In these tough economic times, not everyone can afford to take a week off from work and fly off to some exotic destination for spring break. Fortunately, we happen to live in (or near) one of the most interesting cities in the country. Even though Chicago is not a typical spring break destination, there are plenty of things to keep you from missing your professors. Here are just a few of the things you can do to in the Chicagoland area from March 20 through the 29.
Go Mad
“March Madness” is here! Whether you are hosting viewing parties of your own or hitting the bars to trash-talk a wider audience, it’s all about college basketball this week. Full Shilling in Wrigleyville is throwing a two-day kick-off extravaganza with prizes and $7 Miller Lite Pitchers on March 19 and 20. Stretch Run Sporting Club & Grille on LaSalle Street features 240 tvs and a private party room.
Go Green
St. Patrick’s Day is March 17, but in Chicago we celebrate all month long. Head to Mystic Celt on Southport Avenue for a great (and inexpensive) Irish-American buffet and killer Irish coffees every Sunday. Ginger’s Ale House, not too far away on Ashland Avenue, features an extensive draft beer selection, $4.50 Harp pints all month and an English/Irish/American menu. Both pubs have huge plasma screens in every corner, so why not kill two birds with one stone and get with the madness, Irish-style?
Go Late
The Art Institute is letting you stay a little later at their “After Dark” event on March 27. “Take a peek at the museum’s “Becoming Edvard Munch” exhibit after the doors close to the public. Includes a cash bar, complimentary appetizers, a DJ and performances by theater ensemble “Collaboraction.” (from www.Metromix.com). $15 for students, $20 otherwise.
Go Shopping
You may not be able to wear your shorts and flip-flops in Chi-town yet, but it sure feels awesome to update your closet in preparation for that glorious day, when the thermostat will pass 70 degrees. Chicago premium outlets in Aurora are having huge sales (think 50-60 percent off on average) all throughout March. Can’t get to Aurora? Hit the mag mile. Michigan Avenue will be teeming with tourists and locals alike enjoying somewhat milder temperatures and fantastic prices.
Go Outside (Inside)
Outdoor Café on Bryn Mawr Avenue has found a solution to outside seating in the winter. They have brought the patio furniture inside. Essentially, this is a Korean teahouse with fabulous desserts and a quirky decor. Go for the delicious (and huge) fruit bing soo, stay for the awesome board games and friendly atmosphere.
Go with Kids
Whether the kiddies have the same spring break as you or not, they will demand to be entertained during their week off. Brookfield Zoo and the Children’s Museum in Navy Pier are always good options. Make sure to hit up your local library for free museum passes. For some splashing fun (that is sure to leave them exhausted and you with a relaxing evening) take them to one of Chicago indoor water parks like CoCo Key Water Resort in Arlington Heights or Keylime Cove Water Park Resort in Gurnee.
Go Explore
Believe it or not, some people actually travel to Chicago during spring break. We have really great diversity in the city so it is possible to experience a lot of cultures without going very far. The temperatures should reach into the 50s that week so go for a walk, get to know a new neighborhood, try some ethnic food, listen to different genres of music and snap silly pictures in front of monuments. Go ahead, play the tourist.