Aurora · Batavia · Big Rock · Hinckley · Montgomery North Aurora · Oswego · Plano · Sugar Grove · YorkvilleV

AURORAAREA GoGuide

Live entertainment in the Aurora Area! page 22 NONSTOP THRILLS, STARRING YOU!

COME FOR THE FUN. STAY FOR THE REWARDS! Enjoy the benefits at two Chicagoland casinos featuring MyChoice®. You don’t want to miss out on the newest slots, live entertainment and all the excitement the two local casinos have to offer.

1 W NEW YORK ST « AURORA, IL 60506 777 HOLLYWOOD BLVD « JOLIET, IL 60436

Some restriction may apply. Must be 21 to enter the casino. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537).

Head to Aurora’s newest culinary delight — Social. Opened by restaurateur Amy Morton in 2019, this inventive steakhouse is located next to the Paramount Theatre in downtown Aurora.

Photo Credits: More Polish Pottery, My Place Hotel North Abbey Farms, Air Classics Museum, Amanda Aurora, National Trust for Historic Preservation, Leutenberg, AmericInn by Wyndham Oswego, Nora Parker, Northfork Farm, Paramount Amy Nelson Photography, Arella Swan, Ashley Theatre, Paul Burd, Plano Molding, Quality Farm, Atrevete Confections, Aurora Area Inn, Que Brava, Raging Waves Waterpark, Red CVB, Aurora Downtown, Aurora Regional Fire Oak Nature Center, Reidar Hahn / Fermilab, Museum, BALAXI Play, Ballydoyle Irish Pub Rodeway Inn North Aurora, SciTech Hands On Aurora, Bari Baskin / Time Stops Photography, Museum, Sky Zone Aurora, Southbank Original Batavia Depot Museum, Batavia MainStreet, Barbecue, Steve Buyansky /BYOPhoto, Stolp Batavia Park District, Belle Salle Banquets, Ben Island Social, Sugar Grove Family Fun Center, Harding, Best Western Oswego, Bob Lockwood, Super 8 by Wyndham Aurora/Naperville, Super Both/And Pictures, Bountiful Blessings Farm 8 by Wyndham Yorkville, Susan May Romano, Produce, Branch Gardens, Brittany Tripp, Tap House Grill Oswego, The Conservation On the Cover: Candlewood Suites, Chicago Premium Outlets, Foundation, The Growing Place Aurora, The Chicago bluesman Lurrie Bell plays Comfort Inn & Suites, Company 251, Crusade Homestead 1854, The Venue, Thomas King, 43 W. Galena Blvd. to an adoring crowd at Aurora’s Burger Bar, Dusty Roads Vintage, Emerson Tim & Lisa Trudell /The Walking Tourists, newest spot for live music, The Venue. Creek, Energy City Brewing, Esther’s Place, Two Brothers Brewing Company, USDA ARS, Aurora, IL 60506 Photo by Lisa Green for the Fox Valley Farnsworth House, Flip Design Studio, Fox Velvet Grace Oswego, Village of Montgomery, Music Foundation. Valley Mall, Fox Valley Park District, Francis Village of Oswego, Water Street Studios. 630.256.3190 Wallers, Funway, Gillerson’s Grubbery, Hampton enjoyaurora.com Municipal Partners: Inn & Suites Aurora, Hampton Inn Yorkville, © 2020 by the Aurora Area Convention City of Aurora; City of Batavia; Hardware Sustainable Gastropub & Brewery, and Visitors Bureau. All rights reserved. Village of Big Rock; Village of Hearth & Hammer, Holiday Inn Aurora-North Reproduction in whole or part without the Cort Carlson, Executive Director Hinckley; Village of Montgomery; Naperville, Holiday Inn Express & Suites written permission of the AACVB is prohibited. Pete Garlock, Director of Sales Village of North Aurora; Village of Aurora-Naperville, Holiday Inn Express & Suites 5/1/20 40M. Every attempt has been made James Cardis, Director of Marketing Oswego; City of Plano; Village of Yorkville, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Invisible to verify the information contained in this Sugar Grove; and the United City Cartoons, James Cardis, Jason Crane /The publication. The AACVB assumes no liability Lisa Wisner, Group Sales Coordinator of Yorkville. Voice, Jeff Goldberg, Joshua T. Schultz, Julie Ap for incorrect, omitted or outdated information /Open Wide The World, Lisa Green, Liz Lauren, contained herein. To assure a safe and happy Loft 28 West, Mang-Kuk Restaurant, Marissa trip, please call ahead to confirm information. Amoni, Mary Beth Nolan, Mary Blanchflower, 4 EXPLORE SHOP

6 12 WAYS TO #ENJOYAURORA 42 MALLS Destination outlet shopping 8 OUR COMMUNITIES 44 BOUTIQUES & SPECIALTY Find just what you need SEE 46 ANTIQUES & VINTAGE 22 SHOW STOPPERS Discover hidden gems Award-winning live entertainment

26 MUSEUMS EAT Internationally renowned and locally treasured 48 STEAKS & CHOPS For date night or dinner with friends & family DO 51 BREW PUBS & WINERIES 30 HIKE & BIKE Small batches and big flavors Trails and parks 52 WORLD’S FARE 32 PADDLE Making dining out fun! The Fox River 53 COFFEE & SWEETS 34 SPRING & SUMMER EVENTS For dessert or just because Festival season and community celebrations

36 FALL & WINTER EVENTS STAY Home for the harvest and holidays 54 HOTELS 38 THE KID ZONE Cozy accommodations and warm hospitality await Entertainment and activity centers 58 BOUTIQUE RETREATS 40 SPLASH & PLAY Exceptional accommodations for special events Rides, slides and fun for all ages 59 WEDDINGS Event and reception spaces

Take advantage of Aurora Area visitor discounts at restaurants, Savings retailers, and attractions throughout the region. To get started, text

Tip EnjoyAurora to 223344

enjoyaurora.com 5 12 WAYS to #ENJOYAURORA There are dozens of fun things to do in the Aurora Area of — start with these 12 and discover more in the pages ahead. EnjoyAurora.com/LetsGo

1 2 3 AWARD-WINNING COOL OFF See your faves Broadway AUSSIE STYLE under the stars Paramount Theatre Raging Waves RiverEdge Park Experience professionally produced, Make a splash this summer at the Set against the scenic backdrop of the critically acclaimed Broadway shows largest waterpark in Illinois! Exciting Fox River, RiverEdge Park is home to that will take your breath away but new features offer fun for all ages to Blues on the Fox and an action-packed won’t break your budget. enjoy—parents, too! lineup of summer concerts.

4Get up close 5Indulge in a To the craft Dining Destination Two Brothers Roundhouse Hardware Two Brothers Roundhouse crafts “Farm to table” and “locally sourced” get new meaning at this sustainable gastropub & outstanding beer and coffee, but did brewery with an onsite orchard, greenhouse, and hop farm. A living wall of greens you know they make spirits, too? welcomes you into an intoxicating space covered in reclaimed materials. Over 400 Take a free distillery tour any Friday whiskeys line the shelves behind the bar, one of the largest collections in Chicagoland. evening or Saturday afternoon. Try their version of a deconstructed Chicago hot dog and thank us later.

6 12 WAYS to 6 7 Country Chic FLOAT DOWN THE FOX #ENJOYAURORA Emerson Creek Fox River It doesn’t get more charming than this rustic chic getaway. Farmhouse style Paddling is a treasured outdoor activity meets modern hospitality for barn weddings, tearoom dining, and seasonal here, especially in the summertime. vintage markets. Visit the Country View Shop for artisan gifts and goods to Enjoy scenic views from your kayak, canoe, take back home and add a touch of the country life to your quarters. or paddleboard.

8 9 SIP & SAVOR TOUR AN AMERICAN DESIGN ICON ILLINOIS WINE Farnsworth House Fox Valley Winery Sleek and modern, with signature glass windows, the Farnsworth House is visited Award-winning Illinois wines in signature by thousands of international travelers each year. The house was designed and built by varietals are on offer at this Tuscan style Mies van der Rohe for Dr. Edith Farnsworth—their creative and emotional entanglement winery in Oswego. is the source material for a planned film production about this iconic home.

10Celebrate 11Get an Outdoor 12SAVE ON DESIGNER Summer’s Education BRANDS Longest Days Red Oak Nature Center Chicago Premium Outlets Summer Solstice Festival Nestled on the east bank of the The largest outdoor outlet shopping Summer Solstice is one of the best Fox River, Red Oak Nature Center mall in the Midwest is right here, with festivals in the Midwest combining connects you with the joys, lessons, exclusive deals on designer labels at craft beer & indie music, with an electric and wonders of nature, including a over 140 brand name outlets. lineup of artists and an eclectic array of limestone cave! ground-to-glass beverages. enjoyaurora.com 7 AURORA Food trucks line the Benton Street Bridge in Aurora during First Fridays, a monthly occasion during which a vibrant arts community collaborates to produce gallery exhibits and pop-up events like the Aurora Food Truck Festival, pictured here. The second-largest city in Illinois, Aurora is home to Chicagoland’s best Broadway series, destination shopping malls, and this revitalized downtown district where you’ll find some of the region’s most acclaimed new and tried-and-true restaurants. EnjoyAurora.com/Aurora

Downtown Aurora

8 Downtown Dining

Alley Art Festival

Phillips Park Paramount Theatre

Society 57

Look for this icon that indicates Aurora Downtown locations.

enjoyaurora.com 9 North Aurora Days Commerce, community, and nature combine in August in North Aurora, where you’ll find perfect options for a hearty meal after working up an appetite exploring scenic Fox River Trails. EnjoyAurora.com/NorthAurora

Antiques and more at Past and Present Shoppes

Brew tanks at Hardware Sustainable Gastropub & Brewery NORTH AURORA

Valley Green Golf Course

10 enjoyaurora.com 11 BATAVIA

Water Street Studios

Herds of bison and particle physics collide at Fermilab,

Fermilab Natural Areas a Department of Energy site where group tours, cultural events, and outdoor activities are available year round. EnjoyAurora.com/Batavia

30th • Opening day of Batavia saturdays • farmers’ market Boardwalk shops 9th • Batavia Dinner Table 30th • wellbatavia 14th • second friday 30th • race to market & opening day of farmers’ market saturdays • farmers’ market 6th • Block party & classic car show saturdays • farmers’ market 11th • second friday 12th • second friday 25th-27th • Oktoberfest

saturdays • farmers’ market saturdays • farmers’ market 10th • second friday 9th • second friday 25th • Cocktails In the park 31st • batfest

discover more at: www.downtownbatavia.com

12 MONTGOMERY

Stuart Sports Complex

Historic attractions, vibrant festivals, and the region’s largest sports venue put Altrevete Montgomery on the map. Confections EnjoyAurora.com/Montgomery

enjoyaurora.com 13 14 OSWEGO

Wine on the Fox

Arranmore Farm & Polo Club

An eclectic downtown anchored by boutique retailers is complemented by country chic locales for wining and dining. EnjoyAurora.com/Oswego

Velvet Grace

Downtown Oswego

enjoyaurora.com 15 16 Raging Waves

The Law Office Pub & Music Hall

YORKVILLE

Illinois’ largest waterpark offers family-friendly summer fun, while riverfront concerts are favorites of the craft beer & indie music set. EnjoyAurora.com/Yorkville

Crusade Burger Bar

enjoyaurora.com 17 This big-hearted small town is a popular camping, hunting, and fishing getaway set against rolling Esther’s Place hills and unspoiled natural beauty.

EnjoyAurora.com/BigRock

BIG ROCK

Big Rock Plowing Match

Visit our award-winning showroom full of beautiful Polish pottery and gifts.

We are located just minutes from Aurora near Rt. 47/Jericho Road. Open 7 days a week. 8s953 Jericho Road Big Rock, IL 60511 630-605-2371 www.morepolishpottery.com

18 Icons of American design offer unique The Homestead 1854 venues for gatherings, house tours, and events in this charming heartland city.

EnjoyAurora.com/Plano

PLANO

Farnsworth House

EDITH FARNSWORTH Reconsidered

Join us in 2020 as we celebrate the life and legacy of Edith Farnsworth, the owner and patron behind the world-famous Farnsworth House.

For information about tours, exhibitions, programs, and events visit FARNSWORTHHOUSE.ORG

enjoyaurora.com 19 Windy City Soaring A Lincoln Highway highlight featuring old-fashioned eats & treats, and a site where you can access mile-high views of the Aurora Area.

EnjoyAurora.com/Hinckley

HINCKLEY Dairy Joy

Air Classics Rich Harvest Farms Museum SUGAR GROVE Discover an extraordinary set of attractions and events in this village with a storied agricultural history.

Sugar Grove Corn Boil in July 20 EnjoyAurora.com/SugarGrove 205 N Broadway Aurora, IL 60505 www.twobrothersbrewing.com

RESERVATIONS Host Stand: (630) 264.2739 or OpenTable

enjoyaurora.com 21 Paramount Theatre See Chicagoland’s best Broadway shows and the world’s most entertaining live acts at this award-winning theater. paramountaurora.com Show StoppersSee ad on back cover. ENJOY A NIGHT OUT ON THE TOWN

Paramount’s Broadway Series is built from the ground up right here in Aurora, from the construction of larger-than-life sets to finely detailed costumes.

Rock of Ages Cinderella Sept. - Oct. 2020 Nov. 2020 - Jan. 2021

22 The biggest acts in entertainment and the most outstanding musical productions Did you know? this side of Broadway attract hundreds of thousands of people to these Aurora Area Subscribers to the Paramount Theatre come from 18 states, concert and nightlife destinations. 492 zip codes, and 438 different cities from across the country! EnjoyAurora.com/Shows The Joseph Jefferson Committee (Chicago’s version of the Tony Awards) has honored Paramount RiverEdge Park with an unprecedented number Rock out on the riverfront at Blues on the Fox and the Summer Concert Series at this scenic venue. of “Jeff” Awards (20) and riveredgeaurora.com nominations (71), including See ad on back cover. Best Large Musical three years in a row.

The Paramount School of the Arts opened in 2019, offering accessible and affordable professional training for actors, dancers, and musicians of all ages.

Paramount Theatre Broadway Series 2020–2021 SHOW LINEUP paramountaurora.com Stories that rock, enchant, charm, and inspire are on tap for Paramount’s next season. Groundhog Day Ragtime Kinky Boots Feb. - March 2021 April - June 2021 July - Aug. 2021

enjoyaurora.com 23 BALLYDOYLE Ballydoyle carries the tradition of the Irish pub with the customary selection of classic and craft brews, delicious Irish food, and spirited live entertainment. ballydoylepub.com

Hollywood Casino Try your luck at the tables or over a thousand of Chicago’s loosest slot machines. Live entertainment takes place at Center Stage on the weekends, free to enjoy along with table Signature Irish fare games and a dedicated poker room. at Ballydoyle hollywoodcasinoaurora.com See ad on inside front cover.

The Law Office Pub & The Comedy shrine Music Hall Comedy is on tap every night of the week featuring top performers from around the country and homegrown local talent at in Aurora. comedyshrine.com

THE LAW OFFICE PUB & Music Hall Head out to The Law Office Pub & Music Hall in downtown Yorkville, a frequent tour stop for the most stylish and soulful acts coming out of the Midwest, Nashville, and beyond. Every show provides an opportunity to be introduced to your new favorite band. lawofficepub.com

THE Turf Room Two Brothers Roundhouse Sip your way through a phenomenal wine list and dine on eclectic, upscale American cuisine in North Aurora. theturfroomrestaurant.com

Two Brothers Roundhouse Free concerts in the Two Brothers Tavern feature the best of Chicagoland live acts and stand-up comedy. twobrothersbrewing.com/roundhouse See ad on page 21.

24 Coming Soon!

Copley Theatre Intimate, professional live theater experiences that are fearless, unexpected, BOLD Series and thought provoking—in a word, this series 2021–2022 SHOW LINEUP at Paramount’s Copley Theatre is BOLD. paramountaurora.com/bold

Insider Tips Downtown Aurora is easily New! accessible via public THE VENUE transportation. 200-seat listening room Traveling from Chicago? and outdoor stage Take the Burlington booking an eclectic array Northern Santa Fe of nationally recognized (BNSF) to the Aurora talent in genres ranging Transportation Center. from blues and big band to R&B and world music. Public parking themusicvenue.org is available. See ad on page 3. Plan your visit with a visual map at auroradowntown.org/parking

enjoyaurora.com 25 AURORA AREA Highlights

SciTech Hands MUSEUMS On Museum

Discover an outstanding collection of museums that foster a lifelong love of learning. EnjoyAurora.com/Museums

Blackberry Farm

Aurora Regional Fire Museum

Phillips Park Zoo

26 AURORA AREA

AURORA Scitech Highlights hands on Museum Over 150 interactive exhibits to inspire education and SciTech Hands On Museum imagination in the AURORA Schingoethe Center BIG ROCK areas of science and of Big Rock Historical technology. David L. Pierce Art & With a mission to preserve Society Museum scitechmuseum.org History Center and perpetuate Native Artifacts from the century- Rotating innovative American cultures, this See ad on page 29. old Plowing Match and art exhibits. Historical Smithsonian-affiliated Welsh immigrants. photographs, books, maps, museum builds bridges Limited hours, call ahead: and other memorabilia between the classroom and 630-698-0626. related to the rich history the world beyond. bigrockhistoricalsociety.org of Aurora. aurora.edu/museum aurora regional aurorahistory.net William Tanner House PLANO Fire museum Phillips Park Experience Aurora’s past Farnsworth House This historic fire station This 325-acre park is home through this fully-furnished Mies van der Rohe’s mid- educates and entertains to a zoo featuring a variety 1856 Italianate home with century modern masterpiece kids of all ages with of North American wildlife, reenactments, decorations, is an acclaimed example firefighting equipment Sunken Garden, Visitor and events. of the International and interactive exhibits. Center, and the Mastodon aurorahistory.net architectural style. Gallery, where prehistoric auroraregionalfiremuseum.org farnsworthhouse.org bones unearthed from the BATAVIA See ad on page 19. See ad on page 29. park’s construction are on Fermilab Science Education display. Free admission See listing on page 28. Smallville Museum blackberry year-round. Props and other items used farm aurora-il.org/893/ in the filming of the “Man of Phillips-Park Water Street Studios Blackberry Farm is a living Art classes, performing arts Steel” movie in downtown Plano. Limited hours, call history museum where events, gallery exhibitions, Grand Army of the ahead: 630.552.8275. pioneer life is re-created Republic Memorial Hall and private rentals in this historic venue. through educational See listing on page 29. Continued on next page demonstrations and waterstreetstudios.org hands-on fun. foxvalleyparkdistrict.org See ad on page 61.

BATAVIA batavia depot museum This repurposed rail depot is home to a museum that tells the story of Batavia’s past to present, including an exhibit on Mary Todd Lincoln. Batavia Depot Museum bataviahistoricalsociety.org enjoyaurora.com 27 BATAVIA Fermilab Science Education Encounter physics on the cutting edge with group tours, programs, and events at Fermilab and the Lederman Science Center. ed.fnal.gov

STEM workshops at Fermilab Little White School Museum HINCKLEY NORTH AURORA Hinckley Historical Red Oak Nature Center Society Museum Interpretive center, trails, Mastodon diorama and displays Devil’s Cave, tree-house play of historic homes. Open area, wetlands boardwalk. Saturdays and by appointment. foxvalleyparkdistrict.org rootsweb.ancestry.com/~ilhhs2 SUGAR GROVE MONTGOMERY Air Classics Museum Dickson-Murst Farm of Aviation One of the original family farms Aircraft, vehicles, uniforms and of the Aurora Area is now a other aviation memorabilia from OSWEGO venue for agricultural education 1930s to the present. and unique public events. airclassicsmuseum.org Little White theconservationfoundation.org School Museum Bliss House Museum Settler’s Cottage Museum Historical exhibits about Connect with the rich history Learn about the rich history the Village of Sugar Grove of Oswego at this community of the Village of Montgomery and surrounding area. Open landmark dating back to 1850. and tour its oldest remaining Tuesdays 1-4 p.m. or by appt. littlewhiteschoolmuseum.org structure. Limited hours, call sugargrovehistory.org ahead: 630.896.8080 x9003. ci.montgomery.il.us YORKVILLE YORKVILLE Kendall County Historic LYON FARM Courthouse & VILLAGE Learn about Kendall County’s Connecting the past to future natural resources, insects, prairies and Native Americans generations by experiencing with living exhibits in the Laws and understanding lifestyles, of Nature center. traditions, and farming co.kendall.il.us practices of Kendall County via exhibits, artifacts, and events. lyonfarmkchs.org 28 AURORA

Grand Army OF the Republic Memorial Hall This proud memorial for Aurora’s Civil War veterans was built in 1878, and is now open to the public as a museum. aurora-il.org

Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Hall

Red Oak Nature Center Lyon Farm & Village

�FIRE� MUSEUM Aurora Regional

The Aurora Regional Fire Museum features a variety of hands-on interactive exhibits designed to educate children and families of all ages. Come learn about the Aurora Fire Department, firefighting in our region, and fire safety.

53 N Broadway, Aurora, IL 60505 (630) 256-4140 Traveler Offer: Buy one regular admission, [email protected] Get one admission FREE! www.AuroraRegionalFireMuseum.org This offer is limited to 2 free admissions and may not be combined with other offers. Not valid for special events. Traveler admission offer expires on January 31, 2021. AACVB2021

enjoyaurora.com 29 Fox River Trail Enjoy miles of trail for cycling, running, or a leisurely stroll along the Fox River through the communities of the Aurora Area. foxvalleyparkdistrict.org/trails

Virgil L. GIlman Trail Bike or hike this gorgeous 12-mile trail connecting the Fox River Trail to the western communities of the Aurora Area and the wooded campus of Waubonsee Community College in Sugar Grove. kaneforest.com

Fermilab Natural Areas An ecosystem rich in biodiversity, the natural areas at Fermilab are open to the public and free to access year-round. Enjoy over 6,800 acres of pristine prairie where you can see bison, hike gorgeous trails, ski cross-country, and spot 300 native and migratory bird species. ecology.fnal.gov

RED OAK NATURe center Nestled on the east bank of the Fox River and surrounded by 40 acres of HIKE & BIKE lush forest and wildlife habitat, the center is an ideal setting for visitors to learn about the great outdoors through direct interaction with nature. Outdoor adventure awaits on the scenic trails foxvalleyparkdistrict.org and parks of the Aurora Area. PHILLIPS PARK Located on over 325 acres, the crown jewel of Aurora’s parks offers a variety EnjoyAurora.com/FoxRiver of fun, family-friendly amenities for all ages and interests, from aquatics and golfing to the zoo and sunken gardens. aurora-il.org/893/Phillips-Park

SAW WEE KEE PARK Sitting on over 130 acres of Fox River shoreline, the rolling trails here are popular for off-road cycling, trail- running, and horseback riding. oswegolandparkdistrict.org/parks

30 Gear up AURORA Fox River Trail All Spoked Up Rent a comfortable hybrid bicycle. Sales, service, repair center. allspokedup.com

BATAVIA All Spoked Up Rent a comfortable hybrid bicycle. Sales, service, repair center. allspokedup.com

Prairie Path Cycles Bicycle retail and repair shop. prairiepathcycles.com Fermilab Natural Areas NORTH AURORA Pedal & Spoke Bike Shop Offering top-notch bikes, parts, accessories, service, and repairs. pedalandspoke.com

OSWEGO Oswego Cyclery Full-service bike shop offering trail rides and Phillips Park repair classes. oswegocyclery.com

Virgil L. Gilman Trail enjoyaurora.com 31 PADDLE

Linked by the Fox River, the communities of the Aurora Area are beautiful river country.

EnjoyAurora.com/FoxRiver

Fox River 32 Fox River in North Aurora AURORA AREA FOX RIVER GUIDE Batavia to North Aurora: 2.5 miles This easy, tree-lined stretch of river offers abundant birdwatching, with a rookery Outfitters containing dozens of nests, home to egrets and AURORA waterfowl, on an island overlooked by Red Oak Nature Center. Nock & Feather Kustom Archery North Aurora to Aurora: 3.5 miles Full-service archery & Paddle under bridges and explore plentiful hunting store with an small islands. Speakers facing the water indoor range. entertain kayakers on concert nights at RiverEdge Park. nockandfeatherarchery.com Aurora to Oswego: 6.5 miles Diverse scenery includes an old trestle bridge. HINCKLEY Portage at Montgomery and enjoy downtown Windy City Soaring dining. Disembark at Hudson Crossing Park Take an intro glide and and visit Oswego Brewing Co. tour scenic farmlands Mid-American Canoe & Oswego to Yorkville: 6.3 miles from above. Kayak Race A shallow beach at Oswego’s Hudson Crossing windycitysoaring.org Park allows for easy put-in. Paddle past wildflower patches and Saw Wee Kee Park. MONTGOMERY Buoyed take-out available above Marge Cline The Archery Place Whitewater Course. Enjoy wrap-around views of the Fox River from the patio at Southbank 48-target dual archery Original Barbecue. facility, retail and repair shop offering classes and special events.

MID-AMERICAN CANOE tapintoarchery.com & KAYAK RACE Experience the excitement of paddling the PLANO scenic Fox River while enjoying this classic tradition that dates back to the 1960s. Plano Synergy Outlet Wholesale outlet of the foxvalleyparkdistrict.org Plano Synergy brand. Variety of hunting & fishing SILVER SPRINGS STATE products at discounted FISH AND WILDLIFE AREA prices with continuously rotating inventory. The Fox River runs through this picturesque area centered around a pool planosynergy.com of clear bubbling water that sparkles like silver on sunny days and never freezes, YORKVILLE even in the most extreme cold. Yak Shack dnr.illinois.gov Rent canoes, recreational kayaks, tube tracker MARGE CLINE inflatables. Near Marge WHITEWATER COURSE Cline Whitewater Course. yakshackonline.com Sport kayakers can practice their skills on the rapids at this purpose-built 1,100-foot-long bypass chute providing one of the only consistent sources for Class I and II rapids in the Midwest. yorkville.il.us

Marge Cline Whitewater Course in Yorkville enjoyaurora.com 33 SIGNATURE HAPPENINGS

First Fridays SPRING/SUMMER EVENTS Explore the full calendar of fun things to do with family & friends at our #EnjoyAurora events guide.

EnjoyAurora.com/Events

ONGOING FerMiLAB ART & LECTURE SERIES Batavia Artists and intellectual figures from around the world take the stage at Fermilab’s Ramsey Auditorium. FIRST FRIDAYS AURORA FEBRUARY MARCH Downtown Aurora FAMILY OPEN HOUSE MAPLE FEST Monthly celebration of art, Fermilab, Batavia Red Oak Nature Center, North Aurora music, and more at dozens of Hands-on science exhibits and Experience the process of making sweet downtown Aurora venues. demonstrations at America’s premier maple syrup and guided nature tours. particle physics laboratory. GROOVIN’ IN THE GROVE Sugar Grove Live outdoor concert series at the Sugar Grove Public Library.

PARAMOUNT THeatre Broadway Series Downtown Aurora Award-winning Broadway musicals produced from the ground up in Aurora, Illinois. PARTY IN APRIL MAY THE PARK SPRING TRAIL RUN SPRING AT Aurora Saw Wee Kee Park, Oswego DICKSON-MURSt FARM Summer concert series at Scenic timed run over rolling wooded Montgomery Chicago Premium Outlets. hills with Fox River views. Antique Truck & Tractor Show, petting zoo, hayrides, crafts and music.

34 MAY JUNE JUNE WINE ON THE FOX SUMMER SOLSTICE PrairieFest Hudson Crossing Park, Oswego Bicentennial Riverfront Park, Yorkville PrairieFest Park, Oswego Find your new favorite vintage at this Celebrate summer’s longest days at this Entertainment and events throughout annual celebration in downtown Oswego. outdoor indie music & craft beer fest. Oswego on Father’s Day weekend.

JUNE JULY BLUES ON THE FOX River FEST RiverEdge Park, Aurora Bicentennial Riverfront Park, Yorkville Aurora’s annual celebration of its musical roots features the Cardboard canoe races, barbecue, and rock n’ roll biggest names in the Blues headlining RiverEdge Park on on the riverfront. Father’s Day weekend.

JULY AUGUST AUGUST FIREWORKS City of Lights NORTH AURORA DAYS Aurora Area Ukulele Festival North Aurora Free fireworks over the Fox River at Downtown Aurora Village-wide celebration of community with RiverEdge Park and other locations Sing and strum along at this annual fun runs, live entertainment, food vendors, throughout the Aurora Area. gathering of the world’s best ukulele acts. and more.

enjoyaurora.com 35 SIGNATURE HAPPENINGS FALL/WINTER EVENTS Explore the full calendar of harvest & holiday happenings at our #EnjoyAurora events guide.

EnjoyAurora.com/Events

Abbey Farms

HARVEST TIME Enjoy agritourism and fall family fun at these destinations. ABBEY FARM Aurora Farm-fresh market goods, SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER U-pick pumpkins and U-cut BIG ROCK PLOWING MATCH ROOTS AURORA Christmas trees, and activities Plowman’s Park, Big Rock Downtown Aurora the whole family can enjoy. An annual tradition for over 125 years, Celebrate the rich multicultural this fall festival is full of good old-fashioned heritage of Illinois’ second largest BLACKBERRY heartland fun. city. Coincides with First Fridays. FARM Aurora Pioneer days come to life at this living-history playground with train rides and popular events. LYON FARM Yorkville Preserving the agricultural history of Kendall County with hands-on exhibits and activities. RED OAK NATURE CENTER SEPTEMBER OCTOBER North Aurora HOMETOWN DAYS TWO BROTHERS Enjoy fall foliage and Yorkville educational programs in a OktoberFest scenic setting on the Fox River. Summer’s last fling features a dock Two Brothers Roundhouse, Aurora diving dog competition and main Lift a stein and say “Prost!” at this annual stage entertainment. bierfest in the Roundhouse courtyard.

36 LIGHTS and ILLUminATION Tour miles of dazzling holiday lights from the comfort of your car at these season-long displays in the Aurora Area. OCTOBER NOVEMBER FOOD TRUCK WINTER LIGHTS FESTIVAL OF FESTIVAL Downtown Aurora LIGHTS AT Downtown Aurora Aurora’s winter parade features PHILLIPS PARK Dozens of Chicagoland’s best food amazing floats, fireworks, and the Phillips Park, Aurora trucks gather for First Fridays. annual tree lighting at GAR Hall. One of the largest free outdoor light displays in Northern Illinois. HOLIDAY LIGHTS AT MOOSEHEART Mooseheart Child City & School 1.8 miles of over 80 lighted displays! Lehnertz AVENUE DECEMBER DECEMBER Aurora Holiday EXPRESS CHRISTMAS WALK A tradition on this mile-long Blackberry Farm, Aurora Downtown Oswego stretch of road for over 60 years with classic All aboard! Tickets go fast for the Shops are open and decked out in holiday Christmas stories and a Holiday Express and holiday-themed finery for this festive celebration on festive atmosphere. activities at Blackberry Farm. Oswego’s Main Street.

Holiday Lights at Mooseheart

DECEMBER MOD & MERRY HOLIDAYS Farnsworth House, Plano Enjoy mid-century modern cocktail parties and holiday-themed house tours.

enjoyaurora.com 37 Balaxi Play Party

THE KID ZONE High-flying fun at the entertainment centers of the Aurora Area. EnjoyAurora.com/FamilyFun Bounce Town

AURORA Sky Zone Aurora OSWEGO Trampoline Park Airtastic Play Land Take fun to new heights Altitude Inflatable play structures, with trampoline dodgeball, Aerial challenges abound party rooms, play areas. basketball, and a new Ninja at Oswego’s new trampoline airtastic.com Warrior course! park: walk walls, play skyzone.com/aurora wipeout, and soar on Aurora Skate Center super-trampolines. Old-fashioned roller rink Sport Zone Family altitudeoswego.com with modern amenities. Fun Center Home to the Aurora 88’s Soccer, go-karts, mini-golf, Bounce Town roller derby team. indoor golf, batting cages. Experience slides, skateaurora.com ultimatesportzone.com jumpers, obstacle Funway courses, and much more. Balaxi Play Party bouncetownparty.com Glow-in-the-dark fun for BATAVIA kids of all ages with Funway SUGAR GROVE 9 thrilling attractions Illinois’ largest entertain- (including “glow-karts”) ment center with indoor Sugar Grove Family and 5 themed party rooms. & outdoor activities for Fun Center balaxi.us the whole family to enjoy: Go-karts, mini-golf, bumper bowling, roller rink, arcade, boats, water wars, game Luigi’s Pizza & Fun Center laser tag, and more! room, golf range. Largest laser tag room in funway.com sugargrovefamilyfuncenter.com the region on 3 levels! Sugar Grove Build-your-own pizza, play PLANO YORKVILLE Family Fun Center games at “Noah’s Arcade.” Riemenschneider luigispizzaandfuncenter.com Arts on Fire Paint your own pottery Fire and Spray Park or take an art class at Baseball, softball fields, Round 1 Bowling & firefighter-themed Amusement this hands-on ceramics workshop. Two locations play area. Two floors of entertainment yorkville.il.us at Fox Valley Mall include available in downtown Plano bowling, billiards, arcade, and at Fox Valley Mall and private karaoke rooms. in Aurora. round1usa.com artsonfireplano.com artsonfirefoxvalley.com

38 enjoyaurora.com 39 Raging Waves Waterpark Splash &Play { RIDES and FUN for ALL AGES }

WATER PARKS Raging Waves Make a splash and beat the heat at the Waterpark The largest waterpark in Illinois is right outstanding collection of waterparks in the here in the Aurora Area. At Raging Waves, you’ll find over 40 acres of Aurora Area, including the state’s largest family-friendly waterpark features. at Raging Waves! Thrill down 20 different styles of water slides. Kiddie pools, cabanas, a quarter-mile lazy river, and a variety of concessions make this the perfect place EnjoyAurora.com/Waterparks to chill out with the family. ragingwaves.com See ad on page 39.

Hall Quarry Beach Funway Civic Center Harold Hall Quarry Beach is a unique This action-packed play emporium Aquatic Park swimming facility dating back to 1920. is open year-round, featuring both From slides and tubes to zero-depth The site of a former stone quarry, Hall indoor and outdoor activities for kids pools, you can make a splash or soak Quarry Beach occupies 60,000 square of all ages. Beat the heat with a ride in the rays at this family-friendly feet of sand-bottom pool at varying on the bumper boats or challenge water park. depths with slides, islands, and multi- your friends to a water balloon oswegolandparkdistrict.org level dive platforms for swimmers slingshot game between rounds of all ages and abilities. of mini-golf and roller skating. bataviaparks.org funway.com

40 Hall Quarry Beach

Vaughan Aquatic Center

Splash Country Water Park Splash Country Water Park Take a refreshing dip at Splash Country in Aurora, a laid-back summertime chill spot with over a thousand feet of lazy river to cruise down on summer’s hottest days. Zero-depth pools at the park are perfect for kids, while more active swimmers can play with spray guns, soak under an artificial waterfall, and work up a sweat at the volleyball courts. foxvalleyparkdistrict.org Phillips Park Family Aquatic Center

Phillips Park Family Vaughan Aquatic Sugar Grove Aquatic Center Center Family Fun Phillips Park Family Aquatic Center is a local The Vaughan Aquatic Center & Indoor Center favorite for its family-friendly amenities like a Water Park has a zero-depth pool, a Take a break from go-karts and zero-depth leisure pool, two drop-off slides, lap pool, a warm water therapy pool, mini-golf to play bumper boats twists and turns down its enclosed body slide, a two-story enclosed waterslide, body and water wars! kid-friendly areas, volleyball and sand play area, slide, and interactive water elements. sugargrovefamily lap lanes, and more. foxvalleyparkdistrict.org funcenter.com foxvalleyparkdistrict.org

enjoyaurora.com 41 Chicago Premium Outlets

MALLS

Back to school, holiday gifting, brand new wardrobe, or just CHICAGO PREMIUM because: visit the shopping destinations of the Aurora Area. OUTLETS Largest outlet center in the Chicago market with over 140 EnjoyAurora.com/Shopping designer and brand-name stores, including exclusive Shinola and Restoration Hardware outlets. premiumoutlets.com/outlet/ chicago See ad on page 63. FOX VALLEY MALL Thriving indoor shopping mall home to top retailers and exciting entertainment options. Take a spin on the carousel, attend special events, and visit a rotating selection of artisan pop-up shops. shopfoxvalleymall.com See ad on page 43.

Fox Valley Mall

42 Shop, Dine, & play at FOX VALLEY

Victoria’s Secret • Panera Bread • Macy’s • American Eagle • Francesca’s • Lids • Vans Charlotte Russe • Abercrombie & Fitch • Forever 21 • Dry Goods • Hollister • Express Brighton • Sephora • Claire's • AKIRA • Buckle • Build-A-Bear Workshop • Maurice's Pac Sun • Garage • Round 1 Bowling & Amusement • Zumiez • Foot Locker • H&M Journeys • Justice • Bath & Body Works • The Children’s Place • Hot Topic • Champs

ShopFoxValleyMall.com 195 Fox Valley Center, Aurora, IL 60504

enjoyaurora.com 43 Unique VELVET GRACE Home decoration boutique and style studio located in a local landmark “log cabin” near downtown Oswego. velvetgrace.net

BRANCH GARDENS This urban garden boutique is a little slice of paradise in downtown Aurora. branchgardens.com HEARTH & HAMMER Modern neighborhood general store and candlemaking studio in downtown Batavia. hearthandhammer.co MORE POLISH POTTERY The Midwest’s largest Velvet Grace selection of handcrafted Polish ceramics in a BOUTIQUES tranquil rural setting. & SPECIALTY morepolishpottery.com See ad on page 18. Find just what you need at these shops offering artisan goods throughout the Aurora Area. PreMil Street-inspired thrift, EnjoyAurora.com/Shopping vintage, and PreMil apparel, plus a limited run of sneakers. premil.co

WYCKWOOD HOUSE A unique shopping experience featuring local artisan goods & home décor in downtown Aurora. wyckwoodhouse.com

44 Branch Gardens

Hearth & Hammer

AURORA BIG ROCK Wyckwood House Esther’s Place Fiber Arts Aurora Historical Society Museum Store & Gift Shop Sheep farm and fiber arts studio Shop Aurora gifts from vintage to modern, with crafting classes, retreats, and including shirts, books, and wall art. a full line of knitting products. aurorahistory.net/visit/store esthersplacefibers.com

Gary Brown Art NORTH AURORA Experience fine art creations in Cremer Guitarworks a welcoming atmosphere at this In-demand guitar repair shop with retail gallery located in a historic curated selection of vintage instruments. More Polish Pottery building. cremerguitarworks.com garybrownart.com OSWEGO If These Walls Could Talk Art & Framing A Lady And Her Tools Archival-quality frame shop and DIY woodworking shop where you can art gallery. construct and craft your own creations. itwct.com aladyandhertools.com Country View Shop at Emerson Creek BATAVIA Wide array of handcrafted gifts, Kiss the Sky accessories, decorations, and Record store featuring thousands of signature bakeware. new and used albums on vinyl & CD ecreekpotteryandtearoom.com with a weekend concert series. DeMont Guitars kissthesky.net High-quality guitars and effects River Peak Apothecary specializing in custom built pieces. PreMil Heritage and handmade men’s demontguitars.com grooming products, art, and a Marmalade Tree selection of books. Eclectic gift shop and women’s riverpeakapothecary.com clothing shop in downtown Oswego. The Tea Tree themarmaladetreeoswego.com Variety of loose leaf teas sold here along with gourmet oils, spices, YORKVILLE and cooking essentials. The Olive Gallery theteatreeshop.com Artisan olive oils & vinegars sourced from around the world. theolivegallery.com enjoyaurora.com 45 Collectible Warehouse 55 ANTIQUES & VINTAGE Shop for hidden gems at the antique & vintage markets of the Aurora Area. EnjoyAurora.com/Shopping

AURORA BATAVIA Scott’s Vintage Floor-to-ceiling wonders and Out of the Attic Antiques 715 Vintage oddities at this retro-themed Unique assortment of antiques, Discover your passion for all resale shop. collectibles, vintage, and retro things worn, torn, and tarnished. at one of Chicagoland’s largest The Vintage Market Bee-Attitudes Antiques antique malls. Discover over 60 vintage vendors Experience the charm of antique outoftheatticantiques.biz at one of the largest markets in shopping in the grand old Gammon the area. Thrift & Dollar Inc. mansion. Destination antique, vintage, and beeattitudesantiques.com collectible shop located at Northgate OSWEGO The Salvaged Heart Vintage Wares Shopping Center—site of the Dusty Roads Vintage Recycled items, repainted furniture, Northgate Sign, a mid-century Antique, homemade, repurposed and handmade designs. neon classic. items and events in a charming thesalvagedheartvintagewares.com thriftandollar.com location in downtown Oswego. dustyroadmerchants.com Warehouse 55 NORTH AURORA New to downtown Aurora, this antique Hudson Design House Past & Present Shoppes destination is home to unique finds Vintage boutique specializing Collaboration of over a dozen spanning decades and aesthetics. in timeless furniture, décor, and cottage businesses representing a warehousefiftyfive.com artisan goods. wide mix of styles, from shabby chic to mid-century modern. 46

Vintage 71 Shops Markets ABBEY FARMS Monk-brewed beer and farm-fresh items available at this agritourism destination. abbeyfarms.org

AURORA FARMERS MARKET The oldest farmers market in Illinois returns to its scenic downtown location every Saturday Past & aurora-il.org Present Shoppes BATAVIA Dusty Roads Vintage FARMERs MARKET Shop the makers and merchants of River Street in downtown Batavia each Stonehouse Market Saturday morning, all year round. Tucked inside an Oswgeo historic downtownbatavia.com home lies a treasure trove of vintage, handmade and one-of-a-kind items. stonehousemarket.shop OSWEGO FARMERS MARKET PLANO Country style market where you Plaid Umbrella Collective can get to know the farmers and Collaborative market full of dozens of craftspeople who gather to sell their vendors offering antique furnishings, wares on Sunday mornings. books, and apparel in downtown oswegolandparkdistrict.org Plano on Route 34. plaidumbrella.com YORKVILLE YORKVILLE FARMERS MARKET Vintage 71 Shops Stonehouse Market Summertime market featuring Vintage, repurposed, farmhouse local vendors at Yorkville town items and more at this destination square, just blocks away from the collection of independent boutiques. charming riverfront. yorkville.il.us

enjoyaurora.com 47 DINING

SteaksIT’S HAPPENING HERE & Chops [and pubs, too]

48 Photos on these pages courtesy of Stolp Island Social.

AURORA Spartan House MONTGOMERY Collegiate-themed sports Gario’s Pizza Villa Ach-N-Lou’s Pizza Pub bar with specialty burgers, Relaxed pizza pub with An Aurora tradition for Greek dishes, craft beers, an arcade. over 40 years. and TVs. gariospizza.com achnlouspizzainc.com spartanhouse.com Ballydoyle Irish Pub BATAVIA Pig Dog Pub Traditional Irish food and Casual sports bar for lunch, drink in a cozy pub with live Bar Evolution dinner, and drinks near the music and events. Cozy cocktail bar with Fox River Trail. Butcher ballydoylepub.com wine flights, light apps, and Block 360 live entertainment. NORTH AURORA Luigi’s Pizza & Fun Center barevolutionbatavia.com Yorkville Arcade game room, laser Bulldog Ale House Generous portions of American pub chain with tag arena, party rooms, and Gammon Coach House Mexican, Italian, and delicious pizza. American comfort food dozens of craft beers on tap. American fare meet at a bulldogalehouse.com luigispizzaandfuncenter.com and a rotating selection of new dining destination in craft beers. Oak Street downtown Yorkville. Miller’s Ale House gammoncoachhouse.com Restaurant & Bar butcherblock360.business.site Sports-pub serving Friendly, spacious pub fare and craft beers. Pal Joey’s restaurant and sports bar. millersalehouse.com Dine-in specialty pizza and FAIRBANKS traditional Italian cuisine. oakstreetrestaurant.com STEAKHOUSE Mike & Denise’s paljoeys.com Raimondo’s Pizza & Pub Aurora Pizzeria & Pub Local favorite for handmade Fine dining experience Kid-friendly with TVs, River’s Edge Bar & Grill signature pizzas with a set against lavish 1930’s outdoor seating, and Locally sourced gastropub lengthy craft beer menu. ambiance atop Hollywood specialty pizza. fare and smoked meats raimondos.com Casino Aurora. mikeanddenises.com served from scratch paired with craft beer and spirits. hollywoodcasinoaurora.com/ O’Malley’s Pub & Eatery theriversedgebatavia.com OSWEGO dining Friendly, casual sports bar Danelli’s Italian with live music since 1974. Riverside Pizza & Pub Restaurant & Pizzeria omalleysaurora.com Contemporary sports bar Family-friendly pizzeria STOLP ISLAND in the heart of downtown serving Oswego for over SOCIAL The Piazza Batavia. 30 years. Aurora Expansive sports facility batavia.riversidepizzapub.com danellisitalianrestaurant.com Amy Morton’s newest eatery with full bar, pub bites, sand offers a lively steakhouse volleyball, cigar room, OTB, HINCKLEY Oswego Inn vibe next door to the and billiards. J&K’s Half Moon Casual downtown bar Paramount Theatre. piazzaaurora.com Friendly, small town tavern serving comfort food. stolpislandsocial.com with weekly dinner specials. Saddle Up Saloon & jkhalfmoon.com Pearce’s Pub & Grill Dancehall Newly renovated eclectic THE TURF ROOM Country music dancehall South Moon BBQ American restaurant at North Aurora with a Tex-Mex menu. Homestyle BBQ with a Fox Bend Golf Club. Rustic New American su-foxvalley.org selection of craft beers. foxbendgolfcourse.com/ lounge with private dining southmoonbbq.com pearces options and an award- winning wine list. For more delicious information visit theturfroomrestaurant.com EnjoyAurora.com/Dining enjoyaurora.com 49 Tap House Grill Top Burgers CRUSADE BURGER BAR Yorkville Weekly burger & dessert specials draw visitors from throughout Chicagoland and beyond to this punk- OSWEGO (continued) SUGAR GROVE Millhurst Ale House Premium steak and seafood. rock-themed burger bar Portillo’s Calamity Jane’s millhurstalehouse.com in Yorkville. Chicago’s fast casual Bar & Restaurant crusadeburger.com restaurant serving famous Full-service bar and Parma Pizza Bar Italian beef, burgers, and weekly entertainment. Rustic Italian kitchen hot dogs. calamityjanesplace.com serving authentic wood-fired Fireside Grille portillos.com pizza blending traditional Open Range Sugar Grove and modern recipes. For an American tradition Prohibition Junction Southwest Grill parmapizzabar.com Sports Bar & Grill Bliss Creek Golf Course’s grilled to perfection, try the Fireside Belt Buster, two Modern-day speakeasy full-service restaurant. Roadhouse RTE 47 meets sports bar with a Seasonal patio. Down-home bar and grill 10oz. hand-packed patties covered beer garden. openrangegrill.com with live entertainment. charbroiled and served with prohibitionjunction.com roadhouserte47.com your choice of toppings. YORKVILLE thefiresidegrille.com Tap House Grill Blackstone Bar & Grill Rowdy’s Hot, fresh, and handcrafted Inviting, upscale-casual Specialty burgers and American pub food with a steakhouse and full bar. signature “hog wings” Gillerson’s large beer selection. blackstonebarandgrill.com served at this local favorite Grubbery taphousegrills.com in downtown Yorkville. Aurora Burnt Barrel Social rowdysbarandgrill.com Tuscan Tavern Specialty burgers and Comfortable lounge with Rustic pizzas, shareable farm-fresh food and craft Southbank Original appetizers pair well with apps, and fresh pastas. cocktails. Barbecue the rotating selection of the tuscantavernoswego.net burntbarrelsocial.com Delicious wood- Midwest’s finest craft beers smoked barbecue, live offered at this cheerful PLANO Lakeview Grille entertainment, and views of downtown Aurora location. Suzy’s Pizza Casual steakhouse with the Fox River from the patio. gillersons.com Pizza and sandwich shop. great views from a large southbankoriginal suzyspizza.com outdoor patio. barbecue.com See ad on page 21. lakeviewgrille.com Uncle Lar’s Pizza Suzy’s Bar & Grill Crusade Burger Bar Friendly pizza parlor with Legend’s Grill & Bar Casual bar with sand-pit creative and traditional Hearty American pub food. volleyball and a separate toppings. legendsgrillbar.com family dining room late- night eats, and signature Mike & Denise’s pizzas. Pizzeria Bar & Grill suzysyorkville.com Yorkville location of this fun, casual pizza pub with live entertainment. mikeanddenises.com For more delicious information visit EnjoyAurora.com/Dining 50 BrewIT’S HAPPENING HERE Time

AURORA BATAVIA Aspen Lane Energy City Brewing Wine Company Lines form early for their Drink wine, do good— mouthwatering selection this craft winery produces of robust, experimental wine for partner nonprofit beers. Open 1st Saturday organizations, and hosts of each month. OSWEGO groups for special events. energycitybrewing.com Fox Valley Winery Call ahead for tasting room Specializing in small lots availability: 331.250.1123. NORTH AURORA of handcrafted, award- aspenlanewinecompany.com Brother Chimp Brewing winning Illinois wines, Serving up small batches this destination winery Hopvine Brewing offers tastings and special Company of refreshing takes on traditional ales and lagers, events year-round. Hopvine’s signature beers foxvalleywinery.com & beer cocktails pair well brewed to perfection. brotherchimpbrewing.com with chef-inspired pub food. Oswego Brewing Co. Fox Valley Winery hopvinebrewingcompany.com Hardware Rave reviews and

Sustainable gastropub experimental brews are Two Brothers & brewery serving on tap at this craft brewery Roundhouse delicious food and over located in the heart of This pioneering craft brewery 400 whiskeys, plus downtown Oswego. remains independent and ground-to-glass beers oswegobrewing.com beloved throughout the grown at the B.B.G.B. Midwest and beyond. Taste Hop Farm. the big, bold flavors of Two eathardware.com Brothers artisan ales, spirits, and house-roasted coffee. twobrothersbrewing.com/ Energy City Brewing roundhouse enjoyaurora.com 51 Sweets World’sIT’S HAPPENING HERE Fare

Mang-Kuk Restaurant

AURORA La Quinta de los Reyes BATAVIA Tusk Thai Cuisine The flavors of Mexican cuisine Gourmet Thai and BYOB Acquaviva Ristorante Altiro Latin Fusion come alive at this festive in a warm, casual setting. Upscale twist on traditional Inspired tapas menu paired multi-floor dining room in tuskthaicuisine.com Italian comfort food with a with an eclectic cocktail menu downtown Aurora. focus on seafood. in an elegant new downtown laquintaaurora.com Aurora space. acquavivabatavia.com MONTGOMERY altirolatinfusion.com Lao Sze Chuan Grumpy Gaucho Bocaditos Café Anchor to the new Pacifica Food truck favorite for Authentic Argentinian street Basils Greek Dining Square specializing in empanadas serves lunch at food, pastries, and coffee. High-end Mediterranean Szechuan cuisine. new downtown storefront. bocaditos.cafe comfort food. laoszechuanaurora.com grumpygaucho.com basilsgreekdining.com Crabby Boil Mang-Kuk Restaurant NORTH AURORA Calla Lily Tea Room Casual cajun seafood Filipino and Asian dishes. Traditional Victorian afternoon restaurant, take out or dine in. Hardware mang-kuk.com tea service, available for lunch crabbyboil.com Eclectic American cuisine with and private events. an emphasis on sustainability, Pie Boss callalilytearoom.com El Taco Grande most greens grown on-site. Serving South African Relaxed, authentic Mexican eathardware.com sweet and savory pies. Domo 77 restaurant on Batavia’s pieboss.com Family-friendly Japanese grill River Street. Sushi Pirate with an extensive sushi menu. Quirky, kid-friendly modern Sushi + Rotary Sushi Bar domo77.com Hot Pan Noodles & sushi restaurant. Orders are delivered via Dumplings sushipiratemenu.com conveyor belt at this hip, El Jefe Kid-friendly Chongqing contemporary sushi bar. Authentic Mexican food cuisine. Unique sodas. Taco Madre rotarysushi.com grilled to perfection in a Craft beers. Gourmet taco and burrito modern setting. hotpanbatavia.com chain unique to Chicagoland. U Samba? eljeferestaurant.net tacomadrechicago.com Brazilian Café Swordfish Authentic Brazilian café Jefa Tacos Contemporary Sushi Vietnam Gate with an intimate, exotic vibe. Specialty taco shop with Japanese lounge with Home cooked pho, banh mi, usambacafe.com a Frida Kahlo theme near creative and traditional and signature rice dishes. Chicago Premium Outlets. sushi rolls and bento. Smoothies and coffee. jefatacos.com swordfishsushi.com vietgatepho.com 52

Sweets AURORA Oberweis Dairy Family-owned Java Banana Split dairy with Aurora Seasonal walk-up with roots serving up ENDIRO COFFEE signature desserts. memorable ice Aurora bananasplitinc.com cream shakes & Tree-to-cup specialty coffee grown in sundaes. Uganda and roasted in Aurora. Charlie’s Silver Spoon oberweis.com Creamery endirocoffee.com Outstanding new gourmet BATAVIA ice cream shop in Batavia Creamery GRACE Coffee & Wine downtown Aurora. Yorkville Novelty flavors and charliescreamery.com vegan options in Sip and gather at this coffee & wine bar downtown Batavia. serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Colonial Café bataviacreamery.com gracecoffeeandwine.com Colonial’s Kitchen Sink is a classic treat. HINCKLEY colonialicecream.com Jake’s Bagels & Deli Dairy Joy Aurora Deri Delite Classic Americana on the Bagels made from scratch daily. Outdoor patio with fun flavors Lincoln Highway. jakesbagelsanddeli.wordpress.com and a menu of snacks. dairyjoydrivein.com LIMESTONE COffeE & TEA Kenny Corn MONTGOMERY Batavia Premium popcorn. Atrevete Confections Coffee shop with breakfast & lunch items. kennycorn.com European-style chocolatier limestonect.com and patisserie. La Chicanita Bakery atreveteconfections.com Authentic Mexican cakes, MOKA breads, and pastries. YORKVILLE North Aurora lachicanitabakery.com Drive-thru & walk-up specialty coffee shop. Foxy’s Ice Cream mymokacoffee.com La Michoacana Fresh treats at a fun stand on Traditional Mexican the Fox River at Bicentennial “Paleteria” experience. Riverfront Park. SOCIETY 57 lamichoacanapremium.com foxysicecream.com Aurora Avocado toast and locally made Modest Coffee in a chic cafe & event space. society57.com OSWEGO PLANO Tredwell Coffee Mason Wok & Sushi Bien Chido Mexican Grill Aurora Modern Chinese and sushi Hip, cozy, highly rated taco Small batch coffee, signature sandwiches, with a cocktail bar. stand brings the flavors of and gorgeous Fox River views. masonwoksushioswego.com Mexico City to downtown Plano. tredwellcoffee.com Sakamoto Japanese Grill & Sushi YORKVILLE TWO BROTHERS Stylish Japanese grill serving Mandrake ROUNDHOUSE CAFé classic sushi and delicacies. Aurora sakamotofun.com Chef-owned New American eatery with small plates & Artisan roasted coffee & specialty beers. Shu’s Sushi Bar & Grill curated wine pairings. twobrothersbrewing.com/roundhouse Hidden gem sushi mandrakewinebar.com restaurant with a creative, The Village Grind extensive menu. Que Brava Oswego shussushi.com Authentic Mexican grill in Cozy, relaxed coffeehouse in the heart a modern space with inspired of downtown Oswego. specialty dishes. quebrava.com villagegrindoswego.com enjoyaurora.com 53 GETAWAYFun!

Hotels

Find the perfect place to spend the night with cozy accommodations at Aurora Area hotels, where you’ll experience the type of stellar service and warm hospitality you’d expect when staying with friends.

EnjoyAurora.com/Stay

54 AURORA AURORA AURORA Candlewood Hampton Holiday Inn Suites Inn & Suites Aurora-North Aurora Naperville 2625 W. Sullivan Rd., Aurora 2423 Bushwood Dr., Aurora 2424 Sullivan Rd., Aurora 630.907.9977 630.907.2600 630.806.7400 ihg.com/candlewood hamptoninnandsuitesaurora.com holidayinn.com/aurorail

Perfect location for business, leisure, and Located right off I-88 with all-new guest rooms Full-service hotel with outstanding amenities extended-stay travelers. Suites include fully and suites. Amenities include indoor swimming and service. Unwind at the indoor pool and equipped kitchens with full-size refrigerator and complex with kiddie pool and hot tub. All new rejuvenate at the 24-hour fitness center. rooms and suites as well as new kid suites icemaker, dishwasher, microwave and stovetop. Complimentary high-speed wireless internet, with bunkbeds. Expansive exercise facility, free Suites also include spacious work area and high-speed internet access and hot breakfast. business center, and easy access to major free high-speed internet access. Outdoor grills Conference center features five different expressways. Banquet meeting space for up available for guest use. meeting rooms and full A/V capabilities. to 40 guests with full-service dining menus.

AURORA AURORA AURORA Holiday Inn Homewood Super 8 Express & Suites Suites by Wyndham Aurora-Naperville by Hilton Aurora/Naperville 111 N. Broadway, Aurora 4320 Meridian Pkwy, Aurora 4228 Longmeadow Dr., Aurora 630.896.2800 630.978.2222 630.898.5419 hieaurora.com homewoodauroranaperville.com wyndhamhotels.com/super-8

Aurora’s only downtown hotel features an indoor All-suite hotel designed for business, leisure, Comfort and value come with your room at the pool and spa, fitness center, and complimentary or relocation. Spacious one-bedroom and two- Super 8 Aurora. Conveniently located right off hot breakfast buffet. All new rooms and suites bed/bath suites come with complimentary hot Route 34 and close to I-88, this hotel is within as well as amazing kid suites with bunkbeds. breakfast buffet and evening dinner receptions. easy reach of Chicago and a number of popular Conference services for up to 48 people. Walking Indoor pool, hot tub, and outdoor sport court. local destinations like Paramount Theatre, distance to Metra rail service to/from Chicago and Walking distance to Route 59 Metra rail and Hollywood Casino, and Fox Valley Mall. major attractions in downtown Aurora, including minutes from downtown Aurora. RiverEdge Park and Paramount Theatre. enjoyaurora.com 55 AURORA NORTH AURORA NORTH AURORA Quality Inn Comfort Inn & Suites My Place Hotel 4005 Gabrielle Ln., Aurora 308 S. Lincolnway, North Aurora 1000 Kilbery Lane, North Aurora 630.820.3400 630.897.7695 630.200.5685 qualityinn.com choicehotels.com/il539 myplacehotels.com

Enjoy the combination of cozy accommoda- Get a great night’s rest at this newly Brand new hotel located just steps from one tions and friendly service at the Quality Inn renovated hotel, conveniently located near of the top dining destinations in the region. hotel in Aurora. Signature Q Bed in all guest major attractions and I-88. Indoor pool and Great for short-term and long-term travelers. rooms features a comfortable, premium modern fitness center, free wi-fi, microwave MyBar on premises offers soft drinks, beer, mattress and linens, a generous supply of and refrigerator in room, and premium wine, and liquor and scenic patio. Convenient fluffy pillows and a soft, plush blanket. bedding. Spacious modern lobby with to I-88, The Turf Room, and Mooseheart. Close to Route 59 and Fox Valley Mall. free coffee and fireplaces.

NORTH AURORA OSWEGO OSWEGO Rodeway Inn BEST WESTERN AmericInn by North Aurora Oswego Wyndham Oswego 2055 Wiesbrook Dr., Oswego 1050 Douglas Rd., Oswego 201 Smoke Tree Ln., North Aurora 630.844.4700 630.544.9090 331.205.1700 bestwestern.com/oswegohotel wyndhamhotels.com/americinn choicehotels.com/rodeway-inn Experience warmth and convenience with Travelers love the Amish-style furnishings Keep travel simple at this budget hotel small town hospitality and easy access to the and antiques featured throughout the lobby with 120 guest rooms including king, queen, big city. Amenities include complimentary hot and breakfast area at AmericInn Lodge & doubles, and king suites equipped with breakfast, indoor pool, high-speed internet, Suites. Relax by the cozy stone fireplace kitchenettes for convenience. Ample free and business center. Near major attractions or make a splash at the indoor pool parking and economical amenities including and close proximity to Stuart Sports Complex. and hot tub. free wi-fi and 40-inch in-room TV.

56 NORTH AURORA, IL 1000 Kilbery Lane · North Aurora, IL 60542 (630) 256-8485 · [email protected]

PET FRIENDLY myplacehotels.com · Toll Free (855) 200-5685 · Each hotel is independently owned and operated.

YORKVILLE YORKVILLE YORKVILLE Hampton Inn Holiday Inn Super 8 Yorkville Express & Suites by Wyndham Yorkville Yorkville 310 E. Countryside Pkwy., Yorkville 577 E. Kendall Drive, Yorkville 1510A N. Bridge St., Yorkville 630.553.9805 630.882.0600 630.553.1634 yorkville.hamptoninn.com hiexpress.com/yorkvilleil wyndhamhotels.com/super-8

Wake up to Hampton’s free hot breakfast Brand new hotel in Yorkville offering a Find comfortable accommodations and before you kayak, swim, or enjoy some complimentary hot breakfast bar, indoor time-saving amenities at the Super 8 by fun in the sun. Located minutes from the pool and hot tub, high speed internet, fitness Wyndham Yorkville. Head to the Fox River charm and excitement of historic downtown center, and business center for your traveling for boating or canoeing or walk the riverfront Yorkville, the state’s largest waterpark, and convenience. to see everything from farmers markets to outdoor adventures on the Fox River. local festivals.

enjoyaurora.com 57 PLANO THE HOMESTEAD 1854 611 E. Main St., Plano 630.552.4322 thehomestead1854.com

Situated on beautifully landscaped grounds featuring a labyrinth and hedge maze, this 1854 Italianate country cottage is an exquisite setting for corporate, private and social events. From intimate weddings to team building and wellness retreats, this unique property emanates character. Conveniently located within minutes of Amtrak and the world-famous Farnsworth House.

BIG ROCK ESTHER’S PLACE 201 W. Galena St., Big Rock 630.556.9665 esthersplacefibers.com

Serenity and simpler times at an 1895 Victorian-style home with two beautifully furnished vintage rooms and two baths. Host parties, groups, and retreats. Indulge in a BOUTIQUE fiber-arts getaway — a scrumptious evening meal, late-night tea and RETREATS crumpets, rise-and-shine breakfast, workshop, tour, and round-the- Creative options for a focused getaway. clock pampering. Fiber arts studio offers items and gifts produced EnjoyAurora.com/Retreats locally by artists and farmers.

58 AURORA AREA Highlights IT’S HAPPENING HERE Your daybig Discover attractive venues with cutting edge amenities at ASHLEY FARM the event and reception spaces of the Aurora Area. Tasteful country venue for events with memorable EnjoyAurora.com/Weddings touches throughout. ashleyfarmweddings.com

Belle Salle Ashley Farm Banquets BELLE SALLE BANQUETS Elegant accommodations at an upscale venue with a spacious ballroom. bellesallebanquets.com Company 251 Loft-like luxury with bespoke furnishings in an unparalleled renovation. company251.com EMERSON CREEK Events to cherish are held spring to fall at this country-chic venue in Oswego. emersoncreek.com

Emerson Company 251 Creek

enjoyaurora.com 59

IT’S HAPPENING HERE

Your ARRANMORE FARM & POLO CLUB big This premier open-air venue offers laid back luxury at its finest. day arranmorefarmandpoloclub.com Continued from page 59. BLACKBERRY FARM The Barn at Blackberry Farm is a beautifully appointed, one-of-a-kind setting. blackberryfarm.info/ weddings-at-the-farm THE HOMESTEAD Blackberry Farm Paramount Theatre 1854 Spirited and refined experiences that marry vintage appeal with Northfork Farm modern amenities. thehomestead1854.com LOFT 28 WEST Above Ballydoyle Irish Pub in Aurora, this modern loft space hosts memorable events. loft28west.com NORTHFORK FARM Kentucky-style charm surrounded by white fences and lush green pastures. nforkfarm.com

The Loft 28 Homestead West PARAMOUNT 1854 THEATRE Your big day is Paramount’s next production, with a red carpet entrance and your name in lights. paramountaurora.com/ weddings

60 One -of-a -kind Fun

BLACKBERRY FARM

Now accepting reservations for our new barn wedding venue.

100 S. BARNES ROAD, AURORA, IL 60506 • 630-892-1550 wherefunbegins.org enjoyaurora.com 61 SCITECH HANDS ON MUSEUM HANDS SCITECH AURORA REGIONAL FIRE MUSEUM REGIONAL AURORA EAT Play DRINK

Play all day in downtown Aurora! With four museums, a 98,000 square-foot public library, live theater, and family-friendly events, downtown welcomes everyone to stay and play. FIRST FRIDAYS FIRST

AURORADOWNTOWN.ORG enjoyaurora.com 63 BE OUR GUEST award-winning musicals • hot summer concerts • school of the arts • weddings & more!

64