Batavia's Latest HyperLocal News

Peggy Kinnane's: The Emerald Isle in Arlington Heights Peggy Kinnane's: The Emerald Isle in Arlington Heights Visitors might not expect to find anything more authentically Irish than a pint of Guinness in Arlington Heights, but Peggy Kinnane’s would definitely prove them wrong.  This pub and restaurant is serving up Irish food, drinks and a hearty helping of Irish ambiance thousands of miles from the Emerald Isle, smack dab in the middle of the northwest suburbs.  What sets Peggy Kinnane’s apart from so many Chicago Irish pubs is the fact that most of Peggy’s actually is from Ireland.  The interior is constructed mainly from original Irish stone from County Clare, and all of the extensive interior woodwork and bars were built and shipped from Ireland.  The walls are even covered in genuine Irish family memorabilia, including those of the owner’s mother, Peggy Kinnane. The sprawling corner pub inc Read More >> Published: Jul 14, 2009

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Batavia Attractions

Route 66 Raceway Pays Homage to a Historic Road.

Route 66 Raceway Pays Homage to a Historic Road. Get your kicks and more at Route 66 Raceway where speed, world-class motorsports and funny cars rule the road. Read More >> Published: Nov 10, 2009

Chicago's Polish American Museum: A Place for Art, Music and Research.

Chicago's Polish American Museum: A Place for Art, Music and Research. You don't have to be Polish to enjoy the nation's oldest and largest museum dedicated to Polish culture. Read More >> Published: Oct 12, 2009

DuSable Museum of African American History

DuSable Museum of African American History The nation's first museum charting African American History began in Chicago. Read More >> Published: Oct 7, 2009

The Swedish American Museum Center offers insight to one of Chicago's most historic neighborhoods.

The Swedish American Museum Center offers insight to one of Chicago's most historic neighborhoods. The Swedish American Museum Center is the anchor in Andersonville, one of the city's most culturally rich and vibrany neighborhoods. The museum is a great starting point if you're planning a day-long escape. Read More >> Published: Sep 10, 2009

For something novel visit Novelty Golf and Games, then hop over to the "Hutch."

For something novel visit Novelty Golf and Games, then hop over to the "Hutch." Show off your miniature golfing skills at Novelty Golf where the chickens, mice and elephants await to throw you off course. Read More >> Published: Sep 9, 2009

Starved Rock Lodge

Starved Rock Lodge Whether it be for fall leaf-peeping or a long drive for breakfast, Starved Rock Lodge offers a peaceful reprieve. Read More >> Published: Sep 2, 2009

Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio: A modern architecture mecca

Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio: A modern architecture mecca The early 20th century Oak Park home and studio of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright shines light on the beginnings of modern design. Read More >> Published: Aug 17, 2009

The Morton Arboretum: The great outdoors just outside the city

The Morton Arboretum: The great outdoors just outside the city This 1,700 acre natural wonderland includes gardens, streams, trails, mazes and a whole lot more guaranteed to entertain visitors of all ages. Read More >> Published: Aug 12, 2009

Ernest Hemingway Birthplace: Where history sparked imagination

Ernest Hemingway Birthplace: Where history sparked imagination The childhood home of an American legend has been beautifully restored, bringing the past back to life in Oak Park. Read More >> Published: Aug 6, 2009

Ernest Hemingway Museum: A glimpse into greatness

Ernest Hemingway Museum: A glimpse into greatness This Oak Park attraction boasts authentic memorabilia - including letters, diaries and photos - from one of the greatest writers of the 20th century. Read More >> Published: Jul 30, 2009

Chicago artists craft new life for old book covers

Chicago artists craft new life for old book covers The final chapter for many books may be less than glamorous — molding away on a basement bookshelf, or tossed into a trash bin. But three Chicago artists are bringing new life to old books, reusing them or their beautiful covers for wall art, purses and even clocks. Read More >> Published: Jul 3, 2009

Eli's Cheesecake: a tasty tour for a tiny price

Eli's Cheesecake: a tasty tour for a tiny price This national cheesecake maker opens its doors daily for a decadent tour of its bakery, capped off with a complimentary slice of its sweet treats. Read More >> Published: Jul 2, 2009

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum: a respite from city life

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum: a respite from city life This city museum reminds visitors of the importance and beauty of nature, thanks to a butterfly house and interactive exhibits that promote green living. Read More >> Published: Jun 28, 2009

Grant Park Music Fest: a symphony under the stars.

Grant Park Music Fest: a symphony under the stars. Founded in 1934 as a way to uplift spirits of Chicagoans during the Great Depression, The Grant Park Music Festival celebrates its 75th season. Read More >> Published: Jun 25, 2009

Redmoon Theater: sparse company in a rich setting

Redmoon Theater: sparse company in a rich setting There's puppetry and pageantry when the curtain goes up at Redmoon Theater. Read More >> Published: Jun 23, 2009

Kohl Children's Museum: a learning playground

Kohl Children's Museum: a learning playground This newly expanded suburban museum uses interactive exhibits to teach kids math, science, social skills, and how to navigate the big world around them. Read More >> Published: Jun 17, 2009

Chicago Farmers Markets: fresh foods at fun locations

Chicago Farmers Markets: fresh foods at fun locations More than 30 farmers markets bring quality farm products and produce to big city shoppers throughout the summer. Read More >> Published: Jun 12, 2009

Brookfield Zoo: "barless" habitats brings animals up close

Brookfield Zoo: "barless" habitats brings animals up close This city zoo is considered one of the best in the country, with massive indoor habitats and more than 200 acres of entertainment. Read More >> Published: Jun 12, 2009

Chicago Botanic Garden: fabulous flora in Glencoe

Chicago Botanic Garden: fabulous flora in Glencoe Few cities can rival the sheer beauty and scale of Chicago’s Botanic Garden. Flourishing on 385 acres in the north suburb of Glencoe, the lovely public garden is one of the most visited in the nation, attracting more than three quarters of a million people annually. Read More >> Published: Jun 11, 2009

Volo Auto Museum: A rip roarin' ride through time

Volo Auto Museum: A rip roarin' ride through time A mammoth museum and showroom housing an impressive array of famous, classic, military and muscle cars entertains both kids and adults alike. Read More >> Published: Jun 6, 2009

Willowbrook Wildlife Center brings local animals up close

Willowbrook Wildlife Center brings local animals up close This west suburb treatment, rehabilitation and education center looks after local wildlife and teaches visitors what they can do to help. Read More >> Published: Jun 6, 2009

Historic Pullman is packed with railway past

Historic Pullman is packed with railway past The Historic Pullman District of Chicago offers great history about railroading, labor and community living in the late 1800s. Read More >> Published: May 28, 2009

Schaumburg Flyers: Big league fun, minor league price

Schaumburg Flyers: Big league fun, minor league price The northwest suburban Schaumburg Flyers minor league baseball team brings big-time entertainment with talented players, a plush home field and inexpensive ticket prices. Read More >> Published: May 25, 2009

Music Box Theatre: Modern films meet old Hollywood

Music Box Theatre: Modern films meet old Hollywood Music Box Theatre, a 1920s Chicago landmark, takes moviegoers a world away, thanks to grand European décor and classic old-school glamor. Read More >> Published: May 25, 2009

Lambs Farm: where charm and charity meet

Lambs Farm: where charm and charity meet Visit delightful Lambs Farm, complete with farmyard, bakery, country store and more, and you'll be helping people in need lead more meaningful lives. Read More >> Published: May 25, 2009

Batavia Events

Chicago Country Music Festival: A little bit of country in the big city

Chicago Country Music Festival: A little bit of country in the big city This annual country music fest attracts thousands of fans to Grant Park with big name acts, dancing, kids activities and a whole lot more. Read More >> Published: Sep 2, 2009

Celtic Fest Chicago: A jig of a good time

Celtic Fest Chicago: A jig of a good time This annual Grant Park festival features live music, dancing, competitions and demonstrations dedicated to all things Irish and Scottish. Read More >> Published: Aug 13, 2009

Bucktown Arts Festival

Bucktown Arts Festival There's a reason the Bucktown Arts Fest has been a popular Chicago draw for 24 years. This two-day event attracts more than 180 artists from across the country and provides great food and entertainment. Read More >> Published: Aug 6, 2009

Chicago Jazz Festival: Big bands in the big city

Chicago Jazz Festival: Big bands in the big city The most extensive free jazz festival in the world kicks off on Labor Day weekend, with tributes to the greats and performances by jazz masters from around the globe. Read More >> Published: Aug 6, 2009

¡Viva! Chicago Latin Music Festival: A sizzling summer fiesta

¡Viva! Chicago Latin Music Festival: A sizzling summer fiesta This summer marks the 21st anniversary of the city's Latin music festival, featuring an exciting line-up of local and international acts over two days in Grant Park. Read More >> Published: Jul 29, 2009

Chicago Air & Water Show: A surefire summer spectacle

Chicago Air & Water Show: A surefire summer spectacle The largest spectator event in the country, the annual air show wows more than 2 million fans with aerial acrobatics and amazing stunts, with the Chicago skyline as a backdrop. Read More >> Published: Jul 23, 2009

Annual World Music Festival: Chicago 2009

Annual World Music Festival: Chicago 2009 The "World is a Stage" for Chicago's Annual World Music Festival 2009. The fest is the largest of its kind in the U.S. Read More >> Published: Jul 16, 2009

Taste of Chicago offers more low-cost options

Taste of Chicago offers more low-cost options As many feel the economic pinch, the Taste of Chicago rolls out wallet-friendly alternatives that will have visitors sampling more and saving dough. Read More >> Published: Jul 3, 2009

Redmoon puppet fantasy runs through June 28

Redmoon puppet fantasy runs through June 28 Theater on the Lake with its open-air setting is the perfect place to experience Redmoon's "Once Upon A Time (or The Secret Language of Birds.)" Read More >> Published: Jun 28, 2009

Adler Planetarium marks moon landing's 40th anniversary

Adler Planetarium marks moon landing's 40th anniversary Journey back to that historic moment of the moon landing on July 20, 1969, and celebrate with the Adler Planetarium in its "One Small Step: Apollo 11 40th Anniversary" exhibit recalling the nine-day flight and the lunar landing. Read More >> Published: Jun 28, 2009

MP3 II: A photo exhibit off the beaten art path

MP3 II: A photo exhibit off the beaten art path MP3 II at the Museum of Contemporary Photography is sure to challenge and entertain visitors with works by creative emerging artists in the Midwest. Read More >> Published: Jun 24, 2009

Highland Games bounce back from big storm

Highland Games bounce back from big storm Oak Brook's 23rd annual Highland Games saw significant damage from storms, but thousands still turned out for this yearly festival dedicated to all things Scottish. Read More >> Published: Jun 23, 2009

Venetian Night: Italian charm closer to home

Venetian Night: Italian charm closer to home This free annual event - modeled on Venice's famed boat parades - attracts more than 600,000 sightseers to the lovely Chicago lake front for fireworks and festivities. Read More >> Published: Jun 23, 2009

Rush Hour Concert Series: a time to unwind

Rush Hour Concert Series: a time to unwind Slow down and take in the opportunity to hear a little hip-hop poetry and a bit of Gershwin at the Rush Hour Concerts series. Read More >> Published: Jun 23, 2009

Theater on the Lake offers beautiful sets and setting.

Theater on the Lake offers beautiful sets and setting. Theater on the Lake is a great way to place to spend a warm summer evening. Read More >> Published: Jun 17, 2009

Father's Day Classic Car Show rolls in June 21

Father's Day Classic Car Show rolls in June 21 Oakbrook Center's 41st annual Father's Day Classic Car Show will appeal to the whole family, with more than 100 vintage cars set among beautiful gardens, shops and restaurants. Read More >> Published: Jun 4, 2009

23rd Annual Scottish Festival & Highland Games

23rd Annual Scottish Festival & Highland Games Dust off your kilt and whet your appetite for some haggis. It's time for the Highland Games on June 19–20. Read More >> Published: May 28, 2009

Printer's Row Lit Fest: a gathering for the bookish

Printer's Row Lit Fest: a gathering for the bookish Voracious readers, unite! The Printer's Row Lit Fest on June 6–7 is a bookworm's utopia. Read More >> Published: May 23, 2009

The Bandits vs. The Flyers: a battle of the sexes

The Bandits vs. The Flyers: a battle of the sexes Men of the minor league take on Chicago's Women's slow-pitch softball team in what is billed as "The Battle of the Sexes." Read More >> Published: May 22, 2009

Chicago Philharmonic ends season with Mozart

Chicago Philharmonic ends season with Mozart Hear a little night music at Northwestern's Pick-Staiger Hall as the critically acclaimed Chicago Philharmonic wraps up its season with Mozart. Read More >> Published: May 18, 2009

Clown Pub Crawl: wacky fun for a good cause

Clown Pub Crawl: wacky fun for a good cause Get a red nose even before you start drinking on the June 6 Clown for Chi-Town Pub Crawl. Read More >> Published: May 15, 2009

Chicago Folk & Roots Festival hits town July 11-12

Chicago Folk & Roots Festival hits town July 11-12 Whether it be a fiddle contest or the squeeze of an accordion, the Chicago Folk & Roots Festival offers great music from all cultures. Read More >> Published: May 14, 2009

Chicago Outdoor Film Festival: free classics weekly

Chicago Outdoor Film Festival: free classics weekly Weekly showings of classic films offer Chicago movie buffs free entertainment throughout the summer season. Read More >> Published: May 13, 2009

Windy City Rollers hit the rink May 30

Windy City Rollers hit the rink May 30 Faster than the speed of light, the Windy City Rollers bring roller derby home. Read More >> Published: May 10, 2009

Chicago Blues Festival: Let the jamming begin

Chicago Blues Festival: Let the jamming begin The largest free Blues festival in the world attracts hundreds of thousands annually with legendary performers and powerful tributes. Read More >> Published: May 8, 2009

Batavia Restaurants

Wonderburger: The name alone sparks the imagination.

Wonderburger: The name alone sparks the imagination. A secret sauce tops the Wonderburger makinig it unlike any other hamburger. Founded in 1954, one bite and you'll be hooked and left well, wondering how it is made Read More >> Published: Oct 12, 2009

It's the sauce and more at Hecky's World Famous Barbecue

It's the sauce and more at Hecky's World Famous Barbecue Forget Memphis. The world's best barbecue is at Hecky's in Evanston. That's right. Evanston. Ah, the sweet smell of bbq success! Read More >> Published: Oct 7, 2009

Moody's Pub: The place to go for a "bleu" cheese burger.

Moody's Pub: The place to go for a "bleu" cheese burger. Not only does Moody's serve the best hamburgers in Chicago, it has a great outdoor beer garden in the summer and a fire place graced interior in the winter. Read More >> Published: Oct 7, 2009

Visit the Greek Islands and put a little Ompah! into your life.

Visit the Greek Islands and put a little Ompah! into your life. Awash in sea-colored blues and white stucco, Chicago's famous Greek Islands restaurant offers one of the liveliest dining experiences in the city. Read More >> Published: Sep 29, 2009

Indie Cafe: A delicious taste of the far East

Indie Cafe: A delicious taste of the far East This sushi bar and Thai eatery serves up wonderful rolls, rice dishes and curries, all in a relaxing modern setting. Read More >> Published: Sep 27, 2009

Dixie Kitchen: Southern cookin' in the city

Dixie Kitchen: Southern cookin' in the city Southern specialties abound at this kitschy spot, with classics like gumbo, jambalaya, red beans and rice and fried green tomatoes. Read More >> Published: Sep 23, 2009

Fraiche Bakery Cafe Lives Up To It's Name In Every Way

Fraiche Bakery Cafe Lives Up To It's Name In Every Way Fraiche, French for fresh, walks its talk. Everything--from the lemonade to the pastries to the potato chips--is made in the cafe's back kitchen. Read More >> Published: Sep 20, 2009

The Historic Heartland Cafe Still Serving Up Food and Politics

The Historic Heartland Cafe Still Serving Up Food and Politics The Heartland Cafe was founded on good food and great political debate and has become a local landmark. Read More >> Published: Sep 20, 2009

Walker Bros.: Pancakes, waffles and omelettes, oh my!

Walker Bros.: Pancakes, waffles and omelettes, oh my! This north Chicago pancake house chain is famous for a massive breakfast menu, but its their delectable ooey goeey apple pancake that put them on the map. Read More >> Published: Sep 18, 2009

Mapleberry Pancake House: No dinner, but great dishes and deals

Mapleberry Pancake House: No dinner, but great dishes and deals This west suburb strip mall surprise offers friendly service and delicious breakfast and lunch dishes for a downright steal. Read More >> Published: Sep 3, 2009

Leona's: A mammoth menu and hearty helpings

Leona's: A mammoth menu and hearty helpings This Chicago bar and grill chain offers big portions of delectable classics like pizza, pasta, burgers and a whole lot more. Read More >> Published: Aug 26, 2009

Deta's Cafe

Deta's Cafe If you could go back in time to grandma's kitchen, chances are it would look and smell like Deta's Cafe. All the more reason to pop in for a scrumptious burek. Read More >> Published: Aug 17, 2009

Ethiopian Diamond: A perfect dining gem in Rogers Park

Ethiopian Diamond: A perfect dining gem in Rogers Park There's nothing rough-cut about Ethiopian Diamond. Every entree in this Chicago gem is infused with wonderful spices and the combinations are brilliant! Read More >> Published: Aug 17, 2009

The Fish Keg

The Fish Keg The Fish Keg is one of Chicago's vanishing staples--the old fish shack. Founded in 1951, customers still flock to this simple brick fry house replete with a slamming screen door. What's not to love about The Fish Keg. Read More >> Published: Aug 13, 2009

Pita Inn

Pita Inn Stopping at Skokie's Pita Inn restaurant is like traveling to another country. This easy-on-the-pocket favorite for Middle Eastern fare draws people from every culture. Read More >> Published: Aug 7, 2009

UBBA Bar and Restaurant--The Old Crawford Inn

UBBA Bar and Restaurant--The Old Crawford Inn Known as the Ubar in the 1930s, UBAA Bar and Restaurant is a throw back to the old, rural roadside establishments. Read More >> Published: Jul 23, 2009

Brothers K Coffee House

Brothers K Coffee House For cappuccino almost to pretty to drink, visit the Brothers K Coffee House in Evanston. Read More >> Published: Jul 2, 2009

Cross-Rhodes--An inexpensive way to enjoy Greek cuisine in Evanston

Cross-Rhodes--An inexpensive way to enjoy Greek cuisine in Evanston For casual dining, there's nothing like a lively neighborhood restaurant where the banter is as good as the food. Read More >> Published: Jul 2, 2009

The Lucky Platter

The Lucky Platter The 1991 partnering of pastry guru Seric Singer and restaurateur Ken Pospiech beget The Lucky Platter. Indeed, a fortunate marriage for Evanston diners. Read More >> Published: Jul 2, 2009

Prairie Moon: American food with flair

Prairie Moon: American food with flair This Evanston eatery serves up classic bar fare combined with Southern, Southwestern and Asian influences, all in an artistic space sure to please the eye and the palate. Read More >> Published: Jul 2, 2009

Margie's Candies: Dive into a decadent sundae

Margie's Candies: Dive into a decadent sundae Here's the scoop on where to go for a fantastic and oh so decadent sundae. Margie's! Read More >> Published: Jul 1, 2009

Mama Thai: Authentic flavors abound in Oak Park

Mama Thai: Authentic flavors abound in Oak Park Chicago may have loads of Thai restaurants, but Mama Thai proves the real deal thanks to delicious and delicate dishes, reasonable prices and a comfy atmosphere. Read More >> Published: Jun 23, 2009

The Medici in Hyde Park: 'Obama Eats Here'

The Medici in Hyde Park: 'Obama Eats Here' Once a small art gallery, coffee house and Hippie Haven, The Medici has grown into one of Hyde Park's most popular restaurants. Read More >> Published: Jun 18, 2009

Mario's Italian Lemonade: a remnant of Little Italy

Mario's Italian Lemonade: a remnant of Little Italy Much of Chicago's Little Italy neighborhood is gone. But Mario's Italian Ice keeps the memory alive. Read More >> Published: Jun 4, 2009

Batavia Bars & Nightclubs

The Red Line Tap: An Old Chicago Tavern Is Given New Life.

The Red Line Tap: An Old Chicago Tavern Is Given New Life. Named for the elevated train line that rumbles outside its front door, the Red Line Tap offers music and libations. Read More >> Published: Sep 20, 2009

The historic Green Mill Cocktail Lounge offers up great jazz and big band

The historic Green Mill Cocktail Lounge offers up great jazz and big band A favorite of Chicago gangster Al Capone, the Green Mill still draws an eclectic crowd sprinkled with artists, musicians and poets. Read More >> Published: Sep 11, 2009

Fitzgerald's: A classic music joint with loads of charm

Fitzgerald's: A classic music joint with loads of charm This popular west suburb music venue has a bar, restaurant, patio and sprawling live performance area made famous in several Hollywood films. Read More >> Published: Jul 28, 2009

Woodlawn Tap: a nobel spot to belly-up for a beer.

Woodlawn Tap: a nobel spot to belly-up for a beer. Woodlawn Tap, a nostalgic Hyde Park pub that has been the watering hole for University of Chicago students since 1948. Read More >> Published: Jun 16, 2009

The Violet Hour has people talking (quietly)

The Violet Hour has people talking (quietly) One of Chicago’s most popular bars is less a bar and more a cocktail lounge. Called The Violet Hour, (a name taken from T.S. Eliot’s “The Waste Land”) this Wicker Park neighborhood has received rave reviews from around the world. Read More >> Published: May 4, 2009

Goose Island Beer Company: a Cubs fan favorite

Goose Island Beer Company: a Cubs fan favorite A brewpub down the street from Wrigley Field attracts fans with big TVs, an even bigger menu, and best of all, beers brewed on-site. Read More >> Published: May 1, 2009

The Velvet Lounge: big Chicago Sound in a compact club

The Velvet Lounge: big Chicago Sound in a compact club The Velvet Lounge in Chicago is a small storefront jazz club, but inside the sound is big Chicago experimental led by the legendary jazz great Fred Anderson. Read More >> Published: Mar 19, 2009