Meet Chicago Northwest: Your Passport to Fun

LEGOLAND Discover Center Chicago © 2014 James Jordan

Meet Chicago Northwest: Your Passport to Fun

Welcome to Chicagoland: the place to be for foodies, families, and those who enjoy a well-crafted brew. In Chicago Northwest, the journey is only part of the fun—exploring the many gems throughout the region makes every trip here unforgettable.

The entertainment options are nearly endless in Chicago Northwest. With so many things to do, see, and eat, deciding which of the many beloved spots deserves a slot in your itinerary can be challenging. Luckily, the region’s four exciting passport programs take all the guesswork out of planning a trip to this charming slice of Chicago—all you have to do is choose the one that suits your style! These passports invite visitors to check into stops across the region to earn points and win prizes—it’s a win-win with non-stop fun.

Passport to Sipping: Cork & Tap Trail

Explore Chicago Northwest’s best sips on this fun-filled trail. Perfect for couples retreats and trips with friends, the Cork & Tap Trail leads you to diverse and unique establishments across the suburbs.

At Arlington Ale House, enjoy your favorite ale, wine, whiskey, or mixed drink while engaging in games like darts or shuffleboard. Come hungry—the menu features appetizers and entrees from downtown Arlington Heights’ popular restaurants, delivered right to your table.

For craft beer enthusiasts, Beer on the Wall is a must-visit, with 16 rotating drafts and over 600 bottles and cans. Another craft beer gem is Global Brew Tap House—with 50 beers on tap and approximately 200 bottled beers from around the world, it’s a haven for beer lovers.

Wine connoisseurs can explore the art of winemaking at Cooper’s Hawk, where precision and care craft award-winning wines. Experience the oldest family winery in Illinois at Lynfred Winery, where tours and tastings unfold in a luxurious setting.

Grab a great bottle of wine, a delectable pizza, and a six-pack of microbrew at Tuscan Market & Wine Shop in downtown Arlington Heights, a one-stop destination for a night out with friends. And for those seeking discovery and connection, Wine With Me offers a perfect blend of wine, craft beer, and eclectic spirits.

Passport to Family Fun: Family Adventure Passport

If you’re looking for non-stop family fun, you’re in the right place. The Chicago Northwest Family Adventure Passport blends fun and education, offering activities that are sure to please.

Enhance your golfing skills and social opportunities at 390 Golf Experience, located on the property of Salt Creek Golf Club. Or experience a new way to play golf at Topgolf Schaumburg, featuring climate-controlled hitting bays, games for all skill levels, and a chef-driven menu.

Climb to new heights at First Ascent Climbing & Fitness, explore the outdoors at scenic Lake Arlington, or discover the vast Busse Woods for a pet-friendly adventure. For thrill-seekers, join the axe-throwing craze at BullsEye Axe Throwing Lounge, one of the nation’s first “axe lounges.” Challenge yourself at Meineke Park Challenge Course, featuring a synthetic turf obstacle course with ninja steps, a traverse wall, floating boards, a vault wall, and a 40-yard dash. At Coachlite Skate Center, the best place to roller skate in the Midwest, enjoy music, lighting effects, redemption games, and a snack bar.

Make time for Jumps & Jiggles and the indoor carousel at the nearby Elk Grove Park District Pavilion, with fun for all ages. Also, don’t miss a stop at the Pirates’ Cove Theme Park—you’ll find a pirate ship, paddle boats, train rides, a climbing wall, and many more creative attractions that kids will love.

When it’s time to hit the town, step into ENTERRIUM for a complete entertainment experience. Enjoy chef-prepared dishes, craft beer, cocktails, wine, bowling, vintage and modern video games. Don’t miss a trip to Laugh Out Loud Theater, where family-friendly shows featuring live-action, video, and audience interaction are offered every weekend.

Challenge your intellect at Mastermind Escape Games Schaumburg, and let LEGO® enthusiasts explore a world of creativity at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago, featuring Kingdom Quest Laser Ride, 4D Cinema, Master Model Builder, Chicago MINILAND, and LEGO® Pirate Adventure Island.

Whether you’re into culture, outdoor activities, or family-friendly fun, the Family Adventure Passport has something for every member of the family.

Global Gastronomy: Culinary Passports

Exploring local flavors is one of the best parts of taking a trip—and one of the best ways to get to know a new place. Chicago Northwest more than delivers on this front with two passport programs expertly curated for curious foodies. The Taste of Asia Passport spans over 30 handpicked restaurants, including local favorites like Kurumaya Japanese Restaurant, Rokbonki Japanese Steakhouse, Tokio Pub, and award-winning restaurants like SHAKOU Arlington Heights and Phat Phat. The Taco Trail takes you on a mouthwatering journey through the flavors, traditions, and creativity of this beloved Mexican staple—Besa Mi Taco, Fiesta del Mar Restaurant, and Good Tequila’s Mexican Grill are just a few of the stand-out picks from this list.

The Perfect Weekend Away

After an action-packed day of adventuring and sightseeing, head to one of Chicago Northwest’s hotels for a relaxing evening and a good night’s rest. There are over 60 hotels to choose from, and whether you’re here for a fun family weekend, a couple’s retreat, or a girlfriend’s getaway, there is sure to be a hotel ideally suited to your needs and budget.

The Eaglewood Resort & Spa is known for its resort-style amenities, golf course, spa, multiple dining options, and beautiful grounds, while The Westin Chicago Northwest offers modern amenities, spacious rooms, on-site dining, fitness center, and proximity to highways, so you can get back to exploring the region without delay. For proximity to shopping, opt for a stay at the Hyatt Regency Schaumburg close to Woodfield Mall, or the upscale Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel.

In Chicago Northwest, embrace big-city fun without the hassle. Explore ChicagoNorthwest.com for more reasons to visit. Your unforgettable adventure awaits.