Julie Merica Photography

The Shedd Aquarium is a magnificent destination for those interested in exploring marine life without diving into the water. The exhibits and attractions have won numerous awards. The aquarium has five permanent exhibits: Amazon Rising, Caribbean Reef, Waters of the World, Oceanarium, and Wild Reef. It houses a diverse collection of animals and marine life, including over 1,500 fish species, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. The Shedd Aquarium houses around 25,000 fish and animals, including various fascinating creatures such as sea otters, beluga whales, sea turtles, penguins, sharks, octopi, and jellyfish. Additionally, you can also find Pacific white-sided dolphins, Australian lungfish, Grand Cayman blue iguanas, sea lions, cow-nose rays, dragon moray eels, moon jellies, red-bellied piranhas, sea cucumbers, zebra sharks, and sea stars at the aquarium.

Embark on a journey back in time to the days of infamous mobsters like Al Capone, Bugs Moran, and John Dillinger with Untouchable Tours. This unique experience takes patrons to various famous areas in Chicago where notorious gangsters would hang out during the days of Prohibition. During the tour, you'll return to Prohibition-era Chicago and visit the hotspots where Al Capone and his allies and enemies became famous. The guides are actors who adopt the persona of a 1920s gangster and accurately recount the crimes and activities in Chicago during the 1920s and '30s. You'll hear about the exploits of Capone, Moran, Dillinger, and other notorious gangsters. Some sites included are the St. Valentine's Day Massacre, the Biograph Theatre, and Holy Name Cathedral. The tour is educational and highly entertaining, and you even have the chance to win prizes at the end.

Are you looking for an exhilarating outdoor adventure in Bemis Woods Forest Preserves? Look no further than GoApe Zipline & Treetop Adventures. Their adventure park and ropes course offer a thrilling Treetop Adventure with 40-foot-high tree-to-tree crossings, super long zip lines, and heart-stopping Tarzan swings. This 2-3 hour experience is unlike any other, and the memories will last a lifetime. For a unique and interactive outdoor experience with your family, friends, or co-workers, consider Forest Escape. This activity involves working together to solve problems in an immersive natural environment and conquer all the forest offers. Remember that each session is private, so choose your teammates carefully. Forest Escape is also great for birthday parties, team building, scout groups, and more.

Emporium Arcade Bar is the original arcade bar and live events venue in Chicago that offers a variety of entertainment options. There's something for everyone, from classic arcade games to different pinball machines. The venue boasts a professional stage with sound and lights, where they regularly host live shows, DJs, game tournaments, and other events. Inside the venue, you'll find a thoughtfully curated bar with a selection of craft beers, an innovative cocktail program, and an extensive whiskey list. Whether you're planning a birthday celebration with a few friends or a company party, they offer flexible party solutions that can accommodate groups of all sizes. Emporium Arcade Bar is the perfect destination for anyone looking for an innovative entertainment experience. Join them for a night of fun and games, and discover why they are Chicago's best arcade bar and live events venue.