Grandparents and grandchildren share special bonds, but there is a figurative—and generational—gap. How can one bridge such a chasm? Enter GRAMPING! Gramping, you ask? No, not glamping—the counterintuitive merger of luxury and outdoors that can potentially defeat the purpose for both. Gramping is a trip meant for grandparents and grandkids to better connect through shared interests and where you can (optionally) leave the middle generation behind. Below, is Visit Chicago Southland’s itinerary to do just that: 

Day 1
BROOKFIELD ZOO 
Venture to the world-renowned Brookfield Zoo Chicago for a full day of sightseeing and learning from its 235-acre park featuring over 3,000 animals from more than 500 species. Since opening in 1934, Brookfield Zoo has grown its international acclaim with its ample exhibits, renowned zoologists, and an innovative role in animal care and conservation of the natural world. Celebrating its 90th anniversary, the zoo will welcome koalas for the first time as Brumby and Willum will become permanent residents and the 110-foot-tall Anniversary Ferris Wheel. Beyond general admission, visitors now can participate in Wild Connections: the zoo’s animal encounters which include flamingos, macaws, otters, penguins, sharks, and giraffes. 

THE ORIGINAL AURELIO’S PIZZA 
A staple in the Chicago Southland is Aurelio’s Pizzeria, particularly its flagship restaurant in Homewood, Illinois. As over sixty franchises are now spread across the U.S., Homewood’s Aurelio’s attracts visitors nationwide due to its original “Old Oven” and indelible structure forged from a barrel-roofed warehouse.  

LODGING AT CAMP SULLIVAN (Both nights) 
Spend your nights in nature but with modern amenities. Camp Sullivan provides you and your family a cabin as a respite between bike rides on the Tinley Park Trail System, hiking, and climbing. 

Day 2 
LAKE KATHERINE NATURE CENTER AND BOTANICAL GARDENS 
Down the road from Camp Sullivan is Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanical Gardens. Here, your family can scour their 85 acres of restored natural refuge for bird watching, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, and a nature program. 

DAVE & BUSTER'S
Counter the morning serenity of Lake Katherine with the afternoon and evening romp at Dave & Buster's in Orland Park. Dave & Buster's offers a perfect blend of excitement and entertainment for all ages. With a wide range of arcade games, from classics to the latest interactive experiences, there's something to thrill every grandchild. Watch their eyes light up as they win tickets and redeem them for awesome prizes. And when hunger strikes, Dave & Buster's menu has something for everyone, from kid-friendly favorites to hearty meals that grandparents will love. It's the ultimate destination for bonding, laughter, and making cherished memories together. 

As you awake to the sounds of nature around your cabin at Camp Sullivan, you meditatively pack up as a closing day trip into downtown Chicago awaits.  
A Major League Baseball Game from either the Chicago White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field or the Chicago Cubs at the friendly confines of Wrigley Field would be a terrific opportunity for grandparents and grandchildren to take in America’s pastime together. For history lovers, Museum Park—filled by the Shedd Aquarium, the Adler Planetarium, the Field Museum, the Museum of Science & Industry, and the Art Institute of Chicago—can inform and inspire whether you are one or one-hundred or any number in between. 

**Please note: Itinerary may be modified to meet your group’s specific needs. Locations and selections are subject to availability. Please contact Tobie at [email protected] or 708-895-8200 to obtain current pricing and confirmation of dates and locations.