2013 Travel Guide
Enjoy Illinois App
Showing 1-96 of 254 items
Holiday Inn - Alton
If you're searching for full-service hotels in Alton, IL, look no further. In addition to state-of-the-art event facilities, we have a large atrium with comfortable seating to encourage conversation. We also have added all new 32" flat screen tvs in all guest rooms. Located at the intersection of Route 140 and Route 3, and within minutes of I-255 , I-270, and the Amtrak Station, this hotel boasts unparalleled amenities and the friendliest staff, as well as ideal proximity to downtown Alton.
CITY: Alton
Comfort Inn - Alton
From the moment you arrive at Comfort Inn, we want you to relax and feel at home. Our helpful staff is there to welcome you, and you'll find everything to suit your needs, including clean, comfortable, and well-appointed rooms with cozy beds. We also offer free high-speed Internet access. Feel at ease knowing that your satisfaction is important to us!
CITY: Alton
12 - 22
Alton Little Theater: The Drowsy Chaperone
The curtain rises on a present-day musical theatre fanatic eager to tell you about his favorite Broadway musical - The Drowsy Chaperone. As he begins listening to the rare cast recording, the show cleverly blooms to life, telling the hilarious tale of a pampered Broadway starlet and her debonair fiance, an overzealous producer, a dizzy chorine, the Latin lover, and a couple of bumbling gangsters. Ruses are played. Hi-jinks occur. And the plot spins everyone into musica comedy euphoria. This production will Sept. 12 - 15 and Sept. 19 - 22.
CITY: Alton
18 - 28
Alton Little Theater: The Music Man
The 80th season of Alton Little Theater kicks off with The Music Man. In July 1912, a traveling salesman, “Professor” Harold Hill, arrives in River City, Iowa, intrigued by the challenge of swindling the famously stubborn natives of Iowa. Masquerading as a traveling band instructor, Professor Hill plans to con the citizens of River City into paying him to create a boys’ marching band, including instruments, uniforms, and music instruction. Once he has collected the money and the instruments and uniforms have arrived, he will hop the next train out of town, leaving them without their money or a band. It’s all part of a big swindle, but falling in love with the town librarian wasn’t part of the deal. With classic tunes that include the show-stopping “Seventy-Six Trombones,” The Music Man is an irresistible, all-American musical for the entire family!This will be an all-youth production scheduled for July 18-21 and 25-28.
CITY: Alton
Best Western Plus Parkway Hotel
Perfect for business or pleasure and conveniently located with easy access to key area attractions, restaurants and businesses.The friendly staff is ready to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay. Make a reservation today and save at this Alton hotel!
CITY: Alton
Nov 3
Alton Little Theater: THe Haunting of Hill House
Dr. Montague, an anthropologist whose true passion is the supernatural, rents the supposedly cursed titular building in order to investigate the existence of psychic disturbances. His guests are the house's heir and two women with previous experience of the paranormal. The group bonds almost immediately, but fear is a corrosive emotion and the house's manifestations soon cause cracks to appear. The horror inherent in the play does not lie in Hill House (monsterous though it is) or the events that take place within it, but in the unexplored recesses or its characters' (and its audiences') minds. This is perhaps why it remains the definitive haunted house story. This mystery is scheduled for Oct. 24 - 27 and Oct. 31 - Nov. 3.
CITY: Alton
Feb 2
Alton Little Theater: Moonlight and Magnolias
Legendry Hollywood producer David O. Selznick has a problem. He has just fired the director of Gone With the Wind and the script is on its umpteenth version. He desperately needs a new director and writer -- immediately! However, the writer he wants, Ben Hecht, has never read the novel and his director of choice, Victor Fleming, is not sold on the success of the storyline; but Selznick believes in this movie so much that he locks the three of them in his office for five days, with bananas and peanuts as their only food, to pull together a new script. As work begins, Selznick and Fleming attempt to act out all the characters in the novel while Hecht types. Take a fun, farcical look at the behind-the-scene birth of one of the most beloved films of all time. This production is scheduled for Jan. 23 - 26 and Jan. 30 - Feb. 2, 2014.
CITY: Alton
13 - 23
Alton Little Theater: Sex, Please, We're 60
Mrs. Stancliffe's Rose Cottage Bed & Breakfast has been successful for many years because her guests (nearly all women) return year after year. Her next door neighbor, the elderly, silver-tongued "Bud the Stud" Davis, believes they come to spend time with him in romantic liaisons. The prim and proper Mrs. Stancliffe steadfastly denies this, but reluctantly accepts the fact that "Bud the Stud" is good for business. Her other neighbor and would-be suitor, Henry Mitchell, is a retired chemist who has developed a blue pill called "Venusia" to increase the libido of menopausal women. The pill has not been tested until Bud gets his hands on some and the fun begins. The women mix up Bud's Viagra pills with the Venusia, and we soon discover that it has a strange effect on men: it gives them all the symptoms of menopause, complete with hot flashes, mood swings, weeping and irritability! When the mayhem settles down, all the women find their lives moving in new and surprising directions. This production is scheduled for March 13 - 16 and March 20 - 23, 2014.
CITY: Alton
1 - 11
Alton Little Theater: Hallelujah Girls
Hilarity abounds when the feisty females of Eden Falls, Georgia, decide to shake up their lives. The action in this rollicking Southern comedy by the authors of Southern Hospitality takes place in SPA-DE-DAH!, the abandoned church-turned-day-spa where this group of friends gathers every Friday afternoon. After the loss of a dear friend, the women realize time is precious; and if they're going to change their lives and achieve their dreams, they have to do it now! But Sugar Lee, their high-spirited, determined leader, has her hands full keeping the women motivated. The comic tension mounts when a sexy ex-boyfriend shows up unexpectedly, a marriage proposal comes from an unlikely suitor, and Sugar Lee's archrival vows she'll stop at nothing to steal the spa away from her. By the time the women rally together to overcome these obstacls and launch their new, improved lives, you've got a side-splitting, joyful comedy that will make you laugh out loud and shout "Hallelujah!" This production is scheduled for May 1 - 4 and 8 - 11, 2014.
CITY: Alton
Aug 3
Alton Little Theater: 9 to 5: The Musical
9 to 5: The Musical is based on the 1980s hit movie Nine to Five. Pushed to the boiling point by their boss, three female coworkers concoct a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot they call their boss. They conspire to take control of their company and learn there's nothing they can't do - even in a man's world. Set in the late 1970's, 9 to 5: The Musical is a hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era. Outrageous, thought-provoking, and even a little romantic, 9 to 5: The Musical is about teaming up and taking care of business. This production is scheduled for July 24 - 27 and July 31 - Aug. 3, 2014.
CITY: Alton
23
Friday Summer Concerts: Changes in Latitudes
Changes in Latitude - a tribute to Jimmy Buffett - will be performing at Alton Riverfront Amphitheater. Tickets are $5 per person. Changes in Latitude is known as one of the country’s premier tribute bands to Jimmy Buffett. The band has 10 members including Steve Kareta (vocals, guitars), Allen Stevens (guitars/vocals), Amy Sullivan (vocals, Jon Berman (saxophone), Clark Seibold (drums), Bob Casinghino (keyboard/vocals), Brandon Marger (percussion), Jason Roseman (steel pan drums) Mark Neveu (bass) and Don Hemmer (pedal steel guitar). For more information call (800) 258-6645 or visit www.riverfrontamphitheater.com.
CITY: Alton
Best Western Plus Antioch Hotel & Suites
The newly renovated and redesigned Best Western Plus in Antioch, Illinois offers an unsurpassed combination of suburban comforts, neighborhood charms and magnificent views of the Chain O'Lakes, plus easy access to downtown Chicago or downtown Milwaukee. Both vacationers and business travelers will appreciate the all the extra touches including a complimentary full hot breakfast buffet each morning, complimentary high-speed internet access, the new state-of-the-art 24-hour fitness room, and access to the new business center. Relax in the full-sized heated indoor swimming pool, oversized whirlpool and spacious sun deck. Stylishly decorated guest rooms features an upgraded luxurious bedding, flat panel HDTVs, microwaves & refrigerators. Enjoy a cocktail at Fox's Lounge overlooking Lake Antioch with indoor and outdoor seating including a 2,000 sq. ft. heated patio. And count on superior service from our 24-hour front desk associates to ensure every detail is perfect.
CITY: Antioch
17
Arlington Million
The Arlington Million brings together horses, owners, trainers, jockeys and fans from every corner of the world. Immerse yourself in the Arlington Million experience... history and tradition, special performances, fashionable apparel, and delectable cuisine.
CITY: Arlington Heights
Terrace Motel
28 rooms, handicapped accessible, credit cards accepted, and cable television available.
CITY: Belleville
America's Best Value Inn - Belvidere
Welcome to the Americas Best Value Inn of Belvidere, IL. We are located in north central Illinois, approximately 75 miles northwest of downtown Chicago and 12 miles east of Rockford. Our newly renovated exterior access facility offers 44 guest rooms and 2 efficiencies. All guest rooms and efficiencies are furnished with complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access, cable TV, complimentary local calls, and wake-up service. Our efficiencies also feature a kitchenette with a stove. For your convenience, we offer fax and copy service at our 24-hour front desk and complimentary wireless Internet access in our 24-hour lobby. Take a moment to enjoy our complimentary continental breakfast served every morning and our picnic area. Come experience the value of staying at Americas Best Value Inn Belvidere/Rockford.
CITY: Belvidere
Boone County Conservation District
The enchanting charm of Boone County’s Buffalo Creek creates a picturesque scene of nature at its finest. With a mission of preserving nature for generations to come, the area offers numerous educational events and festivals.
CITY: Belvidere
AmericInn Bolingbrook
An upscale limited service property. Free high speed internet in all rooms, free enhanced continental breakfast, lobby business center and a variety of room types including whirlpool & fireplace suites.
CITY: Bolingbrook
Legends Sportsplex
This year-round facility offers five basketball courts, eight volleyball courts, two soccer fields, a video game arcade, bumper cars, two mini-golf courses, softball batting cages, a go-kart track, climbing wall and paintball field.
CITY: Bourbonnais
19 - 27
Boo! at the Zoo
Halloween fun awaits families at Brookfield Zoo’s annual Boo! at the Zoo celebration. The popular daytime event, presented by Fisher-Price, features a Costume Parade, Costume Showcase, professional pumpkin-carving demonstrations, not-so-scary games and activities, special animal Zoo Chats, and haunted hayrides. For more information, visit www.CZS.org or call (708) 688-8000.
CITY: Brookfield
Brookfield Zoo
There's more than 200 beautifully landscaped acres to explore at Brookfield Zoo. Highlights include dolphin shows at Seven Seas, ape encounters at Tropic World and the chance for kids to dress up and play veterinarian at the Hamill Family Play Zoo. The zoo also offers an old-fashioned carousel and a wide variety of shopping and dining options.
CITY: Brookfield
Oct 27
Dinosaurs Alive!
Dinosaurs Alive! They're back at Brookfield Zoo, and they're bigger and better than before. Some favorites are returning but many are new! Brookfield Zoo guests can take a trip back millions of years and experience Dinosaurs Alive!, presented by Dominicks. Come and enjoy this unique, fun, and educational exhibit of Tyrannosaurus proportions that will feature supersized animatronic dinosaurs, including favorites like Stegosaurus and Triceratops, as well as obscure dinosaur species with unusual characteristics, like feathers.
CITY: Brookfield
America's Best Value Inn
Located in the heart of Carbondale. Minutes away from Southern Illinois University Campus, Carbondale City Hall/Civic Center, John A. Logan College, shopping and restaurants. 10 minutes from the DuQuoin State Fairgrounds.
CITY: Carbondale
Boondock's Seafood Co.
Known for its delicious dishes and vibrant atmosphere, Boondock's is Carbondale's first seafood restaurant and cocktail lounge. Their menu encompasses a wide range of foods, all prepared with the freshest ingredients, and the bar offers a selection of cocktails, wine, and beer, including several craft brews.
CITY: Carbondale
Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail features 12 award-winning wineries located along a 25-mile scenic drive along highway 127 and highway 51 in the Shawnee National Forest. Along the way have a picnic, go on a hike, visit a shop, and stay in a cozy B&B or cabin. Many of the wineries host special events throughout the summer and fall.
CITY: Carbondale
Harbaugh's Cafe'
Known for its bottomless coffee, mouth-watering foods, and welcoming atmosphere, Harbaugh's Cafe' is one of Carbondale's most popular breakfast joints. While the menu includes unique dishes such as ranch potatoes, it encompasses all of the classic breakfast dishes too. Salads and sandwiches are also available after 11 a.m. If you're in a rush, no sweat! Harbaugh's will have you in-and-out faster than you can say "ranch potatoes"!
CITY: Carbondale
Jun 28
Carbondale Community Friday Night Fair
Enjoy some of the best of what Carbondale has to offer every Friday during the summer, when the arts & entertainment scene unites with local farmers and craftsmen to create a fun, family-friendly festival. Hosted in Carbondale's historic Town Square Pavillion, the fair includes kids activities, a farmer's market, craft vendors, live music and more, all free of charge.
CITY: Carbondale
Pagliai's Pizza & Pasta
This family-owned and operated restaurant has been successfully serving delicious Italian cuisine in Carbondale's downtown for more than 20 years. Known for both thin and thick crust, there's no question that "Pag's" has set the standard high for "Carbondale Style" pizza!
CITY: Carbondale
Carbondale Train Museum
Built in 1903 by the Illinois Central Railroad, the Old Railroad Passenger Depot has since been restored and now serves as home to the Carbondale Train Museum. Filled with information, artifacts and souveniers, the museum contains significant facts relating to Carbondale's history. Ring the bell of an original train car from the Illinois Central Railroad, which still sits on the track!
CITY: Carbondale
Jul 25
35th Annual Sunset Concert Series
The weekend begins on Thursday evening in Carbondale during the summer, as hundreds gather to attend the welcoming, relaxing and fun tradition that is the Sunset Concert series. Attendees bring everything from beer-pong tables and barbecue grills to pop-up tents and couches. The concerts rotate between two beautiful venues, with the more contemporary acts on the Steps of Shryock Auditorium and the mellower, more traditional bands playing under the Lenus Turley Park gazebo.
CITY: Carbondale
Sep 25
Brown Bag Concert Series
Grab a lawn chair, pick up lunch from a local eatery and head to the Town Square Pavillion for Carbondale Main Street's Brown Bag Concert! Every Wednesday local musicians come together to put on a free show in the heart of downtown Carbondale. Everyone is welcome, but the event emphasizes a family-friendly atmosphere.
CITY: Carbondale
Crab Orchard Golf Club
Located between Marion and Carbondale, this 18-hole, semi-private par 70 course features lush zoysia fairways and a practice area with target greens. Crab Orchard made Golf Digest's 2008/09 "Best Places to Play" list.
CITY: Carterville
9 - 10
John A Logan College Autumn Fest
This annual event features over 100 original arts and crafts, great food and music, children's activities, free admission, and free parking. For more information call 1-800-851-4720.
CITY: Carterville
Cedarville Historical Museum
This museum is located in an 1889 school building and features a permanent exhibit honoring Jane Addams, who was born and raised in Cedarville. Miss Addams was an internationally famous humanitarian and social work pioneer who founded Chicago's Hull House and won the Nobel Peace Prize. Museum exhibits include personal items and memorabilia from her life and the life of her family. There are also changing exhibits on topics of local historical interest and a research center and a research center.
CITY: Cedarville
William M. Staerkel Planetarium
Discover the universe at the second largest planetarium in Illinois, the William M. Staerkel Planetarium, located on the campus of Parkland College. With a state-of-the-art digital projection system, visitors can learn about the stars, planets and more in this cutting-edge environment. At the planetarium website, you will learn of special programs and features coinciding with the many events in our universe. Public shows are on most Friday and Saturday nights, as well as summer matinees.
CITY: Champaign
Curtis Orchard
Curtis Orchard is an 80-acre apple orchard, pumpkin patch and entertainment farm offers activities for the whole family. Open July 20–December 20, the orchard country store and bakery offer a wide variety of gift and food items, including pies, fritters, apple crisp donuts and award-winning cider. Outdoor activities include seasonal apple and pumpkin picking, kids play structures, a giant slide, several mazes including the corn maze, petting zoo, toddler area, birthday parties and corporate picnics. Weekend activities include outdoor meals, live entertainment, seasonal pony rides, and an orchard wagon.
CITY: Champaign
University of Illinois FIGHTING ILLINI
Wear your Orange & Blue to all 19 Varsity Athletic events in support of the hometown Fighting Illini as they compete in the newly looked Big Ten Conference as apart of the NCAA Division I. Alumni come back and visit your old stopping grounds and see what has or hasn't changed on the Urbana-Champaign campus as well as showing your support for the current FIGHTING ILLINI athletic teams! There are tons of events that go on at each of the Illini home games such as Homecoming. Visit fightingillini.com for further information on what exciting promotions the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics has to promote Fighting Illini Sports.
CITY: Champaign
Champaign Courtyard by Marriott
Our staff at the Courtyard by Marriott is 100% focused on providing you with an exceptional level of customer service! Conveniently located near the University of Illinois and many great local attractions such as Market Place Mall, Memorial Stadium, Staerkel Planetarium and much more!
CITY: Champaign
Aug 16
Friday Night LIve
Downtown Champaign is the backdrop for Friday Night Live, a free street-side performance series open to the general public. Held from 6-8pm every Friday from May 31st to August 16th, Friday Night Live includes an eclectic mix of music and street performances including bluegrass, jazz, folk, rock, and blues, along with a cappella, bellydancing, and street magic.
CITY: Champaign
Comfort Inn & Suites Downtown
Located two blocks from Magnificent Mile shopping, this reasonably priced hotel offers spacious two-room suites. Navy Pier and the John Hancock Center are also nearby, along with plenty of restaurants.
CITY: Chicago
Hilton Chicago
Luxury hotel located on Michigan Ave. overlooking Grant Park and Lake Michigan
CITY: Chicago
Four Points Sheraton Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile
Located just off Chicago's renowned Magnificent Mile, the Four Points by Sheraton Chicago is surrounded by a wide variety of dining, shopping and entertainment options.
CITY: Chicago
Park Hyatt Chicago
202 room deluxe European boutique hotel ideally located in the heart of the Magnificent Mile. Sumptuous health club and spa facilities.
CITY: Chicago
Palmer House Hilton
Step into the lobby of Palmer House® A Hilton hotel and gaze at the famous frescoed ceiling of this landmark Chicago, Illinois hotel. This AAA four-diamond rated hotel has been hosting visitors to the Chicago Loop for over 140 years. Today, the Palmer House Hilton continues to thrive in the heart of the theatre and financial district, just steps from the Art Institute, Millennium Park and State Street shopping. A short walk away is Grant Park where summer festivals take place. Family attractions like the Chicago Children’s Museum and Navy Pier are just a quick cab ride away.
CITY: Chicago
The Drake Hotel
The Drake is a cityscape landmark and has been a symbol of white glove elegance for eighty years. The pride of all Chicagoans, it has been the first choice of celebrities and Heads of State since its opening in 1920. Scenes from several movies were filmed at The Drake Hotel including Risky Business, My Best Friend's Wedding, What Women Want, Continental Divide, Flags of Our Fathers and Wicker Park were filmed at the hotel.
CITY: Chicago
Best Western Hawthorne Terrace
This Boystown vintage hotel is located close to historic Wrigley Field (home of Chicago Cubs baseball), as well as gay-friendly restaurants and nightclubs. Enjoy breakfast on the terrace during warm-weather months.
CITY: Chicago
Best Western Grant Park Hotel
The Best Western Grant Park Hotel is ideally located on Michigan Ave., directly across from Grant Park. Our property has 172 newly renovated guest rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center.
CITY: Chicago
Ramada Inn Lake Shore
Designed for business and leisure travelers. Clean, comfortable, and large rooms with a magnificent view of the Chicago skyline from the shore of Lake Michigan.
CITY: Chicago
Sofitel Chicago Water Tower
This lux hotel attracts an international clientele. The Sofitel is close to Rush Street bars and restaurants, and within easy walking distance of the Magnificent Mile, Museum of Contemporary Art and Oak Street Beach. The hotel’s chic Café Des Architectes features French cuisine.
CITY: Chicago
McCormick Place
The largest indoor convention exhibit area in the country is 2.2 million square feet, with 8 levels of exhibit halls, restaurants, meeting rooms and audiovisual theaters that provide all the necessary amenities for a successful trade show or convention. McCormick Place is designed by Gene Summers, who worked for Mies van der Rohe. It is derivative of a long-span convention center proposed by Mies van der Rohe. When the earlier version of McCormick was destroyed by fire, the firm C.F. Murphy was retained for the job and hired Summers specifically to design the new structure.
CITY: Chicago
Cadillac Palace Theater
This venue was completely restored and renovated during 1999, named the Cadillac Palace. the Cadillac palace has been the home to several pre-Broadway hits including "The Producers—The New Mel Brooks Musical" and "Mamma Mia!" in 2001.
CITY: Chicago
Chicago Children's Museum at Navy Pier
Hands-on exhibits and daily-changing activities make every visit unique for young children and adults, too. Dig deep into the Dinosaur Expedition, try to stay dry in WaterWays, make a masterpiece in the KraftArtabounds Studio, and climb up to the crow's nest on the Kovler Family Climbing Schooner. Toddlers can have fun in Kids Town and Treehouse Trails.
CITY: Chicago
American Girl Place
Located at the famous Water Tower Place, you'll find the store girls of all ages want to visit. They come from far and near to experience the magic that is American Girl Place Chicago—featuring specialty shops, private dining and, of course, lovable dolls. The only destination of its kind in the world for girls and their families.
CITY: Chicago
Goodman Theatre
The Goodman Theatre is Chicago’s oldest and largest not-for-profit theater, winning international renown for the quality of productions, the depth and diversity of artistic leadership, and the excellence of its many community and educational programs.
CITY: Chicago
United Center
Multi-purpose arena, home of the Chicago Bulls (NBA) and the Chicago Blackhawks (NHL). Other events - concerts, ice shows, circus, etc.
CITY: Chicago
Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum
The Adler Planetarium — America's First Planetarium — was founded in 1930 by Chicago business leader Max Adler. The museum is home to three full-size theaters, extensive space science exhibitions, and one of the world's most important antique astronomical instrument collections on display. The Adler is a recognized leader in science education, with a focus on inspiring young people, particularly women and minorities, to pursue careers in science.
CITY: Chicago
John G. Shedd Aquarium
Strap a mask and flippers onto your imagination and chart a course to the Shedd Aquarium. Have you ever seen eye-to-eye with a dolphin? Said hello to a penguin on a stroll to the South Pole? Immersed yourself in a flooded Amazon forest? Or met a friendly beluga whale? You can do it all at the Shedd! Photo courtesy of the John G. Shedd Aquarium
CITY: Chicago
Art Institute of Chicago
The second-largest art museum in the United States is home to more than 300,000 works of art, including “American Gothic” by Grant Wood, Edward Hopper's “Nighthawks” and more. Renowned for its rare master works, at The Art Institute visitors can experience one of the world’s most notable collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. With the addition of its Modern Wing, the museum now features an impressive showcase for its contemporary artworks.
CITY: Chicago
Carlton Inn Midway
For business or leisure, Carlton Inn Midway offers the amenities and services of home or office. Located 1.8 miles from Midway Airport.
CITY: Chicago
Hampton Majestic Chicago Theater District
135 rooms. Business center. Exercise facilities. Room service. Complimentary breakfast. Boutique style hotel located above the LaSalle Bank Theatre that offers a unique experience to all guests.
CITY: Chicago
Hilton Suites Chicago/Magnificent Mile
345 suites. Indoor pool. On-site health club. One restaurant. Room service. Full service luxury hotel located within minutes to all major attractions.
CITY: Chicago
Hotel Indigo Chicago Gold Coast
This fanciful boutique hotel is located in the upscale Gold Coast neighborhood. Walk to shops on Oak Street and North Michigan Avenue, or head to Oak Street Beach. Have a glass of wine and casual fare at the hotel’s Phi Lounge or check out the many Rush Street restaurants nearby.
CITY: Chicago
The Renaissance Chicago O'Hare Suites Hotel
Located near O’Hare Airport, the Renaissance offers roomy suites with bedroom and living areas. The hotel also features an indoor pool and fitness center. Roll the dice at the new Rivers Casino nearby.
CITY: Chicago
Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago-Downtown
221 suites. On-site health club. Complimentary breakfast buffet every day. Two blocks from Water Tower Place and John Hancock Observatory and one block from Oak Street beach.
CITY: Chicago
Crowne Plaza Chicago, The Silversmith
143 rooms. On-site health club. One restaurant. Room service. Recently restored historic landmark building, within walking distance to financial, theatre and shopping districts of Chicago.
CITY: Chicago
Residence Inn Chicago Downtown River North
270 rooms. All suites. Valet. Business center. Exercise Facilities. Indoor pool. Complimentary breakfast. Located in the heart of the River North area on Dearborn between Hubbard and Kinzie Sts.
CITY: Chicago
Shoot for the Moon
This exciting permanent exhibition features the fully restored Gemini 12 spacecraft and tells the story of astronaut Captain James A. Lovell, Jr.'s life and career using artifacts from his personal collection. Opens Nov. 6, 2008
CITY: Chicago
John Hancock Observatory
The John Hancock Observatory offers Chicago's best view (as voted by the Chicago Tribune), spanning 80 miles and four states. Don't miss the sweeping panoramas, interactive telescopes, multimedia Sky Tour, bird's-eye view of Navy Pier's fireworks, or the open-air Sky Walk for an exhilarating sky-high experience.
CITY: Chicago
Steppenwolf Theatre Company
With year-round programming across three stages, Steppenwolf is a Tony Award-winning Chicago theater known for innovative, artist-driven theatrical productions. Founded by Jeff Perry, Terry Kinney and Gary Sinise in the mid-1970s, the organization evolved from performing in a Highland Park church basement to gaining recognition as the nation’s premier ensemble theater. Steppenwolf is where great acting meets big ideas.
CITY: Chicago
The Second City
Celebrating 50 years as the home of Chicago-style improv and sketch comedy, The Second City has launched the careers of John Belushi, Mike Myers, Tina Fey, Bill Murray, Stephen Colbert, Steve Carell and many others.
CITY: Chicago
YOU! The Experience
More than just a body, you are a complex blend of your choices, your personality, and your environment. Who you are depends on how you care for yourself and enjoy your life. YOU! The Experience brings these elements together into an interactive exhibit examining and celebrating the experience of life itself. It is one of the first and largest exhibitions to showcase the connection between the human mind, body and spirit in the 21st century. Start exploring the exhibit's fun and fascinating opportunities to explore what it is to be … YOU!
CITY: Chicago
Jay Pritzker Pavilion
Architect Frank Gehry designed this spectacular outdoor concert venue in Millennium Park that is home to the Grant Park Music Festival, along with other free concerts and events.
CITY: Chicago
Chicago Shakespeare Theater
Recipient of the 2008 Regional Theatre Tony Award, Chicago Shakespeare Theater offers a broad spectrum of theatrical experiences year-round, engaging and entertaining audiences from all walks of life and from around the world. The plays of William Shakespeare form the core of our company's work and Subscription Series, featuring selections from Shakespeare’s 38-play canon complemented by other dramatic works—from traditional classical theater to new classics that resonate with Shakespeare’s timeless insights into the human condition.
CITY: Chicago
Victory Gardens Biograph Theater
Located in the famed Biograph Theater, one of Chicago's most celebrated historic landmarks, Victory Gardens Theater was the recipient of the 2001 Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre. Victory Gardens is dedicated to presenting the work of great contemporary playwrights.
CITY: Chicago
Lookingglass Theatre
Housed in the historic Water Tower Water Works, this award-winning, local ensemble has offered dynamic, physical, intellectual theater since 1989. The main stage will allow Lookingglass to reconfigure the stage and audience seating as dictated by the needs of each production, allowing for a maximum capacity of 270 persons, 60 of whom may be seated at the balcony level.
CITY: Chicago
The Black Ensemble Theater
The Black Ensemble Theater is a dynamic organization described as a local cornerstone, a national treasure and an international success. It has launched over 100 productions and employed over 5,000 artists since its inception. Annually 50,000 patrons experience its musical theater and it has become one of the most prominant African-American theater companies in the nation.
CITY: Chicago
Avenue Crowne Plaza Hotel and Suites
Located just steps from Michigan Avenue, this hotel is close to Magnificent Mile shopping, Navy Pier and Oak Street Beach. The oversized rooms have a residential feel, and the hotel features designated Quiet Floors, plus a seasonal rooftop pool and patio.
CITY: Chicago
Doubletree by Hilton Chicago
Located between the Magnificent Mile and Navy Pier, this newly refurbished hotel features The Lobby Bar with infused organic vodkas and H2O, a seasonal poolside cocktail bar and restaurant with panoramic skyline views. The hotel’s Markethouse restaurant offers seasonal American fare.
CITY: Chicago
Sep 8
The Book of Mormon
Nine 2011 Tony Awards® say it's the Best Musical of the Year. Vogue says, "It's the best musical of the last 25 years." And The New York Times says, "It's the best musical of this century." It's THE BOOK OF MORMON, the Broadway phenomenon from South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone and Avenue Q co-creator Robert Lopez. The Daily Show's Jon Stewart calls it "A crowning achievement. So good, it makes me angry." Contains explicit language.
CITY: Chicago
Annoyance Theatre & Bar
For 25 years, The Annoyance Theatre has created some of Chicago's finest comedy. Home of the longest running musical Co-ed Prison Sluts, The Annoyance uses improvisation to create new and original plays, musicals, sketch-comedy and more, in a vibrant, uncensored atmosphere.
CITY: Chicago
Sep 24
Carousel @ The Annoyance Theatre
Carousel is a revolving door of improv groups, showcasing Annoyance students and performers in their most creative ensembles. Tuesday nights at 8pm. Admission is $8.
CITY: Chicago
Sep 24
TNT (Tuesday Night Thing)
An Explosion of Improv Talent! You want to see some of the best of the best improvisers in the city of Chicago, in one night, in one place in one show?? THIS IS IT. Seriously. You don't get much better than these folks... Tuesday nights at 9:30pm. Admission is $8.
CITY: Chicago
Sep 26
Messing with a Friend
Messing With a Friend features Susan Messing, and other invited talented and funny improvisors from around Chicago, from iO to Second City to The Annoyance. A collection of self-edited improvised scenes based on a single suggestion. A joyful, uncensored, and improvised romp through hell. Thursday nights at 10:30 pm. Admission is $5.
CITY: Chicago
Sep 27
Annoyance House Ensemble in Fire & Beer
Cast and directed by Mick Napier, the Annoyance House Ensemble is a collection of some of the best emerging talent in Chicago. Friday nights at 10 pm. Admission is $10.
CITY: Chicago
American Blues Theater
Committed to its Ensemble since 1985, American Blues Theater produces stories about working people and partners each production with social and service organizations. As of 2013, ABT Ensemble & Artistic Affiliates have individually received over 120 Joseph Jefferson Awards, Citations, or nominations, 21 After Dark Awards, 2 Pulitzer Prize nominations, an Academy Award nomination, Golden Globe Award, 6 Writers’ Guild Award, 10 Emmy Awards or nominations, 19 Black Theatre Alliance Awards or nominations, and multiple Regional theater awards from NY, Los Angeles, DC, and Florida.
CITY: Chicago
Stage 773
Stage 773 acts to embody the vibrant spirit of Chicago off-loop theater: We celebrate the creative process, supporting the work of actors, directors, writers, composers, and designers. We nurture the artist, offering material, technical, organizational and emotional support. We honor our audience, presenting accessible, affordable and exceptional entertainment.
CITY: Chicago
Collaboraction
Collaboraction creates original works of theatre that emphasize high production values, push boundaries, and highlight issues that are socially relevant to a diverse community of Chicagoans.
CITY: Chicago
Acme Hotel Company Chicago
If you've never been one for convention, ACME HOTEL is the right choice for you in downtown Chicago. Located 2 ½ blocks from the Magnificent Mile in the River North neighborhood, ACME is downtown Chicago's all new boutique hotel alternative. If you appreciate an eye for design and dig a high-tech vibe, you'll feel right at home. We'd like to call ourselves cool, or hip, because we are, but that just feels like bragging. But mostly, ACME is what we consider approachable - in more ways than one. The fact is, we want your experience at our downtown Chicago hotel to blow your mind, not your budget.
CITY: Chicago
5 - 30
SKETCHBOOK '13 Festival
14 World Premiere Works of Theater. 4 Programs to Choose From. The annual SKETCHBOOK Festival is Collaboraction at its best: breaking down the walls that divide theater, music, visual art, video, and the internet. Selected from hundreds of submissions, SKETCHBOOK once again brings together the collective talents of more than 150 pioneering directors, designers, actors, musicians and artists from Chicago and around the country for a jaw-dropping evening of creativity, experimentation, and celebration.
CITY: Chicago
16 - 18
Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest
The Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest (GAAF) is a free, weekend-long event, drawing approximately 10,000 visitors per day, celebrating its 12th Anniversary. The Fest includes a street art fair, indoor art displays, and live entertainment on three outdoor stages featuring 48 acts. Experience art, theater, music, as well as food and drink, on the brick-laid streets of the Glenwood Avenue Arts District in Chicago’s historic Rogers Park neighborhood. The Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest takes place in the Glenwood Avenue Arts District on Chicago’s North Side, in the heart of Rogers Park, on Glenwood Ave., 6900–7000 North (between Farwell and Lunt) and the 1400 block of Morse Avenue, steps from the Morse Ave stop on the CTA Red Line. The Outdoor Fest and many art studios are ADA accessible.
CITY: Chicago
The Chicago Heights Drama Group
Bringing Broadway to the South Suburbs since 1931, The Drama Group is one of the oldest volunteer community theatres in the country. This drama group is a not-for-profit community theater.
CITY: Chicago Heights
Argyle Lake State Park
Find serenity at this beautiful 1700-acre wooded park situated along an old stagecoach route between Galena and Beardstown. Featuring 95-acre Argyle Lake, the park is home to countless beaver dams and more than 200 bird species and 5 miles of hiking and biking trails.
CITY: Colchester
13
Cortland Fall Fest
The 32nd Annual Cortland Fall Festival and Parade will feature local bands, a parade, a "Mutt Strutt", and an Apple Cook-Off Contest. Dress up your pooch for the parade, start perfecting your favorite apple dish or simply just come as you are and enjoy the day!
CITY: Cortland
9 - 10
Cortland Summer Fest!
Join us for the 2013 Cortland Summer Fest! Local bands, food vendors, and more surprises all weekend! The Cortland Library will host games and activities for kids on Saturday. Cruzin’ Wheels will have a beautiful car show display on Saturday. Come join us for another fabulous year!
CITY: Cortland
Holiday Inn Crystal Lake Conference Center
Situated in resort-like setting, the Holiday Inn is minutes from the historic Downtown Crystal Lake Main Street filled with shopes and restaurants for every taste. McHenry County's premier conference facility.
CITY: Crystal Lake
Raue Center for the Arts
Theatergoers love that every seat is a great seat at The Raue Center for the Arts in downtown Crystal Lake. Since its restoration a decade ago, Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians and artists. Raue Center has become a destination in the heart of a bustling downtown area chock-full of pre- or post-show dining and shopping options.
CITY: Crystal Lake
24
Dave Wickerham & Dick Kroeckel at The Sanfilippo "Place de la Musique" Summer Concert
An evening of Ragtime and Tin Pan Alley Music with arguably one of the finest theater organists in the World, Dave Wickerham, and one of the finest ragtime pianists, Dick Kroeckel, in duets, solo pieces and, of course, the unexpected! The Sanfilippo Mighty Wurlitzer and our 1927 Knabe Concert Grand will release the creativity in these two fine gentleman and give us all a mind-blowing evening of music. It's 88-keys and 8,000 pipes in our acoustically perfect theater and you won't want to miss it. This is what the Sanfilippo theater was made for!
CITY: Crystal Lake
