What we’re about
Welcome to our fun and active group!
Whether you're new to Chicago or have lived here for a while, becoming a member of this group allows you to explore the Chicago area in ways that most residents may never experience. It’s like being a tourist in your own city as we uncover hidden gems and unique experiences.
This group is a sister to the original, "1001 Things to See in Chicago Before You Die," and we will be hosting many joint events together.
Our goal is to create a club filled with enjoyable events, giving you the chance to meet new people while participating in unique and diverse outings throughout Chicagoland. This is a year-round group, and winter won't slow us down!
The annual dues are $12 per member, but you get a 90-day free trial to see if you enjoy the group! If you choose to host an event, your annual dues will be waived. We are a highly active and social group with a wide range of activities throughout Chicago.
Most of our events take place in Chicago or nearby suburbs like Evanston, Oak Park, and Park Ridge. All events are accessible via public transportation, which is why we primarily focus on Chicago.
Please note that we have a firm "three strikes" policy regarding no-shows. If you don't attend an event without updating your RSVP, you will receive a strike. After accumulating three strikes, you will be suspended from the group for three months. We aim to maintain fairness and fun for all our members.
If you have any questions about the group, suggestions for events, or would like to lead an outing, please let me know. Hosting an event allows you to waive your annual dues!
Please also check out & join our Facebook group page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1571684466442303
We also have an Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/1001thingstoseeinchicago/
Giovina Romandine
Organizer for Windy City Wanderers!
The summer festival season continues! Let’s celebrate one of Chicago’s most iconic eats—the mighty hot dog 🌭—at the 4th Annual Windy City Hot Dog Fest in Portage Park! Join us as we explore vendor tents serving creative twists on the Chicago-style dog, enjoy live music, shop local artisans, and maybe even catch the Hot Dog Eating Contest or the Top Dog Parade (yes, it involves actual dogs 🐶) Come even if you don't like hotdogs as they serve up more than wieners!
We’re teaming up with several other Meetup groups for this fun event, so it’s a multi-group gathering! If you see my name with a large number next to it, that means lots of people are attending from various groups — it's going to be a great crowd!
Get Ready for the 4th Annual Windy City Hot Dog Fest! Decide for yourself whether ketchup belongs on a hot dog at Chicago’s beloved Windy City Hot Dog Fest, happening Friday to Sunday, May 30–June 1, in the vibrant Portage Park neighborhood. Some of Chicagoland’s most iconic hot dog stands will go head-to-head to claim the title of Best Frankfurter—and you get to be the judge!
But the fun doesn’t stop at the food. Savor live performances by incredible local and regional artists on the mainstage, explore a variety of arts and crafts vendors, and enjoy family-friendly activities in the kids’ area. There’s even a community stage showcasing local talent!
The Windy City Hot Dog Fest is brought to you in partnership with the Six Corners Chamber of Commerce. Dedicated to fostering a thriving shopping and entertainment district, the Chamber celebrates the area’s rich history, supports the arts, promotes sustainable practices, and creates unforgettable events that strengthen community pride.
Nine of Chicagoland's favorite hot dog vendors will compete to be the "Top Dog!" You get to be the judge: Chicago's Doghouse, Baked Cheese Haus, Bust Outs, Byron's Hot Dogs, J's Bacon Hot Dogs, Sausage Fest Food Truck, Frannie's Cafe, Tikka Masala Dogs and Lee Concessions.
Prove your hot dog loyalty by joining the hot dog eating contest. Five registrants can compete in a five-minute eating contest on Saturday, May 31 at 3:30 pm. Sign up online at windycityhotdogfest.com or on-site if spots are available. The winner will receive bragging rights!
Besides tasty dogs, patrons will listen to great local and regional acts on the event's mainstage. Plus, don't miss the kids' area, arts & crafts vendors, Polar Bare Bath (soaps and body care), Lil Bird Kitchens LLC (jarred relishes), and Papa Caps Foods (hot sauces).
💵 $10 suggested donation at the gate, which you are not obligated to pay. You can give a lesser amount or no money, as it is NOT required!
MAIN STAGE
Saturday
12:30pm – Mariachi Los Palmeros
2:00pm – Largemouth Band
3:30pm – Whatever, Nevermind (Nirvana Tribute)
5:30pm – RICO! – Santana Tribute (WE WILL SEE THIS BAND)
8:00pm – Journey Recaptured (WE WILL SEE THIS BAND)
COMMUNITY STAGE AT THE SIX!
Saturday
12:00 pm – The Chicago Ballet Center
1:30pm – A Short Leap Theater Company
3:00pm – One River
4:30pm – Marianne + The Imaginary Band
6:00pm – Rob Moore
7:30pm – C3zr
Rico is defined as a band with a rich sound of diversified musical cultures. A mixture of sophisticated melodic genres and ethnicity coming together is the essence of Rico! This sound can be heard on their CD’s entitled “Make Music (2010)” and “Casa De Tambores (2004)”. Influenced tremendously by the sound and spirit of Santana, you can say Rico is the modern day Santana. https://ricojams.com/
RECAPTURED features Bob Biagi, and features all of the lights, sounds, and Journey-esque atmosphere, with what you would expect from a show called RECAPTURED This is not a cover band, but a group of talented musicians and vocalists who have perfected every nuance of what made Journey the Super Group they are. RECAPTURED performs all the hits that made Journey famous one fabulous hit after another. It is time to be RECAPTURED. The definition of Tribute is: a gift, testimonial, compliment, or the like, given as due or in acknowledgment of gratitude or esteem. https://www.recapturedband.com/
If you are taking public transportation, please check Google Maps for directions or use the CTA trip planner. https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/
If you drive, there is metered parking on Irving, Cicero and Milwaukee (away from the fest area). There is even a public lot for the shopping district. Free on side streets. Easy parking in this area
PLEASE NOTE OUR CURRENT NO SHOW POLICY:
- 3 no-shows without updating your rsvp, and you will not be able to sign up for future events for 3 months
- cut-off time to update your rsvp is the start time of the event. If you miss the start time, then message the event host directly
- not checking in with the event host to notify them you have arrived (for walks, tours or festivals type of events)
- Continual no-shows will result in removal from the group!
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- 📚 Author Talk @Sulzer Library: Remembering Edgewater Beach Hotel w/John HoldenConrad Sulzer Regional Library, Chicago, IL
📚 Author Talk at Sulzer Library: "Remembering Edgewater Beach Hotel" with John Holden
Let’s head back to the Sulzer Regional Library for another great author talk—no registration required, just show up and grab a seat! We’ll be sitting in the Large Meeting Room, which is general admission.
The Chicago Public Library welcomes local author John Holden, who will be discussing his Images of America book: “Remembering Edgewater Beach Hotel” (co-authored with Kathryn Gemperle).
Come learn about one of Chicago’s most iconic and glamorous historic landmarks, the Edgewater Beach Hotel, through rare photos and stories that bring the hotel’s vibrant past back to life.
🗓️ Date & Time: 5/29/25 6:30 pm
📍 Location: Sulzer Regional Library – 4455 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago
🎟️ No registration needed – just show up!https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/events/6813cafd71d8af300085643a
After the lecture, some of us may grab a quick bite at one of the many nearby spots if time allows. Perhaps Gideon Welles Craft Beer Bar & Kitchen, Daily Bar & Grill, Wild Goose Bar & Grill, IL Milanese or Bad Apple. All are welcome to join! BRING CASH IF JOINING FOR DINNER, AS SOME VENUES DON'T ACCEPT SEPARATE CHECKS!
Part luxury hotel, part country club and part entertainment Mecca, the Edgewater Beach Hotel was one of the world’s great entertainment destinations. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the hotel was a place to see and be seen and it played host to a who’s who of the rich and famous. Due to the nationwide Big Band Jazz broadcasts from its Marine Dining Room, the hotel became world famous and was synonymous with the good life. Join us for a lively look back with author John Holden at one of Chicago’s most legendary institutions.
“Nothing epitomized the glamour and excitement of Chicago’s jazz age and war years like the fabled Edgewater Beach Hotel. Much more than a hotel, the Edgewater Beach was a world unto itself—the only urban resort of its kind in the nation. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan on Chicago’s North Side, it offered swimming, golf, tennis, dancing, theater, fine dining, exclusive shopping, fabulous floor shows, unique watering holes, and, of course, some of the best jazz and swing music of its era. It even had its own pioneering radio station, which broadcasted across the nation and burnished its fame. Many of the legends of the big band era played its stages, and many of Hollywood’s leading stars crossed its footlights. It was a stomping ground for both the rich and famous as well as ordinary people who wanted a small taste of the high life. The Edgewater Beach Hotel was world renowned. But the social upheaval of the 1960s, the ascendance of automobile culture, and rapid urban change led to its demise.” (ArcadiaPublishing.com)
“Fifty years ago, the last remnants of Edgewater’s most famous building came down, ending an era for one of the most storied hotels in Chicago history. Now, the Edgewater Beach Hotel is being remembered in the first book on the subject, written by two neighborhood historians.
“‘Remembering Edgewater Beach Hotel’ was published under Arcadia Publishing’s popular ‘Images of America’ series. It was written by Kathryn Gemperle and John Holden, members of the Edgewater Historical Society.
Sulzer Regional Library opened September 14, 1985. The library was named for Conrad Sulzer (1807-1873), a pioneer settler of Ravenswood. Sulzer, a Swiss immigrant who arrived in Chicago in 1836, turned wilderness into a livestock farm and a horticulture garden. He also served as collector of Ridgeville Township and assessor of Lake View Township, leaving a heritage of public service and commitment to the community, continued by his descendants through the Sulzer Family Foundation.
Artwork - Sulzer Regional Library features artwork funded through the Percent for Art Ordinance administered by the City of Chicago Public Art Program: frescoes entitled “Petrouchka” by Nicholas Africano, a painting by Sandra Jorgensen, a mural entitled “The Aeneid” by Irene Siegel.
https://www.chipublib.org/locations/67/
If you are taking public transportation, please check Google Maps for directions or use CTA trip planner. https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/
If driving, there is metered street parking on main streets. Just watch for permit-only or no parking signs. May want to use SpotHero or ParkWhiz, since it can be tricky to park in this area
PLEASE NOTE OUR CURRENT NO-SHOW POLICY:
- 3 no-shows without updating your rsvp and you will not be able to sign up for future events for 3 months
- cut-off time to update your rsvp is the start time of the event. If you miss the start time, then message the event host directly
- not checking in with the event host to notify them you have arrived (for walks, tours or festival-type of events)
- continual no-shows will result in removal from the group!
- 26th Annual Maifest in Lincoln Square with Live Music, German Food & Beer!Across from "The Old Town School of Music", Chicago, IL
The summer festival season continues! Maifest is a wonderful German tradition that welcomes spring. Come join the fun & celebrate German Culture. The proceeds from the fest help support many German Organizations throughout Chicago and the suburbs. Admission is free & open to all ages!
Let's experience German food, beer, music, dance and Gemütlichkeit. Have a brat and a beer and most of all have a great time!
CASH ONLY FOR FOOD & DRINK ATMs on site - so bring cash if you want to eat & drink to avoid the ATM fees!
We’re teaming up with several other Meetup groups for this fun event, so it’s a multi-group gathering! If you see my name with a large number next to it, that means lots of people are attending from various groups — it's going to be a great crowd!
Maifest has been an annual festival brought by the Maifest Committee, President Joe Matuschka and Vice President Joe Bradtke. Special thanks go to 47th Ward Alderman Matt Martin.
Admission to Maifest Chicago is FREE and open to all ages. Taking place in Lincoln Square, Chicago’s original German neighborhood. Outstanding German and American food and beer are available for purchase. German and American bands provide entertainment throughout the fest.
Mayfest Chicago is a 501(c)(3) organization founded to promote Chicago's German heritage. The four-day fest benefits German-American organizations, including The Rheinischer Verein, St. Hubertus Jagd Club, the American Aid Society, the Donauschwaben Youth Group, Edelweiss Trachten Verein, D’Lustigen Holzhacker Buam, Egerlander Dance Group, Dank Haus, and others.
Maifest is the traditional German celebration of the arrival of spring.
Maifest is still celebrated throughout Germany with the maypole (maibaum) decorated to show off the history and crafts of the local village or town.
Maifest, like Octoberfest, has now become a popular celebration throughout the world. Chicago's German community welcomes all to their Maifest in Lincoln Square; the heart of Chicago's German Community
Main Stage
5:30 PM – The Phenix
8:00 pm - Mai Queen Crowning & Keg TappingAuxiliary Stage
5:30 PM – Palomahttps://www.maifestchicago.com/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089720783791The Phenix Band - German American Band for all occasions! https://www.facebook.com/phenixband/
Paloma German American band that plays traditional German songs for the older generation but also rocks for the younger generation. https://thepalomaband.com/
If you are taking public transportation, please check Google Maps for directions or use the CTA trip planner. https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/
If you drive, there is metered parking on Western, Lincoln, Lawrence & even Montrose, Limited side street parking. This area is tough to park during the fest,the so watch for permit-only parking!
PLEASE NOTE OUR CURRENT NO SHOW POLICY:
- 3 no-shows without updating your rsvp, and you will not be able to sign up for future events for 3 months
- cut-off time to update your rsvp is the start time of the event. If you miss the start time, then message the event host directly
- not checking in with the event host to notify them you have arrived (for walks, tours or festivals type of events)
- Continual no-shows will result in removal from the group!
- 4th Annual Windy City Hot Dog Fest featuring RICO & Journey Recaptured!Windy City Hot Dog Festival, Chicago, IL
The summer festival season continues! Let’s celebrate one of Chicago’s most iconic eats—the mighty hot dog 🌭—at the 4th Annual Windy City Hot Dog Fest in Portage Park! Join us as we explore vendor tents serving creative twists on the Chicago-style dog, enjoy live music, shop local artisans, and maybe even catch the Hot Dog Eating Contest or the Top Dog Parade (yes, it involves actual dogs 🐶) Come even if you don't like hotdogs as they serve up more than wieners!
We’re teaming up with several other Meetup groups for this fun event, so it’s a multi-group gathering! If you see my name with a large number next to it, that means lots of people are attending from various groups — it's going to be a great crowd!
Get Ready for the 4th Annual Windy City Hot Dog Fest! Decide for yourself whether ketchup belongs on a hot dog at Chicago’s beloved Windy City Hot Dog Fest, happening Friday to Sunday, May 30–June 1, in the vibrant Portage Park neighborhood. Some of Chicagoland’s most iconic hot dog stands will go head-to-head to claim the title of Best Frankfurter—and you get to be the judge!
But the fun doesn’t stop at the food. Savor live performances by incredible local and regional artists on the mainstage, explore a variety of arts and crafts vendors, and enjoy family-friendly activities in the kids’ area. There’s even a community stage showcasing local talent!
The Windy City Hot Dog Fest is brought to you in partnership with the Six Corners Chamber of Commerce. Dedicated to fostering a thriving shopping and entertainment district, the Chamber celebrates the area’s rich history, supports the arts, promotes sustainable practices, and creates unforgettable events that strengthen community pride.
Nine of Chicagoland's favorite hot dog vendors will compete to be the "Top Dog!" You get to be the judge: Chicago's Doghouse, Baked Cheese Haus, Bust Outs, Byron's Hot Dogs, J's Bacon Hot Dogs, Sausage Fest Food Truck, Frannie's Cafe, Tikka Masala Dogs and Lee Concessions.
Prove your hot dog loyalty by joining the hot dog eating contest. Five registrants can compete in a five-minute eating contest on Saturday, May 31 at 3:30 pm. Sign up online at windycityhotdogfest.com or on-site if spots are available. The winner will receive bragging rights!
Besides tasty dogs, patrons will listen to great local and regional acts on the event's mainstage. Plus, don't miss the kids' area, arts & crafts vendors, Polar Bare Bath (soaps and body care), Lil Bird Kitchens LLC (jarred relishes), and Papa Caps Foods (hot sauces).
💵 $10 suggested donation at the gate, which you are not obligated to pay. You can give a lesser amount or no money, as it is NOT required!
MAIN STAGE
Saturday
12:30pm – Mariachi Los Palmeros
2:00pm – Largemouth Band
3:30pm – Whatever, Nevermind (Nirvana Tribute)
5:30pm – RICO! – Santana Tribute (WE WILL SEE THIS BAND)
8:00pm – Journey Recaptured (WE WILL SEE THIS BAND)COMMUNITY STAGE AT THE SIX!
Saturday
12:00 pm – The Chicago Ballet Center
1:30pm – A Short Leap Theater Company
3:00pm – One River
4:30pm – Marianne + The Imaginary Band
6:00pm – Rob Moore
7:30pm – C3zrRico is defined as a band with a rich sound of diversified musical cultures. A mixture of sophisticated melodic genres and ethnicity coming together is the essence of Rico! This sound can be heard on their CD’s entitled “Make Music (2010)” and “Casa De Tambores (2004)”. Influenced tremendously by the sound and spirit of Santana, you can say Rico is the modern day Santana. https://ricojams.com/
RECAPTURED features Bob Biagi, and features all of the lights, sounds, and Journey-esque atmosphere, with what you would expect from a show called RECAPTURED This is not a cover band, but a group of talented musicians and vocalists who have perfected every nuance of what made Journey the Super Group they are. RECAPTURED performs all the hits that made Journey famous one fabulous hit after another. It is time to be RECAPTURED. The definition of Tribute is: a gift, testimonial, compliment, or the like, given as due or in acknowledgment of gratitude or esteem. https://www.recapturedband.com/
If you are taking public transportation, please check Google Maps for directions or use the CTA trip planner. https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/
If you drive, there is metered parking on Irving, Cicero and Milwaukee (away from the fest area). There is even a public lot for the shopping district. Free on side streets. Easy parking in this area
PLEASE NOTE OUR CURRENT NO SHOW POLICY:
- 3 no-shows without updating your rsvp, and you will not be able to sign up for future events for 3 months
- cut-off time to update your rsvp is the start time of the event. If you miss the start time, then message the event host directly
- not checking in with the event host to notify them you have arrived (for walks, tours or festivals type of events)
- Continual no-shows will result in removal from the group!
- Record Row Blues Concert @Chess Records featuring 75th Anniversary ReviewChess Records, Chicago, IL
Let's go BACK for the FREE Thursday night Blues Concerts in The Willie Dixon Blues Garden next to old Chess Records Studio. These free mini blues concerts are a great way to see some old school blues bands & tons of fun! We do these all the time, and they are a blast!
Tentative Itinerary:
5:50- 6 pm - meet & greet in garden - grab seats
6 - 7:30 pm - Blues Concert in the Garden featuring various bands celebrating the 75th Anniversary of Chess Records & Opening Night
7:30-7:40 pm - walk over to Fatpour, Williams Pizza, Pizanos, or another nearby spot
7:40 - 9:15 pm - grab a bite + some cocktailsThe garden will have chairs set up for the show, but it is first-come first first-served. You can bring your lawn chairs, too.
Performer on 6/5/25-Opening Night & 75th Anniversary of Chess Records Review (various blues bands) - this is also in conjunction with the Chicago Blues Festival taking place that weekend!
Willie Dixon created his BLUES HEAVEN FOUNDATION with the mission to Promote, Preserve, and Protect Blues and to help artists and musicians obtain what is rightfully theirs, to educate both adults and children on the history of Blues and the business of music.
To achieve this mission, we have successfully executed several programs, including the Muddy Waters and Willie Dixon Scholarships,
Music Mentors Program, Record Row Concert Series, Emergency Artist Assistance, and more programs to begin soon! This foundation is located inside the landmarked & historic Chess Records Building.Chess Records, formed and run by brothers Leonard and Phil Chess, was a company that produced and released many important singles and albums, which are now regarded as central to the blues and rock music genre. At one time, Chess Records was considered "America's greatest blues label" with notable acts including Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Little Walter, Etta James, Chuck Berry and Bo Diddley. Willie Dixon was one of the main producers, songwriters and arrangers of the signature "Chess Records Sound".
Chess Records was based at several different locations on the south side of Chicago, Illinois. The most famous location was 2120 S. Michigan Avenue from around 1956 to 1965. During those years, acts such as Willie Dixon, Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley and Sonny Boy Williamson II recorded at the legendary studio. It was later immortalized by British rock group The Rolling Stones in "2120 South Michigan Avenue", an instrumental recorded there during the group's first U.S. tour in 1964. The Stones recorded at Chess Studios on two more occasions. In 1993, Willie Dixon's widow, Marie, purchased the building which was then renovated and re-opened in September 1997 with a dedication ceremony. It is now home to Willie Dixon's Blues Heaven Foundation.
http://www.bluesheaven.com
http://www.bluesheaven.com/record-row-concert-series.html
https://www.facebook.com/bluesheavenfoundationUnfortunately, the museum will be closed during the concert but you can come earlier to check it out. The last tour is at 3 pm each day.
After the concert we will walk over to one of several nearby spots to grab a bite & drink:
Jerk Villa Bar & Grill 2216 S Michigan Ave,
Fatpour Tap Works - McCormick 2206 S Indiana Ave,
Steve's Bites 80 E Cermak Rd,
Il Culacino 2134 S Indiana Ave,
Williams Inn Pizza & Sports Bar 2210 S. Michigan
Pizano's Pizza & Pasta 2106 S. MichiganIf you are taking public transportation, please check Google Maps or use CTA trip planner. https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/
Accessible by the Red line and Green line “L” stops. Also near the #1 Bronzeville/ #3 King Drive / #4 Cottage Grove/#29 State Street bus stops.If driving, there is usually metered spots on South Michigan and nearby streets plus several parking garages
PLEASE NOTE OUR CURRENT NO SHOW POLICY:
- 3 no-shows without updating your rsvp, and you will not be able to sign up for future events for 3 months
- cut-off time to update your rsvp is the start time of the event. If you miss the start time, then message the event host directly
- not checking in with the event host to notify them you have arrived (for walks, tours or festivals type of events)
- Continual no-shows will result in removal from the group!
