“Just Beyond the City Limits” of Chicago rests the 63 South/Southwest suburbs known as the Chicago Southland. Whether you are looking for exciting historic downtown shopping sprees, wonderful arts and culture, religious or historic itineraries, the Chicago Southland has it all.
With six major interstates running through the region (55, 57, 80, 94, 294 and 355) and Midway and O’Hare International Airports, getting around the Chicago Southland has never been easier. In fact, the Chicago Southland is within in a five-hour drive of eight states. Additionally, parking is free at all Chicago Southland hotels and most attractions.
No matter where you’re coming from, or where you’re going to, odds are you’ll be passing through the Chicago Southland. We’re the perfect place to stop or stay.
ASK
Tobie Fitzpatrick
Tour Market Manager
Chicago Southland Convention & Visitors Bureau
888-895-3211
tourchicagosouthland.com
DISCOVER
Credit: David Lassen
A visit to Historic Pullman National Monument, America’s first Planned Industrial Community, listed as a National Historic Site and recently designated a National Monument, is a perfect place to learn history and experience 19th and 20th Century architecture.
The well-preserved area was built in 1880 by George Pullman, for the production of his famous sleeper car. This fascinating tour includes visits to the Visitor Center, Greenstone Church, Hotel Florence, administration building and factory grounds.
LEARN
Credit: Chicago Southland CVB
Learn about renewable energy, hydroponic farming and green manufacturing when visiting Method Soap Factory. Method is the industry’s first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) platinum-certified soap factory in Chicago, setting new standards for making soap.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by an enormous wind turbine, which helps generate half the building’s annual electrical consumption. The factory also has a “greenroof” where Gotham Greens created a commercial-scale greenhouse that produces about 500 tons of fresh, premium quality, pesticide-free produce annually.
EXPERIENCE
Credit: Chicago Southland, CVB
Experience as never before, the passion of Christ on an interactive half-mile winding pathway that begins with the Last Supper and Garden of Gethsemane. When you step onto the Prayer Trail, it is as though you have been transported back 2,000 years as you view the 40 life-size bronze sculptures, each portraying an exquisite work of art.
The Gift Shoppe offers guests an array of beautifully inspired religious items, including a gallery filled with incredible artwork, fine jewelry and accessories.
SEE
Credit: Chicago Southland CVB
The studios of Charles Lotton, began in 1970 with prayers and dreams when Charles began in his backyard, teaching himself the art of glassblowing. Today, groups can find Charles experimenting with some of the most breathtaking colors in the world.
Watch the unique process as Charles, or one of his teammates, works on a piece of art starting with sand. Today, Charles’ works grace hundreds of museum collections.
