Wheaton Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Wheaton, located in the heart of the Illinois region in the United States, is a charming city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and a vibrant community. Known for its picturesque landscapes and friendly atmosphere, Wheaton is a perfect destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful getaway.

Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundance of green spaces and parks that Wheaton has to offer. The Cantigny Park, with its beautiful gardens and tranquil walking trails, is a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in nature's serenity. The Morton Arboretum, spanning over 1,700 acres, showcases a stunning collection of trees and plants from around the world, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic.

For those interested in history and culture, Wheaton does not disappoint. The DuPage County Historical Museum takes visitors on a journey through time, showcasing the rich heritage and traditions of the region. The Cosley Zoo, nestled within Wheaton's scenic parks, is home to a diverse range of animals and offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with wildlife.

Art enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Wheaton as well. The Billy Graham Center Museum, located on the picturesque campus of Wheaton College, features exhibitions that highlight the life and legacy of renowned evangelist Billy Graham. The Wheaton Public Library, with its impressive collection of books and unique architectural design, is not only a haven for book lovers but also a cultural landmark in the city.

Wheaton's vibrant downtown area is dotted with charming shops, boutiques, and restaurants, offering visitors a delightful shopping and dining experience. From local artisans to well-known brands, there is something for everyone in the eclectic mix of stores that line the streets of downtown Wheaton. After a day of exploring, visitors can indulge in a culinary adventure, with a wide range of dining options that cater to every palate.

Alternative names: Settled: 1831Population: 52.7 thous. (2019)Area: 11.48 mi²Elevation: 748 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 41°51'54"N, 88°6'25"W

Location

IllinoisUnited States

Contact

Website

Social media

Add

Wheaton Top Attractions

Wheaton Attractions - What to See and Explore

Wheaton offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Cosley Zoo, DuPage County Historical Museum, Cantigny Park, Marion E. Wade Center. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

5 acres of native Illinois animals
Cosley Zoo
Nestled in the charming city of Wheaton, Illinois, Cosley Zoo stands as a delightful attraction for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike. This quaint zoo offers a unique experience, giving visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with native wildlife...
Museum • History museum
DuPage County Historical Museum
Nestled in the heart of Wheaton, Illinois, the DuPage County Historical Museum stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of local history. This cultural institution offers a deep dive into the past, showcasing the evolution of DuPage County from its early pioneer days...
Park • Military museum • Historical place
Cantigny Park
Cantigny is a 500-acre park in Wheaton, Illinois, 30 miles west of Chicago. It is the former estate of Joseph Medill and his grandson Colonel Robert R. McCormick, publishers of the Chicago Tribune, and is open to the public.

Museum • Library
Marion E. Wade Center
The Marion E. Wade Center at Wheaton College is a special research collection of papers, books, and manuscripts, primarily relating to seven authors from the United Kingdom: C. S. Lewis, J. R. R. Tolkien, G. K. Chesterton, Dorothy L. Sayers, Charles Williams, Owen Barfield, and George MacDonald, as well as C. S.
Church
Trinity Episcopal Church
Trinity Episcopal Church is a historical Gothic Revival Episcopal church in Wheaton, Illinois.
Protected area
Wheaton Park District
The Wheaton Park District is an organization dedicated to leisure and recreation in Wheaton, Illinois. It was incorporated in 1921, and now contains more than 800 acres of land. In addition to the many full-time employees, the park district also employs nearly 1,000 summer part-time staff, often local high school and college students.
Church
College Church in Wheaton
College Church is a historic broadly Calvinist evangelical church in Wheaton, Illinois founded in 1861 by the abolitionist and first president of Wheaton College Jonathan Blanchard. College Church is located across two city blocks facing the Wheaton College campus. Josh Moody has been the Senior Pastor of College Church since 2009.
Museum • Specialty museum
Billy Graham Center
The Wheaton College Billy Graham Center was founded and opened in 1981 on the campus of Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois.
Church
First Baptist Church of Wheaton
First Baptist Wheaton is an evangelical Christian church located in Wheaton, IL, situated in southern DuPage County, and is not formally related to any denomination or baptist association. The church was founded in 1864 by 20 pioneers around the time Abraham Lincoln was drafting his Gettysburg Address.
Tower • Romanesque architecture
DuPage County Courthouse
The Old DuPage County Courthouse is a Richardsonian Romanesque style court house designed by Mifflin E. Bell in Wheaton, Illinois, United States. The building served as the seat of government for DuPage County, Illinois from its construction in 1896, until a new courthouse was built in 1990.
Concerts and shows • Theater
Grand Theatre
The Grand Theatre is a historic theater located in Wheaton, Illinois. It opened on May 25, 1925, with 1,000 seats, and hosted live drama, silent films, and vaudeville performances. The theater changed hands many times in the 20th century, and at various times was known as the Paramount Theatre and The Wheaton Theatre.
Church • Auditorium
Edman Memorial Chapel
Edman Memorial Chapel is an auditorium facility on the campus of Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois. Its primary purpose is as a chapel, though it is also used for numerous concerts and other large events.
41°52'7"N • 88°5'59"W
Blanchard Hall
Blanchard Hall is a limestone building on the campus of Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois. It was built in five phases starting in 1853. The first phase was completed in 1858 and the last in 1927.
Library
Olcott Estate
Olcott Estate is the administrative headquarters of the Theosophical Society in America. Its education department conducts on-site courses, seminars, workshops, and lectures for members and the public. It is located in Wheaton, Illinois.
41°52'13"N • 88°5'59"W
Buswell Memorial Library
Library
Universities and schools
Wheaton College
Wheaton College is a private Evangelical Christian liberal arts college in Wheaton, Illinois. It was founded by evangelical abolitionists in 1860.

Day trips

Wheaton – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Wheaton, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Brookfield Zoo (Brookfield), BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Chicago (Bartlett), Graue Mill (Oak Brook).

14 milesE
Sprawling zoo with thousands of animals
Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield
Nestled in the heart of Brookfield, Illinois, the Brookfield Zoo stands as a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike. This sprawling zoo covers an area of 216 acres and is home to over 2,000 animals, representing some 450 species.
7.4 miNW
Temple
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Chicago, Bartlett
Nestled in the suburb of Bartlett in DuPage County, Illinois, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Chicago is an architectural marvel and a beacon of spirituality. This traditional Hindu place of worship, inaugurated in 2004, is not only a sanctuary for the local Indian...
9.7 miE
Specialty museum, Museum
Graue Mill, Oak Brook
Nestled in the picturesque village of Oak Brook, Illinois, the historic Graue Mill is a captivating destination for tourists interested in American history and traditional milling. This grist mill, built in 1852, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of early American...
13 milesSE
Sacred and religious sites, Temple, Historical place
Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago, Lemont
Nestled in the serene suburb of Lemont, Illinois, the Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago stands as a beacon of spiritual solace and cultural vibrancy for the local community and visitors alike. This majestic temple, embodying traditional Indian architectural aesthetics...
10 milesW
Windmill
Fabyan Windmill, Geneva
Nestled in the charming city of Geneva, Illinois, the Fabyan Windmill stands as a testament to American ingenuity and Dutch craftsmanship. This historic mill, restored to its original luster, offers a picturesque glimpse into the past for visitors and locals alike.

Show all

Best Time To Visit Wheaton

Learn when is the best time to travel to Wheaton weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

JFMAMJJASOND

June is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in May and July.

Average temperatures in °F

JFMAMJJASOND

The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January.

Monthly rainfall in inches

JFMAMJJASOND

The lowest rainfall is recorded in January and February. Most of it rains in April, June, July and August.

Length of day in hours

JFMAMJJASOND

We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Wheaton?

The top attractions to visit in Wheaton are:

What is the best time to visit Wheaton?

June is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in May and July. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January.