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!
Do you love soul, R&B, and the smooth sounds of legends like Al Green and The O’Jays? Then this is the show for you! Let’s see the iconic Al Green and The O’Jays live at Ravinia! We’ll sit on the lawn and turn it into a party — bring your chairs, blankets, food, and wine. We’ll picnic under the stars and groove the night away to timeless hits! These shows tend to sell out quickly, so I recommend grabbing your tickets soon — you don’t want to miss this unforgettable night of music and memories!
**Tickets are $57 for GENERAL ADMISSION LAWN SEATS + service fee. You can also rent a chair and/or table if you do not want to lug one from home. Chairs are $10 and tables are $12.Just add before checkout. I already rented 1 table, so maybe we only need 1 more table? Go here to purchase a ticket, Pick SATURDAY 6/28/25, GENERAL ADMISION LAWN
"Al Green with special guest The O’Jays"
https://www.ravinia.org/events/detail/al-green#showing_81
REMEMBER, BEFORE YOU CHECK OUT, YOU CAN ADD A CHAIR AND/OR A TABLE SO YOU DO NOT HAVE TO LUG ONE ALONG ON THE TRAIN!
ALSO KEEP IN MIND THERE IS A $24 SERVICE PROCESSING FEE, BUT IT IS FOR THE WHOLE CART, SO IF YOU ARE ATTENDING MORE THAN ONE SHOW, IT IS STILL $24! OR SEE IF YOU WANT TO BUY TICKETS WITH OTHER MEMBERS TO SAVE FEES! ALSO, YOU CAN GO TO THE HIGHLAND PARK BOX OFFICE FOR NO FEES!
We are doing the following shows this season at Ravinia, so click on the links below to sign up for those shows as well:
- 6/6/25 An Evening with Heart https://www.meetup.com/windy-city-wanderers/events/307492148/
- 6/28/25 Al Green with special guest The O'Jays https://www.meetup.com/windy-city-wanderers/events/307492430/
- 7/5/25 Chicago with special guest Stevie McVie https://www.meetup.com/windy-city-wanderers/events/307492244/
- 8/7/25 Earth Wind & Fire https://www.meetup.com/windy-city-wanderers/events/307492561/
- 8/21/25 Lenny Kravitz https://www.meetup.com/windy-city-wanderers/events/307492834/
All of these are posted on Meetup, so sign up for one or all of them! Best to purchase all at once to save fees if attending several shows! It will be a fun summer!
Please try to come early so it is to meet at the front & sit together. I will post my location once I arrive. I plan to arrive at 5 pm when the gates open!
If you drive, it is $25 for parking. For bigger shows, they may send you to satellite lots, so I strongly suggest coming early if you can! Otherwise, you will have to wait for shuttle buses to bring you to the venue. Can also park at the Highland Park Metra station after 4 pm for free & shuttle over. More details here:
https://www.ravinia.org/visit/getting-here#train
I will most likely take the Metra. You will need to take the Union Pacific North line. You can get on at Chicago OTC, Clybourn, Ravenswood etc. If you want to ride the Metra with me, meet me at the Ravenswood station, or if you get on before me, then we can meet on the train. Once it gets closer, we can coordinate train time as the summer schedule is not out yet! The train stops at Ravinia’s Tyler Gate (“Ravinia Park” stop)*.
The nearby “Braeside” stop is only a quarter-mile walk from Ravinia. For more info go here
https://www.ravinia.org/visit/getting-here#train
PLEASE, BRING FOOD OR DRINKS TO SHARE. WE DO THIS PICNIC POTLUCK STYLE SO ALL MUST BRING SOMETHING! JUST LEAVE A COMMENT AS TO WHAT YOU WILL BRING! I WILL RENT A TABLE, BUT BRING A TABLE IF YOU CAN, SO WE CAN SET UP EVERYTHING!
Al Green is a legendary American soul singer, songwriter, and pastor, best known for his smooth vocals, emotionally rich delivery, and timeless love songs. Rising to fame in the early 1970s, Green became one of the defining voices of Southern soul, blending gospel, R&B, and pop into a deeply expressive and sensual sound. His most iconic hits—such as “Let’s Stay Together,” “Tired of Being Alone,” “I’m Still in Love with You,” and “Love and Happiness”—cemented his place in music history as the “Prince of Soul.”
Born in Arkansas in 1946 and raised in Michigan, Green began performing with his brothers in a gospel group before transitioning to secular music. His career took off after teaming up with producer Willie Mitchell at Hi Records in Memphis, where he developed his signature sound. By the mid-1970s, after a string of chart-topping successes, Green experienced a spiritual awakening and shifted his focus toward gospel music, eventually becoming an ordained pastor and founding the Full Gospel Tabernacle Church in Memphis.
Despite this change, Green continued to record and perform both sacred and secular music, and his influence spans generations of artists across genres. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995, received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and remains one of the most celebrated soul artists of all time. His voice, often described as both tender and electrifying, continues to captivate listeners with its unique blend of passion, vulnerability, and grace.
https://www.al-green.com/
Ravinia Festival is an outdoor music venue in Highland Park, Illinois. It hosts a series of outdoor concerts and performances every summer from June to September. The first orchestra to perform at Ravinia Festival was the New York Philharmonic under Walter Damrosch on June 17, 1905. It has been the summer home of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) since 1936. Located in the Ravinia neighborhood, the venue operates on the grounds of the 36-acre (15 ha) Ravinia Park, with a variety of outdoor and indoor performing arts facilities, including the architectural prairie style Martin Theater. The Ravinia Festival attracts about 600,000 listeners to some 120 to 150 events that span all genres from classical music to jazz to music theater over each three-month summer season.
https://ravinia.org/
If you are taking public transportation, please check Google Maps for directions or use the Metra trip planner. https://ridertools.metrarail.com/maps-schedules/train-lines/UP-N
If you drive, see the info I gave above on parking, or check Ravinia's website
PLEASE KEEP RSVP UP TO DATE AND DO NOT BE A NO SHOW!
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Private Party at Hopsmith with Happy Hour Deals & 2 FREE Sharables!Hopsmith Tavern, Chicago, IL
I have organized another private party for our group! Big Onion Hospitality, the owners of Fatpour, Hopsmith, and Woodies Flat, reached out to me again about hosting another private event for us. It will take place on a weeknight, featuring happy hour deals until 6:30 PM, and our group will receive two complimentary appetizers! Plus, we can have separate checks! We had such a good time at Fatpour in Wicker Park on 4/3, that we are doing it again but at a different establishment! This seems like a great deal, and I couldn't pass it up!
PRIVATE EVENT & EXCLUSIVE SECTION FOR OUR GROUP! We will have our own area with our own server. Happy Hour is from 4:30-6:30 pm but we will arrive at 5:30 pm. To get happy hour deals, order those items before 6:30 pm. Plus 2 FREE APPS will be provided for the WHOLE group! I do ask that everyone order something above the free stuff, with either food or drink or both. Please try to spend a minimum of $15 per person. We are getting a lot and need to show some appreciation, so we get invited back!
If you are joining us for dinner/drinks after work, WE WILL GET SEPARATE CHECKS HERE SO YOU CAN PAY WITH CASH OR CREDIT! I kindly ask that everyone take what you ordered (the total dollar amount) & add 32% to that amount, which includes 12% for Chicago taxes and 20% for tip. Make sure to TIP the staff well, as they will be taking care of us that evening!
There is a credit card surcharge, so you may want to pay the final bill in cash, but bring a credit card as they need it to run a separate tab for everyone!
OUR TWO FREE APPS FOR THE WHOLE GROUP WILL BE:
- Thick Cut Mozzarella Sticks coated with panko and parmesan breading; traditional marinara
- Margherita Flatbread with Roma tomato, basil pesto, mozzarella, parmesan, balsamic glaze
If you cannot come at 5:30 pm and wish to join later, please do, but try to arrive by 6:30 pm as we only have the section until 7:30
Hopsmith Chicago is a high-energy restaurant and bar in the heart of the Gold Coast. Open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week, plus a crowd-pleasing brunch on the weekends. At Hopsmith, you’ll find tasty American fare, 30 rotating taps from our iconic 1965 Volkswagen bus, and a lively ambiance keeping the party going till late. The 2-story tavern features fully opening street-level windows, a 2nd-floor retractable roof, and plenty of TVs — perfect for catching a game, hosting a private dinner, or just because it’s Friday!
Proudly part of Big Onion Hospitality, Hopsmith Tavern is located in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast. Boasting over 30 draft beer taps, the restaurant features a thoughtfully curated selection of beers to accompany a variety of dishes to satisfy any palate. Guests may enjoy open-air seating overlooking Division and a retractable roof on the second floor. Hopsmith is the place to grab an after work drink, watch the game, or celebrate into the late night.
Happy Hour at Hopsmith May 9 @ 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
You’ve had a long day. You deserve a happy hour (or two) once you’re done dealing with… everything. They’ll be here for you either way.
Happy Hour DEALS
$5 You call it Call Drinks (well drinks)
$15 Pitchers of Michelob Ultra, Bud Light, Michelob Ultra
$18 Margarita Flights
$20 Appetizer TowerThey also have a daily deal of the day that is separate from the Happy Hour specials
https://hopsmithchicago.com/
HAPPY HOUR: https://hopsmithchicago.com/event/happy-hour-in-gold-coast-at-hopsmith/2025-05-09/
FOOD MENU: https://hopsmithchicago.com/menu/
DRINK MENU: https://hopsmithchicago.com/menu/drinks/This is a joint event with several other meetup groups, so it is multi-group event!
If you are taking public transportation, please check Google Maps for directions or use CTA trip planner. https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/
If you drive, there is metered street parking on State plus the surrounding streets. Watch for no parking and permit-only signs. Best to use SpotHero or ParkWhiz for the cheapest options as parking can be tought in this area! There are several garages in the 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!
- Historic Old Town Spring Walking TourSedgwick Brown Line Stop (CTA), Chicago, IL
The Chicago walking tour season is here, and it's time to get outside! If you're seeking a unique activity on a spring Saturday afternoon, look no further. Dive into the history of Chicago and its vibrant neighborhoods by joining our latest neighborhood walking tour! This week, we’re exploring the renowned Old Town neighborhood on the north side. This tour is a must for anyone passionate about historic churches, iconic businesses, striking architecture, and the rich history of the area. Don't miss your chance to experience it!
The walk promises to be delightful on this beautiful spring afternoon. It’s an event that brings together multiple meetup groups! Although it's not exclusively a photo walk, there will be plenty of chances to take photos!
Experience the charm and history of the picturesque Old Town District on a private walking tour, guided by an expert in Chicago’s rich cultural heritage. For just $20 per person, immerse yourself in the captivating stories and architectural wonders that define this iconic neighborhood. Don’t miss the chance to explore another meticulously crafted walking tour I offer, showcasing even more of Old Town’s hidden gems!
Starting at the renowned Sedgwick Brown Line station, we will take a walking tour of the Old Town neighborhood. This tour will explore the area’s rich history, its business district, several famous comedy venues, intriguing architecture, artist colonies, and beautiful churches.
The tour involves about 2 miles of walking outdoors, so please wear comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing for the Chicago spring weather.
Please keep in mind that the tour ends about 4 blocks from where we start, so park accordingly if you drive. We start at the Brown Line Sedgwick stop at 1536 N Sedgwick St. and end at the former Carl Street Studios, 155 W. Burton Place, so it is an easy walk back to your car, depending on where you park
To join this thrilling adventure, a $20 fee is necessary at the start of the tour. Don’t miss out on this opportunity—let’s embark on this exciting journey together!
After the tour, some of us will get lunch at one of the many nearby places:
Woodie's Flat 1535 N. Wells St. https://woodieschicago.com/
Topo Gigio Ristorante 1516 N Wells St. https://topogigiochicago.com/
Adobe Grill 215 W. North Ave. https://www.adobochi.davinci-group.com/
Corcoran's Grill & Pub 1615 N, Wells https://corcoransoldtown.com/All are welcome to join! BRING CASH IF JOINING FOR LUNCH, AS SOME VENUES DON'T ACCEPT SEPARATE CHECKS!
First settled by German immigrants in 1850, Old Town is popular with architecture buffs who come to admire its Victorian-era buildings, quaint streets and shops. Tree-lined Wells Street features the revered Second City comedy club, old-school pubs, charming eateries and artisanal coffee shops, as well as quirky boutiques. St. Michael’s Church is one of the few structures in Chicago to survive the Great Fire of 1871.
Many of the streets and alleys, particularly in the Old Town Triangle section, predate the Great Chicago Fire and do not all adhere to a typical Chicago grid patternThe walkable, narrow streets and historic homes of Old Town give way to a string of high-rises lining the open vistas of the lake and parkland. Home to a variety of comedy venues, shops, and mix of old taverns and modern bars, the tiny neighborhood also packs its fair share of entertainment.
No other Chicago neighborhood is like Old Town. Tucked behind high-rises and moments from the vast green space of Lincoln Park, this landmark district has a unique history and diversity. Today, diversity adds richness to Old Town from St. Michael's Church to the Midwest Buddhist Temple.
A few places we will stop are:
1655 N. Sedgwick – Twin Anchors Restaurant
1633 N Cleveland Ave. - St Michael Catholic Church in Old Town
435 N. Menomonee St. Midwest Buddhist Temple
1758 N. Sedgwick – Margie’s Still
1734 N. Wells The Kogen-Miller Studios and Glasner Studio
1710 N. Crilly Court – Henry Gerber House
168 W. Eugenie - Olsen-Hansen Row Houses
1701 N La Salle Dr. - Eugenie Triangle Park
1635 N. Lasalle – Moody Church
1601 N. Clark Street – Chicago History Museum
108 W. Germania Place - Germania Club
230 W. North Ave – The Second City
210 W. North Ave – Pipers Alley
151 W. Burton Place - Sol Kogen and Edgar Miller, architects
155 W. Burton Place – Carl Street StudiosIf you are taking public transportation, please check their website for directions or use Google Maps or the CTA trip planner. https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/
If you are driving, there is street parking along Wells and North Ave, plus surrounding side streets, but pay attention to parking signs, especially permit parking. There are several parking garages in the area, so also check SpotHero or ParkWhiz for the best options!
PLEASE KEEP RSVP UP TO DATE AND DO NOT BE A NO SHOW!
- Saturday Night at the Zoo - An Adults Only Evening at Lincoln Park Zoo!Lincoln Park Zoo - West Gate, Chicago, IL
Leave the kids at home and head to the zoo for Saturday Night at the Zoo - An Adults Only Evening at Lincoln Park Zoo. Guests can sip drinks while strolling through the zoo's lush gardens and visiting a variety of habitats where nearly 200 animal species live. The perfect start to warmer weather in Chicago with friends and family! There will be live music and a live DJ to get the party going for those looking to dance the night away. If that’s not enough, karaoke will be available at Foreman Pavilion with mics and lights for those who want to create their own show. Sound fun? Join us! Proceeds benefit Lincoln Park Zoo and help the zoo stay free and open 365 days a year! Plus, the extra benefit of NO KIDS ALLOWED, so it will be a grown-up only event!
TICKETED EVENT SUPEREARLY BIRD PRICE is at $15 as of 3/25/25 and then it goes up to pre-sale price at $25 after 4/5/25. Note prices go up every few weeks, so purchase ASAP to get the best price! BE AWARE THAT THIS WILL SELL OUT SO BEST TO BUY ASAP!
Click the link below to buy tickets on the ZOO website:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/saturday-night-at-the-zoo-an-adults-only-evening-at-lincoln-park-zoo-tickets-1207743446159Activities Include:
- - After-hours viewing of gardens and animal habitats
- Pop-up bars with beer, wine, seltzer, and canned cocktails for purchase throughout the zoo
- Concession stands with your favorite zoo foods available for purchase
- A live DJ playing your favorite hits
- Live Music
- Karaoke in the pavilion
- A fun photo booth and plenty of photo ops
- Lawn games and plenty of spaces to relax with friends and family
- Free rides on the Endangered Species Carousel
EARLY BIRD PRICE! DO NOT WAIT TO BUY YOUR TICKET AS THIS ALWAYS SELLS OUT & PRICES INCREASE CLOSER TO THE DATE. BUY YOUR TIX NOW EVEN IF NOT 100% SURE YOU CAN ATTEND, AS YOU CAN ALWAYS SELL THEM LATER!!!! YOU SNOOZE; YOU LOSE!
We normally do the winter holiday adult night, but due to the cold weather, we missed it this year. We always have an absolute blast at these adult-only events! Get pictures with different characters, see all the summer lights, drink wine or beer, ride the carousel, ride the Ferris wheel, visit the animals, listen to live music, and much more!
WHAT'S INCLUDED: Admission to Lincoln Park Zoo after-hours, live DJs, interactive games, giveaways & more! Plus, no kids!
You've never seen the zoo like this before! If you have never been to a night at the zoo, it is a fun event and a unique way to see the LPZ. There will be live DJs & Free carousel rides. Most of Lincoln Park Zoo's animal exhibits will be open for you to check out while sipping a drink! Drink & food vendors are all open late for this event too!
This is your chance to explore LPZ after the gates close. No kids. No crowds. Just strolling and sipping and getting some much-needed outside time. Adults Night Out will feature:
Proceeds benefit Lincoln Park Zoo and help the zoo stay free and open 365 days a year! Get your tickets now!
https://www.lpzoo.org/
https://www.lpzoo.org/zoo-map
https://www.facebook.com/events/1379970133441343Enter thru the main WEST gate off of Stockton Drive/Webster by the lit up ComEd sign. We'll meet inside over by the Kovler Sea Lion Pool.
Zoo Policies:
-Most food, drink, and retail venues will be open. Food venues may be serving a limited menu or grab-and-go items to minimize risk.
-Credit cards are preferred for all payment transactions.
Event goes on rain, shine or cold so please dress accordingly and plan for the weather.BUSES
#151 and #156 stop at the zoo’s West Gate (Stockton & Webster) and near the Farm-in-the-Zoo (Stockton & Armitage)
#22 stops near the zoo’s West Gate (exit at Clark & Webster) and Café Brauer Gate (exit at Clark & Armitage)
#36 stops near the zoo’s West Gate (exit at Clark & Webster) and Café Brauer Gate (exit at Clark & Armitage)Parking
The zoo’s parking lot entrance is located at Fullerton Parkway and Cannon Drive (2400 North Cannon Drive, Chicago IL 60614). Parking rates range from $20-35 per day and include applicable parking taxes. Street parking is also available with parking meter in the area, but may difficult to find during this event. I suggest SpotHero or ParkWhiz to find cheaper parking. Public transportation or ride share are highly recommended.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
- The 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!
- - After-hours viewing of gardens and animal habitats
