Stephanie Bernstein

Located just three hours north of Chicago by car, Madison, Wisconsin, offers football, food tours, and music festivals year-round. There’s biking and hiking, award-winning restaurants, and plenty of beer brewed in town, making Madison a delightful destination. Whether you’re visiting for a Badgers game or looking for an escape from Chicago, pass on pricey hotels and see what these Madison Airbnbs have in store. We've hand-selected the best holiday rentals, from countryside stays with lakefront views to cozy cottages.  Updated November 2024: Snuggle up, unwind, and enjoy nature with our newest additions: the cottage in Forest Green and the cozy home on the Prairie near Mount Horeb. RECOMMENDED:🏛 Check out our list of the best things to do in Madison🍽 Here are the restaurants you need to try in Madison🏨 Fancy a stay at the best hotels in Milwaukee?  Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

There’s no Chicago Christmas experience more authentic than bracing the chill of winter to cut down your own Christmas tree. Though Chicago offers plenty of dazzling light displays and holiday-themed experiences, you’ll need to head outside of the city for the perfect pine, spruce or fir. Whether you want to travel 30 minutes or two hours, there are plenty of spots ranging from muddy and rustic BYOS (bring your own saw) farms with house-made cookies and hot chocolate to elaborate, Instagram-worthy holiday backdrops and tractor rides. No matter what holiday movie you’re envisioning yourself in this season, you’ll enjoy holiday cheer and beautiful scenery while cutting down your own tree.  RECOMMENDED: Our complete guide to Christmas in Chicago

A trip to Chicago shouldn't be without a special place to stay if you want a truly unique and tailored experience of the city. From modern masterpieces to homes of eccentric stone collectors, Chicago Airbnbs are cool, and quirky, and feel a little more homely than the standard (although very fab) hotels you normally see. And what's even better is that most Airbnbs are within commutable distance of the great Chicago sights and attractions.  Whether you’re here for the weekend or planning a lengthier staycation, Chicago is bound to have an Airbnb perfect for your trip. Read on for our lowdown on the city’s finest Airbnbs.  🚘 Our guide to weekend getaways from Chicago 🏨 Discover the best boutique hotels in Chicago🏯Here are the best historic Airbnbs near Chicago Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Nothing beats being warmed inside and out by a warm cup of rich hot chocolate. As a specialty of the city's best chocolate and candy shops and best coffee shops, these "drinkable chocolates" are crafted with the expertise of devoted chocolatiers. From elixirs topped with donuts and waffles to spicier options, Chicago gets creative with its hot chocolate options—and you can pair your chocolatey goodness with pastries from the best bakeries, too. So whether it's to appease that sweet tooth or just to treat yourself, try out these best hot chocolates in Chicago. RECOMMENDED: Our ultimate guide to winter in Chicago

Whether you're dining out at the best restaurants open on Thanksgiving or staying in, there will be loads of delicious food, but also fatigue from engaging with small talk with distant relatives. Fortunately, many Chicago bars aren’t taking the day off and will instead be offering an escape from family. You’ll find some of the best dives and sports bars included, as well as arcade bars like Headquarters Beercade and Replay Andersonville. If you’re a football fan, there are several places that will show the day’s games on large screens with sound. So don’t suffer through awkward pleasantries any longer than necessary—check out our guide to the best bars open on Thanksgiving and be ready with an excuse to slip out once the big meal is over. RECOMMENDED: Thanksgiving events in Chicago

When you're looking for a new 'doo, and hair salon seems too fussy, you might find yourself more inclined to the vibe of a barber shop. The haircuts are speedy, the ribbing good-natured and the shaves precise. Plus, the cuts are usually cheaper than what you'd pay at an upscale salon, leaving you with extra cash to spend at the bar. Whether you're taking a little off the top or getting a whole new vibe, here's a look at the best barber shops in Chicago—where to find them, and how much cash you should prepare to drop.

Thanksgiving traditions vary, but gorging on an indulgent feast is a universal practice. Whether you want to offset your food coma or convince the family to do something together, there are plenty of races happening throughout the holiday weekend this year. And with varying levels of seriousness, you don't have to be an athlete to participate (a few even reward you with something gluttonous when you cross the finish line). On your mark, get set, trot!  RECOMMENDED: The best Thanksgiving events in Chicago

Don't let Lincoln Park's trendy reputation keep you from dining out. With DePaul University in the neighborhood, Lincoln Park has no shortage of cheap eats for students. But you don't have to be a college kid on a budget to stop by these deliciously discounted dining destinations. Whether you want a perfect slice of thin crust pizza, a late-night Chicago-style hot dog with a side of sass or breakfast at a coffee shop, here's where to go. RECOMMENDED: Our complete guide to the Lincoln Park neighborhood

If you're still paying full price for designer trends in furniture, clothing and accessories, stop it. Sure, you already know to shop at thrift stores, but what about when you want the latest and greatest? Outlet stores are your best bet for discounts on high-end, luxury items. Some of our favorites are in Chicago, but others will require a short road trip. Work the shopping stop into a weekend getaway, perhaps?

The Chicago Marathon is no joke; running a 26.2-mile race requires patience, time and months of training. Whether you’re hitting the course or getting up early to cheer from the sidelines, you deserve a little something for your efforts. Chicago’s top restaurants and bars are rolling out dining deals fit for runners and specators alike. Here’s where and how to cash in this weekend. RECOMMENDED: Chicago Marathon guide

Brunch and ping pong sounds like a match made in heaven. Enjoy 2 hours of unlimited brunch items handmade by award-winning chef Rick Gresh and bottomless Tito’s Bloody Marys, imosas & bottles of Corona Extra for $40 at AceBounce. You can also partake in plenty of ping pong at the club's tables. If you're still looking to party after the 2-hour package ends, stay and enjoy $5 Corona Extras and $6 cocktails.  

This Illinois native to be both cerebral and lowbrow all in one punch, and his storytelling powers are phenomenal. Kinane has appeared on "Conan," "Workaholics," "Come Bang! Bang!" and many more. Take in his self-deprecating stand-up at his stop at Thalia Hall. 

Ilana Glazer (Comedy Central's Broad City) and Phoebe Robinson (WNYC's 2 Dope Queens) are joining feminist forces for their 11-city stand-up tour, 'YQY' (Yaaas Queen Yaaas). They'll be at Thalia Hall for one night only for two shows. Don't miss out on these two comedy queens. 

Hosted by creator and comedian Kevin Allison, RISK! is a live show and podcast "where people tell stories they never thought they'd dare to share." For fans of The Moth, This American Life or Snap Judgment, RISK! allows storytellers share uncensored personal tales, ranging from hilarious to highly emotional.   Kevin Allison is a member of MTV cult comedy troupe "The State." He was awarded the Excellence in Podcasting Award at NYC Podfest. The storyteller lineup will be announced soon. The podcast hosts monthly shows in NY and LA, and is bringing its entertainment to Chicago. Story selection is in progress and area storytellers are to be announced.  

The 'Jew-ish' deli puts unique twists on old-time classics—from Reubens to hotdogs, expect high-quality meats, locally-sourced produce, exceptional bagels and freshly-baked breads to constitute your breakfast, lunch or brunch.

Top Chef Katsuji Tanabe delights diners with his classic dishes inspired by his childhood in Mexico. Barrio's signature plates include pork nachos, short rib barbacoa and grilled octopus tacos and whole red snapper for two. The 6,000 square-foot space is an upscale, earth-toned lounge with bar seats, tables and booths for parties of any size. If you can't dine in, there's also a bodega out front that sells tacos, coffee and churros to go.

Executive Chef, Bill Walker, has created a menu centered on seasonality and sustainability, featuring farm-fresh ingredients and indulgent desserts, for The Kennison at Hotel Lincoln. The upscale restaurant-lounge offers beautiful views of Lincoln Park with year-round longevity. The raw bar serves up oysters, hamachi crudo and tuna tartare, while hot plates include roasted chicken with summer squash, black taglioni noodles with octopus and eggplant and rabbit pappardelle. If you have a sweet tooth, save room for the sinful dark chocolate cake, layered with caramel cremeux or the brown-butter cake with caramelized white chocolate. But at some point, you must try the Kennison Burger–available for dinner or brunch.  

The expansive bourbon-based menu at 2Twenty2 Tavern is crafted weekly by cousins Chris and Jake Mannos, heirs to the Exchequer Restaurant & Pub. The spot offers the usual accouterments—live music, sporting events and bar games—but in a dimly-lit, rustic pub environment accented by fireplaces and whiskey barrels. The cocktail concoctions encompass spins on classics like margaritas, mules and Manhattans, while the bar bites include brussels sprout kabobs with bacon wrapped dates, Mexican Fire homemade chili and cheese curds, fried pickles & jalapeños with sriracha aiolo. Come for the giant Jenga and shuffleboard, stay for another drink.

This one-of-a-kind designer sample sale offers discounts on luxury clothing, accessories and home goods. Expect brands such as Valentino, Tom Ford and Jimmy Choo. While you shop, enjoy free makeup application, complimentary hair braiding and an on-site lifestyle concierge. Make sure to arrive early to get your spot in line!

This crossover cafe offers coffee, toast and whiskey in a trendy setting that mirrors West Loop sister spot, Slightly Toasted. Sibling chefs Brenda and Omar Garcia utilize the full bar and kitchen – as opposed to Slightly Toasted’s smaller space – to bring out their best bites and booze. Signature Toasts served all-day include Butterscotch & Nutella, Steak & Egg and Strawberries & Cream with Rose Ricotta. But thanks to the extensive and indulgent menu, you can get more than a little Toasted. Make friends with their best-selling burger – the Juicy Lucy – or a cocktail like Becky with the Good Berries. To get caffeinated, well-fed or buzzed with a beautiful view of the Chicago River, Little Toasted is the place to go.

We’ve all been there—sitting on the couch with our significant other and unanimously canceling date night. There’s nothing wrong with staying in, but when low temperatures turn you into a homebody, it can be refreshing to break out of the routine and bundle up to head out of the house. Resist the urge to let the Chicago winter snow on your romantic parade and keep the love alive with these winning winter date ideas. Try out the ice skating ribbon at Maggie Daley Park. Show off your skating skills (or lack thereof) with the city’s skyline as your backdrop. Admission is free if you bring your own skates; otherwise, it’s $12 to rent a pair or $14 on weekends. When your legs need a break, enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and sit on a rink-side bench to take in the surroundings. Warm up at a bar or restaurant with a fireplace. Gone are the summer days when you can spend afternoons on outdoor patios; instead, you’re sticking out an hour-long wait to sit indoors. If you’re planning to dine out for date night, do yourself a favor and find a cozy fireplace to cuddle up next to—you might even want to make a reservation. Sip on some hot cocoa. Although Chicago has some great coffee spots, you can satisfy your sweet tooth with these delicious destinations for a classic cup of hot chocolate. A few have boozy twists to them, if you're in the mood for something a bit more potent. Have a night at the museum. Many local museums host events in Winter to help Chicagoans escape the cold—Adler Plane

37, creator of Instagram account @whatwasbreakfast How did you come up with the idea for What Was Breakfast? One of my coworkers and I were joking around one day, and he asked me how I wanted my breakfast sandwich. At Cherry Circle Room, the breakfast sandwich is called the Van Doozer. So we did this silly project called “How I Dooz It,” and I just interviewed everyone I worked with, asking them how they wanted their breakfast. We made this big photo series of everyone we work with, but we ran out of coworkers. How do you choose who to feature? I always say, “Hey, what’s up? I’m Alan, I’m a photographer.” I come in low, not to catch ’em off guard—like, I come in peace. There’s always a reason I stop somebody, and I tell them why. It’s always very specific. It’s just the truth. I think I do a good job of reading body language. I could do this with an iPhone, but people wouldn’t take me seriously. Why breakfast? Everybody loves breakfast, man. And you can infer something about someone based on their breakfast. It’s mellow, it’s nonintrusive, it’s laid-back. But I wanted to ask a question that had an answer. You’ve lived in the Loop for two years. What do you love about the neighborhood? The very first thing is proximity. I live in the Loop, I work in the Loop—it’s easy for me to do this in the Loop. That said, I’ve done this in other neighborhoods before, and they don’t have the cross section of people that the Loop does. I’m able to get the widest array of people. This is whe

Earlier this week, the Recording Academy announced the 2018 Grammy Awards nominees, giving us a peek at who may be taking home some shiny golden trophies in January. You've probably already heard many of the artists and albums that have been shortlisted for awards, but if you really want to experience their music, you owe it to yourself to see them in concert. We've tracked down some of the best concerts featuring Grammy nominees that you can check out ahead of the 60th Annual Grammy Awards on January 28, 2018. You know you'll want to be able to say that you saw 'em before they really got big...Queens of the Stone AgeWith its recent release, Villains, nominated for Best Rock Album, Josh Homme's alt-rock powerhouse plays the finale of WKQX's The Nights We Stole Christmas concert series. Plus, Run the Jewels (who definitely should have snagged a Grammy nomination) are also on the bill.Aragon Ballroom, December 2 Jay-ZThe rap icon has been hitting cities nationwide since late October, showcasing his confessional new record 4:44—nominated for Album of the Year—with support from Chicago's own Vic Mensa.United Center, December 5 Kelly Clarkson American Idol-winner and The Voice coach Clarkson received a Grammy nod for Best Pop Solo Performance. You can see if her live show live up to the hype when she comes to Rosemont with Andy Grammer for this special holiday show.Rosemont Theatre, December 5 Khalid19 year-old Best New Artist-nominee Khalid has already topped the charts and pick

Your days of wandering around the city searching for a retailer roasting Stumptown are nearly over. On Monday, December 4, the Portland-based coffee company opens its first physical shop inside Ace Hotel Chicago in West Loop, as first reported by Eater. The menu will include classic espresso drinks, single-origin pour-over coffees and cold brew beverages, plus delectable pastries from City Mouse. Ace Hotel Chicago's expansive lobby will allow café-goers to enjoy the comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi while getting their caffeine fix. This is Stumptown Coffee Roasters' first location in the Midwest and its 10th retail store nationwide. It is the fourth location in partnership with the Ace Hotel Group. "This cafe is a great way to elevate our presence and extend our reach to more coffee-loving consumers," said Mallory Pilcher, director of marketing. Photograph: Stumptown Coffee Roasters   In honor of its opening day, Stumptown is partnering with Young Chicago Authors for pop-up performances beginning at 1pm. All first-day proceeds will be donated to the non-profit organization. Stumptown Coffee Roasters in Ace Hotel will be open 6:30am–7pm daily in the lobby of Ace Hotel Chicago at 311 N Morgan Street. Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.

Want to be a sailor for a day? In 2019, Chicagoans will be able to visit the Navyseum—a giant attraction made up of decommissioned naval equipment. The 130,000-square-foot complex is not an amusement park, as much as it is "an active exploration center." It's the brainchild of Ron Lanz, a former economic planner and consultant with North Chicago, who was inspired by the City Museum in St. Louis. The attraction plans to inhabit 11 acres along Sheridan Road, situated just west of Naval Station Great Lakes. It will feature indoor skydiving, a brewery and restaurants as well. Aside from conceptual inspiration, this project is completely independent of the U.S. Navy, as a for-profit venture. Navyseum is open to marketing and partnership opportunities down the line. "What really created the interest for me was working with North Chicago," Lanz said. "A lot of people don't realize how significant the Navy is in Chicago and the state of Illinois." With 35,000 people on the base every day, Naval Station Great Lakes is a large source of tourism for North Chicago, largely due to the fact that a new group of sailors graduates from the Naval Academy every Friday. During 48 weekends out of each year, visiting family members from all over the country come to the area looking for tourism and entertainment opportunities. Though Six Flags Great America is just a little further north, Navyseum is being positioned as a destination for local families in the suburbs, especially those with littl

There are plenty of amazing things to do in Chicago—especially when it comes to venturing out with groups or planning a romantic date night. But we all need a little "me time" to recharge. Next time you're craving a solo adventure in Chicago, enjoy one of these options all to yourself.  Hit up your favorite record shop. It’s a lot easier to flip through vinyl without your friends lurking behind you. Bring your selections home and host a private dance party for one.  Take a walk in the park. Chicago is covered in pristine green spaces that are free to visit whenever you'd like. Pack a book, create a playlist and reset your mind at one of Chicago's best parks. Enjoy an art museum at your own pace. Who needs snobby Art History 101 commentary? Some of the city's best museums offer free days and deals for Illinois residents, so you can even save a buck or two while enjoying time to yourself.   Play tourist for the day. Visit the Bean, take a free walking tour, hang at the Chicago Cultural Center or hop on an architecture river cruise—all without any judgment. C'mon, you know you want to. Hop on a Divvy. You don't have to own a bike to explore the city on two wheels. Check out a new-to-you neighborhood on the cheap—just make sure to stay in the bike lane and follow these unspoken rules.  Try a new restaurant. It's hard enough to get your friends to commit to brunch on Sunday. When you're dining alone, you don't have to wait on anyone to grab a seat at that new spot down the stree

Although it’s been eight years since the Chicago Transit Authority last raised its base fares, the transportation agency has included a 25-cent fare hike in its 2018 budget proposal. If approved, bus ride card fares will rise from $2 to $2.25 and bus cash fares will rise from $2.25 to $2.50. Card fares for trains will rise from $2.25 to $2.50, and the monthly Ventra pass will increase from $100 to $105. All new fares would go into effect January 7. The reason for this proposed fare hike, as reported by the Chicago Sun-Times, is a $33 million cut in funding from the state. Similarly, overall ridership has dipped in recent years—down nine percent since 2012, when ridership hit a 20-year peak. “The state budget cut presents too much of a hurdle for us to cross without the additional revenues,” said Jeremy Fine, the CTA’s chief financial officer. This 2018 budget proposal also includes the firing of 45 employees and the freezing of 70 job vacancies. Currently, labor costs make up about two-thirds of the total operating budget. There would be no cuts to service in the 2018 plan. Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.

1. Rock legend Morrissey will play the Riviera Theatre tonight. Tickets for the 8:30pm concert are available starting at $45. 2. ChillFest hosts free concerts in storefronts across Wicker Park and Bucktown today. The shows begin at 2pm throughout the neighborhoods. 3. If you missed your Thanksgiving day run, do the Grant Park Turkey Trot today at 9am. Registration is $40 at the event. For more events, check in with Time Out Chicago throughout the day.

1. Belt some tunes at the annual Sound of Music Sing-A-Long at the Music Box Theatre. Tickets for the 1pm screening are $12.50 for adults and $8 for kids. 2. Sample all six of the 2017 Goose Island Bourbon County Stout selections at the WhirlyBall's release party. The 7pm event is free as long as you RSVP. 3. The 99 Cent Black Friday Party at Navy Pier tonight is offering a limited number of tickets for 99 cents only. Additional tickets start at $9.99. The event features cocktails, DJs and more, starting at 10pm. For more events, check in with Time Out Chicago throughout the day.

1. Bring the family to the Thanksgiving Parade today. The annual procession starts at State and Randolph Streets, from 8am through 11am. Attendance is free. 2. Lace up for the Turkey Day Run, which starts at 8am on Cannon Drive and Fullerton Parkway. Participation is $40 per adult, but cheering on the runners is free. 3. See a production of 42nd Street at Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace today at 2:30pm. Tickets are still available, starting at $47.  For more events, check in with Time Out Chicago throughout the day.

The best cities have a tendency to inspire musicians to write songs about them, and Chicago is no exception to that rule. Rockers, rappers, electronic musicians and more have composed odes to our city's landmarks, streets and culture—they might not always get the details right, but it's the thought that counts. If you're in need to some fresh additions to your civic pride playlist, take a listen to these songs that capture our feelings about Chicago. 1. “Chicago” by Sufjan Stevens: The semi-autobiographical song from Stevens' album, Illinois, assembles violins, trumpets and choir singers, complemented by his calm vocals. It captures the spirit of a cross-country road trip, where the subject sells everything and starts again, exclaiming "All things go/all things go."   2. “Homecoming” by Kanye West: If airlines were to select a song to play upon landing at O’Hare or Midway, this would be it. The track from West’s Graduation is an upbeat love letter to Yeezy's hometown (though we're still confused about why Coldplay's Chris Martin sings the hook). He raps about growing up and then moving away, hiding his love for the city behind the guise of a girl named Windy. The most notable verse: “If you don’t know by now, I’m talking ‘bout Chi-town.”    3. “Sweet Home Chicago” by Robert Johnson: This classic tune has been re-recorded by the Blues Brothers, Eric Clapton and plenty of other artists looking to flex their 12-bar chops. With simple lyrics, it's become an anthem for the city,

Each holiday season brings back annual traditions like seeing The Nutcracker, arguing with your family, going ice skating and riding the CTA Holiday Train. This year's seasonal El train is decorated with lights, holiday prints and Santa riding atop an open-air flatcar, waving to riders on the platform. RECOMMENDED: Our complete guide to Christmas in Chicago The tradition began in 1992, becoming an annual occurrence that brings joy (and jam-packed commutes) to Chicagoan children and adults alike. The Holiday Train also delivers food baskets to charities throughout the city that hold holiday food drives. Last year, the CTA introduced a second themed set of cars called the Elves' Workshop Train that hits the rails on Saturdays. Just like the Holiday Train, it's covered in garlands, bows and lights, though you'll also find Santa's Elves greet boarding passengers. In true North Pole fashion, the Elves Workshop Trains will follows directly behind Santa, mirroring the Holiday Train's route. Not near an El station? There's also the Holiday Bus, which runs along several different routes from November 28 to December 23. The exterior print features Ralphie the Reindeer, complete with three-dimensional antlers atop the bus and a bright red light at its front. Inside, commuters can enjoy multi-colored lights, holiday-themed decor and artwork from Skinner West Elementary students. You can even snap a photo with Santa aboard the bus on select dates. Take a look at the complete CTA Holiday T