2013 Travel Guide
Enjoy Illinois App
Showing 1-96 of 212 items
Feb 23
"Jersey Boys" Peoria Civic Center
The 2006 Tony Award®-winning Best Musical about Rock and Roll Hall of Famers, The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi. This is the story of how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes in pop music history. They wrote their own songs, invented their own sounds and sold 175 million records worldwide – all before they were 30! Jersey Boys, winner of the 2006 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Show Album and most recently, the 2009 Olivier Award for Best New Musical, features their hit songs “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “Oh What a Night” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.
CITY: Peoria
14
$5 Friday Summer Concerts: Changes in Latitudes
The first concert of the season will feature Changes in Latitude - a tribute to Jimmy Buffett. 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
13 - 14
25th Annual Open Horseshoe Tournament
The Danville Horseshoe Club hosts its 25th Annual Open Horseshoe Tournament at Douglas Park with competitors from across the country participating. Registration is $25.00 per person and can be completed by visiting http://www.active.com/miscellaneous-tournament/danville-il/danville-il-25th-annual-open-horseshoe-tournament-2013. Registration must be received no later than Friday, June 29. Prizes will be awarded in multiple categories.
CITY: Danville
1 - 31
31st Annual Midwest Heritage Quilt Show
Beautiful quilts, some nearly 100 years old, will be on display at the Vermilion County Museum throughout the month of July. Awards will be given in 9 categories including bed quilts, purses and clothing, and wall hangings.
CITY: Danville
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
2 - 4
44th Annual Threshing Show and Antique Display
This show features over 300 gas tractors, steam engines and horse-powered equipment, antique tractor pulls, and horse pulls, along with exhibitors showing threshing, sawmills, blacksmithing, weaving, spinning and chair caning. The shows special features this year will be Massy Tractors and Equipment, Gasoline Alley will feature Odd Ball & Out of the Ordinary engines. Browse the huge flea market and ride the steam train at the depot.
CITY: Freeport
20
ABBA the Concert at Rosemont Theatre
Come out and enjoy the amazing sounds of ABBA at the Rosemont Theatre. Saturday, July 20th at 7:30 PM. The producers have had to cancel the April leg of the US Tour, but we are pleased to announce a new show for Saturday, July 20th at 7:30PM at the Rosemont Theatre! The Music of Abba is considered to be the finest Abba show in the world and is direct from Sweden!
CITY: Rosemont
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
One of the most-visited presidential museums in the nation allows visitors to experience the entire Lincoln story under one roof, from Abe's humble beginnings in an Indiana log cabin to his days as president in the White House. Be dazzled by two special effects theaters featuring historical ghosts and a Civil War battlefield, life-like vignettes that depict important moments in the president’s life, and artifacts that range from Lincoln’s stovepipe hat to an original copy of the Gettysburg Address.
CITY: Springfield
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
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
Allstate Arena
This facility is home field to DePaul basketball, Chicago Wolves hockey and the Chicago Rush arena football. With a wide variety of events each year, the Allstate Arena is a place where everyone can enjoy quality family shows, riveting sports and mesmerizing musical performances.
CITY: Rosemont
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
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
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
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
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
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
America's Best Value Inn
Motel with 90 rooms. Easy on/easy off access to I-57, exit 54A offers: Indoor pool, exercise room and many more amenities.
CITY: Marion
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
America's Best Value Inn
Welcome to the Americas Best Value Inn- Murphysboro, which is located in the heart of beautiful Jackson County. We are just west off of I-57, approx. 20 miles to Carbondale. We are a newly remodeled property with a clean and comfortable home feeling.
CITY: Murphysboro
America's Best Value Inn
46-room motel across from Fort Massac State Park. Restaurants are within walking distance.
CITY: Metropolis
America's Best Value Inn
Welcome to the Americas Best Value Inn of West Frankfort, Illinois located just off I-57 at Exit 65. We offer you a clean and friendly environment for your stay in West Frankfort.
CITY: West Frankfort
America's Best Value Inn
Conviently located just minutes off of Interstate 80; near downtown Geneseo, offering many shopping opportunities. Only 20 minutes from the Quad City International Airport and the mighty Mississippi. Wake up each morning to free SuperStart continental breakfast, and take advantage of amenities like free Wi-Fi and free large-vehicle parking to help your trip go smoothly. Unwind after a day on the road in our heated indoor pool, or just relax in your spacious room with cable TV. Book a suite to enjoy additional conveniences like a Jacuzzi, microwave, refrigerator and a sofabed or easy chair and ottoman. We have pet-friendly, non-smoking and handicapped-accessible rooms available, and kids 17 and under stay free with an adult.
CITY: Geneseo
America's Best Value Inn & Suites - Waukegan
Indoor Heated Pool, Free Wireless Internet, Free Continental Breakfast, all rooms with refrigerator, iron/ironing board, hair dryer, and coffee makers.
CITY: Waukegan
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
America's Best Value Inn - Decatur
60 rooms, restaurant nearby, small meeting rooms, free movie channel, newly remodeled.
CITY: Decatur
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
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
Americas Best Value Inn
55 rooms, non-smoking, handicapped accessible, credit cards accepted, cable television available, indoor pool, whirlpool, restaurant within walking distance, and a complimentary breakfast served.
CITY: Fairview Heights
Americas Best Value Inn - Normal
Americas Best Value Inn offers comfortable accommodations, affordable rates, and a friendly front desk staff to help you feel at home. Enjoy a refreshing swim in our heated indoor pool and step into the privacy of your own guest room with amenities including free wireless high-speed Internet access, coffeemaker, cable TV with ESPN, hairdryer, desk with lamp, clock radio, free local calls, and wake-up service. A microwave and mini-fridge are included in our suites and available upon request in our guest rooms. Children age 18 and younger stay free in their parent's room with existing bedding. Attractions nearby include The Corn Crib, Heartland Community College, Lincoln College-Normal and the Constitution Trail Center.
CITY: Normal
Americas Best Value Inn - West Frankfort
The inn is located right on Factory Outlet Blvd. It is close to many attractions, shopping destinations, and restaurants. Complimentary wireless hi-speed Internet access is available for all guests. They offer large suites and rooms with one or two beds.There are rooms furnished for handicap access also available and some rooms have exterior access. Just walking distance from the Factory Outlet Mall.
CITY: West Frankfort
Americas Best Value Inn and Suites
This hotel is known for its friendly, spacious and comfortable environment and is located a few miles from Six Flags, Gurnee Mills, Great Lakes Naval Training Center, downtown Waukegan, top local golf courses, area attractions, and the best sport facilities.
CITY: Waukegan
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
AmericInn Lodge and Suites of Kewanee
Located in Kewanee, off U.S. 34 with great dining and shopping nearby. Amtrak transportation is available in the downtown area. Guests are offered a hot cup of coffee and a satisfying complimentary Continental breakfast. Choose from 49 rooms and two specialty suites. Guests enjoy the indoor pool, pool-side exercise room and heated spa. Other guest services at the hotel include a business center and guest laundry room. 900 square feet meeting space available. A perfect place for a weekend getaway, wedding or any special occasion.
CITY: Kewanee
AmericInn of Princeton
Relax, renew and recharge at the AmericInn of Princeton Illinois, conveniently located at the intersection of Interstate 80 (exit 56) and Route 26. Our comfortable guest rooms are equipped with wireless high-speed Internet access and 32" flat LCD, HD satellite televisions. All guest rooms are equipped with a refrigerator and microwave. Also available are seven luxurious whirlpool suites, all decorated in different themes, including four with fireplaces
CITY: Princeton
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
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
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
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
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
Artesian Well at Paradise Cove
Nestled along Indian Creek is a natural artesian well where thousands of gallons of pure water flow each day - as it has since 1927. A ten foot water wheel is turned continually by the flowing water. The sire, which is accessed by Stephenson County's only covered bridge, includes a waterfall, large flower beds and gazebo to enjoy while sipping the bubbling water
CITY: Winslow
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
Baymont Inn and Suites - Freeport
This hotel, where you feel like home, is conveniently located at the intersection of U.S. Highway 20 and Illinois Highway 26 north of Freeport. This is a 63 room hotel with eleven whirlpool suites. Handicapped and non-smoking rooms; heated indoor pool; whirlpool; exercise facilities; cable TV; free wireless high speed internet access; computer and printer in lobby business center; microwave; mini fridge; hair dryers; irons and ironing boards; coffee makers; safes; desks; pets allowed with a $35 fee; on site coin laundry; dry cleaning available; complimentary enhanced breakfast; AARP, senior citizen and group discounts. Hotel is located adjacent to the Jane Addams Recreational Trail for biking, hiking or snowmobiling; ask about special packages with trail use. Hunting packages also available. One meeting room with a maximum capacity of 25. American Express, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard, Visa. Rates: $94.00 to $159.00.
CITY: Freeport
Best Western - Timber Creek Inn and Suites & Convention Center
The Aurora area's exciting new hotel and convention center, this property is perfect for the business and leisure guest. We offer 100 mid-scale guest rooms and over 25,000 square feet of flexible meeting space.
CITY: Sandwich
Best Western Designer Inn and Suites
Standard rooms have spacious living areas, microwaves and refrigerators. Most rooms have private balconies or patios, some have fireplaces. Whirlpool and theme rooms available. Indoor/year-round outdoor pool and hot tub.
CITY: Galena
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
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 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
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
1
Binny's Taste at the Track
The Biggest and Best Wine Event of the Spring Season is Back! You’re invited to join us to watch and wager on the heart pounding sport of Thoroughbred horse racing while enjoying a sampling of over 400 domestic and international wines from Binny’s. Plus, top Chicagoland restaurants will be providing a sampling of signature dishes to pair with your favorite wine. This ticketed event includes general admission to Arlington Park, entrance into the exclusive Taste at the Track event in the Park, a Govino wine glass and wine tastings, and three food sample tickets. In addition to your sample tasting options, you’ll also enjoy chef demonstrations and delicious small plate offerings available for purchase. You MUST be 21+ to enter the exclusive Taste at the Track event. Be sure to get your tickets early as they will sell out! For more information visit the Binny's Taste at the Track ticket page.
CITY: Arlington Heights
Blackhawk War Monument
This monument is located on the site of Kellogg's Grove, an early settlement established in 1827 on a mail route between Peoria and Galena, and now on the National Register of Historic Places. It honors those killed in the Blackhawk War, including in the final Illinois Battle which occurred at this grove in June, 1832. Abraham Lincoln, a member of the Illinois militia, helped bury five of the slain men. The remaining soldiers were originally buried throughout the area at the spots at which they fell. Fifty years after the war, local farmers collected the remains and buried them in one enclosure on top of this hill overlooking the Yellow Creek Valley. The 34-foot high monument was dedicated in 1886.
CITY: Kent
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
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
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
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
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
Burpee Museum of Natural History
The award-winning "Jane: Diary of a Dinosaur" exhibit explores the history of the museum's young T. rex skeleton on display that has been called one of the 10 most important dinosaur discoveries of the past 100 years. Visitors can also view the skull of Homer, a juvenile Triceratops, and see Burpee staff members working on his bones in the lab. Other exhibits include a coal forest with simulated thunderstorms, a Native American exhibit with a full-size wigwam, and rotating traveling exhibits in the new Woodward Hall. Don't miss Burpee's annual PaleoFest in March.
CITY: Rockford
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
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
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
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
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
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
Cernan Earth and Space Center
The Cernan Earth & Space Center of Triton College features a variety of earth and sky shows, children's shows, laser light shows, earth and space exhibits, and the Star Store gift shop.
CITY: River Grove
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
8
Character Caravan
Free Event. Bringing the best of Chicago's Northwest area attractions to you! Meet, greet, and play with Chicagoland's most lovable attraction mascots during Character Caravan! This one-of-a-kind free event lets you discover some of Chicagoland's best attractions. Games, prizes, face painting, goodie bags, and photos with your favorite Characters. Rain or Shine! Registration is required to receive goodie bag, limited to the first 500 registered children. Deadline for registration is May 31, 2013.
CITY: Schaumburg
Cheese Market
This cheese shop features a wide variety of cheese, as well as local artisan cheese, sausages, Amish salsas, jams and local vegetables. Open: Sunday: 11 am - 4 pm; Monday - Friday: 10 am - 6 pm; S: 9 am - 6 pm.
CITY: Freeport
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
6
Chicago Rush vs. Cleveland Gladiators
Come out and watch the Rush vs. the Gladiators! The Chicago Rush, who has the largest market in the Arena Football League, has played at the Allstate Arena since 2001. The team has qualified for the playoffs eleven out of twelve seasons and won the AFL championship, ArenaBowl XX in 2006. During its history, the team has won its division five times and advanced to the AFL Conference Championship six times, including four consecutive appearances from 2004 to 2007.
CITY: Rosemont
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
20
Civil War Ball, Dinner and Style Show
Logan Rail splitting Association will sponsor its annual Civil War Ball and this year is adding a dinner and style show. Civil War era clothing is encouraged, but dancers are also welcome to come in modern casual attire. Never danced before? Don't worry. Instructors are available to walk newcomers through the dances. All ages welcome.
CITY: Lincoln
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
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
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
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson - Naperville
143 tasteful guest rooms situated in Naperville's high tech corridor, offering comfort and convenience. Meeting space available. Full service restaurant, lounge, and room service.
CITY: Naperville
Courtyard by Marriott - Lincolnshire
This Lincolnshire hotel provides you with exactly what you need to make all travels successful - whether traveling for business or fun. Located just off I-94 in Lincolnshire's historic district and within easy reach of downtown Chicago and North Shore businesses and attractions. Guest rooms feature the new bed from Courtyard, separate sitting areas, free high-speed Internet and free in-room coffee. Start the day at the Courtyard Cafe, and enjoy a full selection from a hot buffet. Relax in our indoor pool and whirlpool. Take some time to explore the shops, restaurants and attractions in the historic city of Lincolnshire. The hotel offers 1,500 sq ft of meeting space, making it an ideal location for small meetings and catered events.
CITY: Lincolnshire
Courtyard by Marriott Elmhurst
Courtyard hotel located in Elmhurst, IL with 140 newly renovated guestrooms including 13 suites. Million dollar renovation recently completed. Meeting space of 2,400 square feet available
CITY: Elmhurst
Courtyard by Marriott Naperville
147-room hotel, conveniently located off I-88, offering spacious rooms with many amenities, indoor pool, whirlpool and public areas designed to provide the comforts of home.
CITY: Naperville
Critter Camp Exotic Pet Sanctuary
Tour Critter Camp Exotic Pet Sanctuary. Personally guided tours are available seven days a week year round for up to six people per tour, but all tours are by appointment. Animal lovers can learn about, pet, hold and feel some of the 350 rescued animals, comprised of 30 different species. All income supports the rescued animals. Critter Camp is a non-profit, tax exempt, charitable, volunteer operated, no-kill facility that does not buy, breed, sell or exploit any animal.
CITY: German Valley
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
Crowne Plaza Glen Ellyn - Lombard
Our Crowne Plaza brand promise: "A better meetings experience for meeting planners and a better night sleep for meeting attendees & all guests," coupled with the Crowne Plaza Sleep Advantage program, will ensure your stay is unforgettable.
CITY: Glen Ellyn
22 - 23
Danville Arts In The Park
Featuring over 75 regional artists and performing art groups set up under the oaks. Continuous on-site entertainment with food and drinks are also available.
CITY: Danville
Aug 3
Danville Dans Baseball
The Danville Dans are a collegiate summer league baseball team which hosts players from around the country! Don't miss one of their 30 home games this year (late May through early August) which are played at historic Danville Stadium. Check their webpage for information on special events happening throughout the season!
CITY: Danville
Sep 1
DeKalb Corn Fest
Corn Fest is one of the last, free, summer, music festivals among Illinois music and summer festivals in Illinois. Well over 100,000 people from around Illinois and the Midwest attend the music festival over a three day weekend. This festival features a carnival complete with rides and games, food booths, free live music, kiddie korner with large inflatables, family entertainment and much more. Friday night is carnival wristband nights for the kids with unlimited rides from 6-10pm. Festival areas feature food and business vendor booths, and a beer garden The festival hours are: Friday, August 30th, 3pm-11pm, Saturday, August 31st, 11am-11pm, Sunday, September 1st, 11am-6pm.
CITY: DeKalb
8
DeKalb Kite Fest
Looking for a fun family day out? The DeKalb Kite Fest is great fun for the whole family whether you choose to make, fly, or just watch the kites fly. There are lots of large beautiful kites that fill the sky. Location: Corner of Lucinda and Kishwaukee Drive DeKalb Kite Fest WhenSunday, Sep 8, 2013 WhereCorner of Lucinda Ave and Kishwaukee Drive, DeKalb (map) DescriptionCorner of Lucinda and Kishwaukee Drive, NIU Campus. Stunt kites, dancing kites, food, and activities for the kids & family. dekalbcountycvb.com
CITY: DeKalb
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
3 - 7
Dixon Petunia Festival
Come to Dixon, the Petunia Capitol of Illinois, for the 49th annual celebration in the Hometown of President Ronald Reagan. Headline entertainment will be The Spin Doctors and a new family event will be the Brush, Bloom and Boom painting competition for all ages. In addition to a kids carnival every day, there will be fireworks on the 4th, a parade, 14th annual Reagan 5K run, the men’s garden club pancake breakfast, bags tournament, Elks Lodge poker tournament, Dixon Municipal Band concert, community worship service, a fishing derby and an art show.
CITY: Dixon
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center
The Donald E. Stephens Convention Center offers a total 840,000 square feet of flexible exhibition space. Configure it any way you like. You may need a 500-booth to 800-booth area, or 100 to 200 booths. If you’re planning a larger show, you’ll appreciate our continuous 250,000 square-foot space for 1,225 booths. Or you can create a multiple hall layout for up to 3,566 booths. Customized floor plans are our specialty, so just ask.
CITY: Rosemont
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
Eagles Nest Hotel
Conveniently located across from the Oakely Lindsay Civic Center in downtown Quincy. Formerly an America's Best Value Hotel, the Eagles Nest hotel offers affordable accomodations, free breakfast, within walking distance to the downtown and visitor center.
CITY: Quincy
Ferguson Fine Arts Theatre
Located on the campus of Highland Community College - features a variety of fine arts programming including vocal and music concerts, live theater, special performances, and the popular Summerset Theater Program, a community performing arts theater.
CITY: Freeport
Fever River Railroad
For model railroad aficionados -- and everyone else who ever enjoyed model trains -- this model railroad is something to see. The Fever River Railroad is a 120X24-foot HO scale model of a hypothetical railroad running from Duluth, Minnesota to St. Louis, Missouri. This fully operational model railroad has detailed scenery, rail yards, factories, and interchanges with many other railroads. The model railroad allows for the operation of multiple trains along railroad right-of-way that portrays typical towns along the Duluth to St. Louis route. The Fever River Railroad is an ongoing project with upgrades to the layout and scenery that provides an exciting model railroad experience. A collection of railroad memorabilia and pictures, many from the surrounding area, are on display throughout the facility. The Stephenson Society of Model Trainmen, who operate the railroad, host an open house twice a year, and visitors are welcome at other times by appointment.
CITY: Freeport
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
Freeport Farmers Market
All local products from certified organic to conventional fruit and vegetables, cheeses, meats, eggs, baked goods, honey, maple syrup, jams and jellies, bedding plants, perennials, fresh flowers, loose leaf teas, and handmade bath and beauty products in a festive market atmosphere. The Freeport Farmers Market is in operation from May through October in the CVS parking lot on South Street in Freeport.
CITY: Freeport
Jun 2
Funfest for Air-cooled VW
This FunFest is Mid America Motorworks way of saying "Thank You" to all VW enthusiasts. The three-day event is the best Air-Cooled enthusiasts party anywhere. Expect to see more than 1,000 VWs and 8,000 enthusiasts. This is not your typical car show. With non-juried fun judging, one of a kind expert seminars and a guest list including some of the best-known names in the VW world, it's no wonder that Funfest has become a must-attend event.
CITY: Effingham
