Things to Do
Spring Events in Chicago
The warm weather is already sinking in, we’re geared up for Spring, you should to, as we preview these upcoming events….
- Mayfest!
Get ready for Germany in Chicago kicking off May 31st-June 3rd for Chicago’s 18th annual Maifest. The event aims to cure cabin fever with beer, food and live music under giant tents in Chicago’s historic Lincoln Square. Additional highlights include arts and crafts vendors, admission is FREE. See why this event has been voted best Chicago Festival back in 2009.
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cinco de mayo 2012
Come celebrate Chicago’s proud Mexican influence in a colorful explosion of music, a parade, vendors, and authentic food. The Cinco De Mayo Festival starts May 4th at 4pm and goes on until May 6th. Most art enthusiasts will love the cultural display of paintings, sculptures, and canvases on display/ for sale at this annual fest. 1401 S Sacramento Dr. in the historic Pilsen neighborhood.
Bike the Drive 2012
Guess what? The city of Chicago closes off scenic Lake Shore Dr. every year so we can pedal across the beautiful lakefront highway, taking advantage of the giant paved expressway, and the aesthetically pleasing sights of the skyscrapers on the right, and Lake Michigan on the other side. Bike the Drive is a 15-30 mile non-competitive ride, and if you need a bicycle, we rent them for 30$ per day/ 20$ for half a day, right here at our hostel.
Belmont Sheffield Music Fest
Hey party people. Check out the renowned Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival just north of our hostel in Lakeview. For just a $5 suggested donation you get a myriad of live performances, food & drink vendors, shopping oppurtunities and more. The 28th annual festival kicks off Memorial Day weekend, book with us now, and celebrate.
Saving Money When Traveling
You are practical with your $$$, you are already booking with our affordable hostel. Here are a few additional money saving tips amidst your travels….
1. Check out groupon.com. This site is springing with super deals & its popularity is ever-growing. They also have the newly featured Now! Deals where you can get an immediate discount on restaurants, bars, attractions & much more. This is an excellent way to plan ahead and save.
Chicago CityPASS
It’s winter. What better way to explore Chicago than the wonderful indoor attractions offered through a splendid discount with Chicago’ CityPASS. We have it right here at our front desk for $76.00 ( save 50%), and as a CityPASS holder, you have unlimited access & bonus incentives to the following:
Super Bowl XLVI Party
Join us for our annual Super Bowl Party.
Sunday, February 5th at 5pm Enjoy FREE food while watching the BIGGEST game of the year, right here in the comfort of our hostel.
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (13-3) VS. NEW YORK GIANTS (9-7)
Learn more about the big game here with ESPN’s Road to Indy.
And don’t forget about the year’s most entertaining commercials….
Bowling, Billiards, & Fun in Chicago
Let’s go bowling. The hostel is within walking distance from both Seven Ten Lounge & Southport Lanes. Both alleys use an old school approach to the sport, with Southport Lanes actually utilizing manual pin setters, be prepared to keep score yourself with a #2 pencil. In addition, both bowling lounges have good drink menues & exceptional bar food.
Chicago…The Brew City!
Beer, it’s here. . .
We’re here to put the myth of terrible AMERICAN beer to rest. Chicago offers many great home-grown breweries and best off all, they’re all over the city! If you’re heading out to enjoy the many wonderful neighborhoods of Chicago; we would suggest hitting up these great AMERICAN CHICAGO breweries!
1. Goose Island
Goose Island is perhaps the best well know Chicago beer with brews such as: 312, Honkers Ale and the Green Line. When the first Goose Island Brewpub opened its doors in 1988, domestic, mass-produced beer was deeply ingrained in Midwestern culture. The craft beer industry was still in its infancy, with only a handful of brewpubs in existence in the Midwest. In his travels across Europe, beer-lover John Hall had enjoyed a distinctive local brew in each region he visited. Hall was convinced that Midwesterners could produce beers as good or better than those he’d tasted in his travels. Living on the shore of the largest system of fresh water on the planet Earth, in a city with rapidly evolving tastes – John decided that his hometown, Chicago, would be the ideal place to do just that.
Today, Goose Island continues to brew an innovative selection of over 50 craft beers at the brewpub, the best of which are then bottled at our Fulton Street brewery. Goose Island beers are now enjoyed in 26 states and Europe.
Goose Island is located at:
1800 North Clybourn
Chicago, IL 60614
(312) 915.0071Brew Tours are also available:
A Goose Island brewer will lead you on a tour of our brewery– where it all began in 1988! Tours also include a tasting of 6 of our current beer selections and a souvenir pint glass!
Saturdays at 12:30pm, 2pm and 3:30pm
Sundays at 1:30pm, 3pm, and 4:30pm
Duration: 60-90 minutes
2. Metropolitan Brewing
Looking to head a bit north to Andersonville? A must stop in this historically Swedish neighborhood is Metropolitan Brewing. They’re know for beers with industrial influence such as Krankshaft, Dynamo and the Flywheel. Metropolitan’s sole focus is on the production and packaging of Metro Beer…so you won’t find a store, pub or restaurant. Don’t be too sad, they do offer some brewery tours which are a ton of fun, and reasonably priced.
Metropolitan is located at:
5121 N. Ravenswood
Chicago, IL 60640
Find a list of places where you can purchase and drink Metropolitan:
Find out information on the Brewery Tours
3. Half Acre
Hanging out in Andersonville a little bit more? After checking out the brew tour at Metropolitan, head on over to Half Acre. Half Acre Beer Company began in 2006 with no experience and loads of optimism. Since then, they’ve come a long way and have had the chance to expand their skills and grow their brewing company. On August 10, 2011 they purchased their building and cemented their place in the mix of it all. At Half Acre Beer Company, they brew beers they want to see made, and encourage the interesting experiences the beer ride has to offer.
Half Acre doesn’t serve food, but their three pillar beers are: Gossamer, Daisey Cutter and Over Ale. The awesome thing is though, you can buy 4 pack cans, growlers and kegs directly from them at their brewery store.
Brewery Store Location:
4257 N. Lincoln Ave
Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 248-4038Half Acre Tours:
- Time: 1:00pm
- Day: Every Saturday, except major holidays
- Cost: $10. Cash only. This gets you a Half Acre pint glass & sampling during the tour.
- Tour participants must be 21 or older with identification. No one under 21 is permitted without a parent.
- All tour goers must form a line outside the brewery. First come, first serve.
- Groups are 6o people maximum. If you’re number 61, then you’re out of luck…but you can go into the store and sample some beer
4. Revolution Brewing
After spending your afternoon in Andersonville at Half Acre and Metropolitan…head on down to a great spot in Logan Square called Revolution Brewing Company. Revolution is both a brewery, restaurant and bar…and is a favorite of Mat and Jason the managers of Chicago Getaway Hostel. The owner spent a few years working for Goose Island Brewery and opened a bar called the Handlebar. Revolution started in the late 2000′s and has been a huge success ever since. We’d suggest eating their Beer Cheese Soup…it’s honestly one of the best things you’ll put into your mouth. Wash it down with some Bottom Up Wit…a refreshing Belgian-style wheat and….. If you’re heading back to the hostel right after… don’t forget to bring some food for the desk staff..they’ll appreciate it immensely!
Brew Pub Location:
2323 N. Milwaukee Avenue
Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 227-BREWWhere else can I drink Revolution Brewing?
Check out the LIST!
5. Haymarket Pub and Brewery
After spending your day drinking at Revolution, Half Acre, Goose Island and Metropolitan…close it out at Haymarket Pub and Brewery…located right off the #8 Halsted bus…and easily accessible getting back to Chicago Getaway Hostel! Haymarket is new to the Chicago scene, but has had a huge impact on Chicago’s brewery scene. Haymarket specializes in classic Belgian and contemporary American beer styles and their space is trendy, comfortable and vintage. Haymarket is ideal for watching sporting events and is located fairly close to the United Center (da’ Bulls and Blackhawks.)
Brew Pub Location:
737 W. Randolph St
Chicago, IL 60661
(312) 638-0700
Other Breweries we Like!
- Koval Distellery
- Hamburger Mary’s Brews
- Two Brothers
- Three Floyds
- Granville Island Brewery- Vancouver, BC
- Bold City Brewery- Jacksonville, FL
Tasty Chicago Bakeries
Subdue your sweet tooth with some savory baked items, delicious comfort foods, & decadent travel treats….
Bleeding Heart Bakery: 1955 W Belmont Ave. Boasted as local, sustainable, & punk rock, this pastry palace excels in fantastic organic baked goods that will leave a memorable mark on your pallet. “The cake balls & whoopie pies are to die for…”
Movie Theaters in Chicago
Dear Traveller, the Chicago winter is now fully upon us, despite the multitude of exciting attractions, one may want to catch a movie while in town, here are a few suggestions…
THE MUSIC BOX.
The Music Box is a hidden gem for film/film lovers in Chicago’s vibrant Lakeview neighborhood. Playing a diversity of excellent cinema (including midnight movies) in a memorable and cozy historic theater, check this place out at 3733 N. Southport.
Best Tacos in Chicago
Welcome to Chicago. You’ve heard about our pizza & hot dogs, but Chicago is also a delicious haven for tacos, whether you want them authentic or with original flare, check out our recommendations…
La Pasadita
La Pasadita gets our vote for one of the best authentic taco joints in the city. In addition, they also serve up some savory tortas, tamales, & tostadas all for incredibly cheap prices (you can get 3 tacos for under $7). 1140 N. Ashland Ave. right off the Division Blue Line Stop.
Chicago Restaurant Week
More than 200 restaurants come together to bring you 10 days of pure dining pleasure. Whether you want to revisit your favorite haunts or scope out new hot spots, you won’t want to miss the Fifth Annual Chicago Restaurant Week. This gastronomic event is your once-a-year chance to sample fare created by some of the city’s – and the world’s – top chefs at restaurants with prix fixe menus at $22, $33 and $44. It’s a true celebration of Chicago’s world-class culinary scene. This event occurs: Feb. 17th-26th.
