Although it seems like Summer has just begun, we can’t believe we’re almost halfway through August. Don’t let the thought of Fall approaching get the best of the rest of your days in the sun! From dining hotspots with unique vantage points to local getaways and fun activities including Ziplining, Water Slide-ing and more, we’ve rounded up our top must-hits before Summer ends!
Unique Activities and Experiences:
Raging Waves: Illinois’ largest waterpark is dedicated to family fun for all ages, Raging Waves hosts visitors to enjoy an exciting day trip, weekend getaway, birthday party, family reunion and more. Including 32 water slides, a huge wave pool, three kiddie pool areas, a relaxing lazy river and 43 private cabanas, everyone will be able to enjoy an attraction at this action-packed waterpark. To purchase tickets for the 2021 season, visit https://www.ragingwaves.com
The Forge: Chicago’s best adventure park will leave no one disappointed as there are endless adventures for those of all ages! The Forge welcomes guests to zipline over quarry lakes, climb the country’s largest high ropes challenge courses, play laser tag, relax in a kayak, or casually explore miles of flat hiking, running, and biking trails. Truly a unique experience, The Forge is the perfect place to have an end of summer family bonding day before returning the school. For more information on the endless activities, visit https://www.forgeparks.com.
Van Gogh For All: Chicago’s “Van Gogh For All” exhibit opens August 15th at 333 N Michigan Ave. Perfect for perfect for families with kids of all-ages, date night, art enthusiasts and more, guests can discover and engage with the works of Van Gogh like never before. From stepping into Van Gogh’s bedroom to capturing a video of themselves flying through the Starry Night, this exhibit is a learning opportunity for visitors of all ages. Tickets are on sale now at www.vangoghforall.org.
Boxed Experience: Describable only as a modern day, real-life “Clue” meets escape room, Roosevelt Collection Shops is thrilled to announce “Boxed Experience”, the latest activation soon to open within their new exhibit space, 150 West. Opening August 14 and running through September 30, the interactive theatrical experience will amaze visitors through map projections and hyper-realistic rooms as guests investigate and decide the fate of a man being accused of a horrible crime. In each room, clues and evidence will alter thoughts on guilt and innocence through intriguing visuals, mind-bending sensories and a storyline that will leave attendees speechless. Tickets range from $35-55 and can be purchased at www.boxedxp.xom.
Staycations to Experience:
Hyatt Lodge: A retreat hotel in Oak Brook, IL, the Hyatt Lodge is a premier getaway nestled on a forest preserve and seated waterside to a scenic lake. With 218 luxurious guest rooms, the Hyatt Lodge is the perfect place to host an upcoming wedding or special event. Relax at Water’s Edge & Lakeside Patio that serves both savory and sweet breakfast dishes and—later in the day–fresh salads, wraps and sandwiches. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/illinois/hyatt-lodge/chilo
Renaissance Milwaukee West: The Renaissance Milwaukee West has all the amenities you can imagine along with eye-catching architecture just outside of downtown. Eldr + Rime is an American Cuisine inspired by cuisine and techniques of Nordic cultures. The top of the line fitness center also offers Peloton bikes for guests to enjoy throughout their stay. For more information or to make a reservation, visit https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/mkemr-renaissance-milwaukee-west-hotel/.
For the Foodies:
Kennedy Rooftop: The Kennedy Rooftop prides itself on its panoramic views of the entire skyline settled in the neighborhood of Wicker Park. Guests can enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres ranging from Warm Caramelo & Pecan Camembert Cheese to The Abe Lincoln cocktail. The atmosphere at Kennedy is the perfect place to enjoy a summer night and celebrate the people and the city of Chicago. The rooftop is first come first served. The full menu and more info can be found online here: https://www.kennedyrooftop.com
Fulton Market Kitchen: The high style hotspot that is both art gallery and standout restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind experience to enjoy dining, drinking, and the work of incredible artists in a single, truly unique setting. Inspired by the 1980s NYC art scene and the Wynwood Walls in Miami, Fulton Market Kitchen’s motto is to function as a beacon in the community and a home to people from all walks of life, where they can come together and enjoy themselves in each other’s company. Now serving both indoor and outdoor with an all-new menu courtesy of Executive Chef Jonathan Harootunian, diners may enjoy delicious dishes such as Spanish Char Grilled Octopus and inventive cocktails including the Bergamot and Brine or Verdita Sour. To make a reservation, visit https://www.fultonmarketkitchen.com
Carnivale: Now the largest mural in the entire city of Chicago, Carnivale is proud to welcome guests not only to dine in their stunning venue, but take in the beauty of their new “Love Always Wins” masterpiece. A very visible reminder of the powerful message visible to all from I-90/I-94. Local graffiti artist Asend used over 600 cans of paint over three months to create the beacon for love. The piece stands for not only compassion and love for all, but a celebration for Chicago’s triumphant return to celebrating life safely once again. Carnivale diners may enjoy the mural during their visit as the iconic Chicago restaurant is currently open for indoor, outdoor and takeout service under the leadership of Executive Cher Carlos Garza Lucas. www.carnivalechicago.com.
Offshore Rooftop & Bar: The nation’s largest rooftop venue that sits in the heart of Navy Pier, Offshore has unmatched views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. With 36,000 square feet of hosting space, seven cozy fire pits and an entertainment and gaming area, Offshore is the epitome of a luxury dining experience. Make sure you check out the diverse menu crafted by Chef Michael Shrader as soon as you can! For more information or to make a reservation, please visit https://www.drinkoffshore.com
Raised Rooftop: The new seasonal menu at Raised by Chef Anthony Biasetti features all things local, sourcing all menu ingredients within 200 miles of Raised. The industrial aesthetic along with eclectic style and raw finishes allows guests to enjoy a chic night out for a date or with friends. Signature cocktails include Watered Flowers, Short & Thorny Sangria and Hospitable Hangover. For more information, please visit https://www.raisedbarchicago.com.
AIRE: AIRE Rooftop, located atop the 24th floor of Hyatt Centric the Loop Chicago, serves as the perfect urban atmosphere for both Chicago residents and tourists alike to enjoy. Serving craft cocktails, wine selections, and shareables, AIRE offers a fun atmosphere to socialize with friends, host a cocktail reception, or just enjoy a drink against the breathtaking backdrop of the city. For more information, please visit https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/illinois/hyatt-centric-the-loop-chicago/chihl/dining.
KINTON RAMEN: Ramen in the Summer? You’d think not, but KINTON RAMEN makes it cool. For a limited time, the Wicker Park and West Loop locations are offering Chilled Tsukemen, Amaze Mazemen, and The Yuzu Boost Bowl. Chilled Tsukemen, served cold, is a Japanese dish consisting of chilled noodles tossed in sesame oil and enjoyed after dipping in a mouthwatering house-made sauce served along pork shoulder, seasoned egg, and shredded nori. Amaze Mazemen is a brothless ramen that features seasoned thick noodles tossed in sesame oil, grated garlic and topped with pork shoulder, pork belly, onsen tamago, corn, bonito flakes, shredded nori, shredded chili, scallions, and a spoonful of mayonnaise meant to bring the whole dish together with one nice mix. Think of it as a take on Carbonara, Ramen-ized and ready to be enjoyed. For the veggie boost we all need right about now, the Yuzu Boost Bowl is inspired by Hiyashi Chūka, a popular noodle dish consisting of cold noodles with different colorful toppings regularly served in the summer in Japan. With yuzu citrus, cold noodles, and fresh veggies, this bowl goes hand in hand with summer. Every bowl comes with a side of spicy Japanese mustard that can be added to adjust spice level as desired. KINTON RAMEN currently offers dine-in at both their Wicker Park and West Loop locations, as well as takeout and delivery. Visit www.kintonramenusa.com to place and order.
