Chicago Suburbs Tour- The Hidden Gems

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Discover the hidden gems of the Chicago suburbs. Visit the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, the Bahá’í House of Worship, The Leaning Tower of Niles, and Chicago Botanic Garden

Highlights

Visit the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, a Hindu temple in Bartlett
Explore the Bahá’í House of Worship, a serene retreat in Wilmette
Relax on the white sand beach of Gillson Park and feel like you're in Asia
Visit the Leaning Tower of Niles, a mini replica of Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy
Visit Chicago Botanic Garden for a serene escape with stunning blooms/landscapes

Description

Explore the hidden gems of Chicago's suburbs on a guided tour. Visit the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, the Leaning Tower of Niles, and the Bahá’í House of Worship. Stop at the Gillson Park Beach and the Westfield Old Orchard Mall. End your day at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Start your day with a visit to the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, often referred to as the 'Taj Mahal of Illinois.' Immerse yourself in the stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere that exudes Indian cultural vibes. Marvel at the intricate carvings and serene ambiance of this magnificent temple. Next, stop at the Leaning Tower of Niles, a charming smaller replica of the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy. This unique landmark stands at approximately 94 feet tall, compared to the Leaning Tower of Pisa's 183 feet. It's a delightful photo opportunity and a great way to kick off your exploration of the Chicago suburbs. Visit the Bahá’í House of Worship, an architectural masterpiece and one of only eight continental Bahá'í Houses of Worship in the world. With its intricate lace-like design and serene gardens, the temple offers a peaceful retreat for visitors. The Bahá'í faith originated in Persia (modern-day Iran), and the temple embodies the faith's principles of unity and harmony. Step onto the beautiful white sand beach at Gillson Park Beach and feel like you're on a tropical beach in Asia, reminiscent of Boracay in the Philippines. Discover one of Illinois' most beautiful outdoor malls in a stunning open-air setting at Westfield Old Orchard Mall. Enjoy 1 hour of lunch break and shopping at the mall. Finally, end your day at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Explore the Tulip garden in Spring and feel like you're in the Netherlands, or visit the Japanese Garden, lush and green all year long, with Japan vibes. The Tropical Greenhouse is where you can experience the lush, vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of the Amazon rainforest in Brazil.

Includes

Transportation by air-conditioned coach Live tour guide Admission to all attractions Lunch break at Westfield Old Orchard Mall (meals at own expense) Photo opportunities at iconic landmarks

Important Information

Wear comfortable shoes as there will be some walking involved. Bring a camera to capture the beautiful sights. Sunscreen and a hat are recommended for outdoor segments. Arrive at the meeting point 10-15 minutes early to ensure a timely departure.