Beyond Chicago’s Skyline: Luxury and Serenity in DuPage County

DuPage County boasts more than 50 golf courses, including Belmont Golf Club, the original location of what was likely the first 18-hole golf course in the USA. The region's golf courses regularly rank on Golf Digest’s annual list of America’s 100 Best Golf Courses, and they've played host to many professional tournaments – including the BMW Championship, Korn Ferry Tour, LPGA Solheim Cup, PGA Championship, Ryder Cup and U.S. Open. In 2026, DuPage County will host the 2026 Presidents Cup at Medinah Country Club.

What began as a “hobby that got out of hand” for founding winemakers (and married couple) Fred and Lynn Koehler led to the opening of the oldest and largest continuously operating family winery in Illinois. When you arrive at Lynfred Winery – named for a clever portmanteau of the founders’ names – you’ll find an oasis in the town of Roselle, offering a variety of red, white, sparkling and seasonal wines paired with artisan cheeses. Want to make a weekend of it? Book a dreamy overnight stay at one of their wine country-themed bed-and-breakfast suites.

Discover one-of-a-kind finds all throughout DuPage County. Shop at unique boutiques in charming downtowns, then venture through the region's most popular indoor and outdoor shopping centers and premium outlets. Find the newest styles from designer labels such as Burberry, Coach, Gucci, Louis Vuitton and more. Save some room in your suitcase or buy an extra one; it will be worth it!

After your shopping spree, head to Wheaton to enjoy a visit to Cantigny. Cantigny was an experimental farm in the 1930s, and the estate once belonged to famed newspaper editor and publisher Robert McCormick. There are two museums on the park grounds: The McCormick Museum – which features artifacts from McCormick's life and career at the Chicago Tribune – and the First Division Museum – a military museum exploring U.S. history through the eyes of an Army soldier. After the museums, savor a stroll through the 202-hectare park's manicured gardens and greenhouses. To admire more incredible greenery, head over to Morton Arboretum, whose sprawling grounds are populated with inspiring art installations and over 200,000 live plants. It's an idyllic setting for birdwatching or just enjoying a leisurely afternoon in any season.

Founded in 1922 by legendary businessman Paul Butler, Oak Brook Polo Club is one of the oldest polo clubs in the U.S. Legendary figures like King Charles III of the United Kingdom, writer Cecil Smith, actress Vivien Leigh and King Hussein I of Jordan, along with countless other notable guests, have enjoyed beautiful afternoons competing on this verdant pitch. In the summer, you can take part in the tradition by attending Sunday polo matches.

Fly into Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD) or Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) and rent a car; from either, it will take you under an hour to reach DuPage County.