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Just west of Chicago, DuPage County is home to luxurious hotels, pristine golf courses and a plethora of natural beauty, along with world-class dining and shopping.
This slice of the the Prairie State is well-known for the Americana charm of Route 66, so you may be surprised at the upscale experiences you can have in DuPage County. Even though this region is only half an hour outside of Chicago, you'll find everything you need for a vacation bursting with relaxation – available at a fraction of what you would pay in the big city. Dive in and discover the indulgent side of Illinois.
Golf on Sparkling Greens
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.
Medinah Country Club in DuPage County
Sip and Savor at Lynfred Winery
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.
The ivy-covered exterior of Lynfred Winery in Roselle
Shop, Shop, Shop!
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!
Luxury shopping in DuPage County
Gorgeous Gardens and Museums
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.
Aerial view of Cantigny's pristine gardens
Sunday Polo at Oak Brook
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.
Enjoying a rousing match at Oak Brook Polo Club
Getting There
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.
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