Ravinia is one of the Chicagoland treasures I most enjoy. Much like Wolf Trap in the Washington, DC, area, this musical setting offers a covered outdoor theatre with seating on the grass for a minimal price. Bring your picnic, and enjoy the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, jazz, blues, rock, opera, musicals, or the ballet. The artists performing here are top notch, from Yo Yo Ma to Hootie and the Blowfish to Wynton Marsallis. I suggest paying extra to sit in the pavilion for dance, opera, or musicals. Otherwise, it's all lawn for me. Specified trains leave downtown Chicago (stopping in Evanston along the way) to make the trip easier (timed for performances). And my best advice of all: the Chicago area libraries offer some free tickets to lawn seats throughout the summer. Check your local branch. More information can be found at www.ravinia.org.
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