
The friendly and knowledgeable staff at the DuPage Convention & Visitors Bureau has created several successful tours of DuPage County and the greater Chicago area. This one is a favorite.
Let us tailor the perfect tour for your group. We can provide you with free up-to-date information on the best spots and values around Chicago. Contact Julie Scholle, CTIS, by email or call her at 1-800-232-0502 and start planning your trip to DuPage today.
Band of Brothers: Military Reunion Itinerary
When the courageous defenders of our nation reunite in DuPage County, they can expect four-star general treatment. March back in time at DuPage's famed military museums, billet in gracious comfort at our hotels and resorts, and entertain the troops in high style. DuPage military reunions are always a major success.
DAY ONE
Check into one of DuPage County's many affordably priced hotels. You'll be bunking in style, delighted at the level of comfort, amenities and service you'll enjoy.
Evening
Freshen up in preparation for your Welcome Reception in the hospitality suite, where you will greet your brothers in arms.
DAY TWO: Army Salute
Morning/Afternoon
You will be transported back in time to visit war-torn France, the Omaha beach, a German bunker and a Vietnam jungle with the amazingly realistic, life-sized dioramas of the First Division Museum honoring Big Red One soldiers. Tour the new Freedom Museum and Cantigny Mansion and Gardens, the magnificent home of the late Col. Robert R. McCormick, former publisher and editor of the Chicago Tribune. You might be lucky enough to catch a Civil War Re-enactment that's held on the grounds every Spring and Summer. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Fairway Club House overlooking the beautiful Cantigny Golf Course.
Evening
Enjoy a great dinner at The Clubhouse or Weber Grill Restaurant, or catch a live production at Drury Lane Theater. Later, relax in the hotel lounge with a brandy and cigar while trading war stories.
DAY THREE: Navy Salute
Morning
Reveille is at dawn for a motor coach ride to visit the Great Lakes Naval Training Center. Tour the base, and perhaps attend boot camp graduation ceremonies. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Officers Club with its magnificent view of Lake Michigan, followed by your reunion's Memorial Service at the Recruit Training Command Chapel.
Afternoon
Head into Chicago to visit the new Memorial Water Wall, a veterans memorial at Soldier Field. Window shop on Michigan Avenue, the Magnificent Mile, or gaze in awe at the commanding views from atop the Sears Tower. Then go down to Navy Pier, a former Navy training center, that is now a hub of entertainment, activity and fun.
Evening
Watch the sunset and the shimmering lights of Chicago's famed skyline from the deck of the luxury 700-passenger cruise ship, Odyssey, at Navy Pier. Enjoy a sumptuous and award-winning four-course dinner before dancing the night away as fireworks light up the sky.
DAY FOUR: Air Force Salute
Morning
Sleep in after a memorable night, then take off for a tour of the Illinois Aviation Museum at Clow Airport in Bolingbrook. Admire the carefully restored T-2C Buckeye jet trainer aircraft and historic Nieuport 11 replica, and witness the ongoing restoration of a T-33 in the 6,000 square foot Hanger One. Chat with WWI Aero Builders Club members about their 3/4-scale Fokker E-III that they're building to actually fly in special museum events. Fledgling aviators of the Young Eagles will happily take you on a flight into the wild blue yonder.
Afternoon
After lunch, choose from several tantilizing options:
- Tour and sample wines at Lynfred Winery in Roselle.
- Visit the new golf exhibit at The Center for History, acclaimed for its affecting recreation of an Underground Railroad station and a powerful exhibit of the tragic SS Eastland disaster.
- Take the Acorn Express on a tour of The Morton Arboretum, featuring a breath-taking 1,700 acres of gardens and forests.
- Experience the ultimate shopping excursion at one of DuPage County's major shopping centers, including Oakbrook Center, Stratford Square Mall, Westfield Fox Valley, Yorktown Center, and Chicago Premium Outlets.
Evening
Conclude your stay with a banquet dinner at your host hotel.
When it comes to great military reunions, you can count on a mission accomplished in DuPage County!
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