Travel Inspirations

The Chicago Southland: Just Beyond the City Limits
Just Beyond the City Limits of Chicago, rests the south and southwest suburbs known as the Chicago Southland. The Chicago Southland is a convenient and affordable destination bursting with outdoor recreation, major attractions, fine dining, lodging and shopping. With interst...

10 Hidden Gems of the Chicago Southland
There are absolutely a massive number of things to see and do in the Chicago Southland’s 60 communities. Many are well known and easy to spot, where you’ll join the crowd to get a look and explore. Others are quieter, less crowded or off the beaten path &nda...

12 Must Shop Sites
Looking forward to some retail therapy while spending time in the Chicago Southland? These are some places you won’t want to miss: Conservatory Vintage & Vinyl, Flossmoor (ConservatoryVintageandVinyl.com) If you’re a lover of all things vintage, you must ...

6 Downtowns You'll Dig
Many of the suburbs within the Chicago Southland have defined centers of town, with a significant structure as a focal point and/or main street of historic buildings, quaint shops and more that make for a pleasant destination to spend a day. Each one of our communities has s...

7 Days of BBQ
Put some pork on your fork every day of the week with these seven mouthwatering barbecue joints!   Famous Daves in Orland Park Casual, Family Friendly, Dine-In, To-Go, Catering, Winner of over 650 Awards: Ribs, Brisket, Burgers, Chicken & BBQ Sandwiches, Fu...

9 Kid-Friendly Must-Do Activities
1. BRAIN BUSTERS Learn what it was like growing up on a farm during the Great Depression and the early post-war period (1930-1955) when visiting Stellwagen Farm in Orland Park (OrlandPark.org). The 60 acres still has descendants from the Stellwagen family working on the f...

A Day on the Farm
Although the Southland region surrounds the city of Chicago, there’s also ample amounts of greenery and open space in the outlying suburbs. It’s the best of both worlds. All the amenities of the city are in our backyard, but so are several farms where you can do ...

A Foodie Tour of the Chicago Southland
The Chicago Southland is a foodie’s paradise. Among its communities are eateries galore—various ethnic specialties, fine dining, brewpubs, casual pubs and cafes, ice cream parlors, pizzerias and much, much more. Not sure where to start? Let us help.  &nbs...

ABCs of Chicago Southland Family Fun
A is for Attractions - From family fun centers to horse shows to sporting venues, you’ll find a fun activity for anyone! B is for Bicycling - The Chicago Southland boasts miles of cycling trails and the Big Marsh Bike Park. C is for Carnival - Thro...

All About Beer
With their popularity growing, it is no surprise that the Chicago Southland is home to 15 craft breweries. After exploring the Southland region, a cold, refreshing beer is the perfect way to end the day. Grab a brew and a bite at Flossmoor Station Restaurant & Br...

All Hands on Deck
There’s nothing more frustrating to a little one than being able to look at something cool and not be able to touch it or play with it. When you spend time in the Chicago Southland, you’ll find places where kids can get in and enjoy what’s in front of them ...

All Things Irish
If you want to feel Irish, but stay in the states, grab a Guinness in Chicago Southland at J.J. Kelley’s in Lansing, or The Carraig Irish Pub located next to Chicago Gaelic Park, an Irish athletic and cultural center in Oak Forest. St. Patrick’s Day is more than ...

Aquatic Attractions
Those lazy days of summer are always better poolside. Cool down at some of the Chicago Southland’s aquatic attractions. Take a dip, poke your toes in the water, frolic at a splash pad or zip down a drop slide. The water is flowing and the choice is yours.  Cent...

As Seen On TV
Hog Wild in Midlothian was included in the “Best Pork” episode on Chicago’s Best. Known for their super-thick “world famous pork chop,” they also offer a variety of additional BBQ meats, fried shrimp, steak, beef and sausage sandwiches, chicken,...

Attention Nature Lovers!
“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” –Albert Einstein   The natural beauty of the Midwest is often overlooked. There may not be oceans or mountains, but in the absence of high peaks and massive seas, if you lo...

Axe Throwing
Tap your inner warrior and try out the thrilling activity of axe throwing! There are a few places in the Chicago Southland that offer an opportunity to try it out, hone your skills or release some stress.   Axeplosion Axe Throwing Lounge, Orland Park This famil...

Ball Fore Mini-Golf
You might be able to drive a golf ball 300 yards, but can you navigate the colorful, yet challenging terrain at the Ball Fore Miniature Golf Course in Chicago Ridge? This course hosted the U.S. ProMiniGolf Association’s U.S. Open Championship that attracted top interna...

Be Kool & Bring the Gang to Celebrate These Anniversaries
2024 is an enormously special year for a variety of Chicago Southland communities, which will be celebrating milestone anniversaries. While each of these wonderful communities will have special celebrations, final details are still pending. Happy 75th anniversary to the V...

Biking in the Chicago Southland
The Chicago area has long been a cyclist-friendly area, and its miles of paved trails continue to grow. The Southland Century Loop has been in the works for years and will eventually connect several shorter routes to create a 100-plus-mile loop through the south and southwes...

Birding Hot Spots
The southern part of the city of Chicago and its south and southwest suburbs provides a beautiful landscape that attracts a variety of wildlife. Birding is a popular pastime in the Chicago Southland in this biologically significant treasure with tens of thousands of acres of...

Breakfast Club
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day! Start your day off right with a scrumptious meal from a Chicago Southland breakfast spot. Chuck’s Southern Comforts Cafe in Burbank serves breakfast every weekend! Sample a specialty like chicken and waffles, Cajun ...

Bring Your Bike!
Explore hundreds of miles of riding trails in the Chicago Southland If you’ve got a couple hours and the energy to pedal a few miles, we’ve got some fun for you. Seeing the Chicago Southland via bicycle gives you a different perspective and a way to view the are...

Bunk Bed Bucket List
Missing the days of hopping into a bunk bed as a kid? The newly opened Hampton Inn & Suites-Bridgeview has something you’ll love. It’s a more grown-up version with queen bunkbeds. So, don’t let the kids have all the fun. Book a room, bring some friends ...

Bushels of Fall Fun
As the temperatures drop and cool, crisp air lures us out, the Chicago Southland gears up for bushels of fall fun. You’ll find pumpkins, pumpkins everywhere, including at some wonderfully fun fall attractions that the family will enjoy. Bengston’s Pumpkin Farm...

Celebrate the Diverse Heritages of the Chicago Southland
The Chicago Southland is a true melting pot of diverse ethnic backgrounds and loves to celebrate its history with parades and festivals. Here is a sample of the many ethnic celebrations in the Chicago Southland. Irish Heritage Everyone knows about the rich history of t...

Chicago Southland Bucket List
Did you know having a bucket list is mandatory in life? Yes, MANDATORY!! Okay, maybe we’re going a little overboard, but shouldn’t everyone dream about a bucket list and start living it? For those of you visiting the Chicago Southland or residents who haven&rsquo...

Chicago Southland Cuisine: Pizza, Farm-to-Table, Chicago Style Hot Dogs, Sweet Treats and more.
Chicago Style Hot Dogs What is a Chicago-style Hot Dog? All-beef frankfurter on a steamed poppy seed bun topped with: Yellow mustard Chopped white onions Neon green sweet pickle relish Dill pickle spear Tomato wedges Pickled sport peppers and a dash of celery ...

Chicago Southland Cuisine: World’s Largest Pizzeria
Joe Aurelio founded the original Aurelio’s in 1959 with a small, four table restaurant on Ridge Road in Homewood. By 1977, Aurelio’s had grown so popular that they opened the world's largest pizzeria near its original store in a former 12,000-square-foot indu...

Chicago Southland International Film Festival
The sixth annual Chicago Southland International Film Festival (CSIFF) is taking place in April 2024 and will showcase independent filmmakers with diverse perspectives. With core values of inclusiveness, diversity and promoting quality of life, the CSIFF supports an atmosphe...

Chicago Southland Photo Ops
If you’re always on the lookout for a great photo backdrop, here are a few spots to keep in mind for a little family photo shoot or just a super-cool selfie while on the road. 1. Lake Katherine Nature Center, Palos Heights Of course, any garden is going to offer ...

Chicago Southland, To-A-T
In 2020, the Chicago Southland Convention & Visitors Bureau launched its “To a T” campaign to highlight some of the Chicago Southland’s most popular attractions in four categories: trails, trains, tunes and taprooms. A few clicks on our official “...

Clue or Red Herring?
Do you thrive under pressure? Do you enjoy playing games and solving puzzles? Do you think you’re wise enough to use your mind to break out of an escape room? Well, the Chicago Southland has plenty of places to bust your brain in hopes of escaping DANGER!! Crisis Ro...

Coffee, Tea & Sweets
Whether you’re looking to jump start your day with a jolt of espresso, sip on some sweet macha midday or pick up some goodies to tame your sweet tooth, the Chicago Southland has no shortage of places to kick back and indulge. COFFEE & TEA THE EDGE COFFEE H...

Crete Art Trail
Ready to become a trailblazer? Explore the brand-new Crete Art Trail, a blend of art galleries, murals and businesses that showcase local artists and their creations. Sponsored by Evil Horse Brewing Company, the Crete Art Trail consists of the world-renowned Lotton Art ...

Crozehead Cooperage: A One-of-a-Kind Attraction in Monee, Illinois
Crozehead Cooperage and Whiskey Experience is one of only 26 cooperages in the country, the only one in Illinois and the only one in the U.S. that is veteran owned. Loren Buchmeier has worked toward building this business on his boyhood farm, offering a unique whiskey experi...

Dining Al Fresco
Once the weather warms, everyone is itching to spend more time outdoors. But being outside doesn’t have to mean hiking through forests or fields. Incorporate some time outside with a leisurely al fresco meal at one of Chicago Southland’s dining establishments. ...

Disc Golf
There are over 125 holes of disc golf spread throughout the Chicago Southland, most for free. From small nine-hole courses to the 20-hole Seargent Means Park course in Olympia Fields, there are courses for every level in the region. 50 Acre Park 9100 South Cal...

Discover Interpretive Murals Along the Lincoln Highway
Along the 179-mile Illinois Lincoln Highway, you will find over 30 interpretive gazebos and murals that help tell the story of America's First Coast-to-Coast Road. Dedicated in 1913, the Lincoln Highway runs about 25 miles through the Chicago Southland from Sauk Village&...

Dixie Highway Marks 100 Years
A young fur trader’s work nearly 200 years ago to set up a series of trading posts from Chicago to Vincennes, Ind., laid the groundwork for what we know today as the Dixie Highway, which turned 100 in 2015. Described as the World’s Greatest Rolling Car Show, D...

Dog Days of Travel
Travelling with your pets can be RUFF at times but it has gotten easier in the Chicago Southland. In life, pet ownership rivals the greatest companionship and in the Chicago Southland, we offer over 15 pet friendly hotels to make your travels delightful. From name brands you...

Drink to the Moment!
“Here’s to you!” “Raise your glass to toast the bride and groom!” “TGIF!” Whatever the reason you grab a drink, enjoy the moment! It is often advised by drink aficionados when tasting a craft beer, bourbon or wine to slow down, pay a...

Ecotourism: Get Back to Nature!
There are many options to learn about the nature and the ecosystem of the Chicago Southland. From tours to environmental learning centers and trails to explore, the region offers a variety of opportunities for your family. Environmental Learning Centers The Center...

Embracing the Arts
Life is better when we surround ourselves with beautiful things that awaken and excite our senses. Sights and sounds uplift us and inspire us. In the Chicago Southland, the arts explode - bringing us elevated awareness and peaceful harmony in everything from performances to ...

Enchanté Ami
Say Oui to a weekend getaway with the Chicago Southland’s newest boutique hotel, La Banque Hotel. Located in the bustling downtown district of Homewood in a renovated bank building, La Banque Hotel offers a luxurious stay one typically finds in the city, with the flexi...

Exploring Black History in the Chicago Southland
As a center of the Great Migration, the Chicago area has a rich history when it comes to the African American experience. Throughout the city and suburbs are stories and lasting marks made by those who paved the way for future generations in many areas. Spend some time on yo...

Family Fun For All
When you're got a family full of varying ages to occupy, it can be hard to find activities to satisfy everyone. It’s not a problem in the Chicago Southland where we've got family fun galore at a number of family fun centers and cool venues. In fact, your bigges...

Famous Graves in the Chicago Southland
Supporters of icons, whether music, religious, sports or military remain dedicated after their passing. The Chicago Southland is home to an eclectic mix, from famous blues musicians to Congressional Medal of Honor recipients, civil rights icons, Chicago mayors and the founde...

Fish Out of Water
While thousands of people have lived without love, nobody has lived without water. If water is your happy place to clear your mind, swim or fish, then these are the hot spots in the Chicago Southland where you’ll be able to simply chill. Centennial Park in Orland Pa...

Four Seasons, Four Agendas
Looking to spend a weekend in the Chicago Southland? There’s so much to see and do no matter the season. We’ve done the work for you and put together a fun, weekend list of itinerary ideas for each season. IN THE WINTER Saturday: Rent snowshoes at Plu...

Four-Legged Friends Welcome
Our pets are family. They’re loyal and affectionate and brighten our days. So, why wouldn’t we want to bring them along as we travel? In the Chicago Southland, you’ll find a number of venues that will welcome your pet - from hotels where they can snuggle up...

Free And Fun Family Things To Do
There’s family fun at every turn in the Chicago Southland, but planning an itinerary with the kiddos can get expensive. Here we offer ten fun family things to do that won’t cost you a dime. 1) Nature Centers Take time to visit one of the area nature centers t...

Free and Fun Things to Do in the Chicago Southland
1. EXPLORE the 42,169 acres of the Forest Preserves of Cook County, the largest forest preserve district in the country, that run throughout the Chicago Southland. 2. BIKE the 22-mile Old Plank Road Trail through the Chicago Southland. 3.EXPLORE&nbs...

Fun Times for the Family
When you’ve got a family full of varying ages to occupy, it can be hard to find activities to satisfy everyone. It’s not a problem in the Chicago Southland, where we’ve got family fun galore at a number of family fun centers and cool venues. In fact, your b...

Game On
The Chicago Southland offers a wide variety of professional and semi-professional sports to meet any budget. Home to SeatGeek Stadium and the Chicago Stars FC, the village of Bridgeview offers a family-friendly atmosphere with major league excitement. Sit in “Sectio...

Get A Taste Of Ethnic Diversity
Much like the nearby city of Chicago, the Southland is a melting pot of cultures, which is apparent in the large variety of cuisine you’ll find in the suburbs. No matter what you are craving or what new style of food you’d like to try, you’re sure to find i...

Get Out!
There’s so much of the outdoors to enjoy in the Chicago Southland. Southland Century Loop Work continues on the Southland Century Trail, which, when complete, will create a 100-mile loop around Chicagoland. Within that loop are several separate trails that have b...

Get Outside The Gallery!
When you think of artistic attractions, your mind may go toward art galleries and indoor exhibits, but the Chicago Southland has its share of art displayed in public places - sculptures and statues, murals and memorials in view to be admired. An eclectic and diverse colle...

Girls’ Weekend Getaway
We all know girls just want to have fun, but women also want choices when traveling together. Where to eat, drink, shop and unwind? Are you in an artsy mood or more of a scream-your-favorite-song-at-the-top-of-your-lungs kind of mood? Whether you want a fancy girls’ ge...

Gone Fishing
Catch the big one at these Southland Spots! There are lakes, ponds and streams throughout the Chicago Southland to grab a pole and cast a line. Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Bluegill, Walleye and Catfish are a few of the species that reside in the area wa...

Hangout Spots For All
Keep Calm and Comic On: Comic Book and Retail Stores 3 Keys Comics, Crete All American Comic Shop, Evergreen Park Alternate Reality, Inc., Chicago Amazing Fantasy Books & Comics, Frankfort  Closet Collectibles, Crete Comic Asylum, Worth Elsewhere Comics &am...

Harvest Happenings and Farm Fun
It’s very easy to get wrapped up in all the hustle and bustle that happens in our everyday lives. We encourage you to take a step back, slow down and truly enjoy the beauty of the region. From farms that are filled with family history to annual festivals that have grow...

Have a WILD time!
What makes a good trip a great trip? Seeing some beautiful animals along the way. The Chicago Southland is home to some animal-related attractions and hosts some pet-related events that will have you oohing and awwing at the cuteness. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is one sp...

Have Pet, Will Travel
Pet lovers can attest to how hard it is to leave their furry, scaled or feathered friends behind while traveling. With over 20 hotels in the Chicago Southland that allow owners to bring their pets along, traveling with your buddy is becoming much easier. Here are the area ho...

Hear It Live!
From big names to local acts, hear live music on stage at several venues in the Chicago Southland. SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview hosts a number of music festivals each season. The outdoor amphitheater in Country Club Hills is a great place to enjoy up-and-coming and...

Hidden Gems
Sometimes the most incredible experiences come not from visiting the largest, well-known tourist spots, but from some of the off-the-beaten path locales or smaller, more obscure venues. Such places aren’t as obvious and might be a little out of the way, but the extra e...

Historic Bars
Belly up to the bar and listen to the stories the walls have to tell. The definition of an historic bar doesn’t always mean it's old; it needs to have a certain charm and cozy feeling that surrounds you when first entering. Take the train to Flossmoor Station Re...

Historical Markers
For history buffs, the Chicago Southland is full of sites that give a glimpse into the past. The area has a rich history that encompasses many areas - aviation, education, industry, railroad, transportation, slavery, sports, agriculture, architecture and more. You can lea...

Holiday Markets
Is there anything more magical than the holiday season? Capture some of that magic at some of the annual holiday events in the Chicago Southland. Go to VisitChicagoSouthland.com/Events for dates and details. HOLIDAY CRAFT & VENDOR SHOW, Founders Community Center, Fran...

Homewood Bat Co Hits Home Run in the Southland
Want to shop for a baseball bat at the same place a number of pros have their bats made? Or looking for a one-of-a-kind gift for a big baseball fan? Visit Homewood Bat Co where you can peruse inventory in the Pro Shop, test out product in the batting cage and get a custom...

Hot Coffee and Chill Time
Looking for a place where you can slow down and relax with a cup of coffee and lounge while you sip, or where you can pull out your laptop to get some work done and have a cup of fuel at the ready? While there is no shortage of fast-food, fast -casual or cafe chains where yo...

I Do Venues
Everyone has their own version of a “dream wedding.” The ideal place to say your vows and commemorate the occasion with a reception varies from couple to couple. For some, it’s on a beach in a tropical location. It might mean an outdoor setting with lots of...

I Like Big Marsh and I Cannot Lie
Do you believe in the power of play? Big Marsh Bike Park is a playground for cycling. This is a new legacy of outdoor recreation and open space stewardship making it Chicago’s first eco-recreation park. The coordinators of Big Marsh have taken it from a slag field to a...

Illinois Made
The Illinois Made program was created to recognize the makers, creators and artisans who help craft Illinois by hand. These makers inspire visitors and Illinois residents to discover more about the state by experiencing the passion that makes it thrive. The Chicago Southland...

In Tents Escapes (Camping in the Chicago Southland)
Sleeping under the stars is something everyone should experience at least once – and in the Chicago Southland, you can have that experience at several forest preserve sites.   FOREST PRESERVE DISTRICT OF COOK COUNTY The Forest Preserve District of Cook Co...

Indoor Fun
In the Midwest, we never know what the weather is going to throw at us, so you need a good, short list of fun, indoor attractions to visit when outdoor fun isn’t in the cards. So, tuck this list away for a rainy, snowy or wintry day. Climb On Rock Gym, Homewood T...

It's Showtime!
From imaginative Broadway plays to invigorating concerts, the venues of the Chicago Southland offer a variety of shows to choose from, for theater buffs and casual fans alike. Freedom Hall in Park Forest offers an intimate 280-seat theater and hosts a wide array of perf...

Kick It at SeatGeek Stadium
The Chicago Southland is home to fantastic sports facilities, including SeatGeek Stadium. The stadium is conveniently located in Bridgeview, near I-294 and I-55, making it easily accessible for both visitors and local fans. SeatGeek Stadium is the premier soccer destination ...

Leave No Child Inside
It’s time to put the video games down and take the kids outside to experience childhood the way you remember it…in the great outdoors. Start the day off exploring nature at Sand Ridge Nature Center in South Holland. Fans of dragonflies and butterflies are treate...

Let Your Taste Buds Take Flight
Sometimes you just want to sip and sample, rather than guzzling a pint or finishing off a full cocktail or bottle of wine. That’s when it’s time to order a flight, which is an assortment of one type of food or beverage. A concept that has been available in brewer...

Listen to the Music
Nothing screams walking on sunshine in the summertime like an outdoor concert at your favorite local venue, and the Chicago Southland has plenty from which to choose. The new Centennial Park West in Orland Park (OrlandPark.org) not only hosts concerts, but outdoor mo...

Magnificent Murals
Art is all around us if we know where to look. In the Chicago Southland, there’s a plethora of indoor and outdoor art for viewing that includes interpretive murals created by talented artists. Lincoln Highway Murals The Illinois Lincoln Highway, America's Fir...

Mancationing in the Chicago Southland
Men, it's time to ditch the thoughts of a romantic weekend getaway or antiquing and start planning your Mancation to the Chicago Southland with plenty of access to beer, golf and cigars! Grab your clubs, best caddy shack references and head to one of our 34 golf cours...

Meal and Drink Pairings: Basics 101
The general consensus among foodies, beer nerds, wine lovers and cocktail connoisseurs is: “Eat and drink what you like.” True. However, viewing the drink in your hand as an additional ingredient to your dish enhances your experience and may surprise you. In o...

Memorials Around the Chicago Southland
There are several memorials to the veterans who served in the five branches of the U.S. Military and those who made the ultimate sacrifice. This tour will take you to memorials in 13 towns throughout the Chicago Southland. You will see everything from helicopters to tan...

Need for Speed
Do you feel the need, the need for speed? Do you ever break into “Go Speed Racer, Go Speed Racer, Go Speed Racer, GO!” while driving on the highway? Do you have the inability to drive 55? Do you like to live life in the fast lane (surely makes you lose your mind!...

Nightlife
Entertainment options abound in the Chicago Southland. From brewpubs to distilleries, comedy clubs to concert venues, the Chicago Southland has a plurality of entertainment options! Every city has a variety of bars and clubs. Some options for you: Drink Arrowhe...

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 Sou...

Old School Eats
When you’re hungry, sometimes you can’t wait to make your way to a trendy new spot, but other times you just want to head to a cozy eatery that feels more old-school - one that has been around for decades and serving up comforting cuisine in a place that feels an...

Outdoor Bliss
Grab your binoculars and camera and get ready to explore the beauty within Chicago Southland.   Bird Watching BURNHAM PRAIRIE NATURE PRESERVE 2866 East 142nd Street, Burnham The most common species spotted at Burnham Prairie, according to EBird.org, are the ...

Picnic Places
A little al fresco dining on a blanket in a beautiful setting is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. In the Chicago Southland, there’s an abundance of great outdoor spots to enjoy some time with someone special. So, grab your picnic basket, make some sandwiches or grab...

Pizza Tour
You could easily come to the Chicago Southland, eat pizza every day for a year and not duplicate your pizza order. There are scores of restaurants serving up this Chicago specialty in various forms - cracker thin, stuffed, pan pizza, deep dish, calzone - with a huge selectio...

Places for Pickleheads
Did you know pickleball has been around since 1965? It’s the fastest-growing sport in the United States, with participation increasing almost 160% since COVID-19 first made its appearance. Because of its tremendous growth, don’t be surprised if the following list...

Places on the National Historic Register
The Chicago Southland is home to more than a dozen sites on the National Historic Register. From famous homes, aircraft hangars and downtowns, exploring the Chicago Southland is like exploring history of the Midwest. Joshua P. Young House 244 High Street, Blue Isla...

Planes, Trains and Automobiles
Easily accessible by air, rail or expressway, the Chicago Southland also has attractions and events related to those modes of transportation. Aviation history, train viewing platforms and organized rides on some of America’s oldest roads can be part of your experience ...

Play Ball!
If you’re a fan of America’s pastime, you can enjoy the game at many levels in the Chicago Southland. From casual play to Major League Baseball, you’ll find teams and venues to entertain you. Get a taste of baseball the way it was played back in 1858 by ...

Public Art is Everywhere in the Chicago Southland
Murals Richard Haas Mural Collection In addition to a unique and quaint downtown area, Homewood now boasts the largest collection of Richard Haas murals anywhere in the world. Haas, a world-renowned painter specializing in large, hyper-realistic art that creates the illu...

Pullman National Monument
Interpreting stories of perseverance, preservation and pride related to American industrialization, urban planning, labor and civil rights. After years of planning and restoration, Pullman National Monument and State Historic Site held the grand opening of the Pullman Nat...

Railfanning in the Chicago Southland
Railfans love the Chicago Southland for its plurality of railfan spots! From double diamonds to the Pullman National Monument, a brewpub in an old Illinois Central rail station and one of the only places to see a double wye junction in the country, the Chicago Southland has ...

Recognizing the Early Inhabitants
Chicago Southland Touched with Native American Influence Before the European settlers made their way to Northern Illinois, the area was inhabited by Native Americans. You’ll find subtle references to early tribes and attractions honoring them within the area. Be ...

Regional Specialties
You may think that Chicagoland is all about pizza, but it’s not the only delicious food associated with this great region of the Midwest. This metropolitan area is a melting pot of cultures and each nationality has made contributions in the culinary landscape of the ar...

Rich in Black History
The movement and settlement of African Americans across the Chicago Southland has led to a rich history over the past 180 years.  There is a strong resurgence of interest in the history of the Underground Railroad across the region. This is about the movement of...

Ride the Cal-Sag Trail!
The vast recreation and forest preserve areas available in the Chicago Southland are filled with opportunities for adventure, hiking and exploration. One of the newest additions to this list is the Calumet-Sagnashkee Trail, or Cal-Sag Trail. The trail is a key connector of 1...

Road Trippin'
There’s nothing quite like a road trip. Whether you’re visiting from near or far, with friends or family, the Chicago Southland has the perfect road trip for you and your travel companions. Check out the incredible local restaurants and one-of-a-kind attractions,...

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Enjoy the sweeter side of life in the Chicago Southland, whether your weakness is ice cream sundaes, chocolate covered nuts or gooey pastries. Some of the best sweets in the Chicago area can be found here. Andy’s Frozen Custard, Burbank  Few can resist the all...

Seasonal Activities
Every season brings new opportunities for adventure in the Chicago Southland. Whether you like snow or sun, there is fun in your future. Here are some seasonal activities to try out: Winter Try out some snowshoes, watch an ice sculptor create winterart and enjo...

Seasonal Outdoor Dining
When the sun shines on Chicago Southland, take advantage of the beautiful moment and dine alfresco. The following restaurants offer outdoor dining to enjoy great weather and even better entrees. 9 Dots Bar & Bites, Bedford Park A-Fusion, Matteson American Gri...

Serenity Will Find You If You Seek It
If practicing forgiveness isn’t your thing and you’re looking for the best places to find “serenity now,” don’t bottle up your emotions. Get out and take a deep breath at these places of Zen in the Chicago Southland. Lake Katherine Nature Cen...

Set Your Eyes to the Dark Sky of Homer Glen
The International Dark Sky Places (IDSP) conservation program recognizes excellent stewardship of the night sky. The IDSP program was founded in 2001 to encourage communities, parks and protected areas around the world to protect dark skies through responsible lighting polic...

Shakespeare Garden
For more than a decade, the theater department at Moraine Valley Community College has performed free outdoor summer Shakespeare plays. When the series was moved onto the Gateway, which was designed for outdoor music and theater productions, Dr. Craig Rosen, professor of the...

Shop Til You Drop
Don’t ever let anyone tell you that shopping isn’t a legitimate hobby. There are plenty of communities with downtown business districts, malls and shops to peruse in search of that special something. So, put on your shopping shoes and get out there. Swap O Ram...

Signature Golf Holes
There are many fine holes that will challenge you throughout the 31 public golf courses in the Chicago Southland. Luscious green and challenging bunkers, long par fives to technically challenging par threes, the variety among the 693 holes in the region provides a uniqu...

Something to love about each Chicago Southland community
Alsip – Shopping from hundreds of vendors at the huge Swap-O-Rama Flea Market that takes place on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays Beecher – Enjoying fine dining at a former stagecoach stop that dates back to 1863, The Princess Cafe Blue Island &ndash...

Spectator Sports
While the Bears, Blackhawks, Bulls, Cubs and White Sox have enormous fan bases and season-ticket holders who reside in the Chicago Southland, those professional franchises actually sit just on the outskirts of our region. But did you know there are actually three professiona...

Spend a Day at the Fair
One of the events that is often on a summer bucket list is a trip to a county fair. The Will County Fair in Peotone takes place each year in August and is full of all the traditional fun you’d expect. It’s five days of entertainment, food, beer garden, tractor pu...

Stellwagen Farm
Take a step back in time and visit the historic Stellwagen Farm in Orland Park! In 1844, the Stellwagen family first settled in the Chicago Southland area after patriarch Philip Stellwagen purchased 80 acres of land in Frankfort Township. After Philip’s son, Mathias, w...

Supernatural Sites
The Chicago Southland is no stranger to haunted hot spots and local legends. With a long and colorful history, it’s no surprise that hitchhiking ghosts, abandoned cemeteries, historic haunts and other spine-chilling tales call the Chicago Southland region home. Here ar...

That's Amore!
If there’s one culinary staple that the Chicago Southland is known for, it would be pizza. The debate could go on forever about deep dish vs. thin crust, but there’s no need to take sides. We have them both! So when in the Southland, you might want to wear your s...

That’s the Spirit!
Boutique American spirits, from vodka to whiskey, are spreading around the globe and the Chicago Southland is no exception. Small craft distilleries are producing some of the most complex and well-executed spirits on the market that are hand-crafted by on-site. Mid-Oak Di...

The Fun of STEM
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math sound like serious subjects, but they can also be quite entertaining. Kids with an interest in STEM subjects will find that in the Chicago Southland, we also bring a lot of fun to the table through hands-on exhibits, events and progr...

The Great Outdoors
The Chicago Southland is the place to be for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether your thing is bicycling, hiking, fishing, horseback riding or simply exploring the landscape, you’ll find miles of trails and acres of space to connect with nature. With an extensive trail sys...

The Illinois Black Hall of Fame
Honoring the Legacy of Influential Black Leaders with Illinois Connections Did you know that the Illinois Black Hall of Fame is located in the Chicago Southland at Governors State University? Its creation coincided with the recognition of Juneteenth as a federal holiday i...

The Simple Pleasure of Brunch
It’s the weekend. You sleep in. You roll out of bed well-rested and hungry but in no hurry to get anywhere. Do you want breakfast? Do you want lunch? Do you want a cocktail with it? Weekend brunch gives you lots of options and a chance to relax and sip and dine with sp...

The Wildflower Farm
Searching to see, smell and experience true beauty? The Wildflower Farm, a locally owned boutique flower farm in Monee, offers one of the most colorfully unique experiences in the Chicago Southland. Enjoy the u-pick flower farm where you can purchase six different u-pick ...

This Microbrew’s For You!
"Because 'ice-cold' isn't a flavor." The Chicago Southland is a great place to visit and a great place to enjoy handcrafted brews. Enjoy the most popular flagship beer at each of our unique craft breweries. Arrowhead Ales Brewing Company, New L...

Time After Time
Whether it’s for their monetary value, additions to a personal collection or just plain old nostalgia, people of all ages love antiques. The Chicago Southland is home to several antique and vintage stores, perfect for satisfying the thrill of nabbing your next perfect ...

Top 20 Things To See & Do
Planning a getaway can be stressful. Where to go and what to do are pretty daunting questions that stump even the most seasoned traveler. Good thing we have compiled a list of the top 20 things to see and do to make your time in the Chicago Southland worthwhile. 1. Sit i...

Top 5 Trails
Shake off the city and BREATH! Chicago Southland is becoming the place where outdoor physical activity lives in North Eastern Illinois. If you’re looking for a place to explore, hike or ride a bike/horse, we’ve got you covered. There are over 40,000 acres of fore...

Top Roadside Attractions
Roadside attractions are found throughout the Chicago Southland. These odd, and sometimes hilarious, travel destinations catch your eye and beg you to stop and Instagram your newest discovery. Next time you find yourself taking a selfie next to Frankenstein at Haunted Trails...

Train Towns
The Chicago Southland has a great advantage in offering public transportation via train for those commuting to the city, and it has produced great shopping and dining communities near its stations. Serving more than 100 northeast Illinois communities throughout six counties,...

Veg Out!
Calling all vegetarians, vegans and gluten-sensitive diners! With hundreds of local restaurants to choose from, the dining options in the Chicago Southland are delicious and diverse. Our local eateries cater to a wide variety of taste buds and food preferences. Check out the...

We All Scream for Ice Cream!!!
What tastes better on a sweltering summer day than a scoop of frosty ice cream? For summer days and beyond when that sweet tooth gives you a nudge for an icy sweet treat, you’ll want to keep these places in mind. Some offer a nostalgic setting, some churn their own, so...

YOLO: Thrill Seekers Welcome
Some travelers like to take it easy and find quiet and relaxing spots to spend their time on the road. For others who prefer the complete opposite, there are many ways in the Chicago Southland to tap into your inner adrenaline junkie. Get ready for the signature activity ...

You Can Drive 25
Visiting a new area always has a level of excitement. Around every corner there are new things to see and do, great festivals to attend and attractions to visit. Even though the Chicago Southland has all of that in spades, we still thought it might be nice to point out a few...