About us
🎉 Welcome to & Windy City Wanderers! 🌆
We’re so glad you’re here!
Whether you’re new to Chicago or a lifelong local, these sister groups are all about being a tourist in your own city—discovering hidden gems, rich history, fun facts, and unforgettable experiences across Chicagoland. 🗺️✨
Windy City Wanderers is the sister group to 1001 Things to See in Chicago Before You Die, and we host many joint events together—so you’ll often see crossover adventures and shared outings. 🤝
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🗓 What to Expect
We host fun, social outings year-round (yes, even in winter ❄️). Expect:
• Walking tours & neighborhood explorations
• Concerts, lectures & theater
• Pop-up dinners, trivia & social nights
• Museums, festivals & special events
Events take place throughout Chicago and nearby suburbs like Evanston, Oak Park, and Park Ridge.
🚇 All events are CTA-accessible.
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💬 Why Join?
• Discover new places all over Chicagoland
• Meet new people and make real connections
• Enjoy an active, well-curated event calendar
• Try the group FREE for 90 days
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💰 Membership
• 90-day free trial
• Annual dues: $12/year after the trial
• 🎉 Host an event and your dues are waived!
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🚨 RSVP / No-Show Policy (Please Read)
To keep events fair and running smoothly:
• A no-show without updating your RSVP = 1 strike
• 3 strikes = a 3-month pause from events
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🤝 Stay Connected
📘 Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576822533554
👥 Facebook Group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1571684466442303
📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/1001thingstoseeinchicago/
🌬️ !001 Things to See in Chicago Before You Die Meetup (sister group)
https://www.meetup.com/windy-city-wanderers
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💡 Have an idea for an event? Want to host or co-host?
Just message me—I’d love to hear from you!
Can’t wait to explore, wander, and discover Chicago together 💙
Cheers,
Giovina Romandine
Organizer, Windy City Wanderers 🌬️🚶♀️🚶♂️
Featured event
🎤😂 Heaven, Hell & Hilarity: Amy Armstrong Live at Hydrate! 🎶✨
🎤😂 Heaven, Hell & Hilarity: Amy Armstrong Live at Hydrate! 🎶✨
Get ready for an unforgettable night with one of Chicago's most entertaining performers! Join us for Amy Armstrong: Heaven, Hell & Back Again Tour—a hilarious and heartfelt evening filled with powerhouse vocals, outrageous comedy, and unforgettable stories.
A two-time cancer survivor, Amy transforms life's biggest challenges into laughter, inspiration, and incredible music. One minute she'll have you wiping away tears of laughter, the next she'll leave you speechless with her amazing voice. She's witty, warm, fearless...and yes, she swears like a sailor! 😄 If you're easily offended by adult humor or racy stories, this may not be the show for you. Otherwise, you're in for a fantastic evening!
📅 Saturday, August 15, 2026
🕕 Meet: 6:00 PM (doors open)
🎤 Show: 7:00–9:00 PM
📍 Hydrate Nightclub 3458 N. Halsted St. Chicago, IL 60657
🎟️ Tickets Required
General Admission: $33.85 (includes fees)
Purchase tickets here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/amy-armstrong-heaven-hell-back-again-tour-tickets-1991424647729
❤️ A Personal Recommendation from Giovina: I've been going to Amy Armstrong's shows since the mid-1990s, back when she lived in Chicago and frequently performed with the legendary Freddy Allen. Although she now calls Mexico home, she still tours the U.S. and always makes a stop in Chicago. I can honestly say her shows are consistently hilarious, heartfelt, and packed with incredible vocals. Every time she comes back to town, I make it a point to see her—and she never disappoints!
### 🌟 About Amy Armstrong
Known as the "Diva of Song and Fun," Amy Armstrong combines an extraordinary voice with razor-sharp comedy and heartfelt storytelling. Whether she's belting out Broadway favorites, pop classics, or sharing hilarious tales from life on the road, Amy creates an evening that's uplifting, funny, and unforgettable.
🌐 Website:
https://amythedivaarmstrong.com/
### 🌈 About Hydrate
Hydrate has been one of Chicago's most popular LGBTQ+ nightlife destinations since 2003. Located in the heart of Northalsted, the club features live entertainment several nights a week before transforming into a high-energy dance club with nationally known DJs later in the evening.
We'll meet at 6:00 PM so we can grab seats together before the show begins.
🍹 Everyone orders drinks individually and keeps their own tab at the bar.
https://hydratechicago.com/
⚠️ RSVP Reminder
Please update your RSVP if your plans change.
If you're running late or can't find the group, call or text Giovina at 312-835-4259.
Come enjoy an evening of incredible music, outrageous laughs, and one of Chicago's most beloved entertainers. It's guaranteed to be a night you won't forget! 🎤😂🎶
Upcoming events
41
🔥🌕 24th Annual Full Moon Jam — Drums, Fire & Summertime! July show!🌕🔥
Foster Avenue Turf Fields Lincoln Park, Lakefront Trl, Chicago, IL, US🔥🌕 24th Annual Full Moon Jam — Drums, Fire & Summertime! July Show! 🌕🔥
YES, IT'S BACK — and bigger than ever! Drums, fire, food & community under the full moon — don't miss this Chicago summer ritual! We've been coming to this magical event for 7 years and it never disappoints (weather permitting, of course)! 🙌
📅 Wednesday, July 29, 2026
🕕 Meetup: 6:00 PM (Jam starts at 7:30 PM)
📍 GPS: 41.974382, -87.647782
📍 Rideshare: 5200 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60640
🎟️ Free to attend!Join us for a family-friendly, leave-no-trace celebration of fire dancing, live drumming, and lakeside vibes! This relaxed, welcoming event blends creativity, community, and nature into one unforgettable summer evening. 🌕
🪘 WHAT TO EXPECT:
🔥 Fire dancers, drummers & creative performances
🌿 Open lakefront field, chilled-out crowd, positive energy
🍽️ Food sharing & community spirit🧺 POTLUCK-STYLE PICNIC — just like we do at Ravinia & Millennium Park! Bring something to eat & drink, plus your own plates, napkins & silverware. I'll bring a few tables for food setup. Grills are welcome! 🍉
🪑 PRO TIPS:
✅ Bring a blanket or lawn chair
✅ Bug spray highly recommended
✅ Be discreet with drinks (alcohol isn't technically allowed in the park)
✅ Low-level tripods & chairs welcome for photography — don't block views
❌ No flash photography
❌ No fire lanterns or laser pointers
🐾 Pets must be leashed📍 WHERE TO MEET — IMPORTANT!
The Jam happens in the open field between the Lawrence Ave Soccer Fields and Foster Turf Field, just south of the Foster Fields. It is NOT at Foster Beach. Depending on where you arrive, walk north or south along the lakefront trail — you'll hear the drums and see the crowd! I'll share my exact location day-of.
🔍 Search "Foster Turf Fields" or use the GPS coordinates above.🚗 PARKING:
🅿️ Park along N. Simmonds Dr or at Foster Beach lot
📱 Use SpotHero/ParkWiz for backup
⏰ Arrive early to snag a good spot!
FYI - the city now charges for the beach/lakefront parking🚌 TRANSIT: CTA #147, #92, or Red Line to Argyle or Berwyn + short walk 🔗 Trip Planner: https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/
🌦️ WEATHER NOTICE: Weather call made by 4:00 PM day-of. I'll update the event if canceled.
🔗 More Info: 🌕 https://www.fullmoonjam.org 📸 https://www.fullmoonjam.org/photography-video/ 📘 https://www.facebook.com/groups/chicagofullmoonjam/
📌 NO-SHOW POLICY REMINDER:
❗ 3 no-shows without updating your RSVP = 3-month freeze from RSVPing
⏰ Cut-off to update RSVP is event start time
✅ You must check in with the host at the eventLet's bring the fire, rhythm & perfect weather! 🌕🔥
Comment if you're bringing food, carpooling, or have questions! 🥁
18 attendees
🎶 Downtown Summer Sounds – Live R&B, Soul & Funk with Mixx Company Band! 🎷
Fountain Square, 1601 Sherman Ave, Evanston, IL, US# 🎶 Downtown Summer Sounds – Live R&B, Soul & Funk with Mixx Company Band! 🎷✨
Join us for another FREE summer concert under the stars in beautiful Fountain Square! This week features Mixx Company Band, delivering an energetic blend of R&B, Soul, Funk, Blues, and Smooth Jazz. Bring a chair, relax with friends, and enjoy a great evening of music in the heart of Downtown Evanston.
📅 Thursday, July 30, 2026
⏰ Meet: 5:50 PM
🎵 Concert: 6:00–8:00 PM
🍽️ Optional dinner afterward nearby
📍 Fountain Square
1601 Sherman Ave.
Evanston, IL
🎟️ FREE Admission • Family-Friendly • Outdoors### 🎤 Featured Band
Mixx Company Band brings an exciting mix of R&B, Soul, Funk, Blues, and Smooth Jazz that's guaranteed to get you dancing.
🌐 Band Website: https://mixxcompanyband.com/### 🎉 What to Expect
🎵 Live music (6:00–8:00 PM)
🌮 Food vendors and food trucks
🍺 Beer, wine, cocktails, soft drinks & Sketchbook Brewing beverages
🎨 Free kids' art activities by Ridgeville Park District
🤝 Community partner: Evanston Cradle to Career
♻️ Composting & recycling stations
👨👩👧👦 All ages welcome🪑 Bring a folding or camp chair—seating is first-come, first-served.
🍽️ After the concert, we'll head to a nearby restaurant for anyone who'd like to continue the evening.
☔ Rain Plan: Weather updates will be posted by noon on Downtown Evanston's social media if the concert is canceled.
🚗 Getting There
• Sherman Plaza Self Park Garage (about one block away)
• Easy access via CTA Purple Line, Metra UP-N, Pace buses, bike, or on foot.🔗 Event Information:
https://downtownevanston.org/downtownsummersounds
🗺️ Map:
https://maps.google.com/?q=1601+Sherman+Ave,+Evanston,+IL🚆 CTA Trip Planner:
https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/📩 Questions about the concert series:
info@downtownevanston.org📱 Running late or can't find the group?
Call or text Giovina at 312-835-4259.⚠️ RSVP Reminder
✔️ Please keep your RSVP updated.
✔️ RSVP changes must be made before the event starts.
❌ Three no-shows without notice will result in a 3-month RSVP suspension.🎶 Let's enjoy another fantastic evening of live music, great company, and summer fun in Downtown Evanston!
15 attendees
🌊☀️ Northside Beach Hopping: Mahony Griffin to Berger Park Lakefront Walk! 🍹
Jarvis Beach & Park, 1208 W Jarvis Ave, Chicago, IL, US🌊☀️ Northside Beach Hopping: Mahony Griffin to Berger Park Lakefront Walk! 🍹🚶♀️
Part 1 of 2 — North Side Beaches, Parks & Lake Views
Join us for a beautiful Friday afternoon walk along one of Chicago’s most scenic stretches of lakefront! We’ll explore the far north end of the Lakefront Trail, starting at Mahony Griffin (Marion) Beach Park near Loyola and making our way south through beaches, parks, and hidden lakefront gems before ending at Berger Park and The Waterfront Café.
📅 Friday, July 31, 2026
⏰ 3:00–5:45 PM
📍 Start: Jarvis Beach & Park
1208 W. Jarvis Ave.
Chicago, IL
🏁 End Point: The Waterfront Café
6219 N. Sheridan Rd.🚶 About the Walk
✅ Distance: Approximately 3.2 miles
✅ One-way walk
✅ Easy/moderate pace with lake views and photo stops
Our route includes:
🌊 Mahony Griffin (Marion) Beach Park
🌊 Sherwin on the Lake
🌊 Leone Beach Park
🌊 Loyola Beach
🌳 Loyola Park Natural Area
🌊 Tobey Prinz Beach Park
🌊 Columbia (Helen Doria) Beach
🌊 North Shore Beach Park
🌊 Hartigan Beach
🌊 Rosemont Avenue / Edgewater Beach
🍹 The Waterfront Café⚠️ The Lakefront Trail does not fully connect through this section, so we’ll zig-zag along Sheridan Road and neighborhood streets while walking along the beach whenever possible.
🍹 Part 2: Dinner & Live Music at The Waterfront Café
After the walk, many of us will continue with dinner, drinks, and live music at The Waterfront Café!⚠️ Dinner is a separate Meetup event due to limited space.
If you want to join us for dinner and music, RSVP here:
https://www.meetup.com/windy-city-wanderers/events/309203975/🍴 The Waterfront Café is a casual, family-friendly lakeside restaurant and performance venue with beautiful lake views.
Menu:
http://waterfrontcafechicago.com/fooddrink📌 What to Bring
✅ Water
✅ Sunscreen
✅ Comfortable walking shoes
✅ Summer clothing
✅ Camera — lots of great photo opportunities!
🚻 Public restrooms may be limited depending on beach facilities, so plan ahead.🚇 Transportation & Parking
🚗 Limited street parking near the starting point.
🅿️ Consider parking closer to the end point since this is a one-way walk.🚇 Easy CTA access:
- Red Line nearby
- CTA buses #146, #147, #151
Use CTA Trip Planner:
https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/
🅿️ Parking apps:
SpotHero or ParkWhiz🌤️ Weather Note:
This is a weather-dependent outdoor event. We’ll monitor the forecast and update if needed.⚠️ RSVP Reminder
✅ Please update your RSVP if your plans change.
✅ RSVP changes must be made before the event begins.
📱 Running late? Message the host directly.
❌ Three no-shows without updating your RSVP = 3-month signup freeze.🌊☀️ Come enjoy lake breezes, beautiful beaches, Chicago history, and a perfect summer Friday along the North Side lakefront. Let’s walk, explore, and end the day with great food and music! 🍹🎶
21 attendees
🌊🎷 Lake Views, Live Jazz & Dinner at Waterfront Café! 🍽️
The Waterfront Cafe, 6219 N Sheridan Rd, Chicago, IL, US🌊🎷 Lake Views, Live Jazz & Dinner at Waterfront Café! 🍽️
Part 2 of 2 — Dinner, Drinks & Live Jazz at Berger Park
🌴 Let’s head back to one of our favorite Chicago summer spots — Waterfront Café! It feels like a little Miami escape right here on the North Side with beautiful lake views, a relaxed beach café atmosphere, great food, drinks, and live music on the patio.
Join us for a fun Friday night of dinner, conversation, and jazz overlooking Lake Michigan!
📅 Friday, July 31, 2026
⏰ Meet: 6:00 PM
🎶 Live Music: 7:00–9:00 PM
📍 Waterfront Café
Berger Park
6219 N. Sheridan Rd.
Chicago, IL🎷 Featured Performance:
Allan Laskey Trio
The Allan Laskey Trio brings a cool, sophisticated jazz sound featuring:
🎵 Traditional jazz & swing
🎵 Classic jazz standards
🎵 Great American Songbook favorites
🎵 Jazz blues influences inspired by artists like Charlie Parker
Perfect music for a relaxing summer evening by the lake!⚠️ IMPORTANT:
This Meetup is ONLY for the dinner and music portion.
Earlier that afternoon, we are hosting:
🌊☀️ Northside Beach Hopping: Mahony Griffin to Berger Park Lakefront Walk! 3-5:30 pm
The walk is a separate Meetup event, and space is limited for each.
If you want to do the WALK TOO please RSVP separately here:
https://www.meetup.com/windy-city-wanderers/events/315748420/🌞 The Plan
🍽️ Meet at Waterfront Café at 6 PM.
We’ll arrive early to grab tables since seating is first-come, first-served and reservations are not available.
✅ Tables are usually limited to 4–6 people
✅ We’ll try to grab a cluster of tables together
✅ If you arrive later, message me and we’ll try to save space (no guarantees)
🎶 Music starts at 7 PM, but tables can fill up well before then!🍔 About Waterfront Café
Located in historic Berger Park, Waterfront Café is a unique lakefront dining spot housed in a historic landmark coach house connected to one of Chicago’s last remaining lakefront mansions.
Enjoy:
🌊 Amazing Lake Michigan views
🎶 Outdoor patio music
🍔 Casual beach café food
🍹 Full bar and summer drinks
🌅 One of Chicago’s best sunset settings
🌐 Website:
http://waterfrontcafechicago.com/🍽️ Dining Information
Counter-service restaurant — everyone orders separately.
💳 CREDIT/DEBIT ONLY — NO CASH
For our group, please plan to add approximately 32% to your order:
• 12% Chicago sales tax
• 20% gratuity
🦟 Pro Tip:
Bring bug spray! Beachside patios can get buggy after sunset.🎷 About Allan Laskey Trio
Chicago-based jazz ensemble specializing in classic and original straight-ahead jazz, small-group swing, and timeless standards.
🌐 Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/p/Allan-Laskey-Jazz-61553134481204/🚇 Transportation
CTA Trip Planner:
https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/
🚗 Parking:- Metered parking available on Granville Avenue
- Limited free street parking nearby (watch permit signs!)
- SpotHero or ParkWhiz recommended
⚠️ RSVP Reminder
✅ Please only RSVP if you are 95% sure you can attend.
✅ Seating is limited, so accurate headcounts are important.
✅ Update your RSVP before the event begins if plans change.
❌ Three no-shows without updating your RSVP = 3-month RSVP pause.🌴🍹 Come enjoy a little Chicago beach magic — great friends, lake views, delicious food, and live jazz under the summer sky. It’s the perfect way to end a summer Friday! 🎶🌊
36 attendees
Past events
1000
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