Franklin Park

Has been put on a construction hold, many businesses having been uprooted with nothing to replace them. However, it's a pleasant stroll through local restaurants, new condominiums, and delicious Mexican markets and bakeries.

It's an over 100 year old restored track-switching tower, open every year in May for the local festival "Railroad Daze" (although you can peek inside any time of year). Nearby is an orange caboose that makes for nice photos.

A pleasant park dedicated in honor of any Franklin Parker who fought in a war (and there's a surprising number). The cannon on site is a must-see. Across the street is the police station with the old-fashioned star sign and a park with a gazebo (known as Roger Hamill Village Square) where bands play in the summer.

A small affair, but for fire engine buffs there is a Peter Pirsch engine purchased in 1927 on display. Everything is viewable through the window from the outside.

Has a 1909 first edition of Daniel Burnham's Plan of Chicago viewable by appointment.

An annual festival held downtown every May or June. Attractions include walk-on special and unique train displays, a wide variety of food vendors, a carnival, mini-train rides, a model train display and live music.

Takes place every July downtown. Area bands come and play as local businesses and restaurants set up stands and all kinds of cars are shown off, with trophies awarded.

A great place to cool off in the summer, with a freestyle skating rink and a larger, hockey-oriented main arena.