Places to Go at Christmastime

Wonderland Express at the Chicago Botanic Gardens
http://www.chicagobotanic.org/wonderland/This is a wonderful exhibit of holiday decorations, different themed christmas trees, and an amazing electric train exhibit. It is a lot of fun for both kids and adults.
Date and Time
November 25 - January 1.  10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Cost and Info
The tickets are pricey and you have to pay $20 to park (if you're not a member). But, if you go on "free Tuesdays", you can get tickets to the winter wonderland exhibit for free. You only have to pay for parking. Order tickets EARLY though because the tuesday free days get sold out quickly. You can order the tickets online via their website. You specify a day and time to make your reservation. Just choose a tuesday and go through the check out process. When you get to the end, the balance due will be $0! We went to this last year and my kids all LOVED it!
  http://www.chicagobotanic.org/wonderland/
Thanks to Jennifer for letting us know about this free day!

Trains in a Winter Wonderland at Deerfield Public Library
December 3 from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Deerfield Public Library  920 Waukegan Rd, Deerfield, IL
A very special run of model trains by our friends at North Central O’Gaugers is a highlight of Deerfield’s Winter Celebration. This must-see model railroad exhibit features fictional favorites like Thomas the Tank Engine and The Hogwarts Express, as well as popular regional and historical lines. The O’Gaugers annual visit is one of the Library’s most popular family programs. Children of all ages will enjoy this all-day event!  No registration needed. This event is free.
More info at their website   http://host7.evanced.info/deerfield/evanced/eventsignup.asp?ID=2187
Thanks to Steph for letting us know about this one!

Winter Wonderland Holiday Light Show in Vernon Hills
This is a drive through holiday light show on the Cuneo museum grounds.  There are millions of christmas lights, moving decorations, and popular characters (from all popular kids movies and TV shows.)  This is a big hit with my kids and they ask when we get to do it about a million times every December.
Date and Time
6:00 pm - 10:00 pm  November 25 - December 31st. 
Cost and Info
Cost is $5 per car Monday - Thursday and $10 Friday - Sunday.
http://www.vernonhills.org/special_events/WinterWonderland.asp