District 214 Community Education

Trail blaze a true American icon as we celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Route 66! Originally commissioned in 1926, "America’s Mother Road" turns a century old. Join an expert guide in Joliet—an official Centennial satellite city—for a narrated tour south to Pontiac. We’ll revisit the Golden Age at legendary stops like Wilmington's "Gemini Giant" and the historic Ambler-Becker Texaco station. After lunch at the Old Route 66 Café, we explore the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum. On our return, we’ll visit Braidwood's famous Polk-A-Dot Diner. Don't miss this chance to experience the freedom, passion, and spirit of Route 66!

Step onto the original path of "The Main Street of America" with our "100 Years of Route 66 - Chicago Neighborhoods" tour. This journey isn't just about the road; it's about the soul of Chicago and the vibrant communities that shaped its legendary start. As the fabled highway celebrates its centennial in 2026, join us as we journey from its official start across from the Art Institute of Chicago on a narrated guided tour. Travel through the heart of the city's history, past architectural gems like the Rookery Building, iconic eateries such as Lou Mitchell's, and the historic Old St. Pat's Church. Our route continues down Ogden Avenue, taking you through vibrant and historically significant neighborhoods like Tri-Taylor, Little Village, and North Lawndale. Along the way, you'll discover hidden gems, including the new Route 66 mural at LuLu's, the legendary Ferrara Candy Company, and a site integral to the Civil Rights movement, the Dr. King legacy apartments. The tour culminates at the historic Berghoff restaurant, where you will savor a delicious lunch and toast to the enduring legacy of Route 66.

Celebrate the season at Fort Atkinson’s Fireside Dinner Theatre with the hilarious holiday classic, A Christmas Story: The Musical. Follow young Ralphie Parker’s nostalgic quest for a Red Ryder BB gun, featuring a heartwarming score by Pasek and Paul and all your favorite movie moments. Before the show, explore The Fireside’s gift shops for unique treasures, festive decor, and bakery treats. Then, savor an exceptional matinee meal in a beautifully decorated setting. Don’t miss this spectacular blend of fine dining and Broadway-quality theater!

Depart on a historical experience as we celebrate the Chicago Fire Department! This afternoon we will board a retired Chicago Fireboat, the Fred A. Busse for a unique tour and cruise! The Fred A. Busse was built in 1936 and named for the former mayor of Chicago, who served from 1907 until 1911.When placed into service with the Fire Department in 1937, it was the largest diesel-powered fireboat in the world. It was built specifically for Chicago to fit underneath the city’s bridges, minimizing response times for emergencies. Today the fireboat is back in action giving tours on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, focusing on the history of this boat, the history of the fire department and all that the boat did for the city. Historic photos show her in action, back when the Chicago River was used for manufacturing and how it fought the McCormick Place fire in 1967. See the city from the water like you never have before! Before the cruise, we will have lunch at one of Chicago’s premier restaurants, The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant. Formerly Engine Company 104 of the Chicago Fire Department, this original 1905 Romanesque Revival firehouse has been a cornerstone in this South Loop neighborhood which protected nearby Prairie Avenue, Chicago’s former Millionaire Row, including the mansions of McCormick, Palmer and Glessner. Dine amongst the pointed historical features and well-defined ambiance in this highly-rated fine dining restaurant opening especially for our group!

Experience the heart of Chicago’s dramatic history with this exclusive theatre and fashion tour. Our journey begins with a curated driving tour of Roaring Twenties architectural marvels, including the opulent Cadillac Palace, the Lyric Opera House, and the historic James M. Nederlander and Auditorium theatres. We then head behind the scenes for an intimate interior tour of the world-famous Chicago Theatre. After a sophisticated lunch at The Remington, we’ll visit the Museum of Science and Industry to explore Crafting Character: The Costumes of Paul Tazewell. Marvel at the Tony Award-winning artistry behind hits like Hamilton and The Color Purple in this unforgettable tribute to creative genius. This tour requires you to be able to use stairs at the Chicago Theatre and moderate walking at the Museum.

Brighten up your autumn evening at this incredible lights festival that has become a Milwaukee area tradition! China Lights is an event that celebrates the art, skill, and beauty of traditional Chinese lantern festivals that have been celebrated across Asia for over 400 years! Held each fall in suburban Milwaukee at the lovely Boerner Botanical Gardens in Whitnall Park, this after-sundown celebration of Asian life and culture, transforms the Gardens into a magical paradise of dazzling illuminated displays. Dragons, glowing pagodas and iridescent pinwheels are just some of the stunning illuminated sculptures you will see on a ¾ walking path at the gardens. China Lights also features amazing stage performances highlighting Asian folk-culture performances. Cultural display cases in Boerner’s historic Garden House feature replicas of historic Chinese artifacts and a video viewing area showcasing China’s beauty. Before our visit to China Lights enjoy a dinner at the Steakout Restaurant Restaurant in nearby Greendale, WI

Baseball fans, what better day than Labor Day to travel to Wisconsin to see our Chicago Cubs battle the rival Milwaukee Brewers in an afternoon matinee game! A deluxe motorcoach will take us to Milwaukee’s beautiful American Family Field to see the Cubs in action in this state-of-the-art ballpark! Enjoy great loge box seats on the first base side, out of the direct sunlight. Each person will receive $25 in Brewers Bucks to use towards the park's distinct and delicious Wisconsin food items.

Experience the magic of the season with the Dancing Horses Christmas Show, a beloved Lake Geneva tradition. This breathtaking 90-minute, Vegas-style production features the grace of Arabian horses and world-class trainers in a state-of-the-art, climate-controlled theater. You’ll be captivated by dazzling costumes, vibrant lights, and heartwarming holiday music. The day begins with a delicious lunch at the Tuscan Restaurant. Nestled in the heart of Lake Geneva, its warm, rustic ambiance provides the perfect festive start to an unforgettable afternoon of equestrian artistry and holiday wonder!

Step back in time on a captivating tour of Historic Cedar Lake, Indiana that combines the past with the present. Your adventure begins at the Lassen's Resort museum, a true hidden gem with imaginative exhibits that tell the story of Cedar Lake's bygone era. Board a classic 1915 replica steamboat for a serene cruise on the lake, where a knowledgeable guide will point out historical sites and share fascinating tales about the area's rich history, offering a unique perspective of the town and a journey through the heart of its legacy. Later, enjoy a delicious lunch at Teibel's, a historic, family-owned institution renowned for its classic American comfort food in nearby Schererville, IN.

Morton Arboretum’s, “Illumination: Tree Lights at the Arboretum" is a spectacular holiday lights display using amazing new technology. On our early-evening trip, walk along a paved path to see the beautiful Christmas lights glowing with dazzling LED lights in the trees. You will not only see them, but you interact with them as well! Enjoy a cozy fire and some hot chocolate, and stop in at the Visitor’s Center to see other themed displays. Dinner is at the landmark White Fence Farm Restaurant where we’ll feast on its acclaimed "World's Greatest Chicken"! Beautifully decorated for the holidays, the restaurant has served travelers on old historic U.S. Route 66 since 1926! (Illumination requires walking along a relatively level outdoor pathway about ¾ to 1 mile in length.)

Say aloha to the season with a spectacular send-off to summer aboard the majestic Grand Belle! Embark on our delightful 2 ¼-hour "Luau on the Lake" luncheon cruise on beautiful Geneva Lake. You’ll enjoy a perfect blend of flavor and relaxation featuring a delicious Hawaiian-inspired buffet and rhythmic island-style music. As you dine, soak in the shoreline’s beauty and hear fascinating stories of Lake Geneva’s past, including views of historic Gilded Age landmarks like the iconic Wrigley compound. Whether seeking festive fun or tranquility, this unforgettable cruise delivers a unique taste of paradise on the water.

Experience the Chicago-area premiere of Mean Girls at Aurora’s historic Paramount Theatre. Written by comedy legend Tina Fey, this high-octane musical brings the "Plastics" to life with biting wit, a vibrant pop-rock score, and dazzling choreography. Before the show, enjoy a sophisticated lunch catered by Enticing Cuisine at the newly renovated Meyer Ballroom. Located directly across the street, the ballroom features floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of the Fox River. Join us for a hilarious, high-energy journey through the high school social jungle!

Step back in time and uncover the incredible stories behind Milwaukee’s most sacred and storied landmarks. Join us for an unforgettable day with our extraordinary guide, Kay Collins, whose passion and knowledge will bring the city's history to life. Our journey begins with a visit to two architectural masterpieces. Marvel at the breathtaking beauty and awe-inspiring art of St. Josaphat Basilica, a testament to faith and a stunning example of turn-of-the-century craftsmanship. Then, discover the serene elegance of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, a landmark rich with history and beautiful stained glass. Nestled in one of the city's oldest buildings on Old World Third Street, enjoy lunch at the Copper Restaurant steeped in local history. Afterward, the adventure continues! Enjoy a narrated tour with Kay as we explore the city, stopping at a local establishment for a refreshing break. Our tour culminates at the historic Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery. Step inside this legendary landmark for a fascinating tour that reveals the brewing legacy that shaped Milwaukee. You'll hear the stories of the people behind the beer and see the very places where a brewing empire was built.

Get ready to raise your stein and celebrate at the annual Oktoberfest at Starved Rock Lodge! Gather in the historic Great Hall for an unforgettable fall experience filled with Bavarian heritage. Feast on a hearty buffet of bratwurst, sauerkraut, and soft pretzels, paired with a selection of German wines and beers. Guests receive a souvenir stein to commemorate the occasion! As you dine, enjoy the lively polka beats of the Duseldorfers German Band. Join us for an afternoon of authentic flavors, dancing, and "Prost!" with CET!

Step back in time with a nostalgic day tour with a walk down memory lane! Start in historic Long Grove at Ma & Pa’s Candy for vintage treats and explore the whimsical Sock Monkey Museum, featuring over 2,000 unique, handmade monkeys originating during the 1930’s. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Dover Straits in Mundelein, a 1970s-style supper club with an upscale atmosphere. The highlight is Todd Hunt’s "Remember When" show, a heartwarming presentation revisiting classic toys, advertisements, and TV moments. Join us for a day of laughter, great food, and fond memories, celebrating the good old days!

Relive Chicago’s iconic holiday tradition with “Remembering Marshall Field’s at Christmas” at the Jacob Henry Mansion Estate in Joliet. Historian Leslie Goddard brings the magic to life, tracing the store’s history through rare photos, the Walnut Room’s Great Tree, and Uncle Mistletoe. Your afternoon begins with a self-guided tour of the 1873 National Historic Landmark, followed by a homemade holiday luncheon and the main presentation. Conclude your visit at the historic Old Central Church as we celebrate the season with a perfect day of history and charm!

Experience an opulent and extraordinary Halloween at the legendary Sanfilippo Estate in Barrington Hills, Illinois. This isn’t a typical haunted house, but an afternoon of vintage elegance and haunted history designed to enchant rather than frighten. Begin with a gourmet fall feast and wine in the stunning pavilion before exploring the world’s finest collection of automatic musical instruments, including the magnificent Eden Palais carousel. The day culminates in the historic mansion with a spellbinding concert on the world’s largest restored theatre pipe organ, accompanying a rare silent Halloween film produced on the estate. Join us for a beautifully spooky, time-traveling adventure!

Celebrate the holidays at the spectacular Sanfilippo Estate in Barrington Hills. Start with an elegant catered meal in the Carousel Building, dining alongside the "Eden Palais"—the world’s only complete European salon carousel. You'll marvel at its massive carved façade and Gavioli band organ while learning about this incredible collection. After lunch, head to the residence for a 90-minute holiday concert featuring the Wurlitzer Theatre Pipe Organ, performed by the world-renowned Dave Wickerham. Conclude your afternoon with a self-guided tour of the mansion, where docents demonstrate a premier collection of restored antique music machines.

Experience a Hilarious and Heartfelt New Musical — & Juliet, at Chicago's Historic Auditorium Theatre! You know the story: Romeo and Juliet, a tale of star-crossed lovers and a tragic end. But what if that wasn't the end? What if Juliet decided to ditch the dagger and live? Broadway in Chicago invites you to find out in the electrifying new musical, & Juliet! This exhilarating show explodes onto the stage with a vibrant, pop-infused soundtrack featuring the chart-topping hits of legendary songwriter and producer Max Martin. From "Since U Been Gone" and "Baby One More Time" to "Roar" you'll be singing along as Juliet embarks on a brand-new adventure of self-discovery, friendship, and finding her own happily ever after. The grandeur of the Historic Auditorium Theatre's stunning architecture and rich history provide the perfect backdrop for a story that's both classic and contemporary. A delicious lunch is included before the play at the iconic Pompei Restaurant in Chicago’s Little Italy.

Get ready to be transported back in time to December 4, 1956, at the legendary Sun Records in Memphis. Join us for a matinee performance of "Million Dollar Quartet" at the renowned Fireside Dinner Theatre. This Tony Award-winning musical brings to life the electrifying moment when rock 'n' roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins came together for an impromptu jam session that would become music history. Your experience begins with a delicious lunch, setting the stage for an afternoon of unforgettable music, powerful performances, and a story that captures the spirit of a generation. Don't miss your chance to witness this monumental event on stage and enjoy an incredible day out at one of the most beloved theatres in the midwest.

Get ready to set sail for paradise! Rodgers and Hammerstein's classic musical, "South Pacific," is coming to the Paramount Theatre in Aurora. Experience this timeless story of love and duty in a brand-new, spectacular production. Join us for this matinee that includes a delicious lunch at the elegant Meyer Ballroom, across from the theater, before you take your seat. Immerse yourself in the unforgettable music, including "Some Enchanted Evening" and "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair," as we transport you to a tropical island during World War II. It's the perfect escape and an experience you won't want to miss!