The Elmhurst Park District offers a host of trip options year-round, and the best part is that you can leave the driving to us. So gather up a group of friends, or fly solo and make some new ones and join us on our next adventure.
Refunds are made only if the space can be filled. If enrollment is low or if trips are cancelled, participants are notified and all money is refunded. All trips depart from Mary E. Kies Recreation Center (155 E. St. Charles Rd., Elmhurst), unless indicated otherwise. Please arrive a few minutes early to check in and receive any materials needed for the day. Staff reserves the right to change the type of bus used on the trips. Trip start times are bus departure times. Return times are approximate.
Winter/Spring 2026 Trips
South Pacific on Wednesday, May 6, Noon-5:30pm
Set in a tropical paradise with warm sea breezes, breathless sunsets and B52 Bombers, South Pacific is an uplifting musical tale that follows World War II Armed Services personnel, Ensign Nellie Forbush and Lt. Joseph Cable through spy missions, war-time drama and romance. Balancing duties to their country with their island expectations, they each find themselves irresistibly falling in love on foreign soil. But will that love translate back in the States? South Pacific is an iconic, complex and important piece of musical theater reminding us all of the importance of celebrating cultural differences and the value of people unlike ourselves. Fee includes transportation and main floor seating at Paramount Theater. Registration deadline is April 13. (Ages 21 and up) Minimal Walking.
Summer 2026 Trips - Registration opens Saturday, May 2 at 8am
Sail & Savor on Lake Geneva on Tuesday, June 16, 9:30am-5pm
Spend an afternoon cruising the lake while enjoying a delicious sit-down lunch aboard the Grand Belle. As you dine, take in the beauty of Lake Geneva's shoreline and the stories behind historic estates shared by an expert guide. After our cruise you'll have about an hour to shop downtown Lake Geneva before heading back to Elmhurst. Fee includes motor coach transportation, plated lunch at reserved tables on main deck (entree, fruit, rolls, butter, apple pie, water, coffee, and hot tea), and narrated 2.25-hour cruise. Registration deadline is June 1. (Ages 21 and up) Some Walking.
Wizard of Oz at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre on Thursday, July 30, 11:30am-5:30pm
We're off to see the Wizard! Click your heels three times and join The Cowardly Lion, Scarecrow, Tinman, Dorothy - and Toto too, as they follow the yellow brick road in search of their heart's desires. For the first time on Metropolis' Main Stage, L. Frank Baum's tale comes to life in this extraordinary story. There will be time before the show for lunch on your own at one of the many establishments surrounding the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre in Arlington Heights. Fee includes transportation and ticket to the show. Registration deadline is July 8. (Ages 21 and up) Minimal Walking.
Chocolate & Lucy on Wednesday, August 5, 9am-5pm
Celebrate Lucille Ball’s birthday with a sweet and nostalgic day dedicated to everyone’s favorite redhead! Our day begins at Long Grove Confectionery, where we’ll learn all about the art of chocolate making, tour the production line, and enjoy time to sample and shop in the outlet store. Next, we’ll indulge in a Cuban themed lunch featuring chicken skewers over rice, roasted vegetables, rolls & butter, salad, and dessert. After lunch, we’ll head to University Center for a special presentation by Todd Hunt, who will take us on a journey back to the golden age of television. Through engaging slides, audio, and video clips, we’ll explore how “I Love Lucy” was created and discover fascinating stories about Lucy, Desi, and their castmates. This fun-filled day is the perfect way to honor what would have been Lucy’s 115th birthday! Fee includes motor coach transportation, factory tour, lunch, and private presentation by Todd Hunt. Registration deadline is July 15. (Ages 21 and up). Some Walking.
From River to Roastery: A Day Exploring Chicago on Wednesday, September 16, 9am-4pm
This day trip offers an engaging exploration of some of Chicago's most unique urban attractions. Participants will begin at Chicago's Wild Mile, the world's first floating eco-park, where they can experience innovative river restoration efforts, enjoy scenic views, and learn about local ecology and sustainability initiatives on a guided tour. The trip continues to Washington Hall, a vibrant culinary destination featuring a variety of local vendors and diverse cuisines, for lunch on your own. The day concludes at the iconic Starbucks Reserve Roastery, where participants can experience small-batch coffee roasting, specialty beverages, and the immersive design of one of Starbucks' flagship locations. This program blends environmental education, cultural exploration, and culinary discovery for a memorable Chicago experience. Trip includes transportation and guided tour of the Wild Mile. Purchases at Washington Hall and Starbucks Reserve Roastery are on your own. Registration deadline is September 1. (Ages 21 and up) Moderate Walking.
