The Hidden Gems of Wheaton

This page is dedicated to those special places in Wheaton that may not be as well known, especially to newcomers. While you may recognize their names, perhaps you were not aware of all they have to offer. Please see the highlighted “Gems of Wheaton” in the list below:

• Issue 5: The Mystery and History of Adams Park
  Was the Wheaton Library always in its current location? Which John Quincy Adams was Adams Park named after, and was it named after him? Who was Wheaton’s first librarian? Find out the details of Wheaton’s only city-owned park and the story of the influential Adams Family in this Hidden Gem feature. Read More >
• Issue 4: The Cosley Zoo
  If you don’t know about the Cosley Zoo, you are missing out! They offer so many family-friendly adventures and events—it truly is a local Hidden Gem! Back in 1973, Ms. Paula Jones donated almost three acres of land to the Wheaton Park District. She dedicated it to honor a close relative, former land owner Mr. Harvey Cosley. Her vision for the land was that it should not be developed, but used as a space cherishing green spaces and nature. Today, this wonderful facility is home to a variety of local wildlife and hosts fun, educational activities and programming throughout the year. Read More >
• Issue 3: Theosophical Society in America
  Founded in 1875, the Theosophical Society is an international organization headquartered at Adyar, Chennai (Madras), India. It encourages open-minded inquiry into world religions, philosophy, science, and the arts in order to understand the wisdom of the ages and respect the unity of all life. Read More >
• Issue 2: Perry Mastodon Exhibit
  It sounds like science fiction. Strange, but true, mastodons roamed this earth where many of us live and work today (see map, below). The bones of what is called the “Perry Mastodon” were discovered on October 16, 1963. While digging a pond on the property of U.S. Federal District Court Judge Joseph Sam Perry, the excavator unearthed a large bone from the creature. Read More >
• Issue 1: Cantigny Park
  You’ve likely heard of Cantigny—it is famous for its sprawling, nearly 300-acre golf course, in a beautiful wooded setting. In fact, it is a Golf Digest Top 30 Course in Illinois. Since its opening, in 1989, it has come to be known as one of the finest public-access golf courses in Illinois. This is no surprise to locals. Read More >