District 214 Community Education

You don't have to travel to South Dakota to see the iconic American Bison. At the Broken Wagon Bison Ranch near Hobart, Indiana, board a "Bison Tour Wagon'' to see this beautiful 35-acre buffalo farm. Enjoy expert narration from your ranch guide, as you venture up close and safely to the herd of about 70 buffalo. We’ll also see a film on the history of the bison and learn facts about the American Bison and the story of the ranch. Later at the Industrial Revolution Eatery in nearby Valparaiso, enjoy a delicious lunch while dining in this unique atmosphere that pays tribute to the American spirit of innovation. En route home, enjoy some sweet treats on a visit to the Albanese Candy Factory, home to the "World's Best Gummies"! See the factory floor where the candies are produced and visit the outlet store.

Join CET for a fun day at the Jacob Henry Mansion & Estate for a unique portrayal of comedy queen Lucille Ball. In the 1950's, this legendary actress and comedienne captured the hearts of television viewers across the nation, while her production company brought new innovations off screen. Sit back and enjoy as historian Leslie Goddard entertains you with stories and pictures of this icon! Before the show and a delicious lunch, visit the Mansion, built in 1873 on Joliet’s Silk Stocking Row by railroad magnate Jacob Henry–a fully furnished mansion known for its beauty and old Victorian charm.

Cruise on the spectacular fully glass-enclosed Odyssey Chicago River vessel. This relatively new 200-seat single-level boat treats you to an upscale, three-course order-from-the-menu, full-service luncheon as it sets sail from near the NBC Towers on the Chicago River Esplanade. The two-hour lunch cruise with light architectural narration travels along the Chicago River’s scenic main branch and then onto the river’s south branch to Chinatown’s Ping Tom Park. The glass-covered boat gives passengers an unparalleled 360-degree view of Chicago’s iconic and historic buildings while enjoying some culinary excellence!