Hawthorne Race Course is a venue that offers both live racing and simulcasting. It is a thoroughbred horse racetrack with a one-mile dirt oval and a seven-furlong turf oval. The homestretch on the main track is 1,320 feet long, making it one of the longest in the country. Founded in 1891, Hawthorne Race Course is the oldest sporting venue in Illinois for horse racing, considered America's original sport. The business is family-owned and operated, now in its 4th generation, and has been hosting racing events on the City's border for over a century. The track is famously known as "Chicago's hometown track." Hawthorne is also the only race course in the nation that hosts both Thoroughbred and Standardbred racing. Additionally, they have the largest network of off-track betting bars in Illinois and offer two PointsBet Sportsbooks and a sportsbook at the track.
The Christkindlmarket Chicago is a traditional holiday market that offers a unique shopping experience, family-friendly events, and intercultural activities. It is considered the most authentic of its kind outside of Europe. The market combines beloved German and European traditions with local charm and international flair. It draws inspiration from the 16th-century Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, which was one of the first outdoor markets of its kind. The Christkindlmarket is well-known for its high-quality gifts and food, holiday cheer, and ability to create lasting family memories. The German-style outdoor market has become so popular that it has expanded to several locations in Illinois and Wisconsin. The Christkindlmarket offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience, lively entertainment, and a variety of original food and beverages, such as imported mulled wine from Germany called Glühwein. In 2022, it was ranked number three worldwide and number one outside of Europe by Big 7 Travel, and it has been recognized as one of the best Christmas markets. The Chicago Tribune, Choose Chicago, and Chicago Magazine have all mentioned the Christkindlmarket as a popular and preferred destination.
Discover the hidden gem of the Chicago Magic Lounge, where a blend of magic and sophistication awaits you. It's the perfect place for a thrilling, unforgettable night of mystery and entertainment. Whether celebrating a special event, planning a romantic date night, or looking for a unique outing with friends, the Chicago Magic Lounge offers an experience like no other. As soon as you step inside, you'll leave the ordinary behind and enter a secret laundry entrance into a luxurious retro-inspired "speakeasy." Here, you can indulge in handcrafted cocktails and savor delectable small plates while enjoying some of the most impressive acts performed by the finest magicians in the industry. It's a unique opportunity to witness the art of magic up close and personal, and you'll be amazed by the genuine moments of astonishment that await you.
Visit the Hollywood Casino Joliet and try your luck at gambling. With a wide range of games available, including table games, poker machines, penny slots, and live poker, there's something for everyone. So, bring your best poker face and plenty of coins to experience the nightlife fully. Apart from the games, you can also enjoy live entertainment, delicious meals at the restaurants, and thrilling promotions to enhance your experience. And if you're looking for an overnight stay, they have 100 premier hotel rooms and 80 spacious RV sites away from the gaming floor and dining area. If you're looking for more things to do in the area, there are plenty of options available. Some popular attractions include the Rialto Square Theatre, Joliet Area Historical Museum, Joliet Slammers - DuPage Medical Group Field, Jacob Henry Mansion, Joliet Iron Works Historic Site, and Pilcher Park.