Wicker Park is another wonderful neighborhood in the city that makes your dating life that much easier. Bustling with many restaurants, shops, bars, and galleries, there are plenty of exciting and energetic spots to bring a date the next time you’re looking for a unique experience. Now you might be thinking, “Wicker Park, isn’t that the place in the city where all the hipsters hangout?” Maybe! But this Wicker Park Dating Guide will show you why this neighborhood is also a lovebird’s nest!

So, why wait any further? Let’s take a closer look at one of the most popular neighborhoods around, and hopefully, with the help of some very fun places, you’ll be starting the first chapter of your very own happily ever after. Also, don’t forget to check out the other Chicago dating guides!

Emporium Arcade Bar 

1366 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

If you know your date or partner is highly competitive, why not take them to a spot where they can let that competitive spirit shine? Emporium Arcade Bar has tons of classic games where you and your date can put yourselves to the test. It doesn’t matter who’s the best at skee ball (yes, it does), as long as you’re enjoying quality time together.

Not only can you take your skills to the arcade, but Emporium also hosts many events like live music and parties. Plus, and I’ve said it before, no first date is complete without a few drinks to take the edge off, and Emporium’s menu is staggeringly long, especially if you’re a fan of craft beers. Drink up and game on, people. 

Dove’s Luncheonette

1545 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

When was the last time you sat at an old-fashioned counter at a diner? If your answer is “actually, never”, then Dove’s Luncheonette is the perfect place for a unique date in a setting that you don’t really see anymore. With a Dove’s twist on classic dishes, you and your date are sure to devour each satisfying bite of items like vegan masa pancakes and smash burgers.

if you’re looking to take your date out on a weeknight (always a good idea, IMO), be sure to stop by for Dove’s After Dark, which occurs on Mondays from 5-10 PM. “After Dark”, you’ll find a rotating menu of new dishes and tons of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to sip on while you fawn over your date’s sparkling eyes and taste in music. 

The Hideout

1354 W Wabansia Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Event-seekers, this one IS for you. Riddled with history, The Hideout is the perfect spot for anyone who wants to see just about anything to spend a date night. From concerts to comedy shows, a trip to The Hideout is sure to be two things: fun and eccentric. Self-proclaimed “clandestine destination with a guaranteed good time,” you and your date can get to know each other’s quirky sides as you delve into the history, culture, and performances woven into the venue’s 100-year-old foundation. To keep up with the upcoming happenings, which are every night, by the way, just head to their website or follow their Instagram, where fun posts and announcements are happening pretty much daily. 

Dreambox Gallery

2415 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Since 2003, Dreambox Gallery, owned by Iwona Biedermann, has been a place where artists of all kinds can showcase their work. Dreambox Gallery is the perfect place where you and your date can immerse yourself in the full scale of art across Chicago from photography to drawings to poetry and performance. There are plenty of places across the city to see art, but this immersive experience will bring you up close and personal with the lesser-known but definitely-worthy artists who house their works here. This gallery is also only open on Fridays and Saturdays from 12-4 PM, so plan your trip accordingly to ensure you have enough time to see all the incredible Chicago-based art! 

The Violet Hour 

1520 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

If you know that your date’s eyes would light up at a huge cocktail menu, you have to take them to The Violet Hour. This cocktail bar has an expansive menu that features everything from frozen drinks to shaken cocktails to the classics (who doesn’t love a good Old Fashioned?). For a more hands-on date, The Violet Hour also offers cocktail-making classes, both in-person and virtual, and the ability to book your own private events for a more intimate setting. 

Featured Image: The Violet Hour

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The nation’s most acclaimed champagne bar, Pops for Champagne, 601 N State St., is honoring its 40th Anniversary in Chicago this September 2022. To celebrate with locals and visitors alike, Pops is offering guests a rotating $40 pour of unique champagne, not typically served by the glass, such as 2006 Pierre Moncuit Cuvée Elizabeth, 2008 Pierre Paillard La Grande Récolte, and 2013 Vintage Louis Roederer, throughout the year, as well as reopening their underground speakeasy, Watershed, on Thursday, August 25th. Since opening its doors in 1982, Pops has become a staple in the city, having served over 900,000 bottles of champagne to hit 1,000,000 bottles served by the end of the year.

“We couldn’t be prouder to celebrate 40 years in Chicago with our team and loyal patrons. Our goal has always been to create an inviting, approachable space, and this achievement has solidified the storied history of Pops,” said Craig Garofalo, co-owner of Pops for Champagne. “Throughout the decades, Pops has become not only a destination for celebration but a space dedicated to exposing and educating our patrons on new and unique beverage experiences. With Pops, and the reopening of Watershed this year, we’re happy to continue to provide an escape in the heart of the city.”

Image Credit:

In 2018, Craig Garofalo and Andy Poch, both Chicago hospitality industry veterans, acquired Pops for Champagne and Watershed. Originally opened in 1982 in Lakeview, Pops for Champagne moved to the vibrant River North neighborhood in 2004. Over the years, Pops has expanded the champagne menu to offer a larger, more concentrated selection, aiming to represent smaller producers from the Champagne region of France.

Today, Chicago’s most elegant wine bar and one of the nation’s few dedicated champagne bars offers over 100 different champagne selections and introduces new selections on a weekly basis. Pops also offers sparkling, craft, and spirit-free cocktails, wine, beer, and a delectable bar snacks menu, from East Coast Oysters and Cheese & Charcuterie to Shishito Peppers and a Trio of Macarons.

Image Credit: Pops for Champagne

Originally established in 2010, Watershed, a speakeasy-style lounge tucked beneath Pops for Champagne, has undergone extensive renovations and reopened on Thursday, August 25th. Sitting just feet from the Chicago Red Line tracks, the restorations to the underground venue, built in the 1890s, have honored original details of the space, including a historic stone wall and custom woodwork.

Watershed’s wooden booths have been refinished and remodeled, new banquets have been installed, and the original custom wooden tabletops have been rehabbed. Custom wooden glass racks and display shelves have been installed throughout the bar, and wooden cabinets have been reimagined as display pieces, adding to the warm, inviting interior. Watershed also features new paint, floors, furniture, back bar mirrors, in addition to an enhanced sound system and lighting.

Pops for Champagne

The reimagined Watershed will introduce a ‘seasonal’ cocktail menu where every season focuses on a different television show, paying homage to the meaning of “watershed” in broadcasting, which is the time of day after which programming aimed towards mature or adult audiences is permitted. With the belief that a good bartender should be a guide, not a gatekeeper, Watershed Beverage Director, Logan Brown, has created the inventive new menu, kicking off “Season 1” with cocktails inspired by the fan-favorite show, Community.

The menu includes Episode 2: Advanced Safety Features (0% ABV) with Blackberry, Wine, and Lemon; Episode 12: Social Psychology (27% ABV) a Cinnamon Toast Crunch Espresso Martini made with Vodka, Coffee, Cereal, and Oat Milk, and Episode 9: Remedial Chaos Theory (28% ABV) with Pepperoni Combos, Malort, Thyme, Tomato, Vinegar, Bitter, and Port. Watershed will also serve beer, wine, and liquor from all over the world, representing passionate farmers, vintners, distillers, and brewers.

Every cocktail, beer, and wine will list its ABV so guests can decide to order anything from non-alcoholic to overproof drinks to suit their mood or preference. Guests are also invited to explore the rare spirits list, which is delivered via table side beverage cart. Pops for Champagne is open from 3 – 11 p.m. Monday – Wednesday, 3 p.m. – 12 a.m. Thursday – Friday, 1 p.m. – 12 a.m. Saturday, and 3 – 10 p.m. Sunday. Watershed is open from 5 – 11 p.m. Monday – Wednesday and 5 p.m. – 12 a.m. Thursday – Saturday.

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International Chocolate Day is here! Have you decided what to buy as a celebration (however, do we really need an excuse to buy chocolate)? First of all, check out our hand-picked craft Chocolatiers in town and fill up a bag (or three). Then, stray away from traditional chocolates and get ready for the best chocolate treats in Chicago!

Image Credit: Stan’s

Stan’s Donuts & Coffee

all locations

Stan’s Donuts & Coffee is the perfect spot to celebrate International Chocolate Day with a multitude of chocolate options for every customer. From the traditional Chocolate Old Fashioned to a Chocolate Pocket with Nutella and even a Chocolate Vegan recipe, there is a sweet treat for every type of chocolate lover this holiday. Even better, feel free to try them all!

In addition to sweet treats, sip on something chocolatey at Stan’s with the Chocolate Lightning, which is Stan’s popular Cold Brew mixed with Chocolate Milk for the perfect early morning sipper. Looking for something without caffeine? Stan’s offers a Frozen Hot Chocolate that is to die for!

Image Credit: Michael Jordan’s Steak House

Michael Jordan’s Steak House Chicago

505 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

What’s International Chocolate Day without a legitimate chocolate lava cake!? Inspired by the G.O.A.T.’s jersey number, this decadent chocolate treat at Michael Jordan’s Steak House has 23 rich and decadent layers of chocolate cake and fudgy frosting. After a savory steak house meal, it’s the perfect way to add a little sweetness to an evening out on the town.

Image Credit: Cookies & Dreams

Cookies & Dreams

10800 S Cicero Ave, Oak Lawn, IL 60453

If you’re looking for the best ooey-gooey chocolate treats in Chicago, look no further! Cookies & Dreams is a female-owned bakery based in Iowa that has just opened in South Suburban Oak Lawn, offering twelve or more freshly baked cookies in unique and classic flavors, perfect for any occasion. Their cookies can be purchased at any one of their locations or online + shipped right to your door.

Your chocolate choices are OG Chocolate Chip, Double Trouble, Caramel Pretzel, PuppyChow Cookie, Monster Cookie, or the OG Sea Salt Chocolate Cookie Cake.

An over-the-top, chocolate lover’s dream is Sweet Mandy B’s Just Dough It, a stacked cookie sandwich available for just $5.50 each at both the Lincoln Park and Streeterville locations. It features eggless chocolate chip cookie dough sandwiched between two chocolate chip cookies. The dessert was so popular during the August 20th anniversary celebration that Sweet Mandy B’s will bring it back for the month of September.

Sweet Mandy B’s

1208 W. Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
254 E. Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60611

For even more chocolatey desserts, Sweet Mandy B’s offers a variety of treats like the Devil’s Food Cupcake with chocolate buttercream and sprinkles, the Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcake with devil’s food cake, peanut butter buttercream and a chocolate drizzle, a Fudge Brownie, a Chocolate Iced Brownie, Flourless Chocolate Cake and more.

First Slice Pie

4664 N Manor Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

Honestly. First Slice is hands-down one of the best pie spots in Chicago. Chocolate mint pie, chocolate peanut butter pie, french silk pie, chocolate cream pie… Whether you’re a hardcore sweet tooth or prefer the richer and more complicated chocolate flavors, First Slice has something for you. They also have an awesome chocolate raspberry cheesecake for those prefer something lighter and smoother!

Kilwins Evanston

Mackinac Island Fudge

Most of you go to Kilwins for the ice cream. Well, the temperature is dropping. That’s why now is time to go there for the delicious fudge bars. Their Mackinac Island Fudge bars are made right there in the store, meaning you can watch the entire process unfold. They even swap out the featured flavor each week, which would surely keep you coming back! They also have other chocolate treats like chocolate-dipped pretzels, dark chocolate barks, and caramel, chocolate, and sea-salt-dipped apples.

Featured Image: Cookies & Dreams

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With week one of the NFL season in the books, we think it’s pretty safe to say: the Chicago Bears are back! Alright, we’re kidding of course. They’re not all the way back after winning a single game. However, if they can pull off the Sunday Night Football upset with the Bears vs Packers matchup up next, we might just change our tune.

Regardless, after taking down the 49ers in their season opener, it’s safe to say they’re on the right track with the new regime.

How Game 1 Went

Speaking of the new regime, it’s pretty evident that they played a big part in last Sunday’s victory. The HITS mentality of Matt Eberflus enabled the defense to apply pressure throughout the contest. For those who aren’t familiar with the term, “HITS” stands for: hustle, intensity, takeaways, (playing) smart. 

Despite going down 10-0 early in the second half, the defense embodied HITS and managed to shutout Trey Lance and the rest of the 49ers offense for the remainder of the game. Both rookies and vets played their part. And after a few turnovers, all the 49ers momentum had washed away in the rain.

It wasn’t solely a defensive effort, obviously, as the Bears offense put up 19 points to complete the comeback. Justin Fields played about as well as you could ask a second-year quarterback to play when facing Nick Bosa in the middle of a monsoon during their first game back. When the 49ers defense pressured the Bears offensive line, Fields mimic’d the defense’s hustle by using his legs to extend plays and keep the ball moving. He ran for 28 yards on 11 carries, and completed 8/17 passes for another 121 yards and two scores.

After slippin’ and slidin’ their way to the dub, the next matchup on the schedule is one we’re all too familiar with: the Bears vs Packers. Our first showdown against Aaron Rodgers and the rest of the cheese heads takes place on the big stage this week with some SNF action! 

Bears vs Packers Week 2 Preview

Given that it’s the 204th time they’ll face each other, this next Bears vs Packers matchup takes place during the primetime Sunday night slot in week two.

Last Sunday’s season opener didn’t go as well for our rivals as it did for us. In the Packers’ week one NFC North showdown against the Vikings, both the offense and defense failed to get much of anything going as the team lost 23-7. It was Rodgers first game without Davante Adams in quite some time, and it sure showed. Through four quarters of play, no discount double-check celebrations occured. Rodgers stat line for the game saw him complete 22 of his 34 passes for 195 yards and an interception. The team’s only points came on an AJ Dillion touchdown run. Yikes.

If he’s going to own us, like… f***ing own us, as he claims to, then big boy Rodgers will have to show us he can make non-Davante Adams receivers successful when he throws the ball their way. It’s easier said than done, and the drops certainly don’t help. Nor are they Rodgers’ fault.

Plus, with the momentum the Bears have going for them, it’s likely that our secondary makes things challenging for the Packers receivers come Sunday night. And we sure hope that’s the case, because currently, the cheese heads are 10 point favorites over our guys for this Bears vs Packers game.

It’s a little funny seeing that spread though, because it means oddsmakers think the Packers are capable of even putting up 10 points to begin with. Guess we’ll just have to wait and see come Sunday night.

 

Featured Image Credit: Chicago Bears Instagram

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If you’re looking for a neighborhood that’s filled to the brim with young and hot 20- to 30- somethings ready to find the loves of their life, look no further than Lakeview. Being a unique area of the city built up by smaller neighborhoods, there are tons of people to meet, talk to, exchange hobbies, and share secrets with. Continue with our Lakeview dating guide and explore the delicious restaurants, fun bars, events, and easy-to-access public transportation for an incredible date. Whether you want to get closer to the lake or closer to a potential partner, Lakeview is a great place to plan some incredibly fun dates in our own backyard.

PS: If you’re looking for date ideas in other areas of the city, be sure to check out our neighborhood dating guides for Wicker Park, Lincoln Park, and Logan Square.

Cubs Game – Wrigley Field 

1060 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613

Hey Chicago, whaddya say? Take your date to Wrigley today! Okay, yeah that was super cringey BUT definitely true. Whether you’re a Northsider or a Southsider, you truly cannot deny the importance of Wrigley Field in Chicago. I mean, the perfect summer afternoon isn’t complete without a sunny day game, right? Treat your date to a Wrigley hot dog and a tall Bud Light, and watch how the sparks fly. Cubs tickets are fairly cheap, there’s tons of public transportation surrounding Addison and Clark, and the atmosphere is consistently electric. I’m telling you, you can be a Sox fan and STILL have a good time on a date to the Cubs game. Worse comes to worst? Take your date bar hopping down Clark and get a little buzz. 

Coalfire

3707 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60613

While Chicago is certainly known for our pizza, the food coma you go into after devouring three slices of deep dish just isn’t it for setting the mood. When you and your date want to dive into a delicious pie, head to Coalfire. This coal oven pizza is crisp, hot, and made with incredible ingredients. Coalfire prides themselves on using locally sourced artisanal butchers and growers, ensuring that each item that goes into your perfect piece is as fresh as can be. With menu staples like pepperoni & whipped ricotta and pistachio pesto, diners can delight in the house favorites or take the option to build your own pizza with toppings of your choice! Just don’t blame us if your date thinks your topping choices are weird. 

Belmont Harbor

3600 N Recreation Dr, Chicago, IL 60613

How often do you take the time to spend an afternoon outside? Surprisingly, the city is filled with green spaces and parks to hangout and enjoy the weather (as fleeting as our summers maybe). Whether you have a boat or not, Belmont Harbor is a beautiful spot in the city to spend some time with a potential love interest. You don’t have to sit on the docks either because there are plenty of grassy park areas to plan a cute picnic or bring a bottle of wine to enjoy along the Lakefront. Take advantage of our last few days of summer and ever-so-slightly changing trees to soak in some sun and kick-off a budding romance before the cuffing season begins. 

Elixir Lounge

3452 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657

In the heart of Boystown, you’ll find Elixir. This cocktail bar and lounge is the perfect spot for couples to cozy up under the low-hanging chandeliers and enjoy the perfectly crafted cocktail list. With drinks made from all your favorite liquors, everyone can find a new favorite made with their alcohol of choice. With a signature cocktail list, Elixir puts their own twist on delicious cocktails by incorporating fresh ingredients and bold flavors to create drinks you might have never thought to try elsewhere, like their Rustic Artichoke or Bubblegum Old Fashioned. They also feature classic cocktails but elevate the traditional by adding some flair to give your old reliable a new flair. So sit back, relax, and sip on something different with the perfect date by your side. 

Pescadero Seafood & Oyster Bar

1258 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657

Oysters are literally an aphrodisiac, so why wouldn’t you take a date to Pescadero? Not only does this Lakeview restaurant offer the freshest seafood you’ll find in the middle of Chicago, but with an upscale maritime theme, you’re given at least a brief escape from the Midwest. Since opening in June of last year, Pescadero has made waves (get it?) in Lakeview by continuously bringing the freshest fish and menu options to this location. The raw bar, small plates, seared favorites, and handheld options are perfect to enjoy while sharing fun facts about yourself and deciding if your current date is going to make it to the next level.

Featured Image: Choose Chicago

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Are you tired of old-school fundraisers with not enough food and definitely not enough fun? Not being snobby, but I think we all agree that non profits could all use some crazier fundraisers to get people’s excitement up so they can hit their funding goals. Well — if you want to do something good but aren’t interested in sitting at a table for a whole night, or grabbing a burger meal and head right out, here’s a fantastic option for you: on Sept. 30th and Oct. 1st, you can rappel off (yes, you read it right) theWit Hotel from its rooftop bar and contribute to one of Chicago’s most significant youth-focused non-profit organization: Family Empowerment Centers.

A Double Tree by Hilton right next to the iconic Chicago Theater, Rooftop at theWit is a glamorous escape set at 27 stories above with a stunning skyline view. The highlight in the previous sentence? TWENTY, SEVEN, STORIES, ABOVE.

Event Details

201 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601

theWit Hotel is pleased to share that this fall, fundraisers for Family Empowerment Centers will go ‘Over the Edge’ off theWit. This thrilling event taking place on September 30 and October 1, invites adrenaline junkies to rappel off the hotel’s rooftop bar, ROOF on theWit, and down the iconic facade, all for a noble cause.

“We are proud to serve as the backdrop for this one of a kind fundraiser at theWit Hotel”, says General Manager Morgan Eagles. “We are humbled by the work done at Family Empowerment Centers and feel honored to be a partner for the organization in supporting families and mentoring children in the Chicagoland area.”

Participants going Over the Edge for Family Empowerment Centers will commit to raise funds for the chance to rappel down 27 stories of the Wit Hotel. Rapellers can choose from four participation levels, starting at $1,000 to $3,000, each with corresponding rewards including commemorative t-shirts, food vouchers to the hotel’s restaurants, GoPro footage of your experience, and more. Additionally, each participant will train with the Over the Edge staff before the event to learn how to rappel safely down the side of the building. Tickets are available here.

A One-of-a-kind Fundraiser For Family Empowerment Centers

Proceeds from this event will directly support the non-profit organization’s food pantry and the myriad of mentoring programs offered to children in the Chicago community such as summer soccer camps, summer day camps, football camps, and an after-school program.

“At a time when Chicago families need help the most, we’re excited to bring this fundraiser to life in support of Family Empowerment Centers’ most important efforts”, says Executive Director Scott Manke. “We’re grateful for each participant’s donations and fundraising efforts that directly support our families and programs.”

Family Empowerment Centers is at the forefront of creating pathways of opportunity for under-resourced individuals and families to experience greater joy and hope in their future. In a time when our most vulnerable families have even greater need, Family Empowerment Centers continues to meet that need by providing food for these families and additional educational support through camps and after school programs.

Featured Image: theWit Hotel

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Nothing is more exciting than finding a new book that keeps you intrigued with every page turn. Why not enjoy the best of both worlds and grab something a little stronger while reading? There are bars around the city that allow you to indulge in your favorite cocktail and read without distraction. While Chicago is known for its lively nightlife, we also have a wide selection of bars with the best atmosphere for book lovers who prefer to cozy up with a glass of red and a good book. 

Sparrow

12 W Elm St, Chicago, IL 60610

Sparrow cocktail lounge is a hidden gem tucked away in the Gold Coast neighborhood. This quaint bar will transport you back to the 20’s with its sophisticated and timely decorum. Instead of lining the walls with TV’s like your typical bar or pub, Sparrow plays wonderful jazz music that creates a calming atmosphere. 

They have a great variety of rums from around the world. For those prefer their drinks to be a bit sweeter and fruitier, they also offer $5 daiquiris on Monday.

Drawing Room

12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603

 

The Drawing Room is located on the second floor of the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel. They offer cocktails, small bites, and beautiful space to unwind. The ambiance alone will keep you reading here for hours. Cafe tables, couches, and a communal library table are available, so pick your favorite seat and get cozy. They even have three grand fireplaces to warm up next to this winter. 

This is also the perfect spot for those who may not feel comfortable asking for a table of one at a more traditional bar! The space gives more of an old-school library feel than a cocktail bar. Because of the nature of the space, you’ll hardly find it to be crowded and loud. 

Kibbitznest Books, Brewery, & Blarney

2212 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

Kibbitznest is the perfect place to enjoy a drink and a good book. The owner has made this space a low-tech zone, computers and phones are meant to be put away, allowing you to be fully present in the moment. Use your time spent here to unwind, dissect the plot, and fall in love with new characters. 

Take your pick from 35 different beers or even a spiked coffee, no matter your preference Kibbitznest has something for you. On Sundays, Kibbitznest officially turns into a bookbar and is a well-hidden secret among Chicago’s booklovers. Therefor, this is also the perfect place for making new nerdy friends!

Trivoli Tavern

114 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607

Found in an alleyway and down a cobblestone path, Trivoli Tavern awaits you. Their outdoor seating instantly transports you to Europe, dining at a quaint cafe. The setting allows you to romanticize your evening spent reading and the atmosphere is just soothing enough to keep you immersed in the book at hand. 

If this isn’t enough to convince you, they also have a daily happy hour from 4:30-5:30 and offer $6 beer, wine, martinis, and more.

Volo Wine Bar

2008 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618

Voted number one for Hidden City Patio in Chicago, come enjoy a relaxing outdoor read year-round at Volo Wine Bar. Surrounded by white lanterns and lush greenery, you will feel able to read peacefully. The space is intimate so you don’t have to worry about the noisiness that usually accompanies larger bars and crowds.

Not only is the ambiance a 10/10, Volvo also offers over 30 boutique wine options. For me, a sweet white and a Colleen Hoover romance novel make for the perfect Wednesday evening at Volo. 

Queen Mary Tavern

2125 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622

If you haven’t noticed, there is a running theme with our list of bars with the best atmosphere for book lovers. This place is no exception. Queen Mary Tavern is another neighborhood cocktail lounge with the best atmosphere for a drink and a good read. You will also find their decades of history steeping through the vintage decor. 

This place specializes in maritime spirits, cocktails and fortified wines. You can enjoy your novel on their heated patio and explore their extensive drink options to find the cocktail that best suits you. 

Featured Image: Trivoli Tavern

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Teenagers are an age group I don’t even pretend to understand. Even though I was one within the last 10 years, trends change so quickly and the Tik-Tok dances don’t stop coming. One thing that remains true no matter how much time passes is that Chicago is never short of things to do with your teens to get them off their phones and put some attention  back onto you. Whether it’s a good meal, something active, getting that perfect photo, or learning something new, there’s so many places in Chicago to take your teenagers this fall. 

The Hampton Social

353 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 6065

The Hampton Social is a city staple. From the delicious food to nautical vibes, The Hampton Social is a great place to take your teen. Everybody knows that one of the funnest things to do on the weekend is a good brunch, and this place has definitely got you covered on that. Ditch the typical weekday cereal and let your teen indulge in some sticky and sweet monkey bread, fresh salads, or some perfectly messy shrimp tacos. For the perfect Instagrammable moment, order a mocktail and pose by the famous Rose All Day sign – your kids will be thanking you when they’re racking up the likes. 

The Shedd Aquarium

1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, IL 60605

Kids think they’re too cool for a day out with their parents? Take them to the Shedd Aquarium and watch that all change. With over 32,000 animals to explore, you can plan an entire day around being entranced by the different colors, shapes, and sizes of aquatic animals. Along with the year-round exhibits and animals, you’ll always find new and exciting experiences to add to your day. The best part about a visit to the Shedd? You and your kids will get a biology lesson without realizing you’ve been learning the entire time. 

Maggie Daly Park 

 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601

As we soak up the last of the summer sun, it’s important to get outdoors, do something active, and take deep breaths of some fresh air. By spending the day in Maggie Daly Park, not only will your family take in the best views the city has to offer, there’s tons of activities to keep you busy. For the adrenaline seekers, the park offers a rock-climbing wall, and for those who like to stay Earth-bound (myself included) bring out your rollerblades and take a few laps around the ribbon. In the winter, dust off your old skates and show your kids a thing or two about becoming an angel on the ice. Looking for a more relaxing day off? Stop at your favorite take-out restaurant and spend the day catching some rays or sprawled out on a picnic blanket. This park always has something going on, and your teens will definitely stay entertained. 

Paradise Park

1913 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Does Paradise Park have an incredible cocktail menu? Yes, but their food and non-alcoholic drinks are also out of this world. If you live even relatively close to Chicago, you’ve seen Paradise Park on your Instagram feed. The neon lights and stunning patio are only the beginning of what a mini-influencer (your kid) is looking for when heading out for a meal with their parents. Take a bite into the mouthwatering pizza, as the menu contains options like the classic pepperoni, Knife & Forkner, or Carnit-Za. Your teenager will definitely be thanking you for a fun trip and for giving them their first, age-appropriate trip to one of the trendier restaurants in the city.

WNDR Museum

1130 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60607

It seems like teenagers are glued to their phones these days, so take your kid to see a museum that’s not only incredibly popular but is sure to pique their interest! The WNDR Museum in the West Loop is relatively new, with a fresh concept based on giving each patron the ultimate sensory experience. Take your kids to strut across the light floor, play mind games with a room of optical illusions, and imagine endless possibilities in the infinity room. The museum encourages each visitor to think of themselves as a part of the art, and not just a viewer. We can guarantee your teen won’t stop talking about the stimulating experience, and you will have to plan another trip here for sure.

Navy Pier

600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

Anyone who lives around the city knows about Navy Pier. This bright and buzzing stop is an excellent place for a day spent with your teens. With so much going on, you’ll definitely have to plan your day from start to finish to ensure that you don’t miss any of the action. Whether its an action-packed ride on the Seadog or a few rounds on the Centennial Wheel, one day at Navy Pier will have you and your kids taking in all the best sights and sounds of the city. When it comes time for a meal or (another) snack break, Navy Pier is laden with restaurants like the world-famous Billy Goat Tavern, Giordano’s, or my personal favorite, the Dippin’ Dots stand. Each season becomes a spectacle at the Pier, with tons of themed events, shows, and parties. Planning to make a weekend trip out of your Chicago visit? The newly opened Sable Hotel is the place for you! 

Featured Image: WNDR Museum

The post Things To Do With Your Teens In Chicago This Fall appeared first on UrbanMatter.

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