If you’re the type of Chicagoan that stays within the confines of your neighborhood, make 2023 the year you start to venture out! By venturing out, I, of course, mean you have to start including the suburbs in your weekend plans. Chicago is jam-packed with action, places to go, and people to see, but the suburbs offer a taste of space and quiet that you just can’t get in the city. Whether you’re planning on driving or taking public transportation (hello again, Metra), Oak Brook is the perfect suburb to spend a day in. With a perfect combination of liveliness and that suburban feel, we can help you plan an awesome day, complete with food and fun that leaves you thinking, “I should definitely get out to the burbs more often”.
First Watch
2155 22nd St Ste 24, Oak Brook, IL 60523
I’m not sure if it’s just me, but I feel like eating breakfast is getting less… popular? I will always be team “most important meal of the day”, and that’s why you should start your day in Oak Brook at First Watch. Whether you’re more into savory or sweet, First Watch has got you covered. There are new seasonal specials all the time, and yes, they order brunch cocktails.
If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, opt for The Traditional to be satiated with eggs, a breakfast meat of choice, breakfast potatoes, and warm, crunchy toast. First Watch also offers lighter options like avocado toast, a granola bowl, and steel cut oatmeal.No matter what you opt for, you’ll be happy you stopped at First Watch to start your day!
Oakbrook Center
100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook, IL 60523
Whether you want to walk around to work off your breakfast or you need some serious retail therapy, no trip to Oak Brook is complete without stopping at Oakbrook Center. This mall quite literally has everything plus an Abercrombie, so ladies, we’re covered. Being an outdoor mall, another positive is that while you’re racking up your credit card bill, you’ll be getting fresh air and stretching those legs. Oakbrook Center also hosts seasonal events like pictures with Santa, movies on their Lawn, immersive experiences, and even art pop-ups. If your mall day is as simple as people watching and an Auntie Anne’s pretzel with the warm cheese dip, look no further and enjoy your trip!
Graue Mill and Museum
3800 York Rd, Oak Brook, IL 60523
It’s no doubt that Chicago is packed with history, but did you know you can find tons of new information out in the burbs, too? At Graue Mill and Museum, spend the day learning about Frederick Graue, who purchased this historical site all the way back in 1849. After buying the house, Graue built a gristmill which was used for grounding crops like wheat and corn, and was “a major center for economic life in the 19th century”.
Not only was Graue MIll an important economic hub, but it also served as an essential spot on the Underground Railroad, where Graue offered shelter for runaway slaves. These days, Graue Mill and Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the past and the opportunity to learn more about the history that surrounds us.
Immersive Gamebox
545 Oakbrook Center Unit 545, Oak Brook, IL 60523
For a little friendly competition, head to Immersive Gamebox. We know that VR is all the rage right now, so what would be better than a VR game night with friends, without the clunky headsets? At Immersive Gamebox, players choose from a list of games, and take each other on in popular challenges like Squid Games, Angry Birds, trivia, a Junior Bundle, an “Alien Aptitude Test”, and other seasonal games! Pricing is broken down by age and days, so be sure to check out their website when you’re planning out your visit. We can assure you that Immersive Gamebox will be the most intense game night you’ve ever had!
Antico Posto
118 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook, IL 60523
To wrap up the day with a delicious dinner, make a reservation for Antico Posto. This Italian restaurant has everything that makes up a filling and tasty dinner: mouthwatering appetizers, fresh salads, savory pizzas and pastas, and of course, a wonderful dessert menu. The extensive wine and cocktail list is perfect for anyone looking to feel the stress of the everyday slide off their shoulders. Antico Posto also has a rotating specials menu so each time you visit you’ll find something new to enjoy. It’s time to say “Salut” to great food with great people.
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