Community Education Travel Day Trips

Chicago Fireboat Cruise & Chicago Firehouse Restaurant Tuesday August 4, 2026

Experience a historic afternoon celebrating the Chicago Fire Department!

Our journey begins with lunch at The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant. Formerly Engine Company 104, this stunning 1905 Romanesque Revival landmark once protected the mansions of "Millionaire’s Row." You’ll dine in a highly-rated atmosphere that perfectly blends fine dining with rich firefighting history. After lunch,  board the Fred A. Busse, a retired 1937 fireboat. Once the largest diesel-powered fireboat in the world, the Busse was custom-built to navigate under Chicago’s low bridges, ensuring rapid emergency response.  As you cruise the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, you’ll see the city from a unique perspective. The tour features historic photos of the boat in action—from its days patrolling the industrial riverfront to its role in battling the massive 1967 McCormick Place fire.  This is a rare opportunity to explore the city’s legacy from the water and inside one of its most iconic former fire stations. Don’t miss this chance to see Chicago's history come to life!    (Tour requires an appx. 2 block walk to & from the dock) $182

Luau on the Lake!  Thursday September 3, 2026

Say aloha to the season with a spectacular send-off to summer aboard the majestic Grand Belle. As you embark on this delightful 2 ¼ hour “Luau on the Lake” luncheon cruise on beautiful Geneva Lake, you’ll be swept away by the gentle sway of the boat and the rhythmic sounds of island-style music! This journey offers the ultimate blend of flavor and relaxation, providing the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience while you soak in the unparalleled beauty of the shoreline. Prepare your palate for a tropical escape as you indulge in a delicious Hawaiian-inspired buffet. As you dine, the experience comes alive with highlights of the shoreline and live music that enhances the festive atmosphere. You’ll be treated to fascinating stories of Lake Geneva’s storied past, catching glimpses of historic Gilded Age landmarks and iconic estates, including the legendary six-home Wrigley compound. Whether you are looking for fun or a moment of tranquility on the water, this cruise delivers a unique taste of paradise. $162

100 Years of Route 66: Joliet to Pontiac Tuesday September 15, 2026

Trail blaze a true American icon as we celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Route 66! Originally commissioned in 1926, "America’s Mother Road" turns a century old, and you’re invited to the party. Today, an expert guide joins us in Joliet—one of only five cities nationwide chosen as an official satellite for the Centennial kickoff—to give a fascinating narrated tour of the scenic byway and roadside attractions to Pontiac, IL. This stretch of the highway, near its Chicago origin, once stretched all the way to Santa Monica, CA. Today, we’ll go back to America’s Golden Age to see the fabulous sights that have stood the test of time for 100 years. The narrated tour begins in Joliet where we pick up our local Route 66  guide and continues south to Wilmington. Here we’ll see sights like the "Gemini Giant" and the Eagle Hotel. The tour proceeds to Gardner, where the 1906 two-cell jail is located, and then to Dwight to see the 1933 Ambler-Becker Texaco gas station. This station was once the longest-operating station on the 2,448-mile stretch of Rte 66. In Dwight we enjoy lunch at the Old Route 66 Café, a family-owned restaurant with memorabilia. The next stop is Odell to see the old Standard Oil Station, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. In Pontiac, the tour stops at the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum. The fascinating displays chronicle the road's amazing history. "Route 66-A Photo Journal," is a captivating display. You’ll also see Pontiac’s "Murals on Main Street." On the return trip north, the tour stops at the Polk-A-Dot Diner in Braidwood. The drive in  features fiberglass statues of Elvis, Marilyn Monroe, James Dean, and the Blues Brothers. Experiencing the freedom, passion, and spirit that Route 66 has provided America for 100 years is a chance that should not be missed! $132

Oktoberfest at Starved Rock Lodge Tuesday October 20, 2026

Get ready to raise your stein and celebrate at the annual Oktoberfest at Starved Rock Lodge! This festive gathering brings the spirit of Munich to the heart of Illinois, offering an unforgettable experience filled with authentic flavors, lively music, and traditional hospitality. Whether you are a lifelong fan of German culture or simply looking for a fun fall getaway, our celebration in the historic Great Hall provides the perfect backdrop for a season of "Prost!".  Feast on a hearty German-themed buffet featuring classic dishes like bratwurst, sauerkraut, and warm soft pretzels. Guests can sample a variety of German wines and beers and take home a souvenir stein to commemorate the occasion. As you dine, tap your toes to the authentic sounds of the Duseldorfers German Band, whose lively performances of traditional tunes and polka beats are sure to get everyone on their feet. Join us for an afternoon of dancing, dining, and great company as we celebrate the best of Bavarian heritage at the historic Starved Rock Lodge. $144

Remembering Marshall Field’s at Christmas at the Jacob Henry Mansion Wednesday December 2, 2026

Experience the nostalgia of Chicago’s most iconic holiday tradition with a festive performance of “Remembering Marshall Field’s at Christmas”  Set within the Gilded Age splendor of the Jacob Henry Mansion Estate in Joliet, this enchanting program features award-winning historian and author Leslie Goddard, as she traces the history of the legendary State Street department store. Through rare photographs and vintage memorabilia, you will be transported back to the magic of the 45-foot Great Tree in the Walnut Room, the whimsical animated window displays, and beloved characters like Uncle Mistletoe. It is a heartfelt tribute to the store that truly defined the holiday season for generations of Chicagoans. Your afternoon begins with a self-guided tour of the 1873 mansion, a National Historic Landmark renowned for its intricate Victorian craftsmanship and Joliet limestone exterior. Following the tour, guests will gather for a delicious homemade luncheon in the banquet hall at the Estate, featuring seasonal favorites and warm hospitality. The experience continues with Goddard’s presentation, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how Marshall Field’s transformed from a small dry goods shop into a world-class fashion destination. The day concludes with an invitation to visit the historic Old Central Church on the estate grounds, providing the perfect end to a day filled with history, charm, and holiday spirit! $125

Dancing Horses Christmas Spectacular Friday December 4, 2026

Step into a winter wonderland this holiday season with the Dancing Horses Christmas Show, a breathtaking 90-minute spectacle that has become a beloved Lake Geneva tradition. Held in a state-of-the-art, climate-controlled theater, this Vegas-style production features the incredible grace of Arabian horses performing alongside world-class trainers. You’ll be mesmerized by a festive fusion of dazzling costumes, vibrant light displays, and heartwarming holiday music that captures the magic of the season. From the precision of the equestrian artistry to the enchanting holiday effects, this show offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Before the show enjoy a great lunch at the Tuscan Restaurant. Nestled in the heart of Lake Geneva, this charming destination provides a warm, rustic atmosphere perfect for our festive gathering. With its cozy ambiance and attentive service, the Tuscan is the perfect start to our day of holiday magic and equestrian wonder! $159

Remember When! Wednesday July 29, 2026

Step back into a simpler time with a nostalgic day tour through some of Lake County’s most beloved treasures. Our journey begins in the historic village of Long Grove, where we visit the legendary Ma & Pa’s Candy. This old-school confectionery offers a delightful walk down memory lane with its wide array of vintage sweets and handmade treats. Just a short stroll away, we’ll explore the whimsical Sock Monkey Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of handmade sock monkeys. You’ll be charmed by over 2,000 unique monkeys featured in enchanting, creative displays that celebrate a true American classic. The afternoon takes us to the iconic Dover Straits in Mundelein for a great lunch. Stepping into this local landmark feels like a wonderful throwback to the classic 1970s supper clubs, offering an upscale atmosphere and the kind of exceptional service that never goes out of style. After a delicious meal, prepare for the main event: Todd Hunt’s "Remember When" show. This entertaining presentation revisits favorite childhood toys, vintage advertisements, and classic TV moments. It is a heartfelt celebration of the "good old days" guaranteed to leave you smiling. Join us for a day filled with laughter, great food, and wonderful memories! $142

Chicago Theatres & the Costumes of Paul Tazewell Friday August 21, 2026

Step into the spotlight with an exclusive journey through the heart of the city’s dramatic theatre history. We begin with a curated driving tour past architectural marvels that defined the "Roaring Twenties," including the opulent Cadillac Palace, a French Baroque jewel inspired by the palaces of Versailles and Fontainebleau. We’ll pass the Lyric Opera House, a massive Art Deco "throne" built to rival New York’s cultural dominance, and the James M. Nederlander Theatre, which originally opened in 1926 and famously stands on the site of the historic Iroquois Theatre. You'll also see the Auditorium Theatre, an 1889 Adler and Sullivan masterpiece that pioneered modern air conditioning. The excitement builds as we go behind the scenes for an intimate interior tour of the world-famous Chicago Theatre, the first large-scale movie palace in America and a prototype for all that followed. After a sophisticated lunch at The Remington on Michigan Ave, we conclude with a spectacular visit to the Museum of Science and Industry to see the Crafting Character: The Costumes of Paul Tazewell exhibit. Marvel at the visionary craftsmanship behind the Tony Award-winning costumes for revolutionary hits like Hamilton, The Color Purple, and In the Heights, as well as his cinematic reimagining of West Side Story. Explore the technical engineering and meticulous artistry required to bring these showstopping designs to life. Whether you are a theatre aficionado or a lover of high fashion, this tour offers an unforgettable look at the creative genius that brings the stage to life. This tour requires to be able to use stairs at the Chicago Theatre. $163

Chicago Cubs vs. Milwaukee Brewers Monday September 7, 2026

Baseball fans, what better day than Labor Day to travel to Wisconsin to see our Chicago Cubs battle the rival Milwaukee Brewers in an afternoon matinee game! A deluxe motorcoach will take us to Milwaukee’s beautiful American Family Field to see the Cubs in action in this state-of-the-art ballpark! Enjoy great loge box seats on the first base side, out of the direct sunlight. Each person will receive $25 in Brewers Bucks to use towards the park's distinct and delicious Wisconsin food items. $157

China Lights at Boerner Botanical Gardens!  Thursday October 1, 2026

Brighten up your autumn evening at this incredible lights festival that has become a Milwaukee area tradition!  China Lights is an event that celebrates the art, skill, and beauty of traditional Chinese lantern festivals that have been celebrated across Asia for over 400 years! Held each fall in suburban Milwaukee at the lovely Boerner Botanical Gardens in Whitnall Park, this after-sundown celebration of Asian life and culture, transforms the Gardens into a magical paradise of dazzling illuminated displays. Dragons, glowing pagodas and iridescent pinwheels are just some of the stunning illuminated sculptures you will see on a ¾ walking path at the gardens. China Lights also features amazing stage performances highlighting Asian folk-culture performances. Cultural display cases in Boerner’s historic Garden House feature replicas of historic Chinese artifacts and a video viewing area showcasing China’s beauty. Before our visit to China Lights enjoy a dinner at the Steakout Restaurant Restaurant in nearby Greendale, WI. $151

Rumor Has It…  Halloween at the Mansion!  Tuesday October 27, 2026

Experience a Halloween celebration like no other at the legendary Sanfilippo Estate! in Barrington Hills, Illinois. This isn’t your typical haunted house; it is an afternoon of haunted history and vintage elegance designed to enchant rather than frighten. Step back in time within the French Second Empire mansion, which serves as a breathtaking backdrop for a "bougie and beyond ordinary" seasonal escapade! The festivities begin with a gourmet fall-inspired feast in the estate's stunning pavilion, all accompanied by wine to toast to the "spirits" of the season. Following lunch, the magic turns mysterious as you explore the world’s finest collection of automatic musical instruments. Highlights include mesmerizing demonstrations of dance and band organs, and the chance to marvel at the magnificent Eden Palais, the most complete European salon carousel in existence. The afternoon reaches its spellbinding grand finale with a visit to the historic mansion, culminating in a live organ concert on the world’s largest restored theatre pipe organ. This performance features a rare silent Halloween film produced right on the estate grounds. With flickering images and haunting music machines bringing the past to life, this event offers a beautifully spooky, time-traveling adventure that captures the true essence of Halloween! $159

Illumination at White Fence Farm Thursday December 3, 2026

TheMorton Arboretum’s, “Illumination: Tree Lights at the Arboretum" is a spectacular holiday lights display using amazing new technology. On our early-evening trip, walk along a paved path to see the beautiful Christmas lights glowing with dazzling LED lights in the trees. You will not only see them, but you interact with them as well! Enjoy a cozy fire and some hot chocolate, and stop in at the Visitor’s Center to see other themed displays. Dinner is at the landmark White Fence Farm Restaurant where we’ll feast on its acclaimed "World's Greatest Chicken"! Beautifully decorated for the holidays, the restaurant has served travelers on what was once old historic U.S. Route 66 since 1926. $143

Sanfilippo Mansion Christmas Concert Tuesday, December 8, 2026

Celebrate the holidays on one of CET’s most popular tours - a special event at “Place de la Musique”, the spectacular Sanfilippo Estate in Barrington Hills. Begin with an elegant catered holiday meal in the Estate’s Carousel Building. We’ll dine next to the “Eden Palais'' carousel, the only complete European salon carousel in the world. The spectacular 89-foot wide and 42-foot tall-carved façade has life-size carved horses, giant art glass butterflies and an 89-key gavioli band organ. You will see and hear this masterpiece in its full glory while learning about the estate's amazing collection. Following lunch, visit the Sanfilippo residence for a 90-minute Wurlitzer Theatre holiday organ concert performed by Dave Wickerham, one of the finest theater organists in the world. The afternoon concludes with a self-guided exploration of the mansion where docents will explain and demonstrate some of the world’s greatest collections of restored antique music machines. This elegant afternoon will help you ring in the holidays! $159