Harvard Farmer’s Market:

The Harvard Farmer’s Market is open every Saturday from 9am to 1pm from May 5th through October.  

Located along the northeast and southeast corners of Ayer and Front Streets in Historic Downtown Harvard, just a quick 1 block walk form the Metra Station.You will find many local vendors selling a variety of items including fresh fruits and vegetables, honey, home made breads, beautiful flowers, plants & shrubs, and original handcrafted items.   

Woodstock Farmer’s Market:

Held every Tuesday, and every Saturday, beginning May 4th through October, from 8:00 am-1:00 pm.   

Voted the #1 farmers market in the state of Illinois in 2012 in the American Farmland Trust annual contest and 5th in America for medium-sized markets.. Woodstock’s market is one of the largest farmer’s markets in the Northwest Suburbs and is in its 31st year. The market is located in Historic Woodstock Square, which makes a charming backdrop for the Market. Browse through a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheese, wine, flowers, baked goods, soaps, and more…. The market also features live music every week.

Crystal Lake Farmer’s Market

The Crystal Lake Farmers Market is held 8:00am-1:00pm every Saturday, June 1st through October 12th. 

Step off the train into Depot Park where you will find a bounty of the area’s freshest vegetables, fruits, baked goods, eggs, meats, organics, flowers, plants, honey, vinegars and more. While in town for the market, enjoy the vibrant downtown area and the many shops and restaurants that Downtown Crystal Lake has to offer.   

Cary Farmer’s Market:

The Cary Farmers Market is held Sunday’s from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., June 2nd through September 29th.  

The outdoor market will be held in the North commuter parking lot near the intersection of High Road and W. Main Street in downtown Cary. Market items will include fresh vegetables such as corn, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, eggplant, beets, squash, bok choy, radishes, peas, green beans, spinach, and 40 varieties of tomatoes; fresh fruits such as Michigan apples, peaches, berries, 31 varieties of peaches, plums, nectarines, raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries; baked goods such as pies, breads, cookies, muffins, and cupcakes; and specialty items such as jellies, salad dressings, herbs, flowers and plants, and more. 

On the first Sunday’s of each month the Cary Farmers Market will host special events and activities, including outdoor music, free Chamber shopping bags to the first 100 attendees, raffles for bags of free Farmers Market groceries, and more. For more information go to www.carygrovechamber.com. 

Barrington Farmer’s Market:

The Barrington Farmer’s Market runs from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. every Thursday, from June 20th through October 17th.in the Village Center at Park Avenue and Cook streets. 

Enjoy an afternoon or evening that will awaken your senses. Barrington’s Farmer’s Market offers everything from fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, meats, cheeses, honey, and breads to home made pasta, pastries and so much more. . . The market is located , right next door to the Metra Station. Every week at 4pm kids can enjoy an activity just for them.  the for more info go to www.barringtonfarmersmarket.org 

Arlington Heights Farmer’s Market:

Farmers’ Market Saturday’s, starting in June through October, from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m in Lot S at Vail & Fremont Streets, in Downtown Arlington Hts. 

Come and get some inspiration for your dinners this week. Browse through all of the fresh produce, cheeses, bakery goods, breads, jams and jellies. Don’t forget the fresh flowers for the table. 

Mount Pospect Farmer’s Market:

The Mount Prospect Lions Club Farmer’s Market is held every Sunday, June 9- October 20th, from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., located in the Mount Prospect Metra Train Depot – West Commuter Parking Lot (corner of Northwest Hwy & Rte. 83). 

Make a stop at this Market for a wonderful array of fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers and other goodies. Stroll through and enjoy the freshest seasonal produce. It will give you inspiration for this week’s menu. This year enjoy more entertainment, activities & cooking demonstrations.

Park Ridge Farmer’s Market:

The Market is every Saturday 7am-1pm, from May 25th h through October 26th. 

The Park Ridge Farmers market, in its 23rd season has farmers from Illinois, Wisconsin & Michigan with fresh produce, as well as flowers, baked goods, cheese, pickles, tomato sauces, salsas, specialty olive oils, mushrooms, fresh eggs and dog treats. There will be musical entertainment almost every Saturday, story time the first Saturday of the month and other events all summer long. New Vendors this season are LeFlour Bake Shop, Yada Yada Crepes, Pappardelle Pasta & C & D Family Farms. C & D Farms will be selling pork, beef, lamb, goat, chicken and farm fresh eggs. Questions All just a short walk from the Metra station.   

Jefferson Park Sunday Market:

The Market will be held at Copernicus Center at 5216 W. Lawrence Ave. in Chicago and operates on select Sundays,from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the dates for 2013 are – June 9 & 23, July 14 & 28, August 11 & 25, September 8 & 22, October 13 & 27

So mark your calenders and get ready to stock up these goodies: Grass-fed, humanely raised meats, honey, soap, produce, organic pastries and baked goods, cow- and goat-milk cheese, produce, fruit, mushrooms, sauces, pasta, sweet/savory candy and frozen treats, artisan specialties, condiments, oils, and vinegars, pickles, giardiniera, salsas, preserves, soups, sauces and more. 

Other features: Garage Sales, Craft Fairs, and Horticultural & Culinary Arts.

The 2013 season begins with opening day on Friday, May 3rd. To celebrate, on opening day there will be free admission! Another special on the 3rd will be the purchase of one hot dog and your choice of a beer or soda for only 50 cents! Post Time 3PM.

The 2013 season runs Friday, May 3rd through Sunday, September 29th with a full calendar of heart-pounding Thoroughbred Racing, Events and Entertainment. Go to http://www.arlingtonpark.com/ for calendar and complete information.

Gates open at 11:15, you can get there early and get a bite to eat, pick up a racing form and work out your strategy or just pick out the names you like. At Arlington Park you can also place bets on races at other tracks throughout the country.

There are many places within the park to purchase food and drinks. You can also pack a basket and head for the picnic grounds.

Children 17 and under are admitted free when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Races run rain or shine!

Enjoy Spring On One Of These Scenic Bike Trails

Spring is one of the best times to get your bike out of storage and discover new trails or revisit old favorites. We have listed a number of trails along the Northwest Pacific Metra line as well as some great biking resources and organizations. It is also a great time to get your bike tuned up and road ready, so we have also included bike shops near the train line.  Please be aware that a number of the trails do require biking on the street to access the trails. So get out and enjoy the weather and let us know of any trails we might have missed. Look for future post on biking in Chicago.

Harvard

The Long Prairie Bike Trail is a paved 14.5 mile trail. It’s fitting that we start with this trail as a portion of the trail was once the Kenosha Division Rail Line. The path is mostly prairie, but there are shaded portions along the way. A number of small villages such as Capron, Poplar Grove and Caledonia are adjacent to the trail. The trail is fairly flat and there is signage providing information on native plants as well as the history of the region. There are a few places to stop and rest and get some refreshments.

To get to the bike trail from the Harvard Metra station head southwest and turn right on N. Ayers St., then right on W. Park St., left on Jackman St., right on W. Washington St., left to stay on W. Washington St., left on Ratzcliff St., the road zig zags here a bit so go right and then left and continue on to Lawrence Road where you can pick up the trail. The bike ride to the trail is approximately 1.4 miles.

McHenry

Moraine Hills State Park is a ways out of town, but worth the effort. This beautiful 2,200 acre park has 10 miles of trails surfaced with crushed lime stone. The park features the following 4 trails:  the 2 mile Fox River Trail, 3.2 mile Leather Leaf Trail, 3.7 mile Lake Defiant Trail and the 1.7 mile River Road Trail.  Approximately half the park consist of lakes and wetlands perfect for viewing waterfowl as well as other wildlife. We recommend bringing a picnic or packing your own snacks as the parks concession stand has limited hours. A number of water fountains available throughout the park as well as picnic tables. For more information and a map go to http://dnr.state.il.us/lands/landmgt/parks/r2/morhills.htm#Biking

To get to Moraines Hills State Park from the McHenry Metra Station head east on Main St., left on Green Street, right on W. Elm St., right on N. River Rd. The park is approximately 4.7 miles from the McHenry Metra Station. Please note that McHenry has a limited train schedule , so please plan accordingly. There are two bike shops in McHenry so check them out before or after your ride. See bike shop listings below for more information.

Crystal Lake

The Prarie Bike Trail

The Prairie Bike Path in a 26 mile trail stretching from Genoa City in Wisconsin south to Algonquin, linking 8 McHenry County Communities.  The trail is mostly flat except a portion in Sterne’s Woods in Crystal Lake that proves to be more challenging with both hills and curves. The trail is surfaced in crushed stone, asphalt, gravel or dirt depending on the stretch of the trail you are on. There are places to stop along the way to rest or for refreshments.

From the downtown Crystal Lake Metra Station head southeast to Railroad St., turn right on Main St., and you can pick up the trail at East Crystal Lake Ave. and S. Main St. From this point you can head north towards Genoa or south towards Algonquin. For a portion of the trail in Crystal Lake you will being riding on the road.  From the station to the trail is only .3 miles. Crystal Lake has a great bike shop right by the station, for more information check bike shop listing below.

Palatine

On this ride we suggest you take the Palatine Trail to the Deer Grove Preserve. The trail will take you through Palatine neighborhoods and around the Palatine Hills Golf Course where riders wills find wooded sections before connecting to Deer Grove Preserve. The ride to the preserve is approximately 3.1 miles on paved trails but involves crossing busy roads. For information on the Deer Grove Preserve see previous post http://justoffthetracks.com/2011/12/20/bike-deer-grove-forest-preserve/

From the Palatine Metra Station head east on West Wood St., turn left on N. Brockway,  turn right to enter the path. Follow the bike path to the left which runs parallel with N. Benton St. When you cross E. Heron Dr. take the trail to the left, follow the trail north at North Hawk St., turn left after crossing N. Smith St. and continue left at West Dundee Rd. At the intersection of N. Quentin Road and W. Dundee Rd.there is an entrance to the Deer Grove Preserve.

Arlington Heights

The Busse Woods Trail is a great biking destination, however getting to the trail from the station can be a little challenging, we reccomend that only bikers experienced in sharing the road with motorists should attempt this ride. Busse Woods consists of three major paved trails totaling 11.2 miles. Located in the Ned Brown Forest Preserve the trail loops through the park and will take riders past Busse Lake, an Elk pasture, and through meadows and forests. The trail intersections are marked and riders will find sheltered areas as well as rest rooms and water through out the preserve.

To get to Busse Woods from the downtown Arlington Heights Metra Station head south on N. Vail, right on W. Campbell St., left on South Dwyer Ave., right on W. Orchard Place, left on New Wilke Rd., cross Golf and turn left. An entrance to the preserve is on the left, and will bring you to the north end of the park. The ride to the trail is approximately 3.6 miles.

Des Plaines

DesPlaines River Trail

The Des Plaines River Bike Trail is a 30 + mile trail stretching from River Grove north to just below the Wisconsin border. The trail as you might expect from the it’s name follows the Des Plaines River through prairies, wetlands, and wooded areas. The surface varies and is primarily crushed stone and packed dirt. Many improvements to the trail have provided bridges and underpasses for safe and continuous biking. There are still portions of the trail where bikers will need to cross street to pick up the trail. For information on the cook county portion of the trail please check http://home.comcast.net/~cmorhiker/DPRBikeCook.html While researching  I found many riders advise against the use of road bikes on the trail.

From the Des Plaines Metra Station head southeast and turn left onto Pearson St, right on Miner St. and the trail can be picked up on the corner of Miner St. and River Road. The ride to the trail is about .2 miles.

For all the bike riders who enjoy using the train you have The Active Transportation Alliance to thank. This incredible organization works tirelessly on your behalf to make Chicagoland a better, safer and more convient place to bike, walk and use mass transit. Please consider supporting their organization with a membership. For only $30.00 you can enjoy discounts at many bike shops and receive a seven county bike map. For more information http://justoffthetracks.com/2010/10/01/active-transportation-alliance-has-come-on-board/

Car Free Chicago is also a great “community-built-resource” with advice  on getting around the city car free. In addition this site has helpful information on shopping tips and a train stop guide. http://www.carfreechicago.com

Another great resource for the Chicago area is the chain link. This is a great site to connect with other biking enthusiasts and share valuable information.http://www.thechainlink.org/

An additional resource for Chicago riders is http://gridchicago.com/. There is a lot of great information, be sure to check out the topics page.

Just Off the Tracks encourages everyone to review the following link to see complete list of guidelines concerning Bikes on Trains. http://metrarail.com/metra/en/home/utility_landing/riding_metra/riding_metra.html

Bicycle Shops on the Northwest Pacific Line

McHenry

Epic Cycle & Fitness
3932 W Main Street
McHenry, IL 60050

(815) 679-6334

http://www.epiccycleandfitness.com/

Bike Haven
3318 Pearl Street
McHenry, IL 60050

(815) 385-4642

http://www.thebikehavenmchenry.com/

Crystal Lake

Wheel Werks
115 N. Main Street
Crystal Lake, IL 60014

(815)444-6897

http://www.wheelwerksbikes.com/

Wrigley Field Home of the Chicago Cubs 3625 North Sheffield Ave. Chicago, IL 60613

Take the Metra to the Irving Park Station. Take the CTA’s #80 Irving Park bus, go east to Clark, then walk a couple blocks south to Addison.

Have Fun. Go Cubs!

Mr. D's at Arlington Park Race Track

Start off your crawl hoping to get lucky at Mr. D’s in Arlington Park, steps from the Arlington Park Station. As you get off the train cross the parking lot into Arlington Park, through the entrance booths and Mr. D’s is on the left.

Here you can bet on horse-racing all around the country, with their Off Track Betting. Enjoy Mr. D’s casual atmosphere, where you are  surrounded by horse-racing and sports of all kinds on their 35 flat screen TVs. Whether you are looking for a place to eat, drink, watch a game or place a bet, this bar has it. Join them on St. Patrick’s Day for $2 Green Beer and $5 Lucky Longshot Cocktails

 2200 West Euclid Avenue, Arlington Heights, IL  Open in the off season - Fridays: 2-11 pm and Saturdays & Sundays: 11am-7pm for more info go to  http://www.mrdsarlingtonpark.com/

TJ O’Brien’s is not just your typical sports bar. It is a friendly place to watch a game, grab a beer and also enjoy a home cooked Irish meal. TJ’s is located in the heart of Downtown Palatine, which makes it a favorite stop for Bar Crawls. They have Drink Specials every night of the week and entertainment many weekend nights. They are known for their fun atmosphere and lively nightlife. Along with their home cooked Irish food they serve a full menu, including homemade pizza and other pub favorites such as burgers and Italian beef.

53 West Slade Street, Palatine, IL for more info go to http://tjobriensbarandgrill.com/

For the last stop on the crawl, hop on a southbound train, two stops to Arlington Heights. Who’s vibrant downtown area with several bars and restaurants, makes it the perfect to end your crawl.

Peggy Kinnane's

I decided to build on the Irish theme and suggest Peggy Kinnane’s, Where a more authentic Irish experience awaits you. Much of their decor is imported from Ireland,  from the Irish stone on the walls to the bar to the decorations on the walls.

Jazz Jam

Jazz Jam is another hidden gem, and one of Just Off the Tracks’ Favorites: If you are looking for a fantastic Friday out, this is it. A night of live jazz in an intimate setting, and best of all it won’t break your budget, with a $5 per person cover. Wine, beer, water & soft drinks are available. You can stop at one of the local restaurants and pick up carry-out to eat there.

Jazz on the Square

Woodstock, Illinois has become the hottest destination for live music in McHenry County. Jazz on the Square continues the tradition by sponsoring live jazz performances, such as Jazz Jam. Where a talented pool of musicians come together twice a month at Stage Left Cafe. They invite all levels of jazz musicians and vocalists with knowledge of the Real Book selections to join in for a selection or two. Jazz Jam is held at Stage Left Cafe, next door to the historic Woodstock Opera House. Jazz jams are typically held on the first and third Fridays of every month, (always check the schedule to make sure). $5.00 donation is requested at door,(some special events may be higher). For information on Jazz Jam and Jazz Jam protocol go to: http://www.jazzonthesquare.com/ Student musicians are encouraged to join in these jams. Real Books are provided.

Chicago River

1.Half Price Theater Tickets

Hot Tixs offers theaters goers 1/2 price tickets. Tickets can be purchased online or at 1 of 2 ticket locations. Tickets sales are final and there is a service fee. Online ticket will be available for pickup at the venue. 

Locations  

72 E. Randolph
Chicago, IL        ( Between Michigan and Wabash in the Loop, and just across the street from the Randolf exit of the Cultural Center) 

163 E Pearson
Chicago, IL       ( East of Michigan Ave. across from the Water Tower) 

Hours 

Monday: Closed
Tuesday – Friday: 10am – 6 pm
Saturday: 10 am – 6 pm
Sunday: 11 am – 4pm 

http://www.hottix.org/  

2.  Discounted Popular Chicago Attractions

The Chicago Go Card allow visitors access to 26 popular Chicago attractions. Savings can be up to 55% , visitors will be able to skip lines and will also receive a free guidebook. The card is priced according to the number of consecutive days it will be used.  Discounted fares for children ages 3 – 12. 

In addition to the Go Card, Smart Destinations also offers a Customized Pass that allows visitors to select specific destinations. The more destinations you select, the larger the discount. Expect to save approximately 15 to 20 %. 

http://www.smartdestinations.com/ 

Wendella Water Taxi

3. Chicago Water Taxi

Seasonal, April through October 

Wendella has been operating water taxis in Chicago since 1935. The boats run in a closed loop from Chinatown to Madison on the South branch and La Salle St. to Michigan Ave. on the main branch. The boats are in operation April through late fall. Most rides are only $2.00 and provide a view of the city from an entirely new perspective. Passengers arriving by train from either the Ogilvie or Union Stations can catch the taxis on the northwest corner of Madison St bridge at 2 N. Riverside Plaza. There are steep stairs leading down to the water taxi. The boats operate 7 days a week. For hours and and schedule go to http://www.chicagowatertaxi.com/SitePages/Home.aspx 

4. Chicago’s Pedway

If you are up to a little underground exploration check out Chicago’s indoor walkway system. The Pedway consists of 6 miles of underground tunnels and overhead bridges with 49 points of entry. This walkway connects public and private building as well as portions of the Chicago transit system . The Pedway is safe and convenient, especially during inclement weather. For more information and maps http://wvaughan.org/chicagopedwaymaps.html  

5. Chicago Visitor Centers

Chicago Cultural Center

Chicago Cultural Center
77 East Randolph Street 

This is one of my favorite places in the city, take time to view the world’s largest Tiffany Dome in Preston Bradley Hall and the Healy and Millet stained glass dome in the Grand Army of the Republic Rotunda. The Cultural Center has free rotating exhibits and was once the Central Library. The Center is located across the street from Millennium Park. 

Chicago Water Works 163 E. Pearson St 

Chicago Water Works is located in the Magnificent Mile and is also home to one of the Hot Tix locations. 

Both centers are open seven days a week. For hours and additional informationhttp://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/travel_tools/visitor_centers.html  

6. Great View of the City

Chicago At Sunset

For a Great View of the city go to the Signature Lounge on the 96th floor at the Hancock building. Enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, drinks or dessert while taking in one of the greatest views. Great way to spend your money on food and get the view for free. http://www.signatureroom.com/  

7. CTA (Chicago Transit Authority)

Visitor Pass for Unlimited Rides.  

The CTA offers this great pass where visitors can get around the city for $5.25 a day. A 3 day, 7 day and 30 day pass are also available. The pass is for use on all CTA trains and buses. Note Metra Trains and Pace Buses are not part of this program. This can be a great value for those wishing to explore the city using mass transit. for more information http://www.transitchicago.com/travel_information/fares/unlimitedridecards.aspx  

For riders wishing to pay for a single ride, buses do accept cash.  At the time of this post fares for an adult are $2.25 For those using the trains, they must first buy a Chicago Card or Transit Card which are available at the “L” Stations. When buying a transit card with cash, note that the machines do not give change. http://www.transitchicago.com/riding_cta/how_to_guides/payingyourfare.aspx  

8. Bicycling in the City

Chicago has some outstanding bike trails. Visitors or those of you who don’t own bikes, can rent them at a number of convenient locations such as Millennium Park and Navy Pier. In addition to bikes, inline skates, hand-cycles, tandems, electric bikes, tagalongs, quadcycles, segways and carriers for children are all available. Bikes come with helmets, maps and a lock. For a complete list of rental locations go to http://www.bikechicago.com/  

9. Free Chicago Tours

Do to the generosity of some knowledgeable people who donate their time and love of the city, free tours are available through the Chicago Greeter Program. Tours are offered in a dozen languages, in 25 different neighborhoods and cover over 40 special interests. The program are available seasonably and often use mass transit.  Groups are usually limited to 6. The Greeter Program is housed in the Chicago Cultural Center at 77 E. Randolph St. across from Millennium Park. 

In addition to the Chicago Greeter Program this organization also operates theInstaGreeter Program.This program is perfect for last minute hour long tours of the Loop, Millennium Park, Hyde Park or Old Town Tour to name a few. The InstaGreeter Program does not need to be booked in advance. The Greeter Program is booked 7 -10 business days in advance with tours lasting 2 – 4 hours. What a outstanding program run by some terrific people. http://chicagogreeter.com/  

10. There is more to explore than just Downtown.

Get out of the downtown area and explore Chicago’s 77 distinct communities. Chicagoan’s know that some of the best restaurants, boutiques, historical and cultural events are found in their neighborhoods. These neighborhoods were formed and named by the people who live there. For a great resource for exploring these communities complete with maps, highlights, dining options and attractions go to http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/neighborhoods.html

The Starline Gallery Houses Fourth Fridays

A Just off the Tracks favorites. Spend your Friday evening strolling through an art exhibit, nibble some eclectic hors d’oeuvres, and  listen to live music in a picture perfect setting. What could be better? Oh, I forgot you can also meet and mingle with the artists. All for just a $5 cover charge.

The Starline Gallery – “Fourth Fridays”: 6:00 – 9:00 pm on the Fourth Friday’s 9 months a year. This monthly gala art exhibit and reception showcases established and emerging artists as well as live original music, open artist studios.

The Starline Factory  houses these monthly exhibits. This refurbished factory has great character. We checked out Fourth Fridays at The Starline Gallery and decided that this is one of our favorites.

Bottled water and lite hors d’oeuvres are included in $5 cover.  Cash bar for wine and beer at $3.50 each. For more info go to http://www.nancymerkling.com/4th-fridays-at-the-starline/

400 W. Front St., Harvard, IL 60033
Metra lets out right behind the building

January 25th
February 22nd
March 22nd
April 26th
May 24th
June 28th
July 26th
August 22nd
September – no event
October-25th
November+December – break for the holidays

Benedicts, 40 North Williams Street Crystal Lake, IL 60014 815 459-6500

Plan this excursion ahead of time and make plans for dinner followed by a live performance at Raue Center for the Arts.

Start your evening at Benedict’s La Strata. They have great food with an Italian/Mediterranean flair. Make reservations allowing 1-1 1/2 hours to complete your meal if you will be having appetizers. One of the appetizers that I would highly recommended is the Shrimp El Fresco. Not only is it great but it is large enough to share.

Raue Center For The Arts, 26 N. Williams Street, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 815-356-9010

Raue Center for the Arts is an 800 seat theater housed in the recently renovated  El Tovar building. This historic building was originally a movie and vaudeville theater.  This venue now hosts a variety of live entertainment in an intimate setting. You may choose to see a Broadway show, a dance performance or a live band.  Check to see the upcoming events and plan  a special evening out.

Pop's Bar and Grill, 19 N. Bothwell St., Palatine, IL. 60067 847-202-9069

We suggest you start the evening at Pop’s (Pete’s of Palatine). Located only minutes from the train station. Pop’s has a great selection of craft, domestic, imported and seasonal beers. There is never a cover charge and if you want to grab a bite to eat before setting out for the next bar Pop’s is known for their wings and homemade pizza some of which are unique to Pop’s such as the Pot Roast Pizza or the Pulled Pork Pizza with Giardiniera.  Check the menu because there are always daily food and drink specials.

From the Palatine Metra Station head east on W. Wood St., turn right on N. Brockway St., left on W. Slade St. and N. on Bothwell St. The walk should only take about 4 minutes.

TJ O’Brien’s Bar and Grill is just down the street from Pop’s. This Irish

T.J. O'Brien's 53 West Slade St., Palatine, IL 60067 847-468-7468

Sports bar also features daily drink specials as well as some great food, including some Irish favorites. If anyone in your group is up to it, there is an Italian Beef Challenge if you can eat a three foot Italian Beef Sandwich in under 30 minutes you will not only get the sandwich free  but forever be immortalized on the wall with your name and picture. You can also enjoy a game of pool at the only pool table in downtown Palatine.

To get to TJ O’Brien’s form Pop’s head north on N. Bothwell St. and continue on W. Slade. T.J. O’Briens is only about a minute away.

The last stop on the crawlis Lamplighter Inn Tavern and Grill. Everyone that has ridden the train has probally seen the Lamplighter as it’s outdoor, upper deck overlooks the Metra Tracks. Once again they offer daily food and drink specials. Depending on the night of the week the Lamplighter often has live music, karaoke, open mic, and open jam. For more information http://www.lamplighters.com/

The Lamplighter Inn Tavern and Grill 60 N. Bothwell St., Palatine, IL 60067 847-991-2420

To get to The Lamplighter from T.J. O’Brien’s,  go west on W. Slade St., turn right on N. Brockway St., right on W. Wilson St., then right on N. Bothwell. It is a short 3 minute walk. To get back to the train station head north on N. Bothwell St., left on Wood St., then left on N.Smith St. Allow approximately 5  minutes.

If you are looking for a fun way to support the environment and meet like minded people this event is for you.  Green Drinks is an international “Green” networking group of over 600 local groups that gathers green-minded people for drinks, food, and fun.

Green Drinks of McHenry County meets the 1st Wednesday of every month at Dukes Alehouse & Kitchen in their upstairs loft area, from 5-7 PM. Where you can learn about current environmental issues while sipping a cool drink. Dukes has drink & food specials on each Wednesday.

Every month enjoy a different topic and speaker,  The Environmental Defenders emails out information about upcoming events and posts on Green Drinks website. August’s  topic is the Emerald Ash Borer and other insects. All are welcome and admission is FREE  Go to http://www.greendrinks.org/IL/Crystal+Lake for the current month’s featured topic and speaker.

Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen is located just accross the street from the Crystal Lake Metra Station at
110 North Main Street
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
P: 815.356.9980, F: 815.356.3945
www.thedukeabides.com
http://www.facebook.com/dukesalehouse

Additions is a collection of handcrafted recycled/upcycled hardware jewelry

HONEYCRAFT is a community of talented people creating lovely wares & living handmade.

HONEYCRAFT MARKET is an opportunity for Designers, Crafters, and Artists in the area, to show off their skills and share their wares. So Get involved! Bring the Handmade Movement into your life!

UPCOMING MARKETS: November 3rd

Join the HoneyCraft family… always seeking vendors of unique handmade items to participate in the event. https://www.facebook.com/honeycraftmarket

Mr. D's Sports Bar

Mr. D’s Sports Bar overlooks the beautiful Arlington Park, and what may surprise a lot of people is that this Sports Bar is open year round. While most think of Arlington Park as just a fun seasonal destination, what they may not realize is that Mr. D’s is a great place to meet up with friends for a drink, a bite to eat, and you can even wager in the off season. The bar is spacious with great views and a deck over looking the track. There are multiple large screen tv’s for viewing games and racing from around the country

We spoke with Matt Decancq the General Manager about Mr D’s Sports Bar.

Why open a year round bar/restaurant in Arlington Park?

To create another great place to watch sports and let people experience the one of kind feeling of a live horse race.

Watch all the Games and Racing Throughout the Country

I notice you have a full menu, what’s your favorite?

Mr. D’s Specialty Burger!

What do you feel makes Mr. D’s unique?

The variety of things we offer. There is no other place you can go to watch your favorite sports teams, racing from all over the country and listen to some great live music. All with a state of the art racecourse and live Thoroughbred Racing as the backdrop.

Can you bet on the races in Mr. D’s?

Of course you can bet on the races while having a meal  or a drink at Mr. D’s during racing season, but you can also bet on races from around the country in the off season. We are open every Friday afternoon through Sunday, long after the racing season here at Arlington Park is over.

Overlooking the Beautiful Grounds of Arlington Park Racecourse

Does Mr. D’s offer any additional services?

This is a great venue for hosting  your next function or special occasion.

Directions to Mr. D’s
Enter the Arlington Park grounds via the Wilke Road entrance. For those wishing to take the train, Metra stops right in front of the track at the Arlington Park Metra Station. Enter through the entrance booths and Mr. D’s is on the left

Mr. D’s Sports Bar (located inside the Arlington Park Racecourse)
2200 W. Euclid Ave
Arlington Heights, IL 60006
P: 847 385 7508

Email:Mdecancq@levyrestaurants.com
www.ArlingtonPark.com

Days of Operation: Wednesday-Sunday
Hours of Operation: 11:15 to 2 hours after last race during the Arlington Park Season
Alcohol__ Y
Child friendly __Y
Reservations accepted __N
Dress code Casual
Entertainment: Live Band and Live Horse Racing
Best night to visit Friday-Sunday
Specials/Deals $2 Miller and Coors Light Drafts on Fridays

St. Patrick’s Day in Norwood Park

Sunday, March 17, 2012 12:00pm – Northwest Side Irish St. Patrick’s Day Parade:The parade will kick off at 12:00pm at 6633 W. Raven (Onahan School) and will run south up Neola Avenue to Northwest Highway north to Harlem Avenue, ending at Harlem Avenue. The Northwest Irish Parade is a celebration of faith, family, and heritage on the Northwest side of Chicago. On Sunday March 17th the Northwest Side Irish will host their 10th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Over 150 parade participants with thousands of spectators will attend the Northwest Side Irish friends and family Parade. The parade participants include The Emerald Society Band, Chicago Pipes and Drums, Mullane Irish Dancers, Trinity Irish Dancers, St. Patrick’s High School Jazz Band, Foreman High School ROTC, Notre Dame High School Band, O’Hare Irish Dancer, Dillon Gavin Irish Dancers, Resistance Pro Wrestling Company, the WLUP Radio, Brotherhood for the Fallen and many more community friends and families.  For more info go to http://www.northwestsideirish.org/ 

Official Northwest Side After Party – March 17, 2013, Beginning at 1:00 pm at the Immaculate Conception Recreation Center, 7211 W. Talcott Avenue The Official NWSI After Party begins at 1:00pm and runs to 5:00pm. Tickets for the after party are $10.00 per person includes a Danny Boy Corned Beef and cabbage dinner, beer, wine and soda. $5.00 for children 11 and under includes hot dog, chips and a soda. The after party includes live entertainment, face painting, balloon magic, raffles and extended family fun. For ticket info contact jilliankwatson@gmail.com  

St. Patrick’s Day in Palatine:

Paint the Town Green, Saturday, March 16th, Downtown Palatine. Palatine’s 3rd Annual “Paint the Town Green”festival will be held on Saturday March 16th, 2013. Come on out and “Paint the Town Green”. This fun filled St. Patrick’s Day Event day kicks off with a tented Irish Market in front of Durty Nellies at 180 North Smith Street from 8:00 AM until 1:00 PM. The market features items such as  Irish wares from Long Grove’s Paddy’s on the Square, McNulty Irish Dancers who will be teaching Irish dance, Safari Childcare’s face painting and other kid’s activities. There will also live music all day , starting with fingerstyle guitarist Merv Collins at 8:00 AM, Mary Lia at 9:00 am and Guyz with Bad Eyez performing for two hours from 11:00 am – 1pm. 

The celebration continues with a parade at 11:00 AM in downtown Palatine. The parade begins on the corner of Wood and Oak Streets in downtown Palatine and continues west to Brockway and south to Wilson. The parade feat

ures over 40 entries and 600 participants including the Midlothian Scottish Pipe Band, McNaulty Irish Dancers, Trinity Irish Dancers, The Little Leprechauns of Dorset Avenue and the Palatine Dance Company.During the parade marchers with shopping carts will collect food, clothing and disposable paper products for Journeys from PADS to HOPE. 

St Patrick’s Day Parade & Irish Market:  8 am to 1 pm

“ All You Can Eat” Breakfast:  Sons of the American Legion Squadron  690,  8:30 am to 11:30 am Open to the public

11 am – Parade Begins

Emmett’s St Pat’s Celebration Schedule: 9 am to 12 noon Kegs n Eggs Breakfast Buffet – $7 per person, all Day food specials, 1 pm to 4 pm Live Bagpiper, 1 pm Firkin Tapping Ceremony

Irish Market Entertainment: 8 am to 9 am Merv Collins 9 am to 11 am  Mary Lia 11 am to 1 pm   Guys with Bad Eyez

 In addition to the Parade and Irish Market, activities and entertainment are being planned at downtown businesses and restaurants throughout the day and evening. For more details visit www.stpatspalatine.com. 

 St. Patrick’s Day in Barrington:

Barrington Celtic Fest: Friday March 15th through Sunday March 17th, Downtown Barrington in the 200 block of Park Ave. The 3rd Annual Barrington Celtic Fest will bring out the Irish in everyone. This three day festival will be in the Village Center located at South Cook Street between Park Avenue and Stations Street. There will be a huge tent in front of McGonigal’s Irish pub so you can enjoy the celebration without worrying about the fickled March weather. The party will run all three days. Barrington’s St. Patrick’s Day Party will have something for everyone including: live music, Irish dancers, bagpipers and of course plenty of Irish brew will be flowing in both the festival tent and at McGonigal’s Pub. All the festivities are conveniently located right next to the Barrington Metra Train Station.

Indoors: McGonigal’s Pub & The Annex- Friday 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM, Saturday & Sunday 9:00 AM – 2:00 AM

 Outdoor Tent: 200 Block of Park Avenue, just East of Cook Street. Friday 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM, Saturday 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM, Sunday 11:00 AM – Midnight

 Some of the Featured entertainment: The Breakfast Club, Trash Martini, Rod Tuffcurls & The Bench Press, Gareth Woods, Triadd, Morgan Fingleton, Seamus O’Kane, Stormcrows, Chunky Monkey, Fast Eddie McAteer, AND MORE!!!

$10 daily event charge Includes vinatage Celtic Fest t-shirt (while supplies last), Ages 12 & under free during the day, 21+ in age required after 6:00 PM, Pub & Tent. Portion of proceeds go to the ACS Relay for Life

 For more info go to http://www.mcgonigalspub.com/events/celticfest.html  

St. Patrick’s Day in Cary:

At The Tracks Bar & Grill Irish spirit will be flowing with Green Miller Lites, Guinness, and a traditional Corned Beef Dinner for to celebrate St. Patrick’s day.  

St. Patrick’s Day in Crystal Lake:

St. Patrick’s Day at Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen, Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen ALL MONTH LONG with great food specials and fine Irish ales. Enjoy Irish fare, Specialties include Reuben sandwiches, Corned Beef and Cabbage, Irish Stew, Bailey’s Crème Brule, and more. 

Come celebrate St. Patty’s Day this year at Crystal Lake’s Oldest Irish Pub, Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen for great food and live music: 

Saturday, March 16th, 12PM-2PM MOLLY AND THE TINKER, 3PM-4PM STEP-DANCERS, 6PM-8PM DOG 1 BLUEGRASS, 10PM-CLOSE BAREFOOT FRED ($5 COVER)

Sunday, March 17th, 12PM-2PM PAT GAUGHAN AND LJ SLAVIN DUO, 3PM-4PM STEP-DANCERS, 6PM-8PM SCREW CITY SAINTS, 9PM-CLOSE OPEN MIC

For more info go to http://thedukeabides.com/2011/