DuPage County: Hidden gem minutes from Chicago

DuPage County in Illinois is emerging as a premium destination for UK and international travellers seeking an authentic American holiday.

It offers luxury, heritage, and world-class sport — all within easy reach of downtown Chicago.

Travel agents looking to expand their North American offerings should take note: DuPage blends scenic beauty and cultural heritage with some of the sporting world’s most iconic moments.

Golfing excellence: Medinah and legendary tournaments

At the heart of Du Page’s golf appeal is Medinah Country Club. Foremost among these is the “Miracle at Medinah,” the thrilling finale of the 2012 Ryder Cup, when Team Europe staged an unforgettable comeback victory over the United States, ranked as one of the greatest sporting comebacks of all time. This moment holds a special place in the hearts of British golf fans and provides a rich narrative for agents selling holidays to clients eager to walk the fairways where history was made.

Building on this legacy, Medinah will welcome another elite event next year when it hosts the 2026 Presidents Cup from September 24-27, drawing the best players from the US and International teams (excluding Europe) to its storied No. 3 Course. Medinah will become the only club ever to host the US Open, PGA Championship, Ryder Cup, and Presidents Cup, further securing its place on the bucket list for golf travellers.

DuPage County also boasts over 50 other top-rated golf courses, many regularly featured in Golf Digest’s annual rankings, alongside unique experiences such as wine tasting at Lynfred Winery or scenic stays at local inns, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Heritage and nature: A classic American experience

A holiday in DuPage is about more than just golf. The county is home to 26,000 acres of protected forest preserves, perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. Visitors can explore historical gems like Graue Mill, an authentic water-powered grist mill and museum with roots in the Underground Railroad.

Cantigny Park offers landscaped gardens, museums, and military history, where guests can enjoy events, tours, and family recreation. Culinary experiences range from upscale dining to local farm-to-table options.

Effortless access and city proximity

DuPage County is just 20-25 miles from downtown Chicago and easily reached by direct trains, car, or taxi — all taking less than an hour. UK clients benefit from direct flights to Chicago, making it simple to combine the vibrancy of Chicago with the tranquillity of DuPage in a seamless city-and-countryside itinerary.

Why Sell DuPage to UK Holidaymakers?

– Unforgettable sport: Medinah’s Ryder Cup “miracle” and Presidents Cup pedigree.

– Luxury and variety: Upscale hotels, pristine nature, diverse dining, and shopping.

– Rich heritage: Historic sites, museums, and family attractions.

– Easy access: Combine Chicago city breaks with countryside luxury in under an hour.

For golf aficionados, families, or couples seeking a distinctive American adventure, DuPage County is uniquely equipped to deliver and offers UK travel agents a compelling new product to showcase on their holiday portfolios.