Choose Chicago is delighted to announce that Chicago has been selected to host the Democratic National Convention in August 2024. Following last year’s historic seventh consecutive win as Conde Nast Traveler’s “Best Big City,” we know the below tally of exciting new hotels, inventive restaurants, dynamic exhibitions, and eclectic festivals offers just a taste of what’s in store this winter/spring of 2024.
Come and discover big city culture, Midwestern hospitality, and urban adventure; visit ChooseChicago.com for more information.
Recent Accolades:
Chicago and its businesses were honored in multiple categories of USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards:
Two Chicago hotels ranked in the Top 10 of The Best Hotels in the World: 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards by Condé Nast Traveler.The Peninsula Chicago earned the No. 9 spot.
Chicago restaurant Smyth was awarded its third MICHELIN Star.
Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport was named Best Airport in North America by Global Traveler for the 20th consecutive year. The award is voted on by readers in the publication’s GT Tested Reader Survey, which counts more than 20,000 write-in votes.
To read more about Chicago in the news, click here.
Join Indiana Humanities on Wednesday, February 21, as we ask the question, “What’s on Your Plate?” during a special Unearthed-themed Chew on This. Sign up for one of eight locations around the state where you’ll share a meal from a local restaurant and a fun, insightful conversation with other curious Hoosiers. Each table will be led by a knowledgeable facilitator, someone to help us grapple with questions about what we consume, how we consume, and the impact of what we put on our plates. Your ticket price includes your meal and an unforgettably engaging experience.
LOCATIONS | FACILITATORS
Conversations will take place at different locations around Indiana, all at 6:00 p.m. local time. When selecting your ticket, please pay careful attention to the restaurant cuisine and your dietary preferences/restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.). All locations will have these different dietary options available. Your ticket will serve as your entrance to the restaurant. Your ticket price includes a meal, non-alcoholic drink, and tax and tip at one of the locations. Alcoholic drinks will be available for purchase directly from the restaurant. Refunds are not available after 72 hours in advance.
Half Liter (5301 Winthrop Ave Suite B, Indianapolis, IN 46220) | Facilitator: Genesis McKiernan-Allen, Full Hand Farm
Cobblestone (160 S Main Street, Zionsville. IN 46077)
The Cordial Cork (911 N E St, Richmond, IN 47374) | Facilitator: Lucy Enge, Miller Farm Manager, Earlham College
Walt’s Pub & Grill (1050 Kalberer Rd, West Lafayette, IN 47906) | Facilitator: Nathan Shoaf, Urban Agriculture State Coordinator, Purdue Extension
Auberge du Soleil | Napa Valley, CA – Rendezvous for Romance Package
Retreat to Napa Valley for a romantic Valentine’s Day in wine country at Napa’s quintessential adults-only retreat, Auberge du Soleil. For those looking for a romantic getaway to reconnect with the one they love, Auberge du Soleil’s Rendezvous for Romance Package offers a two night stay with a welcome bottle of Auberge Cabernet Sauvignon, $200 resort credit to enjoy a romantic in-room 3-course Le Creuset menu from the Michelin-starred Restaurant, and a 20% spa discount.
Over Valentine’s Day guests can enjoy nightly Aperitif Hour at La Plage adults-only pool, and complimentary courtyard wine tastings from 3-6pm daily. Couples can also take a taste of Auberge at home, with the Auberge at Home Set, offering all the necessities to continue the romantic bliss at home, inclusive of one Auberge du Soleil Winter Robe, one pair of Auberge du Soleil slippers, one Slip x Auberge du Soleil silk eye mask, and one package of ERDA Tea created specifically for The Spa at Auberge du Soleil. The set will be $378+ shipping and can be purchased online.
Package: Peninsula Beverly Hills Ultimate Valentine’s Day Sleepcation
The Peninsula Beverly Hills is a name synonymous with romance, glamor and elegance. This year, the property is offering one of the most unique and luxurious Valentine’s Day experiences with its Ultimate Valentine’s Day Sleepcation. Couples who book the Ultimate Valentine’s Day Sleepcation will enjoy a truly one-of-a-kind romantic experience. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by their personal butler and escorted directly to the hotel’s largest accommodation, The Peninsula Villa.
The two-story Peninsula Villa truly feels like a luxurious residence including a grand foyer, sumptuous living area, elegant dining room and private patio with an intimate hot tub. Head up to the rooftop pool at leisure to enjoy a private poolside cabana for the day with lunch for two, followed by an in-suite couples 90-minute massage in the villa’s second bedroom. Additional touches include two dozen roses and a bottle of champagne. Guests will then be chauffeured via Rolls Royce to Hästens Mattress’ Flagship Sleep Spa on Beverly Boulevard for a private sleep consultation. During this relaxing session, guests will be guided through a sleep spa experience to find one’s recommended firmness. Once you select the Hästens 2000T mattress of your firmness, the bed will discreetly be placed in The Peninsula Villa for guests to enjoy their first night’s sleep. The evening culminates with a custom dinner in The Peninsula Villa prepared by the hotel’s Michelin star Chef followed by an indulgent chocolate fondue dessert experience on the private candlelit patio. The cherry on top of the romantic experience is receiving dual Cartier Love Bracelets at turndown to commemorate the special occasion. Complete the perfect romantic escape with decadent Caviar & Champagne breakfast in bed. Of course, the package doesn’t end upon checkout, as within a few days guests will receive their new Hästens 2000T mattress and monogrammed Peninsula Frette sheet set delivered to their home.
A sprawling, Spanish-inspired resort that sits on the golden sands of Surf City USA, Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach is a sun-soaked escape. A perfect haven for a weekend of romance, the hotel is chock full of activities for couples, from spa treatments, bike rides down the boardwalk, private smores on the beach, pool cabanas and more. Specifically for the couple seeking unique experiences and foodie adventures, the resort has just debuted the Art of Pairing at signature restaurant,Watertable.
This culinary offering invites couples on a private journey led by our Chef Tournant and Lead Sommelier for a unique pairing and tasting that encompasses, spirits, seafood, local cheeses, desserts and more. For Valentine’s Day, guests can expect an extra romantic experience.
There’s nothing more romantic than kissing in the rain in Seattle! Rain or shine, embrace romance with “Lotte in Love” this February at Seattle’s most romantic hotel. Enjoy up to 20% off luxurious accommodations, a bottle of Lotte bubbly, and chocolate-covered strawberries—setting the scene for the ultimate romantic escape. Couples can also enjoy a multi-course dinner with live music at Charlotte Restaurant & Lounge on Valentine’s Day. For dinner and a show, you won’t want to miss Teatro ZinZanni, the theatrical cirque experience which celebrates its 25th anniversary with a limited time residency at the iconic Sanctuary Grand Ballroom inside Lotte Hotel Seattle.
*Lotte in Love Blackout dates apply. Terms and conditions apply, 2-night min. stay, 72-hour notice on cancellation or non-refundable, to be booked with 72-hour notice at min. of stay. Book dates Feb. 1 – Feb. 29 Stay dates Feb. 1 – Feb. 29.
Dreamy Stay for your Valentine Package: Spoil your loved one this Valentine’s Day with the stay of their dreams. This all-inclusive package offers the finest in romance and luxury with your choice of an intimate dinner, couples spa experience, or breakfast in bed with a special surprise welcome amenity curated by our culinary team.
The package includes a 2-night minimum stay in a guest room or suite, two amenity passes to Fairmont Spa Century Plaza (retail value: $150), $100 hotel credit to indulge at our food, beverage, or spa experiences during your stay, a la carte breakfast for two each day at Lumière or from in-room dining, overnight valet parking for one vehicle with in-and-out privileges, priority status for an early arrival request, and priority status for a late departure request.
Nestled within the scenic Wasatch Mountain Range, The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection is located on a sprawling 3,500-acre private ranch, welcoming romance seekers to recollect, reset and rejuvenate. The Lodge at Blue Sky, along with the cliffside wellness concept,The Edge Spa, invites guests to slow down and forge meaningful connections with the land, themselves and their partners through intuitive treatments, healing ceremonies and energy journeys. The newEdge Sanctuary in particular is a private space perched on the bank of the Alexander Creek beneath the Edge Spa, designed to be a hidden haven for couples to perform energetic and vibrational healing, sound baths and readings away from the larger spa with an expert guide. The Edge Sanctuary also offers a newcold plunge experience and Scandanavian sauna for the wellness-minded couple.
This Valentine’s Day, couples can enjoy the new Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection collaboration with Parisian institution, Caviar Kaspia. Just in time for the romantic holiday, Solage has brought “the art of caviar” to the Napa Valley – with a twist. Solage’s acclaimed Chef Gustavo Rios has collaborated with the Caviar Kaspia team to create a special caviar-laced menu for couples to indulge.
Playful and innovative menu items will be incorporated throughout the property – at the restaurant, Solbar, the bar, Solbar Bar, and also in-room with the hotel’s Caviar Concierge. Whether it’s a unique take on avocado toast or a twist on chips and dip, the Caviar Concierge will bring couples this elevated dining experience with the click of a button and in comfort of their luxury suite or cottage. To begin, guests can enjoy the Just a Bump, an exceptional cocktail featuring oakland spirits company halfshell gin, dry vermouth, basil seeds, caramelized pearl onions and Kaspia Royal Oscietra Caviar. Other menu highlights will include the Chips & Dip with caramelized onion crème fraîche, Kaspia Royal Oscietra Caviar, crispy onions and house potato chips; Avocado Toast featuring whipped avocado, nut + seeds and Kaspia Royal Oscietra Caviar; Tuna & Hamachi Tartare with dashi creme fraiche and Kaspia Royal Oscietra Caviar; and Pretzel & Caviar with one ounce of Kaspia Royal Oscietra Caviar, crispy sourdough pretzel, bellwether farms creme fraiche, eggs mimosa, red onions, chives.
Alongside the creative caviar menu, couples can cheers with a curated selection of champagne and sparkling wine pairings. Options vary from classic Champagne houses like Laherte Freres to local Napa Valley favorites like Domaine Carnerors. From the crispness of Brut to the bone-dry elegance of Ultra Brut and the delightful allure of Rosé, each sip harmonizes seamlessly with the nuanced and rich flavors of the caviar.
For a romantic escape, find yourself amongst the 850 lush acres of greenery, sparkling lakes and sunshine at Quail Lodge in Carmel Valley, California. The hotel’s “Retreat to Romance” Valentine’s Day promotion includes a Lavender bath amenity from Santa Cruz’ Bonny Doon Lavender Farm, a bubble bath filled with rose petals upon arrival, a complimentary bottle of local wine and a box of Monterey’s Lula’s chocolates. Guests can enjoy a spacious suite with undisrupted views from their private outdoor patio and can relax with a couple’s massage at Spa Adeline followed by a dip in the heated outdoor pool.
The resort offers a number of outdoor activities for the active couple including: 18-hole Robert Muir Graves-designed golf course, nature trails, tennis and pickleball courts, complimentary ebikes, and a VIP shuttle to Point Lobos Nature Reserve for incredible hiking. What’s more, couples can indulge in a three-course prix fixe menu on Valentine’s Day at $98.00++ Per Person featuring East Coast Scallops, Chicories and Citrus Salad, Beef Wellington, Poached Maine Lobster, Mille Feuille for dessert and more. *Valentine’s Day promo code: VDAY; valid for stay dates February 9 through February 16.
BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR ONCE AGAIN WELCOMES WHALE MIGRATION SEASON
Baja California Sur, the southern half of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, is the annual winter playground for whales of many species where the spectacular sight of whales in near proximity becomes downright commonplace. Whether in the lagoons and bays off the Pacific Coast or around to the eastern side of the peninsula up into the Gulf of California, whale watching in Baja California Sur is a bucket list adventure for the whole family.
Each year more than 20,000 gray, humpback, and blue whales (among others) travel 6,000 miles from the cold waters off Alaska to mate, socialize and give birth in the shallow, nutrient rich bays and lagoons of Baja California Sur. As they engage in this extraordinary pilgrimage, they also provide a magical opportunity for locals and tourists alike to witness the graceful creatures in their winter habitat.
The routes and habits of the various species differ, as do their personalities and interest in us as the human onlookers. But all offer fascinating insights and experiences with some of the planet’s most enigmatic creatures.
The charming municipality of Loreto is well known for its natural beauty and intimate proximity to some of nature’s finest offerings, but nothing comes close to the awe-inspiring sight of a blue whale, the largest animal on earth. Blue whales, often shy and elusive, make their way south along the western side of the peninsula but for a few winter months they can be found exploring up into the Gulf of California and in the tranquil waters of the Bay of Loreto.
In Mulegé, further north, gray whales make their way to the lagoons of San Ignacio and Ojo de Liebre, part of Mexico’s El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve—the largest wildlife refuge in Latin America which was established in 1988. These shallow lagoons have been the breeding grounds of gray whales for thousands of years.
Visitors can take small boat excursions out to lagoons to witness the whales as they near the boats. Known to poke their heads out of the water and interact with humans who come to watch them, gray whales have developed a reputation of being some of the most socially receptive and mellow whales in the ocean. The nearby small municipality of Comondú also offers whale watching excursions in the ports of San Carlos and Adolfo López Mateos where humpback, gray, and finback whales all can be spotted.
Whale watching is highly regulated in Baja California Sur, with the safety and preservation of these mammals and their ecosystems always taking priority. Tours consist only of small groups, led by marine biologists and local whale experts who are familiar with all the various species and conservation efforts.
As an area known for its rampant wildlife, seabirds and other marine mammals such as dolphins and sea lions can also be found in Loreto, Mulegé and Comondú. Baja California Sur also offers other ocean activities such as diving, kayaking, and snorkeling, making it a paradise for adventure seekers. Travelers can explore the area on-land further by mountain biking, hiking, or exploring the town and enjoying family-owned shops and restaurants.
About Baja California Sur
Situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California, the state of Baja California Sur encompasses the southern half of the Baja Peninsula. The climate is perfect for fishing, boating, surfing, and diving, making the destination an adventurer and thrill-seeker’s dream. The state features breathtaking scenery from the windswept ocean beaches on the west to the tranquil, turquoise waters on the east. In between are canyons, desertscapes and lush oasis ripe for exploration. Known for its extraordinary marine life, whale watching is one of the area’s most well-known tourist attractions along with sportfishing, kayaking and bird watching. More information on Baja California Sur’s Loreto and northern regions can be found at Visit Baja Sur.
Step into the heart of bourbon country and experience the epitome of refinement at the 2024 Kentucky Bourbon Classic.
This premier event, taking place in Louisville from February 21-24, is a celebration of the rich heritage, craftsmanship, and unparalleled flavors that define Kentucky’s iconic spirit. Indulge in exceptional tastings, participate in enlightening workshops, and savor sips that showcase bourbon craftsmanship.
The four-day event features events such the Cocktail & Culinary Challenge, Bourbon University and TASTE providing exclusive opportunities to the finest bourbons, culinary delights, and immersive educational experiences.
Celebrate this historic milestone and enjoy these several unique and bourbon-filled offerings as you venture along the trail.
Sampling includes:
Day as a Distiller: Hartfield & Co.Paris, KY: Have you ever thought about working at a distillery? Now’s your opportunity to dive into the craft distilling world! Spend a day working with Harfield & Co. and learn the skills and secrets behind the bourbon industry.
Whether mashing, distilling, bottling, tasting, or whatever else is happening that day, Hartfield & Co invites guests to experience the bourbon industry up close and personal.
· Cocktail Classes:Angel’s Envy, Louisville, KY: Master the art of crafting classic cocktails with skilled specialists at Angel’s Envy Distillery in Louisville, KY. Unleash your mixology potential by joining the Behind the Bar Class, led by talented cocktail experts. Whether attending the monthly class or the specialized Manhattan and Rye Cocktail Classes, there’s no better place to learn the secrets behind the bar.
What’s New in the Bourbon Industry
With such a rich foundation of tradition, the Kentucky Bourbon industry is paving the way forward with new and innovative experiences for 2024. The upcoming year will usher in exciting new offerings for the industry, including the expansion into Eastern Kentucky with Eastern Light Distilling set to break in early 2024.
Chicago Restaurant Week, which ends February 3rd, features over 350 participating restaurants offering unbeatable prix fixe menus for a set price of just $25 for brunch/lunch and $42 or $59 for dinner.
Additionally, there are dozens of acclaimed Michelin- and James Beard Award-winning spots on the list this year, an affordable way to experience more of Chicago’s creative, fine-dining scene: https://www.choosechicago.com/blog/dining/fine-dining-chicago-restaurant-week/Search the Participating Restaurants Guide to reserve your place; the website enables you to search via cuisine or neighborhood, indicate dietary preferences (gluten-free, vegetarian/vegan), and support women-owned and minority-owned businesses.
After, the companion cocktail lounge of Ever which is the stand-in for the Copenhagen restaurant where Chef Marcus perfects his dessert skills, is offering a 3-course dinner for $59 (*beverage tax and gratuity not included). Photo courtesy
Avec, where Chef Syd gets a pre-service sneak peek and gets advice from famed Chicago restaurateur Donnie Madia is offering a 2-course brunch at $25 per guest, 3-course lunch at $25 per guest or 4-course dinner at $59 per guest (*beverage tax and gratuity not included).
Publican Quality Meats, where Chef Syd gets a butcher lesson from PQM’s very own Rob Levitt, is serving up a dinner menu for $59 (*beverage tax and gratuity not included).
There are dozens of acclaimed Michelin- and James Beard Award-winning spots on the list this year, an affordable way to experience more of Chicago’s creative, fine-dining scene.
Though Mobile is a great place to visit any time of the year, this coastal Alabama city has rung in the new year with an impressive dedication to cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for Black History Month. Conde Nast Traveler took note and included Mobile on its “Best Places to Go in 2024” list, in part for the city’s strides in cultural development and dedication to celebrating its African American history.
Last July, the inspirational story of the 110 survivors of the last slave ship to enter the United States, the Clotilda, and the town they created just outside of Mobile in the late 1800s was shared with the world through the opening of “Clotilda: The Exhibition”at Africatown Heritage House. This was a pivotal moment in the city’s commitment to embracing its African American heritage. As of this month, Africatown Heritage House is offering group admission to schools, churches and other groups, helping to increase the number of people who can visit in person and learn more about this fascinating story.
Though the opening of Africatown Heritage House was certainly a big part of Mobile’s story of cultural development, there’s plenty more to experience in the city during Black History Month and beyond. Here’s a sampling of both what is new and what’s to come later in the year, for those planning ahead:
This past October, the new Historic Avenue Cultural Center debuted its first exhibit, entitled “Remembering the Avenue,” which tells the story of Mobile through the eyes of Black residents, both past and present. The exhibit will run through the end of this year. The center itself is of tremendous historical significance, as it was the city’s Black library before it became the National African American Archives & Museum and eventually the cultural center.
Mobile is also developing a Civil Rights and Cultural Heritage District, which will be located along the Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue Corridor. This area was an economic hub for the Black community during the era of segregation. Churches, schools, and other sites throughout the district will become permanent landmarks and the city is in the process of building a memorial park that will be a gateway to the district.
The Isom Clemon Civil Rights Memorial Park is set to open in early spring. The park is located on a site where leaders of the city’s Civil Rights Movement met, and a series of statues by local artists will commemorate their efforts and detail the movement in the city.
To round out a journey and to get full insight into Mobile’s Black history and the countless contributions of Black Mobilians throughout the years, take a tour of stops along the Dora Franklin Finley African American Heritage Trail(DFFAAHT). There are trail markers all over the city for a self-guided tour, but a two-hour guided bus tour offers a very personal and comprehensive way to experience the sites.
No trip to Mobile is complete without sampling the city’s unique food scene, especially since 2024 has been officially declared the Year of Food by the State of Alabama. Ginger & Spice and Kanary Bar are just a few of the Black-owned restaurants to try during a visit.
From historical sites to special exhibits to exciting new developments on the horizon, this city offers a unique opportunity to learn about and celebrate the contributions of Black Americans. To experience a destination that truly embraces its African American history and start planning a visit to Mobile, head to https://www.mobile.org/.
Fun heart-shaped opportunities and helicopter rides are all part of Grand Geneva Resort & Spa’s ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
Love is in the air in Lake Geneva, WI. Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, a Marcus® Hotels & Resorts property, sets the stage for engagements, anniversaries, and weddings year-round with its beautiful 1,300 acre Wisconsin countryside campus and luxe amenities. While the AAA Four Diamond resort always offers guests several opportunities to make romantic gestures, Grand Geneva offers an even grander experience in celebration of Valentine’s Day.
Grand Geneva Resort & Spa has announced the return of and new addition to its annual whimsical Valentine’s Day offer. During the month of February, those looking for a big romantic gesture can once again book a private helicopter to fly over the resort’s famous heart-shaped pond. Taking this romantic offer to new heights this year, the resort’s special Valentine’s package now includes a dedicated 7-10 minute heart-shaped fireworks display.
These special over-the-top moments in the sky are available through the resort’s “The Sky’s the Limit: Fireworks and Flight Romance Experience at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa.” The package includes two nights of luxury accommodations in the award-winning resort’s largest suite, a helicopter ride for two over Grand Geneva’s famous heart-shaped pond and around beautiful Lake Geneva, a private chef-prepared brunch for two inside one of the resort’s igloos with unlimited Mimosas and Bloody Mary’s and a $200 resort credit to be used towards relaxing WELL Spa + Salon treatments or cozy apparel from White River Gifts. New this year, a personally planned 7-10 minute fireworks display featuring an array of colorful shells, peonies, and hearts. You can’t put a price on love, but the cost of this special offer for sweethearts begins at $8,199.
To make Valentine’s Day weekend even more special, couples and foodie friends who enjoy fun culinary concepts can take advantage of the resort’s new Valentine’s weekend cooking class and dining experiences. On Saturday, February 10, Grand Geneva is hosting a full day of culinary experiences with its special Valentine’s Cooking Class and Dinner Experience at its acclaimed Ristoranté Brissago. Guests will engage in an afternoon Italian cooking class from 1pm-3pm CT with the resort’s Executive Chef Jonathan Gutierrez where they will learn how to prepare dishes such as Strawberry and Tomato Bruschetta, Pistachio Pesto Pappardelle, and Chocolate Tiramisu or a Tiramisu-inspired Cocktail, followed by a special private cocktail hour from 5pm-5:45pm. The evening continues with an exclusive 6-course dinner from 6-8pm featuring dishes such as Roasted Petite Filet and Shrimp, Stuffed Japanese Eggplant and Roasted Mushrooms, and Maca and Avocado Marshmallow. The price of this day-long romantic dining adventure is $250 per person and includes a complimentary couple’s gift bag.
Grand Geneva’s ChopHouse restaurant is also offering a special romantic dinner featuring limited-time dishes. Available February 13 through February 16, this 3-course dinner includes dishes such as Lobster Bisque, Cacao and Porcini Crusted Filet and Shrimp, Pan-seared Halibut and Oysters for $220 per couple.
Valentines who prefer a more low-key celebration can enjoy the resort’s “Love is Grand” package which includes sparkling wine and a $100 resort credit for a one night stay, and $200 resort credit with a two night stay – perfect for enjoying the spa and culinary offerings that Grand Geneva is known for.
For more information on packages, weddings, dining and more, visit grandgeneva.com
