highbrow! Discovered a new (to me) section if the museum. Stopped at the cafe fir a coffee and a bite to eat. Delish but pricey.

Susan Henkel — Google review

If you are a fan of art you would really enjoy this place! I absolutely loved visiting the museum. I would definitely recommend it. Also, I would recommend wearing a light jacket nothing too big or warm because the inside of the museum is really warm and when you are walking around it can start to feel hot. Wear comfy shoes because you will be walking a lot and going up/down the stairs.

WW Production — Google review

Great find.. I'm a Monet guy and found several pieces I have never seen before. The impressionist collection was great overall, with many works from the most famous artists.. quite an amazing collection. Well situated in the downtown, the only amusing things were the staff who couldn't point us to Edward Hopper's the Nighthawks.. I guess they mainly stand round trying to prevent eco terrorists from souping irreplaceable works of art 😄.

Richard Hughes — Google review

So grateful for their free days. I was able to take our senior residents (at a non profit memory care home) to visit twice! Both times staff was super helpful with holding doors, helping us find certain locations, and free wheelchairs at coat check. The crowds were not as great, but staff also came to the rescue when we were trying to go up a ramp and a hoard of students decided that was their route instead of just using the steps. Thank you Art Institute of Chicago employees!!

Ana Lebron — Google review

The Art Institute of Chicago is a cultural gem. The extensive collection spans diverse eras and cultures, offering a rich artistic experience. Navigating the museum is seamless, thanks to clear signage and well-organized exhibits. The staff is knowledgeable and approachable, adding to the overall welcoming atmosphere. The museum's architecture is impressive, complementing the masterpieces within. While admission can be a bit steep, the cultural enrichment gained from a visit makes it a worthwhile investment for art enthusiasts.

Aurelijus K — Google review

4.8

(31863)40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (172)

5.0

(24514)40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (173)

111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, USA

(312) 443-3600

24

Cloud Gate

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Sculpture

Sights & Landmarks

A sculpture of a bean located in Millennium Park in Chicago, Cloud Gate is an easily Instagrammable spot that can be photographed from close up or further back with the skyline of Chicago as the backdrop.

This is Chicago's icon.When you visit Chicago, firstly you should come here to see this art. Each season, this place is crowded because not only tourists but also Chicago's public comes together here. Therefore, be careful against Corona Virus.Once I saw this bean from away, I thought it is just metal. However, when I came closer, I noticed the geometric shape, curve, transparency, and reflectiveness. That affected me deeply. You can take a different type of your photo thanks to its reflectiveness.I wish I have a chance to see this place in summer. Unfortunately, I am too away from there.

Yasin ?zkan — Google review

This is one of the most iconic places to visit while in Chicago! It is amazing how smooth and reflective it is being so enormous! We went on a Monday afternoon in March, but it was still very busy. We were still able to get a few great pictures! Parking is kinda complicated at first, but not too bad. It is all underground, and there are very few signs to tell you where to go (this seems like a very common thread for Chicago). The only signs once you park just say, “Pedestrian Exit”. It is a bit of a walk, so wear good shoes.

Thomas Cluff — Google review

An iconic location for Chicago visit. It’s always packed with tourist. You just have to wait your turn to get your spot. Forewarning, just pick the day without rain and pictures will turn out great. I think selfie stick is a must for this location. The park is clean and well maintained by law enforcement. Parking is challenging for sure. Recommended public transportation.

Wind Napol — Google review

Cloud Gate, I've been calling it 'The Bean' all week.I would definitely recommend visiting this piece of art when you're in Chicago. My partner and I didn't expect much to be honest. My partner said its just a mirrored bean. But it's actually pretty cool and very large. It's great on a sunny day to see the sun's reflection along with the sky and buildings and makes for some awesome photos.Head to the Bean you won't be disappointed!

Adam McGibbon — Google review

A must visit tourist attraction place. Sit and walk around for 15 minutes, take pictures and selfies. The Bean is free to visit, so you don't need to "sprout" any ticket money . Designed by an Indian architect as per Google search. The structure is big, and you can pass under it as well. Shiny!

Amit Chaudhary — Google review

As of Thanksgiving 2023, it is still closed to the public due to maintenance. I was told that the people from Chicago weren't thrilled with "the bean" when it was first built, but it has become an icon. I love how you can see the reflection of the city on it. You can still get a good photo if you find a good spot. It is free to the public.

Carolin Colon — Google review

The Bean is a pretty neat experience. A giant chrome coffee bean. Some days it is very crowded. The underside of the bean has some very interesting visual reflections. The absolute center has the only flat mirror portion. If you are in Chicago or plan to visit. I suggest checking it out. There is also some old buildings across the street. We liked looking at the buildings as much as the Bean.

Eldric — Google review

An icon of Chicago not to be missed! You've seen it in movies and shows, and it looks just as spectacular and intriguing in person. I recommend being there before 8am to get almost unblocked (by people) views and photos. Every angle is different and unique in its own way, so take your time to take lots of postcard worthy pictures.

Ivan Loh — Google review

The park itself is a lovely oasis amidst the bustling city, offering a serence escape for locals and tourists alike. Cloud Gate, with its distinctive reflective surface, is a fascinating and iconic structure that draws visitors from around the world.However, it's worth noting that due to its popularity, the park can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. This may affect the overall experience, as maneuvering through the crowds can be a challenge. Additionally, visitors should be prepared for a security check before being allowed to enter the area surrounding Cloud Gate.Despite the crowds, the beauty and uniqueness of Cloud Gate make it a must-visit attraction in Chicago. Its shimmering reflection of the city skyline and interactive nature make it an engaging and memorable experience for all who visit.

Mandy my PHN — Google review

I visited in February on a solo birthday trip, and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed Cloud Gate. It’s how I expected, but honestly much cooler than I thought. Beautiful to watch the sun glint off the sculpture and the ice skating rink is lovely to people-watch. I went on a Saturday and arrived about 11am via the subway — it wasn’t unbearably busy or overcrowded but obviously expect other tourists to be there most of the time. I didn’t have any security check but did see them doing them later in the day. Plenty of restaurants nearby and the park itself is gorgeous. This truly is a can’t-miss!

Rachel Higgins — Google review

They were doing construction, so there was a fence up around it, but you could still see the bean. Attraction is free to see. There is a lot more in that general area so there’s plenty to do. Parking is like anywhere else in the city find a garageand walk to your destination. There are public bathrooms nearby.

Elizabeth Knapik — Google review

One of the best architecture pieces in Chicago. As being over the best architecture city in the world this sculpture makes Chicago even more beautiful.As I was studying in Chicago I visited this place many times and in all different seasons during different times of the day.Every time it looks more beautiful and every time you visit this place you'd fall in love with this again.One day I also decided in freezing winter to do small bike trip here and you might see that in one of the photos 😛. If you want to do that that is the only time you can see this place with very few people 😅.I will surely recommend this place.

Makani Jatin — Google review

I recently had the opportunity to visit Cloud Gate, also known as "The Bean," in Chicago's Millennium Park. As I approached the sculpture, I was immediately struck by its size and reflective surface. The stainless steel surface of the sculpture seemed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding architecture and the sky above.As I walked around the sculpture, I was amazed by the different perspectives it offered. From one angle, the sculpture appeared to be a giant, shiny mirror, reflecting the surrounding buildings and sky. From another angle, it seemed to be a giant, abstract sculpture, with curves and contours that seemed to defy gravity.One of the most interesting aspects of the sculpture was the way it interacted with the people around it. Children were running around and playing, while adults were taking photos and admiring the sculpture. It was fascinating to watch the different ways that people were interacting with the sculpture and how it seemed to bring people together in a shared experience.As I was leaving, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and inspiration. Cloud Gate was not just a sculpture, but a work of art that had the power to evoke emotion and connect people in a unique way. I left feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such a beautiful and thought-provoking piece of art.

Sekhar Nalluri — Google review

Located in the famous millennium park of Chicago near the downtown area, the cloud gate is one of the most iconic structures to visit. This enormous bean shaped structure is made of steel and extremely smooth and reflective. So reflective that you could see the reflection of your facial features on it. We visited this place way back when, and absolutely loved it. It's a must visit destination when visiting Chicago. And who can forget those stunning views of downtown Chicago.

Sayantan Pramanik — Google review

The Bean (Officially "Cloud Gate") is a large outdoor public work of art, situated in the Millennium Park of downtown Chicago.Though it's official name is the "Cloud Gate", it is popularly called "The Bean" due to its bean-like shape.It's exterior is highly polished and smooth, and is like a huge elongated convex metal mirror.It was built by Anish Kapoor, an India-born British sculptor who is famous for large outdoor art structures. It was unveiled in 2004, and very quickly became a very important tourist attraction in Chicago.It is 66 feet long, 42 feet wide and 33 feet tall, and weighs 110 tonnes.The exterior of the Bean is composed of 168 pieces of stainless steel plates which are seamlessly welded together.The Bean's surfaces are actually metallic mirrors, and they reflect the surroundings clearly. It is really an awesome sight to view the reflections of the sky and clouds and the skyscrapers surrounding it.People are allowed to touch it, and at all times a huge number of people gather around it to see and photograph their own images as reflected on its surface.It has become the most well-known iconic art structure of Chicago.

Asis Chatterjee — Google review

I passed by a few times throughout the year. Winters and Summers are vibrant there. I couldn't tell you what the purpose of this mirrored bean is. And for some reason I never researched it. But its cool to go and look and make your own interpretation of it. Maybe, ask others what their thoughts on it is. There's other thought provoking public art installations to see nearby along water front. Visit during the night and day.

Michael Allamby — Google review

Who knew it was called Cloud Gate. Been calling it the "Bean" all this time, and everyone knew what I was talking about. Interesting feature by day and by night. Great photo ops for a wonderful piece of art. I was staying across the street at CAA, and made several stops here for getting some good pics.

PAUL RITZ — Google review

Well, "life ' happened to me. it was under construction for remodeling till Spring. well, you can't get everything. Nevertheless, I did catch a glimpse of it from some distance.The Bean is a work of public art in the heart of Chicago. It was constructed in Millennium Park between 2004 and 2006 as part of a design competition, created by British-Indian artist Anish Kapoor.The sculpture, which is officially titled Cloud Gate, is one of the world’s largest permanent outdoor art installations. The monumental work was unveiled in 2004 and quickly became one of Chicago’s most iconic sights.The Bean’s reflective surface was inspired by liquid mercury. This shiny exterior reflects the people moving around the park, the lights of Michigan Avenue, and the surrounding skyline and green space — perfectly encapsulating the Millennium Park experience. The polished surface also invites visitors to touch the surface and observe their reflection, giving it an interactive quality.One might wonder how it was built - well here you go- The exterior of The Bean is made entirely of stainless steel (weighs 110 Ton). It was created using computer technology to precisely cut 168 massive steel plates, which were then fitted together and welded shut for a completely seamless finish.Fact: The Bean receives a power wash each day and a deep cleaning twice each year. During the deep clean, workers use nearly 40 gallons of detergent to bring the metallic surface back to its mirrored state.

Sanjay Gupta — Google review

They are doing construction h til spring of 2024. If you want a good photo, come after spring. They had it fenced off and the ground around it tore up.I was able to get some photos through the fence, but there is protective padding on it too. I get needing to update things, but it was a bummer

John L. — Google review

25

Chicago Botanic Garden

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Botanical garden

Sights & Landmarks

The Chicago Botanic Garden spans over 385 acres and showcases millions of plants and flowers in various settings across 26 different gardens. Among these gardens are the Malott Japanese Garden, Evening Island, and Grunsfeld Children's garden. Visitors can explore the beautiful orchid exhibit called The Orchid Show Untamed that features different orchids and plants arranged thoughtfully in several rooms with varying temperatures and designs. Guides are available to answer questions while visitors can take advantage of many photo opportunities.

It's a very beautiful place to visit in all seasons. And a must when you visit Chicago it is situated on a 45 min drive from downtown. It is well connected with public transport. Pictures shared are for the month of April when flowers are in full bloom..

krishan pal singh Rawat — Google review

My whole family went to see Lightscape at the Chicago Botanical Gardens this weekend. It was incredible! The lights were beautiful. Be sure to dress warm... It was freezing the night we went. It takes about an hour and a half to walk the entire path and see everything. I would highly recommend going! It was lot of fun... And enjoyable for the entire family.

Steve Reeves — Google review

Amazing experience! We live about 3 hours away and drove here to check it out. We'll worth the trip! Wide variety of plants and gardens. The outdoor area is massive--wear comfy shoes and be prepared to walk! Great spot for taking photos, too, so long as you're not crowding and blocking others.

Brit Puffett — Google review

Beautifully maintained garden. We spent several hours walking the different paths and exploring the gardens. The Japanese garden was my favorite- beautiful waterfalls and unique trees. We ended our walk in the Blooms and Butterflies exhibit. Small greenhouse with some really pretty butterflies. I recommend good walking sneakers and bottled water.

Katie Graff — Google review

Amazing time at the Chicago Botanical Garden! This place is so huge I highly recommend making it a day adventure and bringing a lunch or eating at the Cafe on site. Also, take the tram ride for the tour. Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and pleasant. My favorite gardens were the waterfall,English, and rose. The butterfly and blooms house was very nice.Overall a wonderful and experience and can't wait to come back to see more.We purchased both parking and admission early-- highly recommend. Just the tram ride itself was worth the admission price to me.

Ashley Seeley — Google review

I’ve been a member since the start of 2023, and it’s been a pleasure being able to come visit the gardens through the seasons. There’s plenty of parking and room to enjoy the walks and trails through a variety of gardens that they’re always updating at the Botanic. They also hold many events. We’ve enjoyed the orchid show a few months back as well as the butterflies and blooms space over by the learning center. This is just a fantastic space to go for a walk and take in nature. Highly recommend to any and everyone! Handicap accessible and the new welcome center is beautiful!!

Heather — Google review

Beautiful. New admission process. Enjoyed our day. We did the tram tour which was full of good information. The model railroad garden is truly excellent and brings us back year after year. Truly appreciate all the people the work and volunteer to support the gardens. Amazing place to have access to.

Jacquelyn Jancius — Google review

Weather stole some of the joy this tranquil place can spare.Esthetic fruit& veg garden, lost opportunity to reach the trolley ride as is tucked away in a tangle of gardens!! Saw three weddings and sweet sixteenths parades- lovely!! Plenty of seating available throughout.People picnicking on blankets 🍷 included.Dahlia Society selling over 40 varieties of potted seedlings.A bonsai garden featuring 600-1000 old tree!Pay $8 parking online along tickets or become a member.Food grossly overpriced.

The Globaltrotter — Google review

LOVE the new pricing model! It makes sense to charge per person that is entering vs. just by parking a car that could either have one person or seven.Yes, people used to be able to get in for free, either by walking or biking in, I did it several times myself. But if you get to enter and enjoy the gardens, you should also be the one paying for that admission.This isn’t a forest preserve or a park.For large groups, people with kids, and any other individuals that don’t really value the botanic garden or just don’t think it’s worth the price of admission there are plenty of beautiful parks, beaches, trails, and forest preserves in the area that are free. For those that find real value in the experience and/or are frequent visitors, the price of admission or membership is well worth it.

Jennifer Popa — Google review

I love the Chicago Botanic Gardens! I’ve visited several times on vacation but now I live here and get to go all the time! Spring and Fall are my favorite seasons at the Gardens. It’s usually quite busy on weekends and holidays, so if you can, go on a weekday. You can still enjoy even when there are big crowds because this place is HUGE! If you live near, it is worth it to get a membership. Mine paid for itself in 3 visits. One of my “Happy Places”! Great for walks, lunch, relaxing or getting ideas for home gardens. It does cost to park too…so the memberships are the way to go, as there’s no parking fee.

Cindy Range — Google review

The gardens here are lovely, and much more spread out than others we've visited. There are several themed islands, many many MANY trails, all kinds of wildlife (seeing a blue heron and a muskrat were particular highlights of our trip) and a miniature train exhibit as well! There is also a restaurant that incorporates produce grown on the grounds into its menu, but we were not able to visit as it was only open on weekends.Well worth the visit, but definitely wear your walking shoes, bring water, and be prepared to lose yourself for hours in a lovingly cultivated paradise!

Kate Swafford — Google review

It was the first time I had ever been and it did not disappoint! Amazing, beautiful, and smelled wonderful too! I loved the observation beehive, and the bonsai were exquisite.

sandy o — Google review

Went and saw the orchid exhibit: The Orchid Show Untamed. It was lovely, informative, and set up so thoughtfully. There were several rooms of different temperatures and designs featuring different orchids and plants. There was plenty of seating if you got tired. There were guides to teach you and answer questions. As well as so many Instagram worthy photo spots if you’re into that. Worth every penny.I cannot wait to go back and see the entire outdoor garden in full bloom.

Addison Alvey — Google review

Awesome place and we only saw half of it due to child's nap time. The model train garden made me in awe and could spend so long in there just looking at every little detail. The gardens are awesome in general and cannot wait to see more. The Cafe was delicious and would recommend for lunch. Look forward to going back and seeing the rest

Timothy Hagerty — Google review

I absolutely adore this place, the staff’s always friendly and informative. Be sure to visit on a day with good weather to experience the gorgeous atmosphere, interesting exhibits and relaxing walks. If you suffer with mobility issues or just want kick back the Tram is a nice way to see/learn all about the gardens while providing a comfortable riding experience.

Angel_N_Disguise — Google review

Absolutely beautiful botanic garden in the North shore area of Chicago land. Not only do they have beautiful landscaped garden areas but they have a few restaurants and food options during the summer months. As well as a wonderful Cafe all year round. There is plenty of parking and it is easy to get in and out of this beautiful botanic garden.

Mary Biancalana — Google review

Beautiful garden park with 385 acres of paths winding through many varieties of trees, flowers, bushes, and other plants. Many places to sit and take it all in. Not too crowded during my mid-week afternoon visit. I would have liked an opportunity to purchase a drink or snack when I was well into the park. Excellent signage and numerous maps so I always knew generally where I was in the park. Upon leaving I saw numerous parked trams which I never saw running through the park - they would have been a great way to see and experience more.

Tom S — Google review

One of the most beautiful botanical gardens anywhere. We went on a sunny July day when the roses were in full bloom, and enjoyed strolling down the paths and soaking in the sights and fragrances. We loved observing the butterflies up close, and also really liked the bonsai trees and the English walled garden. I’m sure there was a lot that we missed, we’ll need to come again to continue exploring.

Kristin D — Google review

4.7

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5.0

(1257)40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (187)

1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe, IL 60022, USA

(847) 835-6801

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26

Millennium Park

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Park

Sights & Landmarks

Millennium Park is an awe-inspiring public space in Chicago that features an impressive collection of world-class architecture and sculptures. The park is home to the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, one of the world's largest outdoor sculptures by British artist Anish Kapoor and Cloud Gate, one of the world's largest pieces of public sculpture.

Such an amazing place to visit and a must in your in the Chicago area. Great place to capture amazing photos of the famous Bean and downtown area. I really enjoyed hitting the ice skating ring for a few laps. I highly recommend coming here to visit a iconic piece of Chicago.

Albert Solano — Google review

I loved the different areas of Millennium Park. Cloud Gate was so interesting. My favorite part was inside, looking up at the middle. Downtown Chicago has so many amazing outdoor spaces. The architecture is beautiful and I love how art is sprinkled throughout the city. If you want to get pictures with less people there, you'd probably have to go very early in the morning. I was here in the middle of May, in the middle of the day, during the week and it was busy as if it were the weekend.

Adrienne Smiley — Google review

It's a cool park to walk through to see some cool pieces of art/sculpture. They have security art the entrance, making sure you are not bringing anything illegal in. We really wanted to see "the bean" (Cloud Gate), but it was fenced off for some maintenance. There were still tons of people trying to take pictures.

Charlie Te — Google review

Very beautiful and chill park in general. Unfortunately the surrounding of cloud gate is under construction so I couldn't reach close. The performing space is crazy! Very strange and stunning metallic building with many many speakers hanging in the sky. Super impressive area which combines chilling vibe and sci-fi ish atmosphere around. It's so beautiful when the tress turns in yellow at Fall.

孫紹庭(Shao-Ting Sun) — Google review

Always fun to come hereThis time there were renovations around the bean! Still, other parts of the park were open.People who skate would love coming here in the winter.Summer is also fun hereUse Spot hero for parking! Will SAVE you a lot.. we got $15 instead of ten for a long period parkingI would recommend parking near the elevators to make it easy to get back the car.

HAMID A — Google review

Millennium Park is an absolute gem in the heart of Chicago, offering a delightful escape from the bustling city life. My visit to Millennium Park was nothing short of exceptional, and I would wholeheartedly give it a glowing 5-star review.From the moment I stepped foot into the park, I was captivated by its beauty and tranquility. The lush greenery, stunning architecture, and vibrant art installations create a perfect harmony that is truly mesmerizing. The iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as "The Bean," is a must-see attraction that never fails to awe visitors with its reflective surface and unique design.The amenities at Millennium Park are top-notch, with clean restrooms, ample seating areas, and well-maintained walkways. The park is also wheelchair-accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors. The staff members I encountered were friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to assist with any questions or needs.One of the highlights of my visit was catching a live performance at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. The acoustics were phenomenal, and the atmosphere was electric, creating a memorable experience that I will cherish for years to come.In conclusion, Millennium Park is a true urban oasis that offers a perfect blend of art, nature, and culture. Whether you're a local resident or a tourist visiting Chicago, a visit to Millennium Park is an absolute must-do. I cannot recommend this park highly enough and believe it deserves every bit of its 5-star rating.

DéShaun RoShun — Google review

If you're going to Chicago, then you definitely need to stop by Millennium Park and visit Cloud Gate (The Bean). It's such an amazing place to visit and spend an afternoon walking around the park or simply have nice picnic. Great atmosphere! Highly recommend it.

Jian Colmenares — Google review

Millennium Park in downtown Chicago is a world class park with amusem*nt and cultural service facilities for the visitors. At the heart of downtown Chicago, the Millennium Park is a jewel of Emerald. Surrounded by tall skyscrapers and Victorian palaces, the park is a very good piece of Nature in a busy metropolis. The park had some famous landmarks like the Cloud Gate (popularly known as "The Bean"), the Crown Fountain, the Millennium Monument etc.There are food stalls serving a variety of cuisines. Restroom facility is also there.Parking spaces for cars are available nearby.Art Institute of Chicago is nearby.The crowd becomes heavy on weekends and during holidays.

Asis Chatterjee — Google review

Millennium Park is the BEST park of Chicago and is a MUST visit place, when visiting Chicago. We visited this park back in 2019 when we visited Chicago and spent a whole day exploring this park. You would love the views of Historic downtown Chicago from this park. The cloud gate (a large steel shaped bean looking architecture) is also located on this park.

Sayantan Pramanik — Google review

I love this park!!! It’s beautiful and peaceful. Millennium Park in Chicago is a true urban oasis that seamlessly blends art, architecture, and nature to create a captivating and vibrant public space.One of the park's most iconic features is the Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as "The Bean." This massive, reflective masterpiece never fails to awe and delight visitors. It's not just a sculpture; it's a mirrored portal to the city, reflecting the skyline and the people who gather around it.

Alex Luthor — Google review

Millennium Park, an iconic location where The Bean is held aka Cloud Gate. A monument known for its shape, a park known for its beautiful area. I visited during Christmas and the lights and Christmas trees were all individually beautiful!Sadly this year they are having maintenance in till 2024 spring so keep that in mind if you're planning to visit! This is a must come though for this icon of Chicago!

FejiVA — Google review

In the center of Chicago, Millennium Park is a true treasure that provides a pleasant diversion from the busy daily life. I had the most amazing experience at Millennium Park and would highly recommend it with a 5-star rating.Instragram:food_and_travel0

Food & Travel — Google review

This is one of the coolest downtown parks in the US IMHO. Of course a lot of people gravitate to the Bean sculpture; While that's cool it's just a fraction. It's a nice open air park that's simply fun to stroll around with the Chicago downtown as a backdrop. There's something here for everyone. We love the numerous free concerts, fountains, and our kid just loves the playground which is amazing. The park itself is an adventure as there's a lot to see with its constant changing theme and architecture. We find it a great starting point to the many sites Chicago has to offer.

Harold Pramekamol — Google review

Beautiful place!!! You can spent so much time taking pictures around the bean but we also enjoyed the ice skaters. It was not too cold so we could spend quite a while around. Lots of nice places close too.

Sandy T — Google review

This park is a beautiful spot in downtown Chicago, where you can enjoy the greenery and the skyline view. Although there is a security check before entering, it is worth the wait. This is a great place to hang out with friends or family. If you are looking for a scenic spot to enjoy the city, you can see the beautiful Chicago skyline from this place.

Pravil Pokharel — Google review

The Bean was in our sights as a "must see" on this trip to Chicago. It did not disappoint. We discovered how beautiful the Millennium and outskirts of the city was as we walked for hours in shear awe. While it was raining, the umbrella kept us semi dry. The smiles, laughter and happiness of people finally being able to be out and together again, is exactly what COVID took away. It feels good. We will return.

Cindy Mustafa — Google review

A must visit park while in the Chicago area. It’s a close walking distance from the iconic River walk and it’s right on the Michigan Avenue, just south of the river.It’s a quiet park, considering the hustle and bustle of the downtown. The park is very well maintained and has a few entrances, controlled by security throughout. You can easily spend 2-4 hours in the park, depending on what you want to do here. There are also regular events held here at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, one of the premier outdoor Amphitheaters, so that will have to factor in. It’s free entrance to the park itself.You will see ‘The Bean’ work of public art here. The sculpture, which is officially titled Cloud Gate, is one of the world’s largest permanent outdoor art installations, currently undergoing some construction work. Lake Michigan is just a few minutes away from this park and so is the Chicago River. If you took the hop on hop off bus tour, there is a stop at this park as well.

Localizer — Google review

First visit to Chicago. It was a beautiful fall day and the weather was amazing. The natural foliage and the landscaping were breathtaking. It was so much to see and appreciate. Walking into this park centered within the city is perfection. A must see!

Mona G — Google review

Lovely green Park with lots of community gathering places. The bean plaza is under renovation through March 2024. So can only see through the fence. There is a fantastic outdoor concert space. At the time of year we visited (November) the kinetic water feature between 2 large and changing digital faces had been switched off for the season. It must be great in the summer for kids to cool off and have fun.

Carrie Wilmot — Google review

Even though it was closed off it was worth going. The ice-skating was fun. The whole area was very nice and a fun family activity. I will definitely go back! During Christmas time the area looks very pretty with all the lights. The price for the ice-skating is very good! For 1 hour and a half you only got to pay 16 dollars and they even have lockers to secure your stuff.The ice-skating rink provides a delightful experience for both beginners and seasoned skaters. The well-maintained ice surface ensures smooth gliding, and the facility's vibrant atmosphere adds to the overall enjoyment. Skating sessions are reasonably priced, and the rental equipment is in good condition. The staff is friendly and attentive, offering assistance to those less confident on the ice. The rink's convenient location and ample parking make it accessible, creating a perfect outing for families or friends. While the snack bar offers standard fare, it could benefit from a broader menu. In summary, the ice-skating rink offers a fantastic blend of fun and accessibility, making it a go-to destination for a chilly yet enjoyable experience.There is plenty of areas picture worthy and the area seemed pretty safe! Please go and enjoy

Heber Farall — Google review

Millennium Park is in a very accessible part of Chicago. I parked at the underground garage for only $13 for essentially the whole day, courtesy of SpotHero. The park has incredible views of the Chicago skyline. The surrounding area is super walkable to places like Navy Pier and museums.

William Kohl — Google review

Millennium Park in Chicago is a vibrant oasis offering a delightful blend of art, nature, and culture. The stunning architecture, lush greenery, and iconic Cloud Gate, affectionately known as "The Bean," make it a must-visit destination. While ongoing construction work may briefly obstruct views of The Bean, the overall experience is still enchanting, with the park's diverse attractions and lively atmosphere ensuring a memorable visit.

Krisztián Hegedűs — Google review

I am in love with this park. It’s gigantic, it takes a long walk to go through all of it. It has two ice-skating rings, cool art installations, the famous bean of Chicago, parks for kids, and a stage for concerts. Those are the few things we did see at the park, because we did not have enough time to walk through all of it. I had a blast with my family, I highly recommend visiting this famous park in Chicago, where you can even get a view of the lake.

Erika Benitez — Google review

Exploring Millennium Park during the snowy season was nothing short of magical. The pristine white blanket transformed the park into a winter wonderland. The snow-laden branches framed Cloud Gate in a picturesque scene, offering a unique perspective of "The Bean." The bean is currently closed and under construction. Its visible from distance and outside the barricades.The Jay Pritzker Pavilion stood gracefully, adorned with a dusting of snow, creating a serene ambiance. Walking through the snowy pathways, the gardens and sculptures took on a different charm, making my visit an enchanting experience that showcased the park's versatility in every season. The park also has a big open ice rink.The parking is underground and on paid basis.

K R — Google review

4.7

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4.5

(25122)40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (200)

Chicago, IL 60602, USA

(312) 742-1168

27

Magnificent Mile

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Sights & Landmarks

Neighborhoods

Points of Interest & Landmarks

Chicago's primary commercial district is the Magnificent Mile, located in the Loop area. It is a bustling and vibrant part of the city that boasts more than 460 stores, including high-end luxury brands like Burberry, Louis Vuitton and Gucci. The district also features numerous restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world as well as some of Chicago's best hotels. Visitors can explore art galleries such as LIK Fine Art Chicago which showcases works by renowned photographer Peter Lik.

4.5

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Chicago, IL 60611, USA

28

University of Notre Dame

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Private university

Sights & Landmarks

Universities & Schools

The University of Notre Dame, a Catholic institution founded in 1842, is home to the Fighting Irish football team and boasts a picturesque campus. Notable historic sites include the Basilica, dome, and library. The university's Gothic architecture is symbolic of Paris and France itself, with Napoleon having been crowned there. The stadium on campus is impressive and ushers provide helpful service to visitors. Hospitality at Notre Dame is excellent and tailgating events offer opportunities for socializing with fellow fans.

I love it here! I have worked here for 15 years and don't plan to leave anytime soon. Plenty to do and see, people are kind, as it's a beautiful campus. Plus, who doesn't love the best football team?

Matthew Pollard — Google review

The University of Notre Dame Campus is strikingly beautiful. The architecture of its buildings is stunning. In May the tulips around campus are beautiful to see. Souvenirs can be picked up from the bookstore. You can take in a mass at the beautiful cathedral or partake in a sporting event. It is a must see when visiting South Bend.

Colleen Renteria — Google review

We always enjoy our visits to the University of Notre Dame to cheer on our Fighting Irish! Excellent hospitality on this beautiful campus and the tailgating is fun and always good for making new friends! Can't wait to go back again!

Chloie Engledow — Google review

I was here over the weekend on business. Decided to go for a 5k run around campus. Was absolutely beautiful. It was nice to see a campus that is kept up so nice. Great architecture as well as landscaping. If you’re in the area highly recommend take a look around!

Chris Hammiel — Google review

The university of notre Dame is a very beautiful campus. They have very unique landmarks and statues. It was a very nice place to walk around and get pictures. There were some very striking views to be seen around the campus.

Adam Reason — Google review

Gorgeous and historic campus. The grounds and buildings are beautiful. Several historic sites to visit including the Basilica, dome and library. Notre Dame stadium is also amazing! The ushers and staff were so helpful and kind. Overall great experience!

Nick Ventura — Google review

I was there today to run a Spartan Race. Three venue was awesome. I got a chance to run through the entire stadium, the football field, and some of the campus. We also got to run through the locker rooms and courtyard that had a great view of Touchdown Jesus. The Notre Dame Stadium staff was great too. Very professional. They treated the few thousands of racers, Spartan Race staff, and spectators like family. I'd definitely like to go back again soon.

Sean Turner — Google review

In the spirit of full disclosure I am somewhat biased as I am an Alumnus. That said, this is truly one of the most unique and beautiful college campuses in the country. I love returning when in the area, and now that I am retired have more time to do so! Do yourself a favor, and put this place on your "bucket list" for places to go!

Joseph L — Google review

Incredible campus, I felt like I was at a national park or museum. Very peaceful, we were here for a tour, my son loves the campus and school, and hopefully, he gets accepted.

Art Vega — Google review

Absolutely beautiful campus. I didn't study there, so, cannot talk for the quality of education but the place is gorgeous.I love taking walks there, I love roaming around the campus. I love the lakes, swans, and ducks as well! The landscaping is amazing.I like coming here to light a candle for my grandma. 🕯I think I'd be absolutely happy to go to this school as a college student!

Anastasiia Iun — Google review

A very beautiful Campus. Well maintained as it is makes it easy to see why it's such a popular choice for a great education. I would give a full five just for the beauty but as I have never been a student I can't fairly say how I'd feel having never experienced attending. As a visitor I truly enjoyed the architectural beauty and the history of the famed campus. I recommended this as a great free must see in the area!

Mary Jane — Google review

Beautiful campus. Great place to watch a football game. Great atmosphere. Friendly fans. Food was good for stadium food and prices were reasonable. If you are passing through South Bend on a Saturday and you have a few hours available, I would highly recommend checking out a University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish football game. You won't be disappointed in the stadium or atmosphere. Go Irish!

Mike Bartsch — Google review

Great architectureI can't really say much about the university itself, I just came to visit to see the stunning basilica. There were actually less buildings with unique architectural elements than I was expecting. It appears that the bookstore and dorms and most general buildings are mostly square brick structures. Still worth visiting to see the Grotto, Basilica, and gold dome.

K R — Google review

4.7

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5.0

(1071)40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (211)

Holy Cross Dr, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA

(574) 631-5000

29

Blue Gate Theatre

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Performing arts theater

Concerts & Shows

Concert hall

Dinner theater

Drama theater

Stage

Theaters

For the area and what it is I always have a great time! I love all the great plays & shows offered. If you stay at the Blue Gate Hotel it's got a great package deal to enjoy a night away. Have authentic Amish dining, a show & a nice stay did I mention shopping and just lots of cute photo ops everywhere!! Do not come on Sunday everything is basically closed!!🙏🙌❤

Michelle Balino — Google review

What a GREAT music venue! 1500 seats, and not a bad one in the place. The sound system was finely tweaked, and was not muddy or overly loud. There was a full house to see Brothers of the Heart, and everyone enjoyed the full 2-hour show. The quartet stayed around and greeted everyone who wanted a picture or autograph- a big plus that larger venues usually don't accommodate. There's lots of paved parking and hotel rooms nearby, so we walked from our hotel to the concert. We highly recommend enjoying a show here!

John Johnston — Google review

We cannot get enough of this place. A gem in such a small, beautiful and peaceful community. Fabulous shows playing 3-4 days every week of well known groups. We've been driving 2 1/2 hrs one way almost every month for shows we want see. There are so many we want to see we can't do them all but what a great theatre to go to as there are NO bad seats at all. We just got back from seeing Gene Watson and Eagles tribute in which both were phenomenal!!! Ricky Scaggs show so good we want see him again!Blue Gate restaurant is where we eat and cannot get enough of it. It's the only place we want to eat at while visiting!!! A must go to place!

Patricia Show — Google review

Our first dinner and a show here and we loved it! We always enjoy staying at the hotel but having a show next door was awesome! I look forward going back!

SallyAnn1972@gmail.com Annsally — Google review

Went to see the Rush Tribute Project. The theater was great. The music was awesome. My only gripe was that now they serve alcohol. The drunks were obnoxious and constantly getting up and bothering us non-drinkers. I took my 15 year old son to the concert, and he said if they serve alcohol at the next concert, he's not going, nor will I.

Steve Trethewey — Google review

Saw Clint Black here on June 30. Loved this venue! Loved looking at the country music decor, and the seats are so comfortable! I'd definitely come back for another show sometime!

Breann Klinker — Google review

Best buffet ever. It always tastes great. They have a salad bar with fresh made bread. A desert bar with numerous selections. The main course always has the best chicken. Along with mashed potatoes, veggies, sides, and several other meats. Up stairs, you need to go to their bakery and load up on tasty treats.

Theresa DuToit — Google review

Ate at the buffet lunch and then saw The Christmas Candy Caper, a play.The food was delicious with many choices including a salad bar with soup, a warm dish area with nain dishes and a dessert area and ice cream machine.The play lasted 90 minutes and was very interesting. It was set in an Amish candy store owned by Sadie. She loves to play practical jokes and like the boy who cried wolf, it came back to haunt her.

Laura Batey — Google review

We visited the all-you-can eat buffet in the same building as the shows, but did not see a show. The buffet was good - but not great. Some of the advertised offerings (in our case turkey and dressing) we're missing.I certainly understand why, however, given that we were early to dine, there wasn't the usual crowd, and, even in Amish country, it's hard to find help in a pandemic.The wait staff, as always, were very kind, attentive, and gracious.

Trisha Gensic — Google review

First time experience and I thought it was great! Great seating with cup holders.

Joe Milledge — Google review

The show I went to see gets five stars. What I’m upset about is that women are NOT allowed to bring in a purse, nothing bigger than 4 x 6. Really? I need to carry certain items with me at all times, like heart meds and inhaler. They need to review this nonsensical policy.

Margaret Buchanan — Google review

Great time, very intimate setting! Get ready to be up close & personal with great performers!

David Berkompas — Google review

My first time at this venue and during my visit, I saw two different shows. Very convenient to where I camped.The venue is fairly small, 1500 I read, and all seats are quite good. They do have a bag policy so check that info before going. But because it's small, it's a short walk if you do need to get to your car to leave things. Lots of guitars and hats from previous performers, a concession, too. For the 2 shows I saw, guests were alowed to bring food or drinks inside, which I thought was very nice. That way you don't miss any of the show or have a line during intermission.

Darlene Frederick — Google review

Very nice venue for a concert. Good sound, screens to see the perfomer, pleasant staff. What brings the rating down is their new policy restricting even small purses. It is very inconvenient. I saw older people walking with canes back to their cars who were carrying nothing bigger than a wallet! Did something happen there??? Also, the dinner package includes dinner at the restaurant that is about a mile away. They bigger problem than the fact that dining is in a different location is the fact that they do not prioritize dinner/theater guests. So, for a 7:30 show they recommend that you get there between 11a and 5p. If you get there around 5, you will definitely have a wait.All and all......we would go here again, but it is not convenient, especially in bad weather.

Mary Jo Crandall — Google review

Saw Marie Osmond here. Wow the stage is the perfect size & there's plenty of seating for hundreds of not a thousand.

Suzi Noble — Google review

4.6

(1313)40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (216)

4.5

(5939)40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (217)

175 N Van Buren St, Shipshewana, IN 46565, USA

(260) 768-4725

30

Holland State Park - Macatawa Campground

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Campground

Outdoor Activities

The Holland State Park - Macatawa Campground is a popular spot for visitors to West Michigan. The campground has paved bike trails with views of the sunset and offers shopping opportunities for souvenirs. A highlight of the area is the iconic Big Red lighthouse, which provides a stunning view of Lake Michigan and the sand dunes. While the campground may be tight quarters and primarily geared towards RVs, it does offer amenities such as bathrooms and showers in the center of the grounds.

The beach and campground make this the most popular park in the state! Google says this about the park: “Nearly two million people flock to the park every year, making it one of the most visited state parks in Michigan. The public recreation area, which spans 142 acres, has an array of activities and amenities for visitors. (Mar 6, 2023)” Don’t give up on your summer plans though. There are many more state parks up and down the Lake Michigan shoreline. Warren Dunes (to the south) and Grand Haven (north). The State of Michigan spends a lot on upkeep of its parks so, no matter which one you stay at, you’re likely going to enjoy your time.

Dan Maly — Google review

Beautiful place to take a meditative walk in the winter. Summers are for crowd lovers only. Easy flat access to beach from parking. Down the road at Tunnel Park there is a very steep decline to traverse to access the beach from the parking area.

Jill Gietzen — Google review

Beautiful State park with a pier and lighthouse, nice sand dunes and beautiful long grasses cover the dunes, has a large bathroom area and changing rooms and outdoor showers, an area to watch the boats go in and out of Lake Michigan and two walking paths to help you get all of your gear out to the beach. There is a small kids park with swings and volleyball nets. Been coming here for 35 years and I still love it!

Jennifer M (Jen) — Google review

Nice state park with views, piers and a beach. The dunes were great. There is a lighthouse called "Big Red" right across the inlet you can get pictures of. We didn't stay long but enjoyed the visit.

Tyler Dixon — Google review

We camped in the beach campground and had a phenomenal time. Everything was neat and tidy. The beach was 4 campsites down from ours, providing beautiful Lake Michigan Sunsets! The modern bathrooms and showers were well kept and clean. The camp host this weekend was super nice. We had a lovely time.

Autumn Rogers — Google review

Plenty of parking and easy access down to the Lake from here.Lots of ice along the waterfront, so weren’t able to get too close, but it’s beautiful seeing the Lake in an icy clutch.Facilities are closed in the winter so do be prepared, and the pier is closed due to ice, but a beautiful spot.

Mike RC — Google review

Nice park with a fantastic location, and one of the two bath houses is really nice. The west bath house could definitely use an update, and some of the sites are a bit unlevel, so pay attention when booking for a large RV. We had an asphalt pad and still need all of our leveling wedges to get it right. Still worth visiting this park despite the few shortcomings.

Charles B. — Google review

Clean rooms and nice people run it.Great location.The outside needs work, but looks like it is being worked on. There is no pool or mini golf,but if you are just looking for an inexpensive place to stay,this is an option.There is a decent restaurant in the lot ,a bar and an antique store. Small fridge in the room and microwave in a common room.

Kathleen Heutele — Google review

This is a state park in Lake Michigan. They have 2 piers you can walk out on when the water is acting up. It was closed the day I went. The wind was blowing and the waves were coming in nice. The park was nice though we really only saw the beach and pier area. They have a cool lighthouse and a plaque explaining the history of the lighthouse. The park seemed well kept and clean and the scenery was awesome. There was a playground area for the kids. If you like being outside, around the water and beach, this was a beautiful place to visit. I would recommend going and checking it out if you are in the area. It would be amazing in the summer for summer fun too.

Jeremy Stockdall — Google review

Great trail on the shorter side. Can be steep at the beginning and end but other than that, it's a nice hike with a lovely view of lake Michigan, the red lighthouse and the sand dunes.The campground itself is pretty tight quarters. Not many trees, so I wouldn't count on using hammocks.It seems like primarily an rv park.It does have bathrooms and showers in the center of the campground.

TryItWithRanch — Google review

Campground is a parking lot but right at the beach. No fire pits but you can bring your own. Family friendly. Verizon service decent. You have to pay to park still even with reservation

Bryan Nagode — Google review

If you like the beach, especially if you've never been to a freshwater coast, this is a great place to start. It offers a little something for everyone. There is a nice beach that is kept very clean.

Ada Kennedy — Google review

We enjoyed being close to the beach. Our E-bikes were perfect on the many bike paths around the area. Our hike had a beautiful Overlook as a reward, Our campsite was nice, but was next to the main road for the beach. Noisy motor heads had the only disappoint. Nice two day stay.

Irv Rutan — Google review

Location, location, location! For reference, my husband & I stayed 4 nights in July 2023 in our 40 ft motorhome. The park is in a premium location and walking/biking distance to the beach, restaurants & shopping. We rented bikes from Oak Grove Campground for 2 days and loved riding around the beautiful town. The big red lighthouse is a short walk from the park and a great place to watch the sunset. The sites are decently spaced apart and level. If you’re lucky enough, they have some full hookup sites. We were in corner spot #159 (50 amp hookup only). Things to know: cell service was good, there are a lot of tent campers and families with small kids, the park is strict on their noise policy and does night patrols. If you’re ever in the area, I highly recommend this campground.

Jacquelyn G. — Google review

Ok, let me get this out of the way. The check-in process was a nightmare. You weren’t allowed to check in before 3pm and we unfortunately arrived at 2 so we were made to wait. We decided to wander for an hour since we couldn’t wait in the parking lot. Returned at 3 and the line to get in was unbelievable. It took over half an hour.Anyway, the campground was great. Bathrooms and shower rooms were fantastic. Very clean and taken care of. The sites were a bit close together but actually it was surprisingly quiet. Once we saw how packed it was we thought it was going to be a mess, but we had a very nice stay. We would definitely stay here again and recommend to others.

Regan Leamy — Google review

Sites were pretty wooded, and shaded. Beach sites were close but not crowded and had easy beach access. The beach, ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. Water was warm, it was all sand, and super shallow. Even like 25 feet away from shore and it was maybe 4 feet deep. All time favorite Michigan beach.

Sydney Anton — Google review

Great campground with a short drive to the beach, which is beautiful!I did want to mention one thing that affected our "camping party"; we had read you could check in early if your campsite was vacant.**This is not true anymore** at this campground in Holland Michigan anyway.*Check in is at 3. No exceptions - even if your site is free.

Amy Bruck — Google review

Nice State Park campground. We stayed in the wooded half, not the beach. There were nice shade trees over half the campground and the bathroom and showers in that half was very nice! They were holding a Halloween event with campsite decorating contest, coffee and donuts, and trick or treating for the kids, also. There is a LOT of road noise audible in the campground, so it's not the quietest option.

Mikki Fullerton — Google review

4.7

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4.5

(1399)40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (223)

2215 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland, MI 49424, USA

(616) 399-9390

40 Best Stops Between Oklahoma City and Grand Rapids (2024)

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