Best Landmarks near Exploration Station

The B. Harley Bradley House, located in Kankakee, Illinois, is a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home built in 1900-1901. It's considered a pivotal work in Wright's transition to the Prairie School style, featuring long rows of windows, stained glass, and a low-pitched roofline.

Stroll through the Riverview Historic District in Kankakee, Illinois, and step back in time. This charming residential neighborhood along the Kankakee River boasts meticulously restored homes, including two designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, showcasing a variety of architectural styles from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Edwin Ruthven Willard Home and Office, located in Wilmington, Illinois, is a preserved historical landmark. This building provides a glimpse into the life and work of Edwin Ruthven Willard, a notable figure in the community.

Explore the vast, restored landscape of Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, the first of its kind in the U.S., born from the remnants of the Joliet Army Ammunition Plant. Hike or bike through diverse habitats, witness ongoing prairie restoration, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the reintroduced American bison.

Explore the haunting remains of Cardiff, Illinois, a ghost town that once thrived on coal mining. Founded in 1899, Cardiff quickly grew to a population of over 2,000 before its mine closed in 1912, leading to its rapid abandonment. Today, visitors can wander the site and reflect on the town's brief but vibrant history.

Discover a rare ecosystem at the Des Plaines Dolomite Prairies Land and Water Reserve in Wilmington, Illinois. This unique preserve showcases dolomite prairies, a type of grassland found in only a few areas of northern Illinois, supporting diverse plant life and wildlife. Open to the public, it offers a chance to explore a natural habitat shaped by shallow soils and dolomite bedrock.

Explore the Briscoe Mounds Historic Site in Channahon, Illinois, featuring ancient burial mounds built between 1200 and 1500 AD by Native American cultures. This serene site offers a glimpse into the lives and customs of those who once inhabited the area.

Step into a verdant paradise at Bird Haven Greenhouse & Conservatory in Joliet, Illinois. This historic Italian Renaissance-style greenhouse, designed in the early 1900s, features themed rooms brimming with tropical plants, cacti, and vibrant floral displays, offering a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and photographers alike.

The Potawatomi Village Historic Site in Joliet, Illinois, offers a glimpse into the lives of the Potawatomi people, who once inhabited this region. Though few structures remain, informational plaques and the serene landscape provide a space for reflection on the area's indigenous heritage.

The Jacob Henry Mansion, a National Historic Landmark in Joliet, Illinois, is a stunning example of Renaissance Revival architecture. Built in 1873 for railroad magnate Jacob Henry, the mansion boasts over 40 rooms with elaborate woodwork and period furnishings, now serving as a venue for weddings and special events.