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The Super Creative ‘Neon Brush’ Experience Is Coming To Chicago
Having challenged thousands in cities around the world to paint outside the box (and paint in the dark), Neon Brush is officially on its way to Chicago. The one-of-a-kind art experience inspires you to get creative and brush up on your painting skills, but it’s way more than your typical art workshop. Using fluorescent neon paints that illuminate under UV lights, you’ll paint to your own tune as you create your dazzling masterpiece. Taking place at Artifact Events, these fun-filled masterclasses are the perfect way to unwind after work or feed innovation on the weekend and discover where your creative flare can...
Severe Storms Expected In Parts Of Chicago Thursday
If you’re expecting blizzards and snow storms during February, you’ll have to keep waiting. This week has been unusually warm for the Chicago winter months, and things are about to get wet thanks to severe storms heading for Chicago. According to ABC7, parts of the Chicago area are under a Level 1 risk of severe storms Thursday. The ABC7 meteorologists said to expect a wave today from 6 to 9 p.m., including a low risk for severe storms. Chicago’s north, west, and some south suburbs, excluding the Kankakee area, are under the threat of large hail or gusty winds. However, temperatures are expected to drop again just in time for Valentine’s Day next week!
A Chicago Restaurant Has Been Crowned The Most Romantic In The United States
There is certainly no shortage of romantic restaurants in Chicago for couples looking to enjoy a special Valentine’s Day in the Windy City next week. One specific place, however, can now claim a certain romantic distinction after Yelp recently ranked Penumbra Restaurant & Wine Bar in Logan Square as not just the most romantic restaurant in Chicago but rather the most romantic in the United States. The Latin-inspired steakhouse was one of 4 Chicago joints to make the annual list of the “top 100 most romantic restaurants in the country.” According to Yelp, businesses in the restaurants and food categories were analyzed with a large concentration of reviews mentioning words and phrases such as “romantic,” “date night” and “Valentine”. Once these user-generated reviews were aggregated restaurants were then ranked using several factors including the total volume and ratings of reviews mentioning those keywords while including a maximum of five businesses per city for geographic diversity.
The Best Malls In Chicago For The Ultimate Shopping Spree
While Chicago is known for many things—skyscrapers, frigid temperatures, lively music scene—there is one that locals and tourists alike can say definitive, Chicago has unbelievable shops. The shopping footprint in Chicago has malls that survived the Great Chicago Fire and malls that have recently been rejuvenated. Whether you’re on the Magnificent Mile or in the suburbs, here are the best malls in Chicago One of the best malls in Chicago also happens to be luxurious, bright, and airy. The atrium of 900 North Michigan Avenue spans 22,000 square feet and seven elongated floors—blurring the line between hospitality and retail. The shops here are grand, between Bloomingdales, Kate Spade, Gucci, J. Crew, Club Monaco, North Shore Exchange, etc. It’s easy to wander for hours and not feel bored. However, when your stomach grumbles, you’ll find the extensive food and drink oasis, Aster Hall. The menu will cater to your cravings from Au Cheval to Ginza Ramen. And if you want to just grab a glass of rosé while you shop around, that’s okay too. Address: 900 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Chicago’s Museum Of Science & Industry Announces New James Bond Exhibit Coming Next Month
Chicago’s beloved Museum of Science and Industry has dropped news of a temporary new exhibit opening next month adding to the wonderful array of exhibitions already taking place across the city. The new exhibit spotlights the world of none other than history’s most famous fictional spy. When it opens on Thursday, March 7th, 007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond will be the first-ever official exhibition to focus on the science and technology behind the world’s longest-running movie franchise. Guests will be invited to explore the iconic cars, gadgets, and props of the James Bond film series while going behind the scenes to learn how the Bond production teams harness real-world science to craft 007’s on-screen adventures. From artifacts like a prototype jetpack from “Thunderball” and the modern Gravity Industries Jet Suit to immersive activities encouraging guests to do everything from design the perfect spy vehicle or (safely) dangle from a steel beam like 007 himself.
A Guide To St Patrick’s Day In Chicago: All You Need To Know About Chicago’s Famed Celebrations
Of all the incredible annual events and special celebrations in Chicago, the widespread hysteria and jubilance of St Patrick’s Day in March makes it one of the city’s favorite traditions. With a historically large Irish population in such a diverse and vibrant city as Chicago, it is no wonder our St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are of international renown. Every year in March an explosion of green sweeps Chicago as marches, parades, and parties take place across the city. Oh, and of course the Chicago River is famously dyed a bright emerald green river. We’ve here provided a breakdown of information with all you need to know about St Patrick’s Day in Chicago so you can be sure you don’t miss a thing during the iconic celebration.
10 Best Places To Watch The Super Bowl LVIII In Chicago
With NFL season coming to a close, the Super Bowl is officially upon us. Maybe you’re watching to see Taylor Swift cheer on her beau or are wishing for a Chief’s loss. Whether watching it alone or with friends, these are the best places to watch the Super Bowl in Chicago. Bandit Chicago, one of our favorite Chicago sports bars, is set to host a Taylor Swift-inspired pop-up brunch on February 11, offering fans an immersive experience into the world of the beloved pop icon. This unique event promises a day filled with Taylor Swift’s enchanting music, the joy of...
Field Museum Is Hosting 7 Museum Sleepover Experiences Starting This Friday
Looking for a unique experience to do with kids in Chicago this year? Look no further. Let imaginations run wild as you and the little ones settle in for the night among the exhibits, artifacts, and eclectic inhabitants of one of the largest natural history museums on the planet. The Field Museum’s event series Dozin’ with the Dinos invites families and groups with kids ages 6 to 12 to spend a night at the museum staying up late with scientists, enjoying immersive activities, and exploring exhibitions in the dark. Taking place on 7 dates this year, the evenings begin with snacks and a science showcase in the Stanley Field Hall followed by late-night activities like dissecting owl pellets and learning the steps of Egyptian mummification before guests are then invited to explore the numerous exhibitions with a flashlight.
Kanye West And Ty Dolla Hint At Special Chicago Event For Upcoming Joint Album This Week
On the back of one Chicago native, Chance the Rapper, announcing a somewhat impromptu hometown concert taking place very soon, another Chicago-raised star in the shape of Kanye West has hinted at his own special event in the coming days. The rapper, producer, and fashion designer has a joint album with Ty Dolla scheduled for release this coming Friday titled “Vultures, Volume One” which according to an image posted to Ty Dolla’s Instagram last week will be split into three volumes. Further social media posts from the two superstars in similar cryptic fashion have now hinted at a special event at Chicago’s United Center this week. Late yesterday, Ty Dolla posted an image with the words “Vultures United Center Chicago 02 08 24” while Kanye West simply posted the number “1“.
These Rage Rooms In Chicago Let You Crash, Smash, And Have A Blast
We all know Chicago has its perks, but it also has its faults. It can be noisy, messy, and chaotic—between constant car horns blasting, bumper-to-bumper traffic, the bitter cold, and the Bears sucking, there are many reasons to be agitated if you’re a Chicagoan. And we can all use stress relief. While some things like escape rooms get the mind flowing, we sometimes need to smash, crash, and utterly wreck something to release the stress. So, we’ve found our favorite Chicago rage rooms for you to get down and begin destroying. While almost all the rage rooms in Chicago are, in fact, not in Chicago. Why would we have other places that are further away? It’s because there is only one. The one rage room in Chicago is the Kanya Lounge. The exclusive two-story adult playground has three unique custom-made range rooms. The 11,000-square-foot space offers visitors (ragers) the opportunity to go wild. The Kanya Lounge package offers 20 minutes of destruction. You’ll receive one premium item (monitor, printer, etc.), one small item (phone, keyboard, music system, DVD player, VCR, etc.), and a mix of five standard items (plates, glass bottles, cups, etc.). Address: 2525 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
The Best Bars In Chicago Right Now
Many people like to frequent Chicago bars, whether it’s a cocktail or a mocktail. However, with many of them in the city, it can become difficult to navigate the crowded scene. Where are you supposed to date someone on a first date? Or where can you clink glasses with a group of friends? Or where do you find somewhere romantic to impress your partner on your anniversary? From intimate speakeasies to luxurious cocktail bars, we’ve compiled a list of the best bars in Chicago. Not too many places are named the World’s greatest by Time magazine—that recognition alone tells you everything you need to know about Kumiko. When you enter the Japanese dining bar, a warm hug of perfumed aromas encloses you. And after reading the extensive cocktail list, you can see why. Julia Momosé, the owner and mixologist, created an exquisite range of cocktails at Kumiko that blend Japanese ingredients with adept technique—creating a truly unique experience. However, the Japanese bar doesn’t feel too ostentatious. Its brick-exposed walls and gold-hued interior make this upscale restaurant feel relaxed and warm. Address: 630 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60661
Navy Pier To Host First-Ever Valentine’s Day-Themed Firework Show This Weekend
If you’re searching for a romantic Valentine’s Day plan in Chicago this weekend or already have dinner booked at a romantic restaurant and want to double down with something else extra special, we’ve got just the ticket. Every year from May through to September, Chicago’s Navy Pier puts on weekly firework displays that have earned the ranking as one of the top 10 best places to see fireworks in the entire country. New Year’s Eve and 4th of July aside, the rest of the year is void of significant fireworks displays. The winter months are spent waiting for the return of warmer weather and for years Navy Pier’s fireworks displays have been a sign of the start of summer and the return of the iconic landmark’s summer program of events. This weekend, the Navy Pier will “commemorate Valentine’s weekend with a specialty-themed rendition of its free award-winning fireworks“,
Warm Winter Weather Records Could Be Broken In Chicago This Week
Following a streak of hostile winter weather in Chicago which saw frost quakes, problems for electric vehicles and some parts of Illinois register colder temperatures than Alaska, the last few days have blessed the Chicago area with wonderfully unwinterlike weather. The sun is now setting after 5 pm each day, we’re once again experiencing more than 10 hours of daylight and now there’s more good news for those seeing out the Chicago winter. The typically mercurial Midwestern weather is set to continue this week with Chicago now set for unseasonably high temperatures in the coming days. According to the National Weather Service, though the week will start with “areas of fog and freezing fog” as well as “patchy slick spots and sudden drops in visibility”, near-record warmth is possible towards the end of the week.
Chicago Will Finally Get Public Restrooms This Year
Chicago’s long-awaited pilot program for public restrooms finally has lift-off. After years of pushing an initiative to trial public restrooms in the city and finally brokering a deal with JCDecaux last year, Alds. Rossana Rodriguez-Sanchez (33rd) and Ald. Daniel La Spata (1st) recently announced that bathrooms were “ready for installation” and locations are now in the process of being finalized. “We have never been closer to having a public bathroom pilot in Chicago,” Ald. Daniel La Spata told constituents in a newsletter. “Meeting with JCDecaux today, they confirmed that the first four high-quality public bathrooms are ready for installation as part of their contract with the City. I’m excited to see the City work with such an experienced operator and hopeful that we can determine appropriate locations in the very near term.” https://www.instagram.com/p/ClGYJUhoD5i/?img_index=1 According to their website, French company JCDecaux, who was chosen to install and manage the public bathrooms, is the operator of the world’s largest network of self-cleaning public toilets with over 2,500 toilets in 28 countries.
Chicago’s FlyOver Attraction Just Dropped Its First Trailer Showcasing The Incoming Multi-Sensory Experience
In under a month, Navy Pier’s much-anticipated FlyOver experience will open its doors welcoming riders aboard the exciting new multisensory experience. Incorporating leading drone technologies along with impressive aerial shots and first person-narratives, ‘FlyOver’ is an immersive attraction that “transports guests to the planet’s most epic places through exhilarating flying journeys”. A massive 65-foot spherical screen surrounds riders while flight motion seats engineered to “swoop, dip, and turn” take them soaring from location to location. With complete sensory immersion using wind, mist, and scents, the FlyOver is no doubt set to be one of the city’s most exciting new immersive attractions and now it has just dropped its first trailer showing a taste of what’s to come in just a matter of weeks.
This Circus-Style Burlesque Show Just Arrived In Chicago For Valentine’s Season
A brand new burlesque-style circus cabaret show has officially arrived in Chicago, bringing you dazzling acrobatics with a sultry Valentine’s-themed twist! Taking place at the lively Joy District in River North, Love Struck by AirOtic Soirée welcomes you to leave your inhibitions at the door as you enjoy incredible aerial stunts, seductive choreography and more. Grab a cocktail and watch in awe as world-class acrobats fly through the air during a series of seductive acts – each as mesmerizing as the last. Plus, guests can enjoy 25% off opening weekend tickets for a limited time. Use code AIROTICOPEN25 on tickets for the February 1st to February 3rd shows to save! This enchanting soirée is only in town through February 17th! Snag tickets here. Presented by AirOtic Soirée, Love Struck blends love and fantasy to create the ultimate evening of entertainment. One hour before the show, doors will open for a decadent cocktail hour complete with interactive photo opportunities, handcrafted cocktails and ambient music.
Here Are The Best Escape Rooms In Chicago To Try With Friends And Family
Deciding what to do for your next birthday, work event, or friend outing can be strenuous. Everyone wants to do something different, and most of the activities involve sitting far apart where you can only socialize with a few people. Well, escape rooms in Chicago are a way to avoid all the above. Some of the best escape rooms in Chicago are an entertaining and amusing adventure at any age. The immersive experience enables everyone to work together to solve puzzles, discover clues, and complete tasks to finish the game’s mission within a set amount of time. So, put your...
You Can Pitch Your Single BFFs At This Chicago Dating Event
Still don’t know what you’re doing for Galentine’s Day this year? Well, at Please Date My Friend, you can spend the day potentially finding your friends or yourself a future partner. On February 15th at the Color Club, join Please Date My Friend: A Night of PowerPoints for an evening of laughs and romance. While the applicants have already been chosen, you’ll be surrounded by people with the same quest: to find a potential partner. Presented by Local Universe and hosted by mischievous matchmaker Kira Felsenfeld, this event will feature some of Chicago’s most eligible people. You’ll watch as people ‘pitch’ their single friends in hopes that someone in the audience (maybe you) will shoot their shot! Tickets cost $12.36 and are selling quickly. If you can’t make it, don’t worry. The Color Club has a wide variety of upcoming events, from comedy shows to live music.
Chance The Rapper To Perform Intimate Concert At The Recently Reopened Ramova Theatre This Month
A Chicago finishes chapter 1 of 12 in 2024 and moves closer to warmer temps, the city’s live music and entertainment scene begins announcing all manner of concerts around Chicago for the rest of the year. Big names will inevitably sell out venues like Chicago’s United Center but it is at some of the city’s small, historic venues where more intimate concerts can be experienced. Having reopened at the turn of the year, Bridgeport’s Ramova Theatre now finds itself ranked among the city’s most iconic venues thanks to a multi-million dollar revamp by an investment and ownership group that includes musical heavyweights Quincy Jones, Jennifer Hudson, and Chance the Rapper. Working alongside developer Tyler Nevius on the theatre’s resurrection, it was reportedly the celebrities’ way to give back to their hometown’s thriving music scene and now Chance The Rapper has given more reason to celebrate.
Chicago Returns To 10-Hour Days Tomorrow
Having just returned to post 5 pm sunsets last weekend, Chicago will tomorrow experience its first 10-hour day since November 10th, 2023. Just over a month ago on Thursday, December 21, we experienced the shortest day of 2023 with a 7:14 a.m. sunrise and 4:22 p.m. sunset making the day length a grand total of 9 hours, 7 minutes, and 44 seconds. Tomorrow, however, with sunrise at 07:03 and sunset at 17:05, the total day length will be 10 hours, 1 minute, and 44 seconds. Even better, from here on out daylight hours will increase rapidly with our first 11-hour day of the year coming on Saturday, February 24th when the sun will rise at 6:33 a.m. and set at 17:34 a.m.
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Secret Chicago tracks down the best things to do in the city, from quirky restaurants and hidden bars to the best exhibitions, shows and nightlife in Chicago.
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