Chicago has more than 20 beaches with ample space for swimming, sports and soaking in the sun. The beach season runs from the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day, so enjoy the warm weather while it lasts. North Avenue Beach The broad scope of Lincoln Park includes North Avenue Beach, a zig-zagging beach adjacent… Read more »
Sunday, May 11, 2025 is Mother’s Day, and Chicago has no shortage of opportunities for brunches and other mom-honoring activities. Toast to the special women in your life with a Mother’s Day brunch at these restaurants and venues. Lirica Lirica has crafted indulgent specials in honor of mom thanks to executive chef Ricky Amaya. The… Read more »
Wine bars can intimidate novices by giving off an air of pretension. But Uvae Kitchen & Wine Bar counters that with an inclusive and accessible approach for all. For sure, the corner restaurant is intimate and sparsely lit, but the atmosphere is casual and inviting, with exposed brick and plush light blue seat backs along… Read more »
The 151st Kentucky Derby takes place on Saturday, May 3 at Louisville’s Churchill Downs. Those in Chicago will still be able to catch the Run for the Roses at local bars and restaurants, where you can find food and drink specials. Be sure to arrive in style, because some spots will have contests for the… Read more »
Three miles north of downtown, Lakeview East offers everything one can want from a Chicago neighborhood, including local shops, plenty of restaurants and nightlife. It’s also the home of Northalsted, a 0.75-mile section of N. Halsted St. that has long been the heart of Chicago’s LGBTQ+ community. Check out our guide to all the fun… Read more »
The spring and summer months are the ideal time to immerse yourself in the scenic beauty on display throughout Illinois. Find waterfalls, rock formations, wildflower meadows, and lakes in state parks and federally preserved land. Enjoy miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding, river adventures, and ziplines for thrill-seekers of all skill levels…. Read more »
EXPO CHICAGO Contemporary Art Fair returns to Navy Pier’s Festival Hall from April 25-27. The annual fair is a celebration of contemporary and modern art, and also features an extensive program of talks, on-site installations and public art initiatives. This year’s fair will feature more than 170 of the top galleries from 36 countries and… Read more »
Of all the new spots in Wrigleyville, the newest is Stolen Saddle. The country-themed concept on Clark St. a block south of Wrigley Field had its grand opening last week, coinciding neatly with the Chicago Cubs’ home opener. Step inside the three-level, 16,000-square-foot restaurant and you may think you’re on Nashville’s famed Lower Broadway instead… Read more »
Every year, the start of the baseball season brings a new sense of optimism. It also brings an opportunity to check out what recently opened up near the ballpark. So if you’re looking for a place to pre- or post-game when in Wrigleyville or Bridgeport to see the Cubs or White Sox, consider these new… Read more »
Spring has hit Chicago, and with summer just around the corner, you’ll want to cool off with ice cream. Below, we’ve listed even Chicago ice cream shops where you can get classic flavors or try innovative creations. The Original Rainbow Cone South Side-Born: Opened in Beverly in 1926, The Original Rainbow Cone has expanded to… Read more »
Chicago has more than 20 beaches with ample space for swimming, sports and soaking in the sun. The beach season runs from the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day, so enjoy the warm weather while it lasts. North Avenue Beach The broad scope of Lincoln Park includes North Avenue Beach, a zig-zagging beach adjacent… Read more »
With warmer weather returning to Chicago, it’s time to take advantage of the city’s blooming gardens and parks. Grab some food to go and check out these green community spaces for the perfect place to picnic. Maggie Daley Park From Millennium Park, take the BP Bridge across Columbus Dr. to Maggie Daley Park. There, you’ll… Read more »