Going on field trips always helps to get kids interested in learning more about the world around them. Chicago might overshadow other parts of Illinois when it comes to field trips. But the Midway area, just outside Chicago’s city limits, is a great place to take the whole class. Chicago is one of the biggest cities in the United States and has so much to offer students. However, bringing large groups of kids into a big city can sometimes be overwhelming. Luckily, areas just outside the city can offer the same culture and history without as much stress and worry.
Traveling to new places and discovering new things is essential for kids. You may want to bring your kids out of the city to see something new. The Midway is the place for you. It’s essential to get your students out of the classroom and into the world. Field trips show learning doesn’t stop when you leave the classroom.
There are so many things to see in the world. By visiting the Midway, you can show kids that there’s history and culture to consume outside the city limits. In this article, we’ll help you plan your field trip near Midway. Read on to learn about field trip opportunities in the area and why you should take a field trip near Midway.
Where Is Midway?
Plenty of people have heard of Chicago. But where is Midway? This is especially true if you’re not from or familiar with the Chicagoland area. Midway, also called “the Midway,” is an area on the southwest side of the Chicago city limits. It’s referred to as Midway because that is where Chicago Midway International Airport is located. Several towns make up Midway, including Burbank, Bedford Park, Oak Lawn, and more. Since Chicago is so close to the areas, the city’s culture has bled into the Midway area. The most significant difference between the Midway and the city is that it is located on the outskirts, and Midway is less populated. This can be a significant draw for teachers or chaperones nervous about taking big groups into the city.
When you come to Midway, you still get the distinct Chicago vibe without all the crowds. For instance, the village of Bedford Park has its draws regarding art, restaurants, history, and entertainment. Bedford Park is unique because it started as a flat prairie. In the early 1900s, the Corn Products Refining Company decided to open a wet milling plant there. As the company grew, so did the village. Eventually, it was incorporated in 1940. Since then, Bedford Park has grown a lot, both industrially and commercially. Now it is home to a thriving cultural center. Plus, it’s part of the Illinois and Michigan Heritage Canal Corridor. As such, there is plenty to see and do here when you book your field trip near Midway.
Field Trips Near Midway
When you stay near Midway, you get the best of both worlds. You can enjoy what the city of Chicago has to offer, and you can also explore your other surroundings. There’s room to visit the city while learning more about the surrounding history and culture. If you’re coming from far away, you can take your students to see Millenium Park and other iconic Chicago attractions. Staying in Midway can be cheaper, and with access to the city, it’s a no-brainer. Plan your field trip near Midway. It’s effortless to split time between Midway and the city if you stay for more than a day. You can get your share of city life without the risk of tiring out the kids.
And, of course, there are plenty of options when it comes to field trip ideas near Midway. Plenty of fun field trips near Midway are just waiting to surprise you. In Oak Lawn, there’s The Children’s Museum and horseback riding in Burbank. There are even campgrounds in the area, which might seem surprising so close to a big city. But you can go kayaking, hiking, and more just a short ride away from Chicago. In Bedford Park, you can visit the IM-HCC Visitor’s Center in the heart of the village.
Where to Find Sports Entertainment
You likely have a couple, if not many, sports fanatics on your hands. Some kids won’t be satisfied with a field trip until they get their share of sports entertainment. Additionally, it’s possible that you also have a few gamer types in your class. In Bedford Park, we have created a sports entertainment center with something for everyone in Wintrust Sports Complex. Located right by the airport, we are the premiere destination for sports entertainment in the Midwest. If you’re visiting the city and staying in the Midway, Wintrust is a great place to visit during your downtime.
We have quite a bit happening on the city’s outskirts at our facility. Regarding sporting events and general recreation, Wintrust wins every time. You might not think it’s possible, but you’ll be able to please both the gamers and sports fans in your class. That’s not an easy feat. Our facility is a whopping 116,000 square feet. Plus, we are a family-friendly venue, meaning there’s something here for everyone. It doesn’t matter your age. We guarantee you’ll find something fun to do at our complex. Watch a game or get in on the action yourself by visiting our redemption arcade or e-sports gaming area. We also offer laser tag and laser frenzy. Plus, we have a full-service kitchen and lounge. For more information about planning your field trip near Midway or Wintrust Sports Complex, contact us today.