Cantigny, located in Wheaton, Illinois, is a sprawling 500-acre park that was once the estate of Joseph Medill and his grandson Colonel Robert R. McCormick, both notable publishers of the Chicago Tribune. This expansive park, situated just 30 miles west of Chicago, offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty, making it an interesting destination for tourists.
Cantigny offers a wide range of attractions for visitors. The park features expansive formal and informal gardens, a Georgian-style brick historic house, and a military museum. For those looking for leisure activities, there is a visitor center with a cafe, a picnic grove with a pavilion, an outdoor playground, and hiking paths. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a 27-hole golf course with a driving range, pro-shop, and restaurant.
The First Division Museum at Cantigny is a significant attraction for history enthusiasts. The museum houses exhibits and artifacts that chronicle the service history of the First Division, not only in World War I, but also in World War II and subsequent U.S. wars. Additionally, the museum grounds feature the area's largest collection of tanks and artillery pieces, collectively known as "Tank Park".
The Cantigny estate is renowned for its ornamental landscapes and gardens, which cover about 30 acres. These include the Rose and White Gardens, Rock and Gravel Gardens, Logarium, Perennial Border, Hawthorn Path, and the nearby Fountain Garden. There is also the Idea Garden, specifically designed to educate and inspire home gardeners. These gardens offer a tranquil and beautiful setting for visitors to explore.
History & Anthropology Nature & Natural History Historic house War Garden & Park Open air
#1 History & Anthropology in Wheaton #1 Historic houses in Wheaton #82 History & Anthropology in Illinois #27 Nature & Natural History in Illinois #19 Gardens & parks in Illinois #68 Historic houses in Illinois #6 Open air museums in Illinois #11 War museums in Illinois #180 Open air museums in United States
1 S, 151 Winfield Rd, Wheaton
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Cantigny has 1 rating.
Cantigny in Wheaton, United States, offers a blend of history, nature, and education. The 500-acre park features well-maintained gardens, which many visitors find beautiful and relaxing. The First Division Museum on the grounds provides an informative look at military history, with exhibits and tanks that appeal to both adults and children. The McCormick House tour gives insight into the life of the park's benefactor, Robert R. McCormick. Visitors appreciate the spacious grounds for picnics and leisurely walks. However, some find the admission and parking fees a bit high, especially for larger families. While most enjoy the gardens year-round, a few mention that certain areas can become crowded during peak times. The staff is generally described as friendly and helpful. Overall, Cantigny offers a diverse experience combining outdoor beauty with historical education, though budget-conscious visitors may find the costs a consideration.
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