For the first time in months, I had a two-week period without leaving the Chicago area. Even with this travel hiatus, this past weekend was jam-packed.
It started when I met Svengoolie, also known as Rich Koz. Svengoolie is a legendary television host of a show featuring horror and science fiction movies. Svengoolie was making an appearance at the Barn at Arabian Knights Farm in Willowbrook, Ill.
Arabian Knights Farm, featuring three barns, 60 stalls and five acres of sprawl, is a horse lover’s dream. It also has a petting zoo and a very cool barn which hosts musical performances, theater and more. Its rustic appearance is full of character and is great for a date, a party or just hanging out.
Saturday morning, we started our day at Stacked in Oak Lawn. We shared orders of the banana bread French toast and the red velvet French toast. Both were outstanding, but the red velvet was just so unique.
We ventured to the Bridgeview Sports Dome to attend the tryouts for 2014 Chicago Bliss. The Bliss won the Legends Football League championship. These women are tough, serious football players led by coaching veteran Keith Hac. I talked to several players, including tight end Deena Fagiano and their passion for the sport was palpable and impressive. As the sport has gotten more serious, its fanbase has been growing.
After a few hours of football fun, we went to the Wheaton Haunted Halloween Flea Market. After browsing hundreds of booths, I picked up some beautiful glass bottles, vintage record albums and plenty of fresh-baked goods.
We finished the day at DC Sarnies with a meal of crab cake sliders, vegetarian ravioli and lobster bisque. My mouth is still watering as I write this. My friend described it as a higher level of comfort food. I just called it ridiculously tasty.
I spent Sunday watching football. I earned the rest, although I am not complaining about anything. I had a lot of fun and great food without leaving my home area.
— John Wroblewski, online contributor
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Nov 25, 2024Avani + Barbarons Seychelles Resort Completes Renovations, Set to Open Next Spring
Avani + Barbarons Seychelles Resort, first opened in 2015 as one of the brand’s earliest resort properties, is completing a multimillion-dollar upgrade, expected to reopen in spring 2025. The resort will add the significant + symbol in its name when it welcomes guests again to the newly revitalized Avani + Barbarons Seychelles Resort. "AVANI+" is Avani's elevated brand extension; properties are categorized as "AVANI+" based on location, design, extra facilities and F&B outlets.
Sponsored Content
Discover the Pristine Beauty of the Sporades Islands
Nestled in the northwest Aegean Sea, the Sporades Islands are a hidden gem of Greece, offering breathtaking natural beauty and unique experiences for every traveler. Comprised of four main islands — Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros — this island cluster is renowned for its lush pine forests, crystal-clear waters and idyllic beaches.
November 2024
Nov 25, 2024Chessboxing Spikes Adrenaline in Players as Well as Spectators
The concepts of chess and boxing are so diametrically opposed, you wouldn’t expect to see the terms in the same sentence, let alone combined as a sport. The former is utterly cerebral and the latter extremely physical ... and yet they’re played together in a competition known as chessboxing.
Slideshow
Nov 25, 20249 Food Festivals Around the World to Put on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through these international food festivals with us.
Sponsored Content
Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet
Condor Airlines completely renewed its long-haul fleet, featuring its new Airbus A330neo. Designed to elevate your travel experience, the A330neo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and offers unrivaled comfort, ensuring an exceptional journey for every passenger. With its striking signature striped livery, the A330neo not only promises a memorable flight but also enhances the start of your vacation from the moment you step aboard.
Daily
Nov 25, 20243 Luxury Stays for Active Travelers
HomeExchange Collection boasts exclusive properties where active travelers can enjoy state-of-the-art facilities and unforgettable experiences. The “play-based stays” cater to those who don’t want to compromise on fitness, fun or luxury while traveling.
November 2024
Nov 21, 2024Immerse in an Invigorating Thermal Journey at Scandinave Spa Whistler
The glittering green pines and burst of jasmine lake beyond almost made me forget about the aches in my legs that slowly developed after the promised hour-long hike ran into the third hour. And, oh, there were my hips, showing up to remind me I was no longer in my 20s. I didn’t mind, though, because the vision that surrounded me during our guided walk through Garibaldi Park to Cheakamus Lake in Whistler, British Columbia, with Mountain Skills Academy and Adventures proved worthy of a thousand postcards.
Sponsored Content
Explore Egypt on the Most Extraordinary Tour Ever
Picture this: You’re standing in front of the Great Pyramid, the last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, in complete silence, with no crowds in sight. As you step inside, your guide leads you to hidden chambers inaccessible to other tourists. Here, you’re granted a rare chance to delve into the deepest mysteries of ancient Egypt.
Daily
Nov 21, 20245 Can’t-Miss Black Friday, Cyber Monday Hotel Deals
Plan to shop on Black Friday and Cyber Monday? Add these deals from hotels around the country to your shopping list.
ShareThis