Day Five: St. Louis

Good morning from the Arch!

Up we go! All 41 students braved the height and ventured up into the Arch. They enjoyed this experience and the architectural story behind it. Also, at the top they appreciated the lovely view of the (cold and rainy) St. Louis! The area at the bottom has recently been renovated containing a nice gift shop and a few exhibits. Our history buffs have had the opportunity to inquire about the creation and history of the gateway to the west. Up next, the City Museum!

Day Four Continued: St. Louis

Hi there from St. Louis!

Last night we arrived, checked into the hotel, and then went to the Incredible Pizza Company. We enjoyed yummy pizza before having time to explore the arcade. After a busy day at the Capitols and museums, the kids deserved (and needed) an outlet to release their energy. Some healthy competitions ensued in air hockey and go-carts. I even participated in some of the fun on the track! One of their favorite parts was the Prize Store. Thanks to us, you soon will be proud co-owners of bouncy balls and stuffed animals (you're welcome :))

Today, we will experience the Gateway Arch, City Museum and the Ball Park Village before heading back to Chicago. Keep your eye out on your e-mail for an email from us notifying you of our departure and ETA.

Talk soon!

Day Four: Exploration Springfield

Hello from Springfield!

The day started off with a hot breakfast at the hotel, and then we embarked on our adventure for the day! First stop: The Old State Capitol. Here, we toured the different rooms and truly soaked up the rich history. Next, we were greeted at the Illinois State Military Museum by Veterans of the Vietnam War. They talked about the different equipment that a soldier wore and used during the war. One of the Veteran's names was Snowman- the kids found that pretty cool. We eventually made our way upstairs where we inquired the military weapons used during the different wars in American History.

After the Military Museum, we went to the bustling New State Capitol building. The Capitol had a lot of different events going on today. For starters the Senate was in Session, so there were lots of people hustling around the building. Also, there was a memorial service going on for a fallen police officer.
Still, we were able to receive a tour, sit in the gallery of the House, and get a picture taken on the floor of the Senate.

Finally, before departing for St. Louis for the evening, we made our last two stops: the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library and the Lincoln Family Visitor Center. At both stops, we learned about Lincoln's life before and during the White House. The students are not leaving Springfield without truly recognizing that we do indeed live in the Land of Lincoln.

Day Three: North Utica Trolley Tour and Springfield Ghost Tour

Don't blink, kids, or you will miss North Utica. We broke off into two groups and strolled through the town of North Utica on a trolley Wednesday afternoon. One of the trolley tour guides was incredibly entertaining as he educated us on Starved Rock, North Utica and the surrounding areas. A few fun facts: Starved Rock was building by members of the CCC: Civilian Conservation Core, and it is the second largest state park. Also, it gets it's name from the story of the Illini Indian tribe. Also, the kids learned that the sandstone in the park is called "St. Peter's sandstone." In the small, quaint city of North Utica, we saw one of the first churches in the Midwest, the Immaculate Conception of St. Mary's. The church's mission was led by Pere Marquette: the first Frenchmen to approach Starved Rock through the Illinois River. Our tour was also memorable because we saw a bald eagle near her nest high up in the trees! After dinner at Starved Rock, we drove to Springfield where we met our tour guide for the Abraham Lincoln Walking Ghost Tour. Here, we visited his family's church and his home. We heard about the stories of Lincoln's ghosts and premonitions of his death. Finally, we ended the night back at the hotel where students settled down and received a good night's rest. 

Day Three: Starved Rock

Hello from Starved Rock!

We have had quite an active morning exploring the trails at Starved Rock. Although the trails were a little muddy, the kids made the most of it! We have learned the stories and legends behind Starved Rock and Lovers Leap. The kids particularly love the history behind them both! We enjoyed lunch on the hike near some waterfalls and are getting ready for our Trolley Tour before dinner!

Day Two: Museum Of Science and Industry

Yesterday, students had a busy day exploring the MSI in a Chicago. For the first part of the day students explored and analyzed the different exhibits, like the Science Storms, The YOU Experience, and Genetics. We learned a lot of things, like how hot air balloons operate and how laughing makes you happy!

Then, we had tickets to the Tornado Alley show in the Dome Theatre. We saw some up close and personal shots of actual tornados in ‘Tornado Alley’. We enjoyed lunch in the food court area, and then explored the U-Boat exhibit where students saw an actual U-Boat that was used in WWII. We found it so fascinating that the U-Boat got to MSI from Bermuda by means of the Atlantic and then to Lake Michigan! The last thing we did was explore the mirror maze. Here, the kids had a fun time trying to escape the maze, although the walls were made up of mirrors!

Overall, the day was filled with educational experiences and activities for all!