AMITA Health Saints Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center Chicago

The National Veterans Art Museum is committed to collecting, preserving, and exhibiting art created by military personnel inspired by their experiences during active duty. The museum's focus is mainly on the Vietnam War, and its primary goal is to increase the public's understanding of the impact of conflict. By showcasing artworks created by military veterans, the museum aims to encourage dialogue about the effects of war, including its physical, mental, and emotional consequences. Since its establishment, the museum has amassed a significant collection of artwork created by veterans who have served in various wars, including WWII, Korea, the Gulf War, and the Global War on Terror. The collection now comprises over 2,000 pieces, a considerable increase from the 700 works created by 115 artists who served in the Vietnam War. These veterans come from different parts of the world, such as the United States, Australia, Cambodia, Hungary, Thailand, and North and South Vietnam. The museum's collection includes paintings, drawings, photography, sculpture, and literary works by military writers like Kurt Vonnegut and Tim O'Brien. The museum also offers interactive exhibitions, allowing visitors to engage with the ideas and themes presented.

The Shedd Aquarium is a magnificent destination for those interested in exploring marine life without diving into the water. The exhibits and attractions have won numerous awards. The aquarium has five permanent exhibits: Amazon Rising, Caribbean Reef, Waters of the World, Oceanarium, and Wild Reef. It houses a diverse collection of animals and marine life, including over 1,500 fish species, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. The Shedd Aquarium houses around 25,000 fish and animals, including various fascinating creatures such as sea otters, beluga whales, sea turtles, penguins, sharks, octopi, and jellyfish. Additionally, you can also find Pacific white-sided dolphins, Australian lungfish, Grand Cayman blue iguanas, sea lions, cow-nose rays, dragon moray eels, moon jellies, red-bellied piranhas, sea cucumbers, zebra sharks, and sea stars at the aquarium.

City Winery is a unique venue that offers live entertainment and a wide selection of wine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. With a working winery on site, guests can enjoy up to 18 varieties of wine while being entertained. The venue can accommodate up to 300 guests, and each location offers a distinctive culinary and cultural experience for wine enthusiasts. City Winery has expanded to provide intimate concerts, food and wine seminars, private event spaces, upscale dining, and a fully functioning winery. Experience the charm of wine country with modern comfort and convenience in an urban setting. The performance venues are equipped with state-of-the-art acoustics provided by Meyer Sound. Before the concert, you can visit the tasting room to try a flight of wines. After the show, stop by the bar for more drinks. City Winery offers a range of functional spaces that can host a memorable night out for two or an unforgettable private event. There is something for everyone at City Winery, whether it's discovering new wines while enjoying an intimate concert or celebrating your wedding in the wine garden followed by an epic party.

Do you want to escape from the busy city life and immerse yourself in nature's beauty? Look no further than the Forest Preserves of Cook County. The forest offers over 69,000 acres of wildlife, outdoor recreation, and environmental education opportunities. Whether you have just one hour, a full day, or a night to spare, you can explore the stunning natural landscapes spread over 70,000 acres. The Forest Preserves offer something for everyone, regardless of age or interests. You can attend a camping basics workshop, take your children to a concert in the woods, or try activities such as "forest bathing," owl prowling, or nature photography. Additionally, you can go cross-country skiing, horseback riding, mountain biking, boating, and check out the aquatic centers and golf courses. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even spend a night under the stars and fall asleep to the gentle sounds of nature at one of the five campgrounds.