Skip the boring parties this Halloween and go on a haunted adventure. Take a ghost tour or go visit historic battlefields late at night, and see who and what you can channel. If you’re feeling brave, visit one of these most haunted spots and try to not get spooked.
To add this infographic to your site, please copy the embed code from the above box and paste this code on your site.
What better way is there to spend summer than spending it with your family at a ballpark? Check out these must-see stadiums and cross it off your bucket list.
It’s summer, and we are well into baseball season. Summer plans may include visiting the ballpark with your family and having hot dogs, cheering on your favorite team and bonding with your kids. But if you’re a sports enthusiast, you know that there’s more to a ballpark than just some seats, cold brews and hot dogs; it’s about which park is rich in history, has lots to offer baseball fans and has unique features. Here’s our list of must-see baseball parks around the U.S.
Fenway Park, Boston
To get here, you may need to grab that Rolodex to see if you have a contact whose dad’s former boss inherited tickets from his or her grandma. OK, so it’s not that bad, but tickets sell out quickly for a Red Sox game and rightfully so. Fenway Park is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, and although the outfield is oddly shaped, this is a ballpark for baseball fans. The stadium has basically remained in the same style and shape since it was built. The experience you’ll get at Fenway is second to none; it’s a true baseball experience. Including the hand-operated scoreboard to “Green Monster” in left field, Fenway will create a memorable baseball experience for you. Learn the lyrics to “Sweet Caroline” and be sure not to wear any Yankees gear, and you’re set.
4 Yawkey Way, Boston, MA 02215
Camden Yards, Baltimore
This huge ballpark somehow creates an intimate experience for baseball fans. When Camden Yards was built in 1992, it set the standard on how modern day ballparks should be designed. Most of the new parks constructed after 1992 mimic Camden. The ballpark is located in downtown Baltimore, and it was constructed over an old railroad station. One of the most noticeable things about this park is the B&O Warehouse which creates a backdrop in right field. For the full Orioles experience, enter Camden Yards through the Eutaw Street entrance, where you can mingle with other fans, drink a few beers before the game and have a pit beef sandwich from Boog’s Barbecue. If you’re looking for the Maryland staple, crabcakes, you can grab a Maryland crabcake sandwich on Eutaw Street.
333 W. Camden St., Baltimore, MD 21201
AT&T Park, San Francisco
One visit to AT&T Park and you’ll understand why tickets are sold out almost every night. There really isn’t a bad seat in the house. To get a good view of all of the action from the game, check out the field seats. If you’re looking for a great view in addition to the game, sit on the second deck looking out toward right field. The views from these seats include San Francisco‘s McCovery Cove, the Bay Bridge and Oakland Coliseum. For the kids, the park includes a giant Coca-Cola bottle slide and a 26-foot by 30-foot wide baseball glove. And, if you want to commemorate your visit to the park, create a stuffed teddy bear at the Build-A-Bear Workshop in the outfield. Don’t forget to stop by Orlando’s and get an order of garlic fries.
24 Willie Mays Plaza, San Francisco, CA 94107
Wrigley Field, Chicago
One of baseball’s oldest ballparks, the home to the Chicago Cubs is a must-see for baseball fans. It has become a staple and a major part of Chicago’s landscape. The atmosphere is addicting. Whether the Cubs are winning or not, the fans come out and show their support. As for the stadium, you’ll notice the ivy walls that still grow on the outfield walls, and the scoreboard is still hand operated. Before entering the ballpark, check out the restaurants outside of the field where you’ll meet lots of die-hard Cubbies fans and learn more about why they still root for a team who hasn’t won a World Series in more than 100 years. Then, take a stroll around the park to see statues saluting greats such as Ernie Banks, Billy Williams, Ron Santo and Harry Caray. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see and hear a local legend or a famous Hollywood A-lister sing “Take Me Out To the Ballgame,” a tradition started by Harry Caray. Whatever you do, don’t bring up stories about goats, and if it looks like the outfielder can jump up and make the catch, try not to steal it from him.
1060 W. Addison St., Chicago, IL 60613
Yankee Stadium, New York
Although it’s home to a team that is the most hated in the MLB, Yankee Stadium is also a place where fans come together to share their love affair with baseball. The new Yankee Stadium is a re-creation of the old stadium, and it doesn’t seem like much has changed. The Yankees won their 27th World Series the same year they played in the new Yankee Stadium. The Yankees may be one of the most hated teams, but they have played host to some of the most legendary players of the game, including Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle and Lou Gehrig. You can check out the history of those players, as well as other great Yankee teams and players from the past in the Yankees Museum, located inside of the ballpark. Trying to find the best seat in the house? You don’t have to worry about that; almost every seat offers a great view.
1 E. 161 St., Bronx, NY 10451
Photo Credit: iStockphoto/jgroup
Unique hot dog toppings like avocado and jalapenos can be found on different hot dog variations across the United States.
Nothing says summer more than a hot dog pulled straight off the grill. And while the hot dog’s first incarnation was the frankfurter found in Germany, this comfort classic has become an American staple. As simple as this food may seem, a hot dog you chow down on near Coney Island might be markedly different from one you nosh on in Seattle. Since July is National Hot Dog Month, there’s no better time to experiment with different hot dog variations from across the United States, so dig into these six regional hot dog styles.
The Slaw Dog
A staple of the South, the slaw dog is a hot dog slathered with a thick, sweet, creamy mayonnaise-based slaw made from a mixture of finely chopped cabbage and carrots and placed on a lightly steamed bun. You can stop here, or try the unique flavor combination of the chili cheese slaw dog, which features a grilled hot dog topped with hearty, beanless chili and that signature slaw.
Where: Nu-Way, 430 Cotton Ave., Macon, GA 31201
The Italian
The Italian hot dog is like a regular hot dog on steroids. Hot dog vendors hip to this variety, most often found in New Jersey, take a half-round of doughy bakery bread, slice it open and create a pocket that resembles an enlarged pita, which is then smeared with yellow mustard. Then, they stuff in a pair of deep fried hot dogs (called rippers because their skin rips open during frying), toss on a mound of sautéed onions and peppers and a heap of crispy fried potato wedges.
Where: Jimmy Buff’s, 60 Washington St., West Orange, NJ 07052
The Red Hot
Also known as a Chicago style hot dog, as the name suggests, you can find this famous style of dog in the Windy City. If you choose to chow down on this culinary creation, you’ll enjoy a steamed, all-beef, natural casing hot dog, nestled into a steamed poppy seed bun and topped with a variety of things. If you want it “dragged through the garden,” you’ll get chopped onions, sliced tomatoes, a dill pickle spear, neon green sweet pickle relish, yellow mustard, pickled sport peppers and celery salt. Just don’t ask for ketchup – you’ll never find this looked-down-upon condiment on the Chicago-style hot dog, although some vendors will provide small packets to customers who request it, along with a dirty glare.
Where: Hot Doug’s, 3324 North California Ave., Chicago, IL 60618
The Sonoran
Found in Tucson, metropolitan Phoenix and in Sonora, Mexico, the Sonoran hot dog is wrapped in mesquite-smoked bacon and then cooked on a grill or a griddle and stuffed into steamed bolillo rolls. The finished product is topped with pinto beans, chopped tomatoes, onions, mustard, mayo and jalapenos. Other topping variations include shredded cheddar cheese, queso fresco, cotija cheese, salsa verde and guacamole.
Where: El Guero Canelo, 5201 South 12th Ave., Tuscon, AZ 85706
The Seattle Style
If you haven’t heard of the Seattle-style cream cheese dog, you’re probably not alone. This sleeper hit of the Pacific Northwest has practically popped up out of nowhere and now can be found at hot dog carts across the Emerald City. The Seattle style hot dog is a wiener or Polish sausage split, grilled and jammed into a toasted bun slathered with cream cheese. Standard toppings include grilled onions, jalapenos and either sauerkraut or grilled cabbage, while typical condiments include mustard, barbecue sauce and Sriracha.
Where: Monster Dogs, 1ST Avenue and Bell Street, Seattle, WA 98101
The Puka Dog
Just as its native Hawaii is a melting pot of cultures, the puka dog offers a wide variety of flavors from across the world on one bun. The word puka means “hole” in Hawaiian and, in this case, refers to the hot dog’s bun, a loaf of sweet bread which is baked in a special contraption that creates a hole to encapsulate the grilled Polish sausage. Puka dogs are topped with any number of secret sauces, particularly a lemon garlic aioli, tropical mustards and fruit relish, like habanero, lemon, mango, coconut, papaya and guava.
Where: Hula Dog, 2301 Kuhio Ave., #334, Honolulu, HI 96815
Photo credit: iStockphoto/DebbiSmirnoff
Wrigley Field in Chicago was the setting for many movies filmed in Chicago
Bueller? Bueller? Did you know that the famous flick, “Ferris Bueller,” was based in Chicago? The popular ‘80s John Hughes’ “Sixteen Candles” was also filmed in the Windy City, as well as “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” “Blues Brothers,” “The Untouchables” and “When Harry Met Sally.” The tall skyscrapers, the unique restaurants and the famous landmarks are just a few of the reasons why many producers and filmmakers choose Chicago as a backdrop for their hit movies. Here are a few of the movies filmed in Chi-town and where you can explore to see where your favorite actors once acted out their lines.
Blues Brothers (1980)
Moving from their “Saturday Night Live” skits to the big screen, comedians Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi star in this movie about redemption. The two take on a “mission from God” to save the Catholic orphanage in which they grew up from foreclosure. In order to do so, they must organize a performance with their band, the Blues Brothers. This is no easy task as there are many hurdles thrown in their way, including a relentless police pursuit. “Blues Brothers” was credited with putting Chicago on the map as a venue for filmmaking. Some of the landmarks you’ll recognize in the movie are Wrigley Field and the South Shore Cultural Center, which was the location for the Palace Hotel Ballroom, where the band performs.
Sixteen Candles (1984)
Teenage years are rough; you go through awkward phases, including falling in love with someone who may not love you back, a difficult family who just doesn’t seem to understand and general growing pains. The story is no different for high school sophomore, Sam Baker, who is played by ‘80s star Molly Ringwald. This popular ‘80s flick was filmed primarily in Chicago’s suburban neighborhoods of Skokie and Highland Park, Ill. The majority of the exterior scenes were filmed at Niles East High School, close to downtown Skokie. The other communities featured were Evanston and Glencoe, where the final scenes of the film take place.
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)
Following Matthew Broderick’s character Ferris Bueller, this film goes along with a high school senior who decides to skip school for a day and explore downtown Chicago with his girlfriend and best friend by his side. Some of the famous Chicago landmarks that were featured in the film included the then Sears Tower, the Art Institute of Chicago and Wrigley Field, where the trio enjoyed a Cubs game. One of the most notable scenes was when Ferris took the stage of a float and sang “Danke Schoen” and “Twist and Shout” in front of a crowd at the Von Steuben Day parade.
High Fidelity (2000)
Don’t understand women? Neither does John Cusack’s character, Rob Gordon, in “High Fidelity.” This movie takes you on a journey with a self-confessed audiophile who tries to understand women and his relationships with women. Based on Nick Hornby’s book of the same name, the film stayed true to the book with the exception of the main character’s last name and changing the setting from London to Chicago because of the familiarity of Chicago, as well as the “great alternative music scene,” according to producer Steve Pink.
The Dark Knight (2008)
Directed, produced and co-written by Christopher Nolan, “The Dark Knight” is based on the DC Comics character Batman. It’s a sequel to 2005’s “Batman Returns.” Warner Bros. decided to film in Chicago as Nolan claims he had a “truly remarkable experience” filming “Batman Returns in the Windy City.” To showcase “Gotham City,” the filmmakers used 34 different locations around Chicago, including the legendary bar Twin Anchors. Other prominent locations included Navy Pier, Millennium Station, Hotel 71, James R. Thompson Center and LaSalle Street.
Photo Credit: iStockphoto/nazdravie
Enjoy the warmer weather in Chicago by dining on a patio with Fido by your side.
With spring just around the corner in Chicago, you may find it’s becoming harder to leave your house without your dog by your side. Whether you’re craving a hot dog, a slice of pizza or just some cheese fries, here are a few of the best restaurants in Chicago for you and Fido.
Harry Caray’s Tavern
In between walking around the Navy Pier and riding the ferris wheel, stop by Harry Caray’s Tavern. It’s a hot spot for dog owners, as the tavern includes a licensed dog-friendly patio. While indulging in a juicy Holy Cow burger (make sure to add cheese and put it on a pretzel bun), your dog will get treated to a souvenir water bowl – and maybe a few butt scratches from neighboring burger enthusiasts.
Where: 700 E. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60611
Sarah’s Pastries and Candies
Serving up more than just cupcakes, Sarah’s Pastries on Oak Street is a favorite among Chicago dessert enthusiasts. They offer up specialty cakes with fillings such as caramel crème brulee, peanut butter mousse and dulce de leche, and you can add crushed Oreos, raspberry jam or even strawberries. If you’re looking for something smaller, Sarah’s has French red velvet macarons, fudge brownies and toffee sugar cookies, as well as the popular black and white cupcake. For your canine companion, get a homemade dog treat that will satisfy your dog’s palate.
Where: 70 E. Oak St., Chicago, IL 60611
The Grill on the Alley
Since opening its doors in 2000, the Grill has been a staple on the Magnificent Mile with its sizzling steaks cooked to perfection and other first-rate fare. Stop in and dine outside with your pup, and he’ll get treated to dog biscuits and water while you cut into your prime rib. Even more popular is the breakfast menu at the Grill, which features traditional breakfast items, including bagels, French toast and pancakes, as well as omelets, cereals and eggs Benedict, served with a homemade hollandaise sauce. As the Grill is famous for its steaks, try the filet and eggs.
Where: 909 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611
Lincoln Tavern & Restaurant
Cheap beer and dog-friendly are two of the ways to describe this Wicker Park neighborhood hangout. It’s a quiet place where you can spend quality time with friends and meet new neighbors, or you can just grab a beer after a hectic day at work. If you’re there for food, start with the chili and then try the Italian beef for your meal. The Italian beef is peppery and cooked perfectly. Make it out to this tavern a few times, and you’ll be recognized like Norm in Cheers. Additionally, your dog will get treated to water, treats and lots of belly scratches.
Where: 1858 W. Wabansia Ave., Chicago, IL 60622
T Spot Sushi and Tea Bar
On a nice day, treat yourself to Chicago Fire roll while your four-legged friend basks in the sun. The Chicago Fire roll consists of spicy shrimp, super white tuna, red tobiko and unagi sauce. Pair it with the jasmine tea, and you – and your taste buds – won’t be disappointed. If you’re looking for something other than sushi rolls, try the pieces. A few of the favorites include sashimi and nigiri. If sushi isn’t your thing, T Spot also serves up various entrees, including tuna that is grilled and served in a ginger lime reduction sauce, as well as a white fish that is seared and topped with chutney sauce. Another great detail about T Spot is that it’s BYOB, so you can bring in your own wine to have with your rolls.
Where: 3925 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 60613
Photo Credit: iStockphoto/mcdomx
Get a delicious slice of deep dish pizza from one of these Chicago pizzerias.
Chicago is home of the deep dish pizza, which is made with a buttery crust that is up to three inches tall. Lots of cheese, chunky tomato sauce and even more ingredients make up a Chicago-style pizza. With this type of pizza being a Chicago original, there are plenty of pizza restaurants that can be found in the Windy City, but just which ones are the best? What if you’re looking for something other than deep dish – perhaps a stuffed pizza or even thin crust pizza? Here are a few of our picks for best pizza in Chicago.
Graffiti Pizza
What: Affordable and loaded with toppings, these thin crust pizzas from Graffiti will have you coming back. A standard pizza can serve two – if you are willing to share – and the ingredients are fresh. If you opt for the vegetables, you’ll have your choice of unlimited veggies. The ambiance of this local pizzeria is a good reason to visit. The artwork is neat, you’ll get to see your pizza being made right in front of you and the owner is friendly, as well as the staff. If you’re in a hurry, call in your order ahead of time and make your way down; the pizza will be ready by the time you pull up.
Where: 700 E. 47 St., Chicago, IL 60653
Coalfire Pizza
What: The almost melt-in-your-mouth goodness of the margherita pizza is well worth the trip to this West Loop neighborhood pizza joint. Served on what is called one of the best thin crusts in Chicago, the margherita is tomato sauce topped with fresh mozzarella, grated romano, olive oil and fresh basil. This is also a great place to go if you’re grabbing a bite to eat before heading to class at the University of Illinois’ Chicago campus or shopping at the famous Chicago Antique Market. Before you can even reconsider your pizza order, your pie is ready for pick up.
Where: 1321 W. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60622
Union Pizzeria
What: Union Pizzeria offers up organic wood-fired pizzas with a Mediterranean spin. The must-try pizza here is the lamb sausage pizza, which is tender Pinn-Oak lamb with eggplant, Gaeta olives and rosemary served on a thin crust. Another favorite is the potato and goat cheese pie, which is combined with béchamel, caramelized onions and fresh rosemary. Your taste buds will be dancing after a bite of Union Pizzeria’s pizzas. And what goes better with pizza than beer? While chowing down on a slice (or two) of pizza, be sure to order one of the perfect pints of French Trappist ales from the skilled bartender.
Where: 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston, IL 60202
Gino’s East
What: The original Gino’s East location off Michigan and Superior Streets is a favorite among local Chicagoans. It was created more than 45 years ago when two taxi drivers and a friend were frustrated with rush hour traffic. Each deep dish pizza is handmade, and no two pies are the same. You have your choice of a deep dish pizza or a Chicago thin crust, both made with savory dough with a hint of sweetness, which is part of Gino’s secret recipe. Order the deep dish with their famous sausage – the experience is like eating an open-faced Italian sandwich, and you will not be disappointed. Gino’s East can be found in various locations throughout the greater Chicago area.
Where: 162 E. Superior St., Chicago, IL 60611
Chicago Pizza Tours
What: If you can’t pick just one pizza place to check out while in Chicago, try Chicago Pizza Tours. Choose from several options: Original Chicago Pizza Tour, which is the ultimate daytime pizza connoisseur adventure, Pizza & Cocktails, which is an evening pizza party extravaganza, or private tours for work outings, bachelor parties, etc. The tour takes you to four different pizzerias around Chicago, and you’ll get to try at least a full slice at each location. Eat a light breakfast, and get ready to try some of the best pizzas around. Purchase tickets ahead of time to secure a spot.
Where: Purchase tickets on www.zerve.com/chicagopizza
Photo Credit: iStockphoto/blindtoy99
If you only have a day to spend in Chicago, make sure to pick up a slice of deep dish pizza.
As one of the largest cities in the Midwest, and the third most populous city in the United States, with a vibrant urban personality peppered with a unique mix of culture and natural beauty, Chicago is prime destination for travelers. With so much to see and do here, from world-class art museums to dining in incredible restaurants, a trip to Chicago could keep one busy for weeks, but what if you don’t have that much time to pack in the sights? With a little planning, you can see the best Chicago has to offer in only one day. So if you happen to find yourself in the Windy City with only 24 hours, read on to find out how to play your day to make the most of your time.
Early Morning: The Loop
You’ll want to fuel up for a long day ahead, so head to the Bongo Room in the happening South Loop neighborhood. This place is pretty small and can fill up quickly during the breakfast and brunch rush, so make sure you arrive early, which will give you more sightseeing time anyway. Sink your teeth into a plate of their famous red velvet pancakes, or munch on a delicious breakfast burrito. As you’re only a mile south of one of the greatest art museums in the world, the Art Institute of Chicago, which takes its place alongside world famous institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Louvre in Paris and the Uffizi in Florence, you would be remiss if you didn’t pay a visit. Here, you can wander through the impressive permanent collection which features a dizzying number of American, European and Asian art.
Details:
Late Morning: Millennium Park
The best time to visit Millennium Park is in the morning, before the throngs of tourists descend upon this park that has been made famous by its modern sculptures, most notably Anish Kapoor’s three-story steel sculpture Cloud Gate, known by locals as “The Bean” due to its bean-like shape. Snap a picture and move on to Crown Fountain, an interactive public art work featuring two 50-feet glass brick towers with LED displays of faces that smile, frown and stare at each other. If the weather’s nice, linger a bit at Wrigley Square for some great people watching. The centerpiece of the park is the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, a performance space designed by Frank Ghery that often features free performances by local artists, as well as more famous acts.
Details: 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60686
Afternoon: Magnificent Mile
Chicago’s Michigan Avenue, also known as the Magnificent Mile, is where the city’s rich and famous go to shop in high-end luxury stores. Spend some time window shopping (or actual shopping, depending on your budget) here before heading to the John Hancock Center, a 100-story building that is one of the city’s favorite skyscrapers. The observation deck at the top gives one of the best views of the city. You’re probably hungry by this point, so stop in Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria and pick up a slice of deep dish pizza for a perfect lunch on-the-go. There’s no better way to see Chicago’s beautiful lakefront than by bike, so turn right on Illinois Street and walk until you see Bobby’s Bike Hike, where you can either sign up for a bike tour or go out on your own. From here, you can pedal north on Lake Shore Drive, which will take you past the Navy Pier, along Oak Street Beach and up to Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs baseball team.
Details:
Early Evening:
After returning your set of wheels, gear up for one of the most incredible meals of your life at Moto, which has garnered much praise from food critics around the globe. Known as one of the leaders in the molecular gastronomy movement that’s hitting the food scene these days, Moto provides diners with a whimsical, multi course prix fixe tasting menu that changes periodically but always features courses that are delicious and inventive, making for a meal that you’re guaranteed to never forget. Past courses have included a “Caesar salad” of green pills, which were filled with pureed romaine lettuce frozen with liquid nitrogen, sea bass cooked in a pressurized box at the table and a Cuban Cigar mini sandwich served on an ashtray.
Details: 945 W. Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607
After Dinner: Second City
Work off some of the massive amounts of calories that you just ingested with a couple of belly laughs over at Second City, the most famous comedy club in the United States. Many famous comedians and comedic actors got their start on this famed stage, such as Alan Alda, Mike Myers, Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, Gilda Radner and Tina Fey. Enjoy a night of classic and original sketch comedy or improvisation and you might just get a glimpse of the next rising star.
Details: 1616 N. Wells St., Chicago, IL 60614
Late Night:
Grab a cab and head to Kingston Mines in Lincoln Park, which is serving up non-stop Chicago blues and great beers on tap until the wee hours of the morning. A meager $12 cover gets you two stages worth of music with virtually no break in the action all night long. If you get hungry, it’s good to note that the kitchen stays open until 2:30 a.m. and churns out food that is way better than a meal served in your average Chicago blues dive. With options like rib tips, burgers and chicken wings, a night of blues and great grub here is the perfect way to end 24 hours in Chicago.
Details: 2548 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60614
Photo credit: iStockphoto/ShaneKato
Good news for music lovers: Chicago bands, venues, radio and record stores are some of the best in the world.
As the largest city in the state of Illinois and the third most populous city in the United States, Chicago has plenty to offer its visitors and residents. The opportunities for arts and culture are unparalleled, and the music scene, which traces its roots to blues and jazz, is second to none. If you’re a music lover, you’ll love to hear that Chicago bands, venues, radio and record stores are some of the best in the world. So pick up a couple of 45s, duck into a local show and get to know the music scene in the Windy City. Here’s a guide to help you get started.
Bands
It may surprise you, but there are more bands that call the Windy City home than just the famous 1960s rock band Chicago. And although many of these musicians have gained fame and notoriety, you can still catch them playing at local venues every so often. Probably most known for its history with blues and jazz, the Windy City is now showing up on the musical map for hip hop, with artists like Kanye West, Lupe Fiasco and Twista representing Chi-Town. Chicago house artists Felix da Housecat, Frankie Knuckles and Ten City perform for local underground club-goers, and indie bands like the Fiery Furnaces, The Sea and Cake and Andrew Bird are making a name for themselves in the Chicago music scene. And metalcore bands From Zero, Born of Osiris and Veil of Maya continue to rock venues.
Venues
Speaking of venues, covering every single music hall in Chicago would take days, even weeks. Luckily, by popping into some of the more famous ones, you can get a good taste of the music scene. The Jay Pritzker Pavilion (201 E. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60601) in Millennium Park is quickly becoming known as one of the best places to catch an outdoor, and often free, concert in Chicago. On a nice day, Chicagoans take to the park with a picnic to settle in for some great people watching and tunes. The historical Chicago Theatre (175 N. State St., Chicago, IL 60601), which first opened its doors in 1921, is a French Baroque beauty that hosts a number of eclectic performance events. The Cubby Bear (1059 W. Addison St., Chicago, IL 60613) has been named “Best Rock Club” by the Chicago Music Awards, and Neo (2350 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60614) is a great place for those who love leather trench coats, black lipstick and the darker side of the music scene. For a taste of classic Chicago blues, fans head to Lincoln Park for Kingston Mines (2548 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60614), and jazz fanatics spend their nights at Green Mill (4802 N. Broadway St., Chicago, IL 60640).
Radio
There are a ton of universities in the Chicago area, which means that the college radio community is thriving. The most well-known college radio station in town is the University of Chicago’s WHPK-FM (88.5 FM), which broadcasts an eclectic schedule that features rock, jazz, classical, international, hip hop and folk, with specialty shows sprinkled in throughout. Hard rock fanatics can get their fill on the University of Illinois at Chicago’s WUIC-FM (89.5 FM), and Wheaton College’s WETN-FM (88.1 FM) broadcasts a classical-heavy schedule. Although not technically in Chicago, Northwestern University’s WNUR-FM (89.3 FM) is another local favorite, which broadcasts indie rock and other college favorites during the week from nearby Evanston. But folks tune in to WNUR especially for its specialty programming, which includes “Streetbeat,” which broadcasts the best in underground dance and hip hop, “Continental Drift,” which explores international music of all genres and “Reggae Vibrations,” which features reggae and dancehall.
Record Stores
Vinyl collectors and music lovers that are looking for something beyond the Top 40 will rejoice knowing that Chicago has a plethora of independent record stores, many of which have been listed on Rolling Stone’s list of the “25 Best Record Stores in the U.S.” Whether you grew up listening to jazz or are just getting into it, a trip to the Jazz Record Mart (27 E. Illinois, Chicago, IL 60611) is a must-do. You’ll find plenty of vinyl, CDs and a good collection of books to thumb through. Permanent Records (1914 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60622) is small but packs a mean musical punch, and the friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you differentiate between UK Garage and post-punk. For a trip down memory lane, head into Laurie’s Planet of Sound (4639 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 60625), a charming record store that houses an impressive collection of used vinyl as well as obscure old magazines, hard-to-find DVDs and vintage board games.
Photo credit: iStockphoto/sydmsix
Whether you're hitting up a brewery or checking out a Cubs game, Chicago is perfect for a guys' trip.
Planning a bachelor party or just looking for an excuse to get away on a quick trip with your best buddies without having to worry about your wife, girlfriend or other female companions? With so much culture, sports, bars, restaurants and recreational activities, Chicago is the perfect destination for a “mancation.” So grab your gear and get ready to hit the road with the boys. You’re sure to be in for a good time by following our guide to a guys’ weekend in Chicago.
Hotel
While staying at a Days Inn typically might not be your first choice for accommodations for a guys’ weekend, this one is actually worth a second look. Known unofficially as the Rock & Roll Days Inn, the Days Inn Chicago has hosted some of the most famous names in the music industry, like Kurt Cobain, Ace Frehley, Beck, Sheryl Crow and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. And, the hotel is within walking distance to Wrigley Field, iconic music venues like the Metro, the Vic Theatre and the Riviera and a ton of bars and restaurants, meaning that you’ll never have too far to go to find some fun.
Where: 644 W. Diversey Parkway, Chicago, IL 60614
Sports
Speaking of Wrigley Field, Chicago is a professional sports lover’s paradise. It goes without saying that the city is home to the aforementioned ballpark, the second oldest Major League Baseball stadium that is currently in use, and its home team, the Chicago Cubs. During baseball season, it’s tough to score a ticket to a Cubs game, so if your guys’ weekend falls during this time, make sure to get tickets in advance. If you can’t grab a ticket, or if it’s the off-season, you can still tour the stadium and see where baseball history has been made.
Where: 1060 West Addison St., Chicago, IL 60613
Music
If you and your buddies are sonically inclined in the slightest, you’ll be psyched to know that Chicago is a major center for music. Perhaps most known for its history with blues and jazz, the Windy City is now showing up on the musical map for hip hop, with artists like Kanye West, Lupe Fiasco and Twista representing Chi-Town, house music, punk, hard rock and metal. The city is packed full of music venues, so rather than traipse around the city trying to hit up all the hotspots, stick to one that is known to be one of the best: the Vic Theatre. Opened in 1912, it’s one of the oldest venues in the city, and you can always catch a good concert here.
Where: 3145 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, IL 60657
Recreation
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-producing, heart-pumping activity to do on your guys’ getaway, round up your buddies and head out on a skydiving adventure. Located just a few miles west of the city in Ottawa, Skydive Chicago is a 220-acre mega resort that offers group rates and top notch instruction. The entire skydiving process only takes about three hours, so once you’re back on solid ground, take advantage of the different activities Skydive Chicago offers, such as horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking, sand volleyball, wakeboarding and a fitness area.
Where: 3215 E. 1969th Road, Ottawa, IL 61350
Food
From four-star fine dining to amazing, hole-in-the-wall dives, Chicago is truly a foodie’s city, containing some of the best restaurants in the world. But rather than spend the evening picking at perfectly manicured shrimp on your plate, get in touch with your manly roots at ManBQue, a Chicago-based, gentlemen-only organization promoting beer, music and, well, barbeque. The group hosts routine events where anyone from grill masters to backyard novices are welcome to attend and share stories, recipes and eat copious amounts of grilled meat.
Where: Bars and restaurants around Chicago
Beer
If locally brewed, delicious craft beers float your boat, Chicago has a ton of options for you. One of the more famous is Half Acre Brewery, a hip, young local beer company. For a small price, you’ll get an informative tour, a look into the brewing process, a souvenir pint glass and four of the brewery’s signature brews. Even if you choose not to take the tour, you can still stop in and pick up a few growlers of the Daisy Cutter Pale Ale or the Gossamer Golden Ale to enjoy in the hotel room.
Where: 4257 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 60618
Photo credit: iStockphoto/Deklofenak
Despite being a thoroughly urban city, Chicago has many great running trails.
As the largest city in the state of Illinois, Chicago is booming with world-class arts, culture, entertainment, shopping and culinary destinations. With so many things to do in the Windy City, you might find it odd to set aside some time aside to run. But if you’re an avid runner, you know that skipping a daily run can become not only physically but mentally detrimental, and finding the best, most scenic and most unique places to run becomes somewhat of a quest-for-the-Holy-Grail type of thing. So whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or someone who enjoys taking a leisurely jog every now and then, read on to find the best places to hit the pavement in Chicago.
North Branch Trail
If you’re looking for a place to run that’s just a little bit off the beaten path, lace up your running shoes and hit up the North Branch Trail, a quiet trail that begins at the corner of Caldwell and Devon Avenues in Chicago and continues roughly 20 miles into Lake County. As you run farther away from the city, you’ll soon find yourself within a dense and peaceful forest preserve. Don’t be alarmed if you encounter wildlife such as deer, who have become accustomed to humans.
Where: 6300 W. Devon Ave., Chicago, IL 60645
Foster Avenue Beach
While Chicago might not exactly be known for its beaches, the city contains nearly 28 miles of shoreline, meaning that there’s always the opportunity to escape the city for some time on the beach. Foster Avenue Beach is one of the less-crowded beaches in Chicago, as most tourists and locals tend to flock to the Montrose Avenue and North Avenue beaches, which means that you’ll have ample room for jogging.
Where: 5200 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60640
Bloomingdale Trail
One of Chicago’s more unique trails, the Bloomingdale Trail is a three-mile trail and elevated linear park that connects several great neighborhoods, the Chicago River and the city’s park system. Built along a former railroad track, the trail allows visitors to run without being interrupted by traffic. As the trail is above street level, you’ll get many interesting rooftop views of the city as well as an up-close view of many elaborate graffiti murals.
Where: 1600-3000 W. Bloomingdale Ave., Chicago, IL 60651
Riverbank Neighbors Trail
If you ever find yourself in the Wrigleyville neighborhood, make sure to give this largely undiscovered gem of a trail a whirl. This small path, created and maintained by the kind folks at Riverbank Neighbors, a group that has also created a community-oriented sustainable local movement called Beyond Today, is only about one mile in length, but it’s worth adding this leg on to a longer run, as it runs parallel to the Chicago River and provides some scenic views.
Where: 2600 W. Berteau Ave., Chicago, IL 60613
Grant Park
Those familiar with Chicago know that Grant Park is a veritable oasis tucked into one of the busiest pockets of the city. This 319-acre lush green space contains a four-mile running path that offers beautiful views of the Chicago skyline. There are numerous sidewalks and additional paths for runners to take an unexpected but surprising detour, and the park’s spacious benches provide a nice spot for a brief rest.
Where: 331 E. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60601
Chicago Lakefront Trail
Running along the eastern edge of Grant Park and continuing along the Lake Michigan shoreline, The Chicago Lakefront Trail is an 18-mile, multi-use path that runs past the Navy Pier, Monroe Harbor, Museum of Science and Industry and many of Chicago’s beaches. This trail offers one of the most invigorating jogs in the city, as the crisp, lakeshore air provides a nice contrast to the smoggy, downtown air.
Where: Lake Michigan and Congress Parkway, Chicago, IL 60605
The Loop
While not an official running trail per se, this decidedly urban route that runs through the heart of downtown Chicago will lead you past some of the most-visited attractions, and is perfect for those looking to get a taste of the city. This three-and-a-half mile loop is bordered by the Chicago River and Lake Michigan and takes runners past numerous boutiques, restaurants and museums as well as offering great views of the Sears Tower.
Where: Lake Shore Drive and Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606
Photo credit: iStockphoto/nycshooter