LET'S SUMMER! GET THE SCOOP ICE CREAM EVERYWHERE GO TEAMS CHICAGO'S - SPORTS SCENE - Enjoy Illinois
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SPRING/SUMMER 2020
ENJOY ILLINOIS
SPRING/SUMMER 2020
LET ’S SUMMER!
GRAB YOUR
CREW FOR
FAMILY FUN
THEY’LL
NEVER
FORGET
GET THE
SCOOP
ICE CREAM
EVERYWHERE
GO TEAMS
CHICAGO’S
SPORTS SCENE
IT’S PATIO
SEASON
ORDER UP,
OUTSIDE
ENJOYILLINOIS.COM
SPRING/ SUMMER 2020
CONTENTS
FEATURES
38 Family Vacation
A summer trip to the
Windy City sizzles with world-class
museums and attractions.
48 Land of Lincoln
Visit Springfield’s Abraham
Lincoln Presidential Library and
Museum, a treasure trove of artifacts.
52 Summertime Vibes
Eating out in Chicago
means dining alfresco on a patio,
sidewalk, cafe or rooftop deck.
58 Da Sports
Six major sport teams call
Chicago home. Come for a game;
stay for postgame festivities.
64 50to See
Ultimate Things
and Do
Travel the state to discover must-see
destinations and attractions.
GUIDEBOOK
IN EVERY ISSUE
HERITAGE p. 6
GETAWAY p. 10
SIPS p. 14
A DAY (AND NIGHT) IN … p. 18
INTERVIEW p. 20
NATURE p. 24
EATS p. 28
ILLINOIS MADE p. 32
CALENDAR p. 36
RESOURCES
Regions See, savor and stay
on great Illinois getaways. p. 68
PHOTOGRAPH: RYAN DONNELL
Traveler Resources p. 78
End Note p. 80
ALONG ROUTE 66,
ON THE COVER
Six Flags Great America, Gurnee GEMINI GIANT,
Photograph: Ackerman + Gruber WILMINGTON
DARE TO WALK ON
AIR
SPRING/SUMMER 2020
Illinois Department of Commerce &
Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism
100 West Randolph Street, Suite 3-400
Chicago, Illinois 60601
312/814-4733, Fax: 312/814-6175
ceo.enjoyillinois@illinois.gov
enjoyillinois.com
GOVERNOR J.B. Pritzker
ACTING DIRECTOR OF TOURISM
Jan Kemmerling
MARKETING & ADVERTISING MANAGER
Lisa Link
EDITORIAL CONTENT DIRECTOR Kylee Krizmanic
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Nick Crow
DEPUTY EDITOR, CUSTOM MEDIA Mary Beaumont
EDITOR, CUSTOM MEDIA Kristin Bienert
SENIOR STAFF WRITER Gary Thompson
SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Erin Keeffer
COPY EDITORS Madelaine Jerousek-Smith,
Diane Penningroth
CONTRIBUTORS Ginger Crichton, Jess Hoffert,
Christine Hoskin
PUBLISHER Melissa Luebbe
NATIONAL TRAVEL DIRECTOR Katy Hildman
ADVERTISING SALES MaryPat Moore 312/580-7795
Glass balconies put you Enjoy Illinois © 2020. All rights reserved.
Reproduction without permission is prohibited.
1,353 feet and 103 floors The information in Enjoy Illinois was compiled by the
llinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity.
over The Windy City! The Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity has
made every effort to ensure the information contained in the
publication is correct. To ensure a safe and happy trip, please call
ahead to verify or visit enjoyillinois.com for the most up-to-date
information. Printed by the Authority of the State of Illinois. 01/20,
OPEN DAILY 500K, CO20-39S/S. PRINTED IN U.S.A.
Mar-Sep Oct-Feb
9 a.m. to 10 p.m. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Last entry is 30 minutes prior to closing
theskydeck.com | (312) 875-9696
ENJOYILLINOIS.COM
WILLIS TOWER 233 S. Wacker Drive
IMMERSE
YOURSELF
JUNE 1 – AUGUST 31, 2020
Cleve Carney Museum of Art
McAninch Arts Center,
College Of DuPage
Glen Ellyn, Illinois
• 26 Original Artworks
• Historic Timeline
• 150 Photos
• Frida Poetry Garden
Designed by
Ball Horticulture
• Frida Children’s Area
• Frida Inspired Tastings
• Themed Community
Events
Learn more, visit:
www.DiscoverDuPage.com/FridaKahlo
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charges, tax, title, and registration fees. Retailer sets actual price. Certain equipment may be required in specific states, which can modify your MSRP. See your retailer for details. 2020 Subaru Ascent
Touring shown has an MSRP of $45,045.
GUIDEBOOK
SPRING EAT,
SUMMER STAY &
2020 PLAY
PHOTOGRAPH: GREG NOIRE
IN THIS ISSUE
HERITAGE Frida Kahlo exhibit P. 6 A DAY (AND NIGHT) IN … Rosemont P. 18 EATS Ice cream parlors P. 28
GETAWAY Waterfront Grafton P. 10 INTERVIEW Kelly Rizzo P. 20 ILLINOIS MADE Photo artist P. 32
SIPS Craft beer around the state P. 14 NATURE Bird-watching P. 24 CALENDAR Summer festivals P. 36
enjoyillinois.com 5
GUIDEBOOK HERITAGE
STORY: ANN KLEIN AND JESS HOFFERT. PHOTOGRAPH: FRIDA KAHLO, SELF-PORTRAIT WITH SMALL MONKEY, 1945. OIL ON MASONITE, COLLECTION MUSEO DOLORES OLMEDO,
art
SELF PORTRAIT WITH
SMALL MONKEY
by Frida Kahlo
XOCHIMILCO, MEXICO. © 2018 BANCO DE MÉXICO, DIEGO RIVERA AND FRIDA KAHLO MUSEUMS TRUST, MEXICO CITY, MEXICO.
real frida
ABOUT THE
ARTIST
Frida Kahlo was born
outside Mexico City
in 1907. Inspired by her AN ICON OF COURAGE AND STYLE, FRIDA KAHLO’S ORIGINAL WORKS
Zapotecan culture, GO ON DISPLAY THIS SUMMER AT A SUBURBAN CHICAGO ART MUSEUM.
Kahlo created
143 paintings, including
FRIDA KAHLO WAS NEVER ONE to bury The exhibition will provide a rare
55 self-portraits that
her emotions; she put them on full display in opportunity to see such treasures as the 1927
blend beauty, poise
her vast collection of works that have made Portrait of Alicia Galant (Kahlo’s very first
and pain—some of
her an ever-growing and important figure for portrait), along with thought-provoking pieces
that pain fueled by a
the modern-day feminist movement. like The Broken Column, Without Hope and
tumultuous marriage
with noted muralist Fans will score a huge opportunity to see Self Portrait with Small Monkey.
Diego Rivera. Kahlo more than two dozen pieces of the art icon’s In addition to the original works, the
died at age 47. Her work original work at the Cleve Carney Museum of exhibition will feature 100-plus photographs
was largely overlooked Art in Glen Ellyn from June 1 to August 31. The from Kahlo’s life, reproductions of the artist’s
until the late 1970s, works—which include seven sketches and 19 oil clothing, a colorful children’s area and a
when art historians paintings spanning the artist’s life—are on loan video presentation. Outside the museum,
became struck by from the Dolores Olmedo Museum Collection visitors can wander a Frida Kahlo poetry
her raw talent and and are part of the largest private collection garden with flowers grown and designed by
independent spirit. of Kahlo’s works. Ball Horticultural Company of West Chicago.
6 enjoyillinois.com
Joliet Iron Works Historic Site Pontiac’s Route 66 Hall of Fame Kayak Morris Oglesby’s Starved Rock State Park The Heritage Corridor offers memorable experiences that are all just a short road trip from Chicago. Kayak down the I&M Canal, sky dive and zip line through the Starved Rock State Park area. Is your definition of adventure is to cruise down Route 66 to searching for new experiences? You can do that here too. Get started at AdventureOutsideChicago.com.
GUIDEBOOK HERITAGE
WHEN THOUGHTFUL FRIDA,
YOU CIRCA 1950
VISIT
AFTER YOU’VE
BEEN FLOORED
BY KAHLO, CHECK
OUT OTHER MUST-
SEES IN THE AREA,
WEST OF THE CITY.
Mexican Cultural
Center DuPage,
West Chicago
Explore the
artful results of
this incubator
for projects by
Mexican artists,
like Juan Chawuk’s
WEST CHICAGO
installation that
resides outside of
the center.
A Toda Madre,
Glen Ellyn
The tacos here
are authentically
Mexican—with
twists. Case-in-
PHOTOGRAPHS: GETTY IMAGES, (MUSEUM) BOB STEFKO, (MURAL) DAVID TONEY
point: the pescado
(fish) tacos are
drizzled with a
charred serrano
pepper aioli.
Harrison House
Bed and Breakfast,
Naperville
Retreat to inspiring WHERE KAHLO
quarters like the
Garden Room in MIGHT GO
this historic B&B, LITTLE VILLAGE
and wake up to Walk under the arch at 26th Street between
scratch-made California and Kedzie avenues to sample
goodies from local
fare from bakeries and taquerias, and toast
DeEtta’s Bakery.
Chicago’s largest Mexican community.
PILSEN AND HUMBOLDT PARK
NEIGHBORHOODS
The National Museum of Mexican Art contains a
Find art featuring Kahlo on a public school,
10,000-piece permanent collection spanning 3,000 years of
a Latinx dance hall and buildings throughout history and creativity. The surrounding Pilsen neighborhood
these areas known for street murals reflecting is a walk-though gallery of rich cultural street murals.
Mexican, Latinx and Puerto Rican heritage.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MEXICAN ART
In Pilsen, experience art and artifacts that
“NOTHING IS ABSOLUTE.
explore the history, culture and identity of EVERYTHING CHANGES,
Mexicans in America and Latin America. EVERYTHING MOVES,
Juan Chawuk works on THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO
EVERYTHING REVOLVES,
the letters of his WEST The Modern Wing showcases 20th- and 21st- EVERYTHING FLIES
CHICAGO mural found
outside the Mexican
century art, while the other galleries span AND GOES AWAY.”
Cultural Center DuPage. 5,000 years and include world-famous works. FRIDA KAHLO
8 enjoyillinois.comMEET US
AT FRANKÕS
In Chicago’s backyard, there’s a place where American
architecture was born: Oak Park. Explore breathtaking
treasures like Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio and
the beautifully restored Unity Temple. Pedal along a pathway
of discovery and witness the world’s largest collection of
Wright’s masterpieces. Your adventure is waiting.
VISITOAKPARK.COM
Experience Illinois Holocaust Museum
S P EC I A L E X H I B I T I O N
FE
O BRU
P A
E R
N Y
S 9
i l ho l oc a us t m u s e u m .org /r b g
Abe & Ida Cooper Survivor Stories
Theater Experience
Interactive 3D Survivor
Holograms
What will you ask them?GUIDEBOOK GETAWAY
PERE
MARQUETTE
STORY: KELSEY OGLETREE. PHOTOGRAPHS: (OVERLOOK) KEVIN J. MIYAZAKI/REDUX, (ZIPLINE) RYAN DONNELL
STATE PARK
adventure quest
ALONG THE CONFLUENCE OF THE ILLINOIS, MISSOURI AND MISSISSIPPI RIVERS,
GRAFTON BECKONS WITH OUTDOOR ADVENTURE, WINERIES AND LOCAL DELICACIES.
GRAFTON OUTDOOR EXPLORER SIP ON THIS
ZIPLINE AT Novices and extreme sports-lovers alike will find Local wineries go beyond the typical wine-
AERIE’S something to suit their tastes. tasting experience.
RESORT Limestone formations around Pere Marquette Accessible via Grafton Ferry or the Great River
State Park are ideal for experienced rock Road, visit the Grafton Harbor Floating Winery.
climbers, while activities like fishing and bird- In the tasting room, sip on fruity wine slushies or
watching please any skill level. more exotic wine flavors, such as iced coffee,
At family-friendly Grafton Zipline at Aerie’s chocolate and mint chocolate. Traditional reds
Resort, thrill-seekers can take a two-hour, and whites come with sea-inspired names: Tipsy
seven-zipline guided canopy tour that goes Mermaid, Spirits of Grafton’s Past, Pirate’s Booty
through treetop platforms and two suspension and Nauti Wench.
bridges before ending with a rappelling descent. Take the new Grafton SkyTour aerial lift from
Pedal the 20-mile Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail downtown to the expansive deck of The Winery at
from Alton to Pere Marquette State Park, taking in Aerie’s Resort. Snack on flatbreads while listening
the scenery of Great Rivers National Scenic Byway. to live music on weekends.
10 enjoyillinois.comgreat
rivers
rOUTES
escapes
In Southwest Illinois - Outside St. Louis
RiversAndRoutes.com
WELCOME TO
OUR BACKYARD
From hiking and biking to boating and
wakeboarding,if you love to play outside,
you’ll love the adventure you will find in
McHenry County!
visitmchenrycounty.comGUIDEBOOK GETAWAY
SAM
VADALABENE
BIKE TRAIL
GRAFTON SKY TOUR,
AERIE’S RESORT
PICTURE THIS DINE ON LOCAL DELICACIES
The cuisine alone is worth a trip—
SELFIE GAME pack your appetite.
COMING ON
It’s not called Famous Fried
STRONG.
Chicken for nothing. This half-bird,
Alton’s cable-stayed
served for lunch and dinner at Pere
PHOTOGRAPHS: (GONDOLA, WATER TOWER) RYAN DONNELL, (FOOD) KEVIN J. MIYAZAKI/REDUX
Clark Bridge
Marquette Lodge, comes with the
links Illinois and
fixings, including mashed potatoes,
Missouri.
gravy, veggies, coleslaw and rolls.
Admire the aquatic life through
tableside aquariums at Fin Inn, then
taste its famous turtle soup, made
with rich broth and turtle meat.
There’s nothing fancy about the
fried fish from O’Jan’s or Beasley’s
fish stands, but that’s the appeal:
just fresh, tasty food served at
picnic tables close by the river.
A trip to Collinsville
The farm-to-table menu at Bakers
is worth squeezing in
to see the and Hale in Godfrey changes
World’s Largest seasonally, but the Smoked Bacon
Catsup Bottle. and Egg Sandwich with avocado
and spicy Gouda is a constant.
Cue the vintage House-butchered steaks wet-aged
vibes with neon a minimum of 21 days are the main
signs at Alton’s PERE MARQUETTE attraction at 1818 Chophouse, an
Fast Eddie’s Bon Air. LODGE inviting steakhouse in Edwardsville.
12 enjoyillinois.comTAKE A ROAD TRIP
BACK IN TIME.
Along with world class historic sites, Springfield
offers charming shops, microbreweries & wineries,
street festivals, ghost walks, iconic Route 66, Frank
Lloyd Wright, two state capitols and a legendary
food scene. Experience historical reenactments
during our premiere summer program, History
Comes Alive, June-August, including moving
performances from Abraham Lincoln and a cast of
other historical characters.
Relax, Reconnect & Discover
Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau
VisitSpringfieldIllinois.com | 800-545-7300
Share your experience #VisitSpringfield
OUR STORY
IN BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL
800.433.8226 / VisitBN.orgGUIDEBOOK SIPS
hops to it
MORE THAN
200 CRAFT BREWERIES
DOT THE STATE. THESE
STANDOUTS WIN CHEERS
FOR CREATIVITY.
2
1 5
4
BUZZ-WORTHY STORY: KELLY AIGLON. PHOTOGRAPHS: CARSON DOWNING, (VOX) BLAINE MOATS
3
BREWS
CRACK THESE BEERS NOW AT THE
LOCAL TAPROOM, THANK US LATER.
1 ROLLING 2 SOLEMN OATH 3 BRICKSTONE 4 TANGLED ROOTS 5 MISKATONIC
MEADOWS FARM BREWERY, BREWERY, BREWING COMPANY, BREWING
BREWERY, CANTRALL NAPERVILLE BOURBONNAIS OTTAWA COMPANY, DARIEN
Cabin and Cottage, Skateboard designer You can practically Along with barley, Vox, an electrifyingly
a nod to Abraham and staff artist Jourdon taste the 1950s soda hyper-local hops create gold lager, boldly raises
Lincoln, is made with Gullett illustrated the fountain in Milkshake 108 Double Stitch Ale, the caliber of often-
local organic blue Ravaged by Vikings IPA, a super-creamy the official beer of the overlooked American
corn in collaboration can, which depicts a pale ale that hints at Minor League Baseball pilsners. The bitterness
with The Chicago sinewy Viking bracing dessert but comes in team Kane County lingers lightly as the
Brewseum, a nonprofit for a storm. The caramel a can. The sweetness Cougars. Why the name? subtle earthy flavor
that digs deep into malt’s sweetness slays comes from mango and Every baseball has comes through in an
the history of beer. the hops’ bitterness. pineapple, plus vanilla. 108 stitches. easy-to-sip brew.
14 enjoyillinois.comTHE WORLD’S FASTEST MOTORSPORT
RETURNS TO ROUTE 66 RACEWAY
JULY 9-12, 2020
ILLINOIS’ LARGEST SPORTING EVENT OF THE SUMMER!
NASCAR SUMMER
FESTIVAL WEEKEND
JUNE 18– 21, 2020
JUNE 18 ARCA Racing Series Race
2020 CHICAGOLAND SPEEDWAY – JOLIET, IL
JUNE 19 NASCAR Gander Outdoor Truck Series Race
2020 CHICAGOLAND SPEEDWAY – JOLIET, IL
JUNE 20 NASCAR Xfinity Series Race
2020 CHICAGOLAND SPEEDWAY – JOLIET, IL
JUNE 21 NASCAR Cup Series Race
2020 CHICAGOLAND SPEEDWAY – JOLIET, IL
EXPERIENCE
SINGLE DAY & FULL WEEKEND TICKETS NOW ON SALE!
PLAN YOUR TRIP TODAY!
CHICAGOLANDSPEEDWAY.COM
ROUTE66RACEWAY.COM PRESIDENTLINCOLN.ILLINOIS.GOV
OR CALL: 888-629-7223GUIDEBOOK SIPS
THIRST-
QUENCHING
RAISE A GLASS TO FUN
Illinois Craft
BREWERIES TAPPING INTO Beer Week
The state
SOMETHING DIFFERENT.
celebrates its
crafty spirit
every May with
events, tap
takeovers and
beer specials
at restaurants
and bars.
Malt Row
Chicago
Some of the
most diverse
beers in Chicago
bubble up within
POPUTOPIA’S walking distance
CARAMEL CRAFT of one another
POPCORN IS in Ravenswood
MADE WITH Corridor.
PORTER FROM Choose from
OLD BAKERY eight breweries,
BEER COMPANY. including
Begyle Brewing
Company, the
first taproom to
open in
the area.
6
7 8
GETTING 7 DESTIHL BREWERY,
NORMAL AND
8 OLD BAKERY BEER
COMPANY, ALTON
at a farm, which are
pressed while raw to
flavors from fruits.
Sugarfire Smoked Lager
CRAFTY CHAMPAIGN
This local favorite was
The husband and wife
behind Old Bakery Beer
extract juice added
post-fermenting. With a
uses malt smoked at
Sugarfire Smoke House.
PUSHING LIMITS,
THESE BREWERIES one of the first to put strive for sustainability by move to the South Loop, No matter the recipe,
USE OBSCURE sour beer in a can. And using certified-organic there’s now enough brewers use organic
INGREDIENTS AND not only that: To produce ingredients and pairing space to enjoy a brew flavorings and aim for
UNTRADITIONAL the bright acidic flavors with local producers alongside strip steak effervescence. Get a free
PROCESSES. for its Wild Sour Series, when possible. Kind of in the bar or lobster in tasting in the store.
6 HAILSTORM Destihl harvests wild Blueberry is a nod to the fine-dining room.
BREWING COMPANY, yeast and bacteria Alton-born Miles Davis’ SCRATCH BREWING
TINLEY PARK cultures unique to central smash hit “Kind of Blue.” EXCEL BREWING COMPANY, AVA
Brewmasters experiment Illinois. (Most breweries COMPANY, BREESE Foragers comb the
with fermentation get cultures from a lab.) MOODY TONGUE A craft soda-maker Shawnee National Forest
techniques by adding in Choose from a dozen BREWING COMPANY, since 1936, Excel spread to source nettle,
spices like coriander varieties, including CHICAGO its wings and started elderberry, hickory and
and clove for extra zing. Flanders Red, which Brewmaster and chef brewing beer in 2012. more. These natural
PHOTOGRAPH: CARSON DOWNING
They also barrel-age initially tastes like tart Jared Rouben utilizes Unique soda-beer ingredients are added to
brews for nuanced flavor cherry candy. Beers in culinary techniques mash-ups include the barrel-aged brews
when possible, such the Wild Sour Series pair like dehydrating and Radler, a combo of flowing at Scratch’s
as stouts in bourbon well with the brewery’s macerating to make beer grapefruit soda and farmhouse brewery
barrels and tripels in house-made pork magic. For the Pressed hoppy wheat beer. Other nested on the outskirts
Chardonnay barrels. and pineapple tacos, Asian Pear Saison, specialty beers, like Stay of the wilderness. Basil
Stratus, an IPA, is part available at its his team hand-picks Gold, go heavy on the instead of hops provides
of the Cloud series. restaurant locations. specially curated pears floral hops and get their the aroma in Basil Ale.
16 enjoyillinois.comGUIDEBOOK A DAY (AND NIGHT) IN
WALK
THIS
WAY
MORE PLACES
TO EXPLORE—ALL
WITHIN A SHORT
DISTANCE OF
PARKWAY
BANK PARK.
Fashion Outlets
Chicago
With more than
130 stores, you can
score a deal on
Prada shades, Tory
Burch shoes or a Le
Creuset Dutch oven.
Rosemont Theatre
rosemont
See a family-
friendly show like
Baby Shark Live!
(May 3) or crooner
Johnny Mathis
(December 12).
PARKWAY BANK PARK ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT IN THIS CHICAGO BURB—A SORT
OF GOOD-TIMEY TOWN SQUARE—SLAM-DUNKS A GROUP GETAWAY.
PLAY EAT STAY
STORY: ANN KLEIN. PHOTOGRAPHS: COURTESY OF PARKWAY BANK PARK,
Whether you take your family, Don’t even pretend you can Who likes fighting traffic after
your work team or your best get your kids past the celeb- a day of play? Nobody, that’s
buddies, everyone can find endorsed Sugar Factory. who. Luckily, this fun zone
fun here. Big into sports? Another draw: Kings, with its comes with a trendy Marriott
Block a puck at the interactive luxury bowling and patio for hotel, the Aloft Chicago
Big Ten Experience. Up for crowd-watching. Hofbräuhaus O’Hare. The pet-friendly
Donald E. Stephens skydiving? Suit up for iFLY’s packs a patio, too, while a lodging boasts an indoor
(OUTLETS) CAROL FOX AND ASSOCIATES
Convention Center wind tunnel. Need a bike? band rocks with its set list of pool that opens to a large
The exhibition space Shop for a Harley-Davidson. German and rock ‘n’ roll patio. Pre- or post-dinner,
hosts big-name And if you’re a sucker for tunes. Fogo de Chão serves pop into W XYZ for a cocktail.
events like World a good story, choose from steaks flame-seared, in Also walkable: a whole
of Wheels (March 12 screens at AMC Theatres. Brazilian churrasco style. block of hotels, including a
6–8) and Comic Con Then share a laugh at Zanies And Five Roses Pub lets you DoubleTree, Embassy Suites,
Revolution Chicago Comedy Club, a song at toast the town like the Irish of Hilton, Loews and a Crowne
(June 12–14). Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar or old Chicago. More choices: Plaza with golf-centric
a concert at Joe’s Live, a bar Bub City, Adobe Gila’s and Murray Bros. Caddyshack
and music hall. Park Tavern. restaurant.
18 enjoyillinois.comOUT
ON THE
TOWN
Keep It Rolling
The village of
Rosemont packs a
ton of fun into less
than 2 square miles.
Venture just beyond
the entertainment
district to extend
your day into a
night (or more).
Fan Up
Root for the
Chicago Dogs indie
baseball team at
the state-of-the-
art Impact Field,
catch the tail end
of Chicago Wolves
hockey season at
Allstate Arena,
or discover fast-
paced National Pro
Fastpitch softball
at a Chicago
Bandits game.
Chow Down
Savor Italian
favorites at
Carmine’s, the
suburban cousin of a
Rush Street icon. For
classic steakhouse
NORTH fare, try Gene and
Georgetti or Gibsons,
C D F
E another Rush Street
G
B standard. For
BRYN MAWR AVENUE
I Q O upscale chains with
BALMORAL AVENUE
J H a solid rep for date-
THE SCENE K L
M P night-quality service,
ON THE GREEN A
N try The Capital
Free events pack the green Grille, Morton’s, or
space all season, starting PARKING McCormick and
with a Spring Fun Fest Schmick’s Seafood
(April 11). A Memorial Day and Steaks.
WILLIAMS STREET
NORTH RIVER ROAD
cookout opens a series of Sleep In
concerts by emerging talent Had enough family,
and classic rock cover friends and fun for
bands (on select Fridays). A Aloft Chicago O’Hare I Park Tavern one day? R&R in
Throughout the week, plan B Fogo de Chão J Zanies Comedy Club Hilton’s The Rose
on free events such as Zumba C Big Ten Experience K Joe’s Live Hotel, a boutique
class (Mondays), Game Night D Chicago L Bub City property with cool
(Tuesdays) and Rockin’ In the Harley-Davidson M Sugar Factory art and extra-
Park concerts (Thursdays). E Hofbräuhaus N Adobe Gila’s cushy pillows.
Other times, you can toss F iFly O Five Roses Pub
bags or steady your hand for G Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar P Kings
giant Jenga. H AMC Theatres Q Activity Area
enjoyillinois.com 19GUIDEBOOK INTERVIEW
q&a with
kelly rizzo BOUNCING BETWEEN CHICAGO,
SOCAL AND THE REST OF THE
WORLD FOR HER SUCCESSFUL
ON-DEMAND SERIES, EAT TRAVEL
ROCK, ADVENTURE-CRAVING
KELLY RIZZO KEEPS HER HEART
IN THE WINDY CITY.
To say Kelly Rizzo is on the move
would be an understatement. The native
Chicagoan buzzes around the planet,
getting the dish on food, music and
travel trends for her entertainment series
Eat Travel Rock, now entering its sixth
season. While she shares a home in Los
Angeles with husband Bob Saget (of
Full House fame), Kelly is no stranger
to Illinois, appearing regularly on local
news shows and radio broadcasts to
share the latest scoop on everything,
including rooftop patios and roof-
raising concerts. She took a brief break
from her nonstop world tour to share
Chicago memories and favorite haunts.
Q WHAT ARE YOUR
INTERVIEW: CLAIRE CONNORS. STORY: JESS HOFFERT. PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY OF WINDY CITY LIVE
FONDEST MEMORIES OF
GROWING UP IN CHICAGO?
A Oh wow, there are so many.
My mom worked on weekends,
so my dad would take me and my
two younger sisters to all the parks
around town. He would take us to
Lincoln Park Zoo, and we would
never want to leave. He would also
take us to Montrose Beach. It was
APPEARING ON just so wonderful growing up on
WINDY CITY LIVE, the lakefront because there was
ABC CHICAGO always so much to do.
Q WHAT WERE SOME OF
THE FIRST CONCERTS YOU
WENT TO?
A People my age, usually their
first concert was New Kids
on the Block. Mine was Nine Inch
Nails at Rosemont Horizon, which
is now Allstate Arena. I also saw
Pearl Jam and the Grateful Dead
at Soldier Field. As a kid, you’re not
20 enjoyillinois.comHOME IS WHERE YOU FIT RIGHT IN Whether you prefer to sit in a theater or relax in Millennium Park, there’s a home for everyone here. choosechicago.com/welcomehome
GUIDEBOOK INTERVIEW
going to get into clubs, right?
And now that I’m a bit older, I
still love to go to those places.
Q SPEAKING OF
STORES, WHERE DO
YOU LIKE TO SHOP?
Q DESCRIBE YOUR
PERFECT SUMMER
DAY IN CHICAGO.
But now I love the smaller
clubs, too, like the Riviera A I enjoy the occasional
run to Water Tower Place A Definitely doing
something along the
BEST
Theatre, Vic Theatre, Byline because that’s where I used lakefront, whether it’s renting
Bank Aragon Ballroom and to go with my mom. I mean, a bike or jogging along the
Metro, which hosts some of the HIDDEN that’s where I got my ears lake between Oak Street
biggest acts in the world even GEM? pierced for the first time, so Beach and North Avenue
BERNIE’S
though it’s a small club. it’s very nostalgic. But I also Beach. If I had friends along,
love the shops on Damen I’d go to the Shore Club,
ROOFTOP
Q NOW THAT YOU
HELP PROMOTE
CHICAGO FOR A LIVING,
FOR THE
and Milwaukee in Wicker Park
and Bucktown. They have
where you can have an
amazing lunch right on
VIEWS AND
trendy boutiques and some Lake Michigan. And then
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR of the more edgy stuff that I just being outside as much
FAVORITE SPOTS TO TELL AMAZING like. Wicker Park has Le Labo, as possible because we
PEOPLE TO VISIT? FOOD. a very high-end candle and know we have to take
A The museums are
amazing. The Museum of
Science and Industry has been
perfume store that’s fantastic. advantage of it.
a favorite since childhood. My
dad always used to take us SAY
there, and there are so many CIAO TO
things that, to this day, I can
GOOD
EATS
trace back and say, “I learned
this because of the Museum
of Science and Industry.”
With Sicilian
Especially if you’re bringing
heritage and
kids into town, that’s always a
as an experienced
great place to go.
foodie, Kelly can
RPM ITALIAN sniff out a
Q DID YOU INTRODUCE
YOUR HUSBAND TO
THE BEAUTY OF CHICAGO
good Italian
restaurant blocks
CHICAGO LAKEFRONT TRAIL away (massive
OR WAS HE ALREADY pots of simmering
FAMILIAR? San Marzano
A He’s been coming to
Chicago for 40 years, and
I can’t say he’s an expert, but
tomatoes make the
quest easier). Here
are a few of her
he’s pretty well-versed in it. Chicago go-tos.
He’s always loved Gibsons Bar
PHOTOGRAPHS: (KELLY) ETHAN TALLEY, (RESTAURANT) JOHN STOFFER, (LAKEFRONT) BOB STEFKO
and Steakhouse, so he has
OLD-SCHOOL
good taste, but he definitely CLASSICS
didn’t have the insider’s view. Bella Notte
It’s great to show him my (1374 W. Grand Ave.)
favorite spots. We don’t really
do a lot of touristy things, La Scarola
(721 W. Grand Ave.)
because he does stand out
like a sore thumb. I mean, if Volare
I took him to The Bean (the Ristorante
Cloud Gate sculpture) in Italiano
Millennium Park, it would be (201 E. Grand Ave.)
selfie, selfie, selfie, selfie.
MODERN VIBES
Q DON’T YOU ALSO
GET RECOGNIZED?
Formento’s
A
(925 W. Randolph St.)
It’s one thing if I’m in a
restaurant, because I was Pizzeria
in the food scene for so long, Portofino
so it’s more prevalent there. (317 N. Clark St.)
But if I go into a store, it’ll be RPM Italian
like, “You really look familiar,” (52 W. Illinois St.)
but they don’t know why.
22 enjoyillinois.comA NEW POINT OF VIEW
Fun is in full bloom at Navy Pier. Marvel at Chicago’s
sparkling skyline from the Centennial Wheel then stroll
the pier with a craft cocktail as the sun sets. Be sure to
explore our calendar of events for free entertainment
all year round. Discover the possibilities.
NAVYPIER.ORG
VISITING CHICAGO?
The scenic neighborhoods north of city — Chicago Botanic — Northwestern
Garden University
center can be found twenty minutes
— Illinois Holocaust — Westfield
from the heart of downtown Chicago on Museum Old Orchard
Chicago's North Shore. Affordable, smart — Halim Time and — Northbrook Court
Glass Museum
hotels provide easy access to the city — The Glen
— Bahá’í House Town Center
and many North Shore attractions. of Worship
ChicagoNorthShore
Hotel deals and more at ChicagoNorthShore
visitchicagonorthshore.com @ChicagoNShoreGUIDEBOOK NATURE GOLDEN-CROWNED
KINGLET
MAKE
IT A
WEEKEND
The Aviary
Bird silhouettes hover
beside serving pieces
that are just as artistic
at this high-concept
West Loop cocktail
bar from James Beard
Award-winning chef
Grant Achatz. Your
luxe drink might arrive
in stemware styled as
a partridge.
Blackbird
After more than two
decades, the West
Loop restaurant still
for the birders
soars. Order the
dry-aged duck with
fancy olives.
TAKE A CUE FROM OUR FEATHERED FRIENDS AND FLOCK TO CHICAGO, A HOT
SPOT FOR MIGRATING BIRDS. HERE’S WHERE TO SCOPE THE ACTION.
STORY: ANDREA GUTHMANN. PHOTOGRAPHS: GETTY/DANIEL LEIFHEIT, (RESTAURANT) BOB STEFKO, (HOTEL) IOT
BIRD SANCTUARIES shore as they migrate between Nature Sanctuary attracts plenty
Majestic views of Chicago’s New Orleans and Canada. of its own animals, including
skyline meet up with one of Designed by landscape Cooper’s hawks, herons and
Radisson Blu the city’s natural wonders at architect Frederick Law hundreds of other types of birds.
Aqua Hotel Lincoln Park’s Montrose Point Olmsted—best known for New
Playing off the Great Bird Sanctuary. Steps from Lake York’s Central Park—Wooded BIRD WALKS
Lake it overlooks, Michigan beachgoers, quiet Island in Jackson Park is a The Chicago Audubon and
the wavy design peaceful oasis. It’s also one of Ornithological societies host
descends on the dunes. An army
of this hotel in the
of volunteers has transformed the few features remaining from free bird walks:
PETA award-winning
this site into a serene sanctuary the 1893 World’s Columbian Wooded Island, Jackson Park
Aqua Tower makes
for birds and city dwellers alike. Exposition. Today, more than (Saturday mornings)
it a literal lifesaver
A stretch of shrubs, hedges and 250 species of birds flock to this North Park Village Nature Center
for urban flocks. This
bird-compassionate trees attracts millions of birds, South Side sanctuary. (Saturdays during migration)
structure sits just steps like the golden-crowned kinglets At the Peggy Notebaert North Pond Nature Sanctuary
from Millennium Park. following the Lake Michigan Nature Museum, North Pond (Wednesday mornings)
BIRDS
300 species include
the magnificent
3 Great Lakes piping
plovers hatched at
20 osprey landing
platforms built by
BY THE
snowy owl, often spotted Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary the Cook County Forest
on Northerly Island, last year. About 75 pairs are Preserve make it the most
NUMBERS the man-made peninsula
adjacent to Chicago’s
left in the Great Lakes region.
Celebrate Illinois’ Piping
successful urban osprey
nesting program of its kind
Museum Campus. Plover Day, November 18. in North America.
24 enjoyillinois.comget away W I T H O U T GOING FAR.
Your getaway, creating Five-star amenities and services close to home takes
you a world away. 100% cotton, all-white, organic linens,
unique experiences and seasonally-sourced organic, local food. Indoor and outdoor
embracing eco-friendly fireplaces; three suites and three guest rooms. Nearby state
parks, natural grasslands, shopping, agri-tourism, dining,
practices for our guests.
music, art and more! Celebration stays and gift certificates
always available.
!$%
409 N. State St. Franklin Grove, IL 61031 815-456-7700
lincolnwayinn.com #lincolnwaygetawayGUIDEBOOK EATS
CAPPUCCINO CHIP,
HOMER’S
get the scoop
ILLINOIS’ SOARING HOMER’S ICE CREAM, THE ORIGINAL RAINBOW
SUMMER TEMPERATURES WILMETTE CONE, CHICAGO
PROVIDE THE PERFECT The family-owned institution Refreshing orange
EXCUSE TO INDULGE overnights pints bursting with sherbet sits atop scoops
AT ONE (OR MANY!) seasonal fruits, like Georgia of chocolate, strawberry,
OF THE STATE’S ICE peaches or raspberries, to pistachio and Palmer House,
CREAM PARLORS. Chicago natives dwelling far a vanilla ice cream with
from home. cherries and walnuts.
BATAVIA
CREAMERY, BATAVIA OBERWEIS DAIRY,
More than 150 flavors rotate NORTH AURORA
through each year, such as Confectioners pack flavors
carrot cake and cream cheese salty (Honey Butter Cashew)
frosting folded into cinnamon- and sweet (Birthday Cake) into
spice ice cream. baked-daily waffle cones at
the flagship location of this
CARL’S ICE CREAM, family-owned chain.
BLOOMINGTON, NORMAL
Families devour the cookie WHITEY’S ICE CREAM,
dough and Oreo-studded MOLINE, EAST MOLINE,
BANANA GRAHAM, Cookie Monster while posing
WHITEY’S ROCK ISLAND
STORY: ANGELA UFHEIL. PHOTOGRAPH: CARSON DOWNING
with the 14-foot “big man” One baker handcrafts every
statue outside the Normal cookie used for the ice cream
location. STRAWBERRY SORBET,
sandwiches. Such care influences HOMER’S
summery scoops of Super
Blueberry Cheesecake and
Banana Graham, as well. BIRTHDAY CAKE,
OBERWEIS
28 enjoyillinois.comMINT CHIP,
OBERWEIS
COOKIE MONSTER,
CARL’S
FRESH PEACH,
HOMER’S
SUPER BLUEBERRY
CHEESECAKE, WHITEY’S
CARAMEL KETTLE CORN,
CARL’S
HONEY BUTTER CASHEW, SUPERMAN,
OBERWEIS BATAVIA CREAMERY
enjoyillinois.com 29GUIDEBOOK EATS
FROZEN
FADS SODA
THESE SHOPS ESCHEW THE
EXPECTED CHOCOLATE
THE WORLD’S FOUNTAINS
AND VANILLA IN FAVOR OF FIRST DAIRY COZY UP TO THE
QUEEN
UNEXPECTED SCOOPS (OR COUNTER FOR
THROWBACK
ROLLS, OR SHAKES… ).
OPENED
VIBES PAIRED
WITH TIMELESS
IN JOLIET
TREATS.
DR. JAZZ SODA FOUNTAIN
AND GRILL, LEBANON IN 1940,
15 YEARS
Sweet-treat enthusiasts stay
overnight in the parlor’s upstairs
suite and can take an owner-led BEFORE THE
class called Soda Jerk University.
DEBUT OF
JARLING’S CUSTARD CUP, THE ICONIC
DILLY BAR.
Lagomarcino’s,
CHAMPAIGN, DANVILLE Moline
Get your ultra-creamy frozen After 112 years
custard served in a waffle in business,
basket or as a pie with house- there’s no need
made fudge on the crust. for humility at
this chocolate
KIMMER’S ICE CREAM, confectionery
ST. CHARLES, ELMHURST, and ice cream
WHEATON parlor. Their
A little bit of magic happens Best Hot Fudge
before the trademarked Sparkle Sundae—served
Cone gets its colorful, sugary with a pitcher
glimmer (shhh … it’s a secret). of house fudge
sauce—is tough
LA MICHOACANA, to argue with.
ROCKFORD
Doc’s Soda
The mad scientists at this
Fountain,
Mexican-style chain concoct
Girard
flavors like mango sherbet with
Two good
chili-lime salt.
reasons to
visit this Route
LAUNCHING PAD, 66 treasure:
WILMINGTON The museum
Drink your pie of choice— showcasing
strawberry, apple, blueberry or 19th-century
cherry—blended with vanilla ice merch from
cream and garnished with crust. the building’s
former life as a
LEGEND TASTY HOUSE, drugstore and,
CHICAGO, BERWYN of course, the
As if the Thai ice cream rolls old-fashioned
aren’t cute enough, they arrive milkshakes,
under mounds of fruit cereal, floats and sodas
sprinkles and mochi. that still satisfy.
SIDNEY DAIRY BARN,
SIDNEY
Cold brew from nearby
PHOTOGRAPH: RYAN DONNELL
Page Roasting Company
infuses the Jitter Shake with
its legendary buzz.
30 enjoyillinois.comIllinois
GUIDEBOOK ILLINOIS MADE
art
LAST LIGHT
BEFORE NIGHT
by Geoffrey Mikol
MORE ON
MAIN STREET frame
In far northwestern
Illinois, Galena’s
Main Street is a half-
mile-long stretch of
independent-minded
of mind
PROFESSIONAL ARTIST GEOFFREY MIKOL SHOWCASES HIS EXTENSIVE
STORY: KELLY ROBERSON. PHOTOGRAPH: (PORTRAIT) PAUL MIKOL
shops, like Geoffrey’s PHOTOGRAPHY COLLECTION IN HIS DOWNTOWN GALENA GALLERY.
River Bend Gallery.
G
Visitors can spend
eoffrey Mikol hadn’t planned to move teachers turned into entries in juried art shows.
hours (or days) strolling
to Galena. But there the suburban By the time he was in his late teens, Geoffrey and
through restored
Chicago native was, standing on Main his parents were spending most summer weekends
buildings or sign up for
walking or trolley tours. Street on a warm summer day in 2015, pointing to traveling around the Chicagoland area, selling
Find artwork, clothing, an empty shop and telling his family, “My gallery and staging his work and racking up awards.
furniture, food, gifts is right here.” Geoffrey, born with Down syndrome, had
and more. Hotels It proved an argument that Paul and his wife, strong instincts for capturing natural scenes and
and inns sit within Deb, would find hard to object to. Ever since his subjects. “He’s always had such an eye for it,
walking distance, and first photography class in high school, dedication with a sense of composition and lighting that’s
seasonal events draw and talent had propelled Geoffrey, 25, to higher hard to teach,” Paul says. “People have always
visitors year-round. and higher artistic heights. Praise from one of his liked his work.”
32 enjoyillinois.comArcola, Arthur, Sullivan, and Tuscola
invite you to travel back. Travel back
to a simpler time, where craftsmen and
artisans create beauty with their hands.
Travel back for heirloom antiques and
unique shops. Travel back for one-of-a-
kind recreation and dining experiences
that will appeal to your whole family.
For more information call 1.877.368.4527
or visit amishcountryofillinois.com
D I S COV E R
WRIGHT IN CHICAGO
Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
Unity Temple | Robie House | The Rookery | Bach House
FLWRIGHT.ORG 312.994.4000
I N T E R N A T I O N A L G A T E WAY T O W R I G H T Õ S C H I C A G OGUIDEBOOK ILLINOIS MADE INSIDE THE
GALLERY
PHOTOGRAPH: (INTERIOR) COURTESY OF RIVER BEND GALLERY
art
EMBRACED BY FOG
by Geoffrey Mikol
Geoffrey’s love of nature shows as a recurring theme in his photography.
Which led, eventually, to that empty storefront Geoffrey’s not at the gallery, he’s out shooting
in Galena. On vacation, Geoffrey was pondering new material with his Nikon. He shoots mostly
his options after wrapping up a community around Illinois and farther afield on trips
college degree. One possibility, he says, was to to Colorado. Fog, rocks, caves and sunlight
be a rock star. Another, opening a gallery in a remain constants. With its hills and water,
pretty riverfront town with a genial population Galena, Geoffrey says, is his favorite place to
and tourists arriving in all four seasons. After photograph. “It’s really cool here, and I have
much discussion, Geoffrey and Paul rented a lots of friends,” he says. And he’s branching out,
house and set up River Bend Gallery in Galena, too—with those rock star dreams in mind—by
while Deb kept her job in Lisle for a year. River Bend thinking about starting a DJ business.
Geoffrey’s work proved so popular that Gallery Gallery visitors make a steady stream of
after the gallery’s first anniversary, the family 313 S. Main St., traffic, snapping up prints such as Embraced
relocated to a bigger location notable for its Galena by Fog and Last Light Before Night. “It’s really
sunny interior and soaring vaulted ceiling. cool to have a father-son business,” Paul says.
Hours: 10–4 Monday
Today, a peek inside Geoffrey’s gallery gives through Friday, “Not everyone gets to do that. People come
an intimate view of an artist who is struck by 10–5 Saturday, into the gallery and they take a piece of Illinois
the variety of light and fascinated by shapes 10–3 Sunday home. They take a piece of Geoffrey home
in nature often hidden in plain sight. When with them too.”
34 enjoyillinois.comWilliamson County offers a small-town experience with a big city feel. Offering dining, lodging, indoor and outdoor activities, it is a perfect all-season destination. We invite you and your family to make memories with us.
GUIDEBOOK CALENDAR
PARTY ON
ACROSS
FIND FOOD, FUN AND FRIVOLITY AT SOME OF THE STATE
CHICAGO’S BIGGEST OUTDOOR SUMMER EVENTS.
Illinois
Shakespeare
Festival,
Bloomington
(June–August)
Pack a picnic and
settle in for three
of the Bard’s works
at Ewing Cultural
Center.
Great Galena
STORY: KRISTIN BIENERT. PHOTOGRAPHS: (LOLLAPALOOZA) TAYLOR REGULSKI, (MUSIC, FOOD FEST) CITY OF CHICAGO, (AIR AND WATER) JEFFREY PHELPS, (PEACH) BOB STEFKO
Balloon Race,
Galena
(June 19–21)
Balloons compete
while fans take in
the night glow, car
show and music.
Q-Fest,
Quincy
(June 26–28)
Rock out to the Shop the Fine and
biggest names during Fresh Art Show
Lollapalooza before Saturday’s
(July 30–August 2) when street concert.
more than 170 bands take
to the stages in Grant Park.
Plan on a crowd: The
four-day fest packs
400,000-plus fans.
Bring your appetite to
Taste of Chicago Cobden Peach
(July 8–12), when food trucks Festival,
and booths dish up Windy City Cobden
faves like deep-dish pizza and (August 7–8)
more diverse offerings from The city celebrates
pop-up tents in Grant Park. the stone fruit with
a carnival, parade
Millennium Park hosts the and 5K run/walk.
city’s new 17-day music
festival in celebration of the Taste of
Year of Chicago Music. Champaign-
The multiweekend fest Urbana,
includes the annual West Side Park
House Music Festival Marvel as top military (August 14–15)
(May 21–23), and civilian pilots perform Get a bite of
Chicago Gospel Music daredevil tricks over North local flavors from
Festival Avenue Beach (and the restaurant booths
(May 26–30) and nearby lakefront) during the while artists sell
Chicago Blues Festival Chicago Air and Water Show their works.
(June 5–7). (August 15–16).
36 enjoyillinois.comV ISI T
ounty
Moultrie C
FO
Y
R A DA
Visit Moultrie County
www.visitmoultrieil.com Ð (217) 728-4223 ÐTILT, CHICAGO
SIX FLAGS GREAT
AMERICA, GURNEE
FA M I LY
AN OUT-OF-STATE FAMILY OF FOUR HAS THREE DAYS TO SPEND IN CHICAGO.
WITH SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO, THE WINDY CITY OFFERS ENDLESS KID-APPROVED STOPS.
THE RESULT? AN ULTIMATE FAMILY GETAWAY IN ILLINOIS. A FEW EXTRA DAYS EXTEND THE
ADVENTURE BEYOND THE CITY LIMITS—TO THE METRO AREA AND ACROSS THE STATE.
THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO
LINCOLN’S TOMB,
SPRINGFIELD
KIDS CREATE THEIR OWN
WORKS OF ART IN A
ROOM FOR FAMILIES; FREE
ADMISSION FOR THE
14-AND-UNDER CROWD.
38 enjoyillinois.comPHOTOGRAPHS: ALYSSA SCHUKAR, (SIX FLAGS, GURNEE) ACKERMAN + GRUBER, (LINCOLN PARK ZOO AND CONSERVATORY) KYLEE KRIZMANIC, (LINCOLN’S TOMB, NAVY PIER) IOT, (LINCOLN HOME) JASON LINDSEY
SIX FLAGS HURRICANE
HARBOR ROCKFORD LINCOLN HOME
NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE,
SPRINGFIELD
NAVY PIER,
CHICAGO
LINCOLN PARK
CONSERVATORY, CHICAGO
LINCOLN PARK
ZOO, CHICAGO
POLK BROS PARK AT
NAVY PIER, CHICAGO
39THIS MAGAZINE’S
EDITOR IN CHIEF,
KYLEE KRIZMANIC,
AND HER CREW HIT
CHICAGO FOR A
WHIRLWIND LONG
WEEKEND.
SHEDD AQUARIUM
FAM ILY VACATION
CITYPASS
DAY
PHOTOGRAPHS: KYLEE KRIZMANIC, (SKYDECK CHICAGO) JOHN NOLTNER
OUR CITYPASS LET US SKIP LINES
AT MAJOR ATTRACTIONS AND SAVE
SOME CASH TOO. THE PASSES ARE
GOOD FOR NINE CONSECUTIVE
DAYS, BUT WE WENT BIG, SEEING
ALL IN A SINGLE DAY.
FIELD MUSEUM
CITYPASS ADMISSION INCLUDES:
SHEDD AQUARIUM, SKYDECK CHICAGO AND FIELD
MUSEUM; ADLER PLANETARIUM OR THE ART INSTITUTE
OF CHICAGO; MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY
OR 360 CHICAGO OBSERVATION DECK. ADULTS ARE THE ART
$108; KIDS $89. TO PURCHASE, VISIT CITYPASS.COM. INSTITUT
E OF CH
ICAGO
CHICAGO
SHEDD AQUARIUM We started at the
1
DAY
Polar Play Zone, where the girls took
CREATE A
turns playing submarine captain in an STORY-DRIVEN
interactive miniature submarine (above). SCAVENGER
While they were strategizing, we were HUNT WITH
laughing at a lively colony of waddling, JOURNEYMAKER
bouncing penguins. AT THE ART
INSTITUTE OF
CHICAGO.
FIELD MUSEUM It was a short but
pleasant walk through Chicago’s lakeside
Museum Campus to the sprawling Field
Museum, where we explored the world of
Máximo, the toothy titanosaur skeleton
that towers over the fossils of other
creatures of her time.
40 enjoyillinois.com“THE BOATS
ON THE
WATER
LOOK LIKE
BATHTUB
TOYS!” OUR 4-YEAR-OLD
SKYDECK CHICAGO
ADLER PLANETARIUM OR THE ART 360 CHICAGO OBSERVATION DECK WORTH THE DETOUR
INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO We opted for OR MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND Just beyond the lion-flanked doors
the Art Institute, where the girls nurtured INDUSTRY We took the Red Line train of the Art Institute of Chicago, find
their inner artists in the Ryan Learning and then a cab to 875 North Michigan Millennium Park with Cloud Gate
Center. The girls sat on wooden drawing Avenue, formerly the John Hancock Center. (the sculpture better known as
horses to sketch before moving to a On the 94th floor, the Tilt attraction leaned The Bean) and Crown Fountain.
collage studio, where they made creations us over Michigan Avenue. Even my husband
that became part of the Children’s Gallery gasped at the view from 1,030 feet up.
Show. Based on the girls’ answers to
WORTH THE DETOUR
questions about their favorite art, a digital WILLIS TOWER'S SKYDECK CHICAGO
If you opt to use CityPass for the
kiosk printed individualized scavenger A 15-minute cab ride and we were again
Museum of Science and Industry
hunts (left). The program ensured a great standing above Chicago (above). This time
instead of 360 Chicago, catch
tour through the museum—my husband our view was from the Ledge, a glass-
the DuSable Museum of African
and I got to see the art because the girls encased balcony 103 floors up. The girls
American History just 2 miles away.
were incredibly engaged with the hunt. were amazed by the views and telescopes.
enjoyillinois.com 41NAVY PIER
THE GIRLS WANTED
TO RIDE THE PEPSI
RE WAVE SWINGER
AMERICAN GIRL STO AGAIN AND AGAIN
AND SAID IT WAS
BETTER THAN THE
RIDES AT DISNEY.
FAM ILY VACATION
ULTIMATE
KID DAY
SQUEAL-INDUCING ANIMALS.
HIGH-FLYING RIDES. AND
KEEPSAKE DOLLS CHOSEN
WITH METICULOUS CARE.
BASICALLY, A TOTAL DREAM
ITINERARY FOR YOUNGSTERS.
CHICAGO
LINCOLN PARK ZOO AND PEGGY
2
Then we sat down for afternoon tea
DAY NOTEBAERT NATURE MUSEUM (parents can order beer or a cocktail)
It wasn’t only the animals (especially with treats and little sandwiches. The
the zebras) that we loved about dolls sat next to the girls in their own
the zoo. It was the play spaces at chairs clipped to the table, complete
what seemed like every turn. After with little plates and place settings.
a short walk through the park, the Each napkin came wrapped with a
girls were dancing among the free- pink-bow hair tie, free to take.
flying butterflies in an enormous
greenhouse at the nature museum. NAVY PIER We hopped a free ride on
the seasonal Navy Pier trolley and then
AMERICAN GIRL AT WATER explored our way down the pier. Before
TOWER PLACE This was a trip long, the girls were holding tight to
highlight made even more magical by their new dolls as we rose nearly
our prebooked (and free!) personal 200 feet in the air on the Centennial
shopper, who patiently helped the THE LINCOLN PARK ZOO IS Wheel, towering above the Chicago
girls peruse the entire store, covering OPEN 365 DAYS A YEAR Children’s Museum and Chicago
every inch of wall-to-wall pink carpet. AND ALWAYS FREE. Shakespeare Theater.
42 enjoyillinois.comWHERE TO
EAT AND
STAY IN
CHICAGO
IN ONE OF THE BEST
CITIES IN THE WORLD
FOR FOOD AND
LODGING, HERE ARE
JUST A FEW SPOTS
THAT KIDS (AND THEIR
PARENTS) WILL LOVE.
EAT
BREAKFAST
Legendary diner food
at Lou Mitchell’s; simple
doughnuts at Do-Rite
Donuts; decadent ones
at Stan’s Donuts; a
locally sourced meal at
CHICAGO’S
FIRST LADY CRUISES Beatrix; a coffee flight
from the world’s largest
PHOTOGRAPHS: KYLEE KRIZMANIC, (BOAT) COURTESY OF CHICAGO ARCHITECTURE CENTER
roastery, Starbucks
Reserve Roastery.
MAIN MEAL
FAM ILY VACATION A ’70s diner vibe at R.J.
Grunts; a Chicago-style
STUFF FOR
CHICAGO hot dog at Portillo’s; the
SHAKESPEARE TH
EATER Italian-style food hall
Eataly; an Insta-famous
cheeseburger from Au
PARENTS
Cheval or Small Cheval;
a burger and shake
from Shake Shack.
DAY PIZZA
Chicago deep-dish
pizza from Giordano’s,
Lou Malnati’s or Uno
AFTER A DAY OF ACTIVITIES Pizzeria and Grill;
DESIGNED FOR KIDS, IT WAS TIME a pizza pot pie from
Chicago Pizza and
FOR A DAY OF SOPHISTICATION, Oven Grinder Company.
WHICH THE KIDS ALSO LOVED.
SWEET TREATS
A world-class chocolate
selection at Ghirardelli;
CHICAGO a mix-and-match bag
3
ARCHITECTURE AND took the trolley to Chicago Shakespeare of candy from Dylan’s
DAY Candy Bar; center-filled
HOP-ON-HOP-OFF TOURS We used Theater, which performs the Bard and
Chicago Trolley and Double Decker more. We saw The Wizard of Oz. cupcakes at Molly’s
Company to get around, hopping on Cupcakes; the iconic
near our hotel and hopping off near the AFTERNOON TEA The Peninsula’s cheese and caramel mix
Chicago Riverwalk. There we strolled high tea in the lobby welcomes children. from Garrett Popcorn.
until we boarded a boat with Chicago’s Dainty sandwiches and scones fill
STAY
First Lady Cruises, where a volunteer multitiered china plates. It’s just the right
combination of posh and practical. The rooftop track at
docent wowed us with knowledge.
Radisson Blu Aqua; the
We were torn: Apple Tatin Lollipops or
ice cream cart at Four
SEE A MATINEE Many Chicago Almond Coconut Puffs?
Seasons; the rooftop
theaters perform family-friendly shows in
pool at DoubleTree by
an intimate environment, like Broadway A CARRIAGE RIDE We topped off the
Hilton Magnificent Mile;
in Chicago’s upcoming plans for Frozen day with a horse-drawn open carriage
the candy cart at Ritz-
starting October 2020. In our case, we ride along Michigan Avenue. The 30- to Carlton; the front door
60-minute rides start and end near to Michigan Avenue
WORTH THE DETOUR the historic Water Tower. Afterward, at InterContinental
The wintertime skating ribbon at everyone found their perfect meal at Chicago
Maggie Daley Park turns into a walking Foodlife, an urban food hall. Magnificent Mile.
and in-line skating haven in summer.
enjoyillinois.com 43FAM ILY VACATION
THE MORTO
OUTSIDE
N ARBORETU
M, LISLE
THE CITY
JUST BEYOND
THE CHICAGO LOOP,
FIND A WORLD OF
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES,
AMUSEMENT PARKS AND
MIDSIZE MUSEUMS
TO EXPLORE.
SEE COLOSSAL
HANDCRAFTED TROLLS
DISPLAYED THROUGH JUNE.
Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield DuPage Children’s Museum, The Morton Arboretum, Lisle With
A 30-minute Metra ride from Chicago, Naperville This is a creative 1,700 acres of land filled with plants
this is the place to watch dolphins playground for all ages, with an and trees, there is plenty of space
leap, feed parakeets and goats, or interactive exploration of physics for a sprawling Maze Garden, a
splurge on a meet-and-greet with an and exhibits that encourage kids and Children’s Garden … and trolls. Go on an
adorable penguin. adults to compose music together. adventure to find the behemoth beasts
(15- to 30-feet tall) lurking in the forest.
Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe Great Wolf Lodge, Gurnee This indoor
A living museum along the lakeshore, water park resort puts an emphasis Raging Waves, Yorkville Choose
it’s hard to believe that the seemingly on resort. Everything a family needs from more than a dozen rides and
endless greenery here is just for fun is under one roof in the newly attractions like the wave pool, a giant
30 minutes from Chicago. Don’t miss renovated lodge, which includes mini sandbox and a group waterslide with a
the bonsai collection. golf and rock climbing. 40-foot drop at this family-owned park.
Gurnee Mills, Gurnee Stock up at this Six Flags Great America/Hurricane
PHOTOGRAPHS: (TROLL) JEFF ROSS, (YOGA) COURTESY OF GREAT WOLF LODGE, (ZOO) IOT, (SIX FLAGS) ACKERMAN + GRUBER
shopping mall located near major Harbor, Gurnee With rides featuring
GREAT WOLF family-friendly attractions. Take a 180-degree zero-G roll twists, this is
LODGE, GURNEE break from shopping with arcade for the thrill-seeking family. Both the
games and laser tag. amusement and water parks have kid
rides for the mini thrill-seeker too.
Illinois Holocaust Museum and
Education Center, Skokie Explore life Tempel Farms, Old Mill Creek
in Europe before and during the Performing ballet-like dressage moves,
Nazi regime, view a train car like white Tempel Lipizzan stallions do
those used in mass deportations, and shows from June to September.
listen to survivor testimony through
hologram imagery.
Kohl Children’s Museum, Glenview
A 2-acre outdoor sensory trail is the
cornerstone here, where visitors are
encouraged to go on a bug hunt and
to get (temporarily) lost in a prairie-
grass maze.
Marriott Theatre, Lincolnshire
The performances here are
entertaining for all ages but directed
toward the engagement of young
audiences. This is an ideal introduction BROOKFIELD ZOO,
to performance art and theater.
BROOKFIELD
44 enjoyillinois.comSIX FLAGS GREAT AMERICA, GURNEE
FAM ILY VACATION
ROAD
TRIP! NO LICENSE
NECESSARY
WITH ROUTE 66 TO GET BEHIND
THE WHEEL
CROSSING THE STATE, AND DRIVE A
COMBINE OR
ILLINOIS IS ONE OTHER FARM
OF THE ORIGINAL CHESTNUT MOUNTAIN
MACHINERY AT
THE JOHN DEERE
AMERICAN ROAD- RESORT, GALENA PAVILION.
TRIP DESTINATIONS.
EXPLORE SMALL TOWNS
WITH BIG ATTRACTIONS
STATEWIDE. JOHN DEERE PAVILION, MOLINE
PHOTOGRAPHS: RYAN DONNELL, (SLIDE) KEVIN J. MIYAZAKI/REDUX, (MUSEUM) ALYSSA SCHUKAR, (JOHN DEERE) JASON DONNELLY
BURPEE MUSEUM OF NATURAL
HISTORY, ROCKFORD
Big Things in a Small Town, Casey drive-in theaters and more, this is to the trails and see the bison, elk and
Check out the world’s largest golf tee the one-stop shop for family fun in bobcats of the prairie park.
or the world’s largest fully functional central Illinois.
mailbox. This little town stands tall with Quad City Botanical Center, Rock
eight Guinness-certified titles for the Main Street and Chestnut Mountain Island Kids can check out a Discovery
world’s largest objects. Resort, Galena Zoom down 2,050 feet Backpack containing hands-on
of winding alpine slides on Chestnut activities as they explore the children’s
John Deere Pavilion, Moline John Mountain (total adrenaline rush), or garden with a mini Mississippi River.
Deere is known for making big green glide through the trees on the zipline.
and yellow machines, and now kids Then peruse the boutiques and candy Riverfront Museum Park, Rockford
can climb on the massive tractors and shops on Galena’s famous Main Street. Explore Discovery Center Museum’s
dozers, or go for a (simulated) joy ride. planetarium before going next door to
Peoria Riverfront Museum and Wildlife the Burpee Museum of Natural History.
Knight’s Action Park and Splash Prairie Park, Peoria Wander through Stare up in wonder at the skeleton of
Kingdom, Springfield With waterslides, the interactive galleries of the riverfront Jane, a juvenile T. rex, and Homer, a
bumper boats, go-karts, batting cages, museum before heading outside to take teenage triceratops.
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