Now That You're Here

No matter what brings you to the Chicago Southland, there are plenty of unique things to see and do that’ll maximize your visit. Now that you’re here, you can…

• Unplug for the weekend. Break away from the monotony by visiting one of the Chicago Southland’s 33 public golf courses. The historic Cog Hill Golf & Country Club in Palos Park has hosted over 20 PGA Tour events and national USGA amateur events. Play like a pro on the famous “Dubsdread” course or head to the driving range. Cool down with an ice-cold craft beer at Evil Horse Brewing Company  in Crete, just one of the 18 breweries that call the Chicago Southland home. Evil Horse has been crafting traditional beers since first opening their doors in 2016 and, in the process, been awarded several accolades for brews such as their Downtown Hottie and Doorbreken, just to name a few.
• Enjoy the nightlife. There is a bustling nightlife scene in the Chicago Southland! Dancing, cigar lounges, wineries and more are just a few of the hotspots in the region. Breweries are also a popular choice, including the region’s oldest brewery: Flossmoor Station Restaurant & Brewery in Flossmoor. Open for over 25 years, Flossmoor Station is home to award-winning beers and gourmet pub food. This is the perfect place to grab some drinks and grub while watching the trains go by. 
• Check out the food scene. Endless dining options await you in the Chicago Southland. There is no shortage of delicious and unique food! Wine lovers won’t want to miss out on Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant in Orland Park. Cooper’s Hawk is a convenient and tasty option. Enjoy the expansive menu with food-complementing wine selections or a wine tasting in the bar. Plus, bottles are available to take home. No matter where you choose to dine, be sure to share your Instagrammable eats with us on social media using #ChicagoSouthland!
• Visit with friends or family.  Animal lovers of all ages should check out Brookfield Zoo Chicago in Brookfield. Brookfield Zoo Chicago first opened in 1934 and has been welcoming generations of residents and visitors since. The 216-acre nature park is home to over 5,000 animals and incredible conservation programs. Be sure to visit Tropic World and check out the dolphin show for a wild time! Don’t forget to check out our events page for annual, family-friendly events throughout the Chicago Southland.
• Grab a bite to eat with the fam. The Chicago Southland is home to restaurants that will satisfy everyone’s taste buds. If you’re looking for a spot to bring the whole family, try Aurelio’s Pizza in Homewood. Aurelio’s is Chicago’s oldest pizza chain, and the Homewood location is the world’s largest pizzeria! The perfect spot to grab a traditional Chicago thin-crust pizza, Aurelio’s also offers pasta, sandwiches, salads and more
• See one-of-a-kind works of art. Art is everywhere in the Chicago Southland! Visit the world-famous Lotton Art Glass Gallery & Studios in Crete and see breathtaking works of glass art. These one-of-a-kind pieces are created by hand. Plus, Lotton Art Glass recently celebrated their 50th anniversary, making now a perfect time to visit and see the bowls, vases, paperweights and more original creations. Enjoy the great outdoors with a visit to the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park in University Park. On the campus of the Governors State University, this sculpture park is a collection of 34 master works of art, situated across 100 acres of prairie landscape. Check out the famous Paul Bunyan statue or the huge yellow "French fries," just to name a few. The park is open 365 days a year and is free of charge.