Look beyond the fast and furious race for July’s 1st weekend!
Looking to escape far beyond the madding crowd on NASCAR Weekend?
Searching for the best Chicago attractions and hangouts to spend time at with family and friends on July 1st and 2nd?
Embark on a journey that takes you through thrilling escape rooms, down serene lakefront trails, to the heart of our vibrant cultural institutions, and inside the iconic eateries serving our beloved Chicago-style cuisine.
Allow us to guide you to a weekend beyond the roar of engines and the cheers of crowds.
Escape room adventures at Fox in a Box (that’s us!)
Working together on a crucial clue…
If you’re looking for a high-adrenaline adventure - but one free of crowds and revving engines - head for Fox in a Box.
As a cherished part of our community, we take pride in providing professional, personal, and private escape room experiences in Chicago.
Whether you're planning a weekend adventure with family and friends, celebrating a special birthday, or looking for a unique team-building activity, we've got you covered with our four captivating escape rooms.
Take on the chilling mystery of The Zodiac Killer, experience the tension of The Prison, strategize in The Bank, or survive The Bunker.
After the adrenaline rush, relax as our game masters engage in a friendly chat about your experience.
Plus, you'll leave with a personalized, hand-made memory card to ensure this adventure stays with you long after the NASCAR engines quiet down.
Website: Visit the home page
Trek or bike the Lakefront Trail
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Feel like taking in some fresh air even as the NASCAR Race roars through the city?
A great escape lies right in front of you - our scenic Lakefront Trail.
Spanning 18 miles and crossing several stunning lakefront neighborhoods, it's a slice of tranquility, whether you're biking or just out for a stroll.
Get lost in the view of Lake Michigan’s blue expanse and our city's lush parks nestled against the dramatic skyline.
What better way to spend the Sunday than by passing through Chicago’s lakefront parks and cultural institutions right under the summer sun?
Website: Visit its webpage on the Park District website
Laze on the beaches
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Hankering for a beach day right in the heart of the city while race car engine roars echo in the distance? Well, we've got you covered.
As you know, our city boasts over 26 miles of beautiful beaches that swing open their gates every summer.
Whether you fancy a swim, a bike ride, or water sports like kayaking and paddle boarding, there's something for everyone.
So, why not escape the city heat, kick back, and let the cool lake breeze and sizzling summer vibes whisk you away?
Website: Visit the webpage on the Park District website
Explore the Field Museum
Image credit - Carlos Yudica / Shutterstock.com
Got a curiosity itch that needs scratching while the city's abuzz with NASCAR fever? Make a beeline for the Field Museum, the doorway to our planet's stunning wonders.
Get up close with SUE, the world's most famous Tyrannosaurus rex, travel back to the pharaohs in Ancient Egypt, or marvel at their precious gem collection.
You can also experience the rise of Europe's first kings and queens, or witness firsthand the dedication of their scientists to tackling the climate crisis in the Restoring Earth Exhibition.
So why not swap out the roar of engines for a journey through 4.6 billion years of life on Earth?
Website: Visit their website
Go full TILT at 360 CHICAGO
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Feel like soaring above the Windy City while the NASCAR race whips up excitement at ground level?
Well, 360 CHICAGO offers just the thing. Perched on the 94th floor of the former John Hancock Center, it's a thrill-inducing 1,000ft above the Magnificent Mile.
Here, you can bask in panoramic views of our spectacular skyline and the serene Lake Michigan or get your pulse racing on TILT, Chicago’s highest thrill ride.
And to cap it all, you can unwind with a refreshing drink or a quick bite at CLOUDBar, the city’s newest sky-high hangout.
Website: Visit their website
Ride the Ferris Wheel and More at Navy Pier
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In the mood for a delightful detour from the street race chaos? Navy Pier offers an alluring retreat.
An iconic Chicago landmark, this buzzing spot dishes out entertainment, shopping, dining, and culture in generous portions, whether you're a local seeking a day out or a visitor exploring our city.
Unleash your inner child on the famous Ferris Wheel or lose yourself in the kaleidoscope of events and free public programs.
After all, where else in Chicago will you find fun living so large?
Website: Visit their website
Groove to the Blues at Buddy Guy’s Legends
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Fancy a melodious respite from the NASCAR frenzy? Swing by Buddy Guy’s Legends, a cornerstone of Chicago's vibrant blues scene.
This acclaimed blues club, owned by the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Buddy Guy himself, serves a soulful blend of authentic Chicago blues seven nights a week.
Not only can you savor authentic Cajun cuisine amid a mini blues museum, but you might even catch Buddy himself at the bar!
So, while the engines rev elsewhere, we suggest you unwind to the soothing strum of blues at this legendary local venue.
Website: Visit their website
Sink your teeth into Lou Malnati's pizza
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Hungry after all the excitement? Give your taste buds a real treat with a slice of Lou Malnati's deep dish pizza, an iconic Chicago specialty.
Savored by both locals and visitors alike, Lou Malnati's pizza is famed for its meticulously proofed crust and robustly flavored sauces.
The crust isn't overly thick and balances out the rich, chunky tomato topping perfectly.
Trust us; this is a culinary adventure you wouldn't want to miss during the NASCAR weekend!
Website: Visit their website
Follow up on pizza with hot dogs and milkshake at Devil Dawgs
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Still have room after devouring Lou Malnati's deep dish pizza? Don't worry; we've got you covered!
Take a quick detour to Devil Dawgs, known for their unique spin on Chicago-style dogs, sliders, and to-die-for milkshakes.
Savor a classic Chicago hot dog topped with mustard, onions, relish, pickle, tomato, Sport Peppers, and a sprinkling of celery salt.
And don't skip their 'Not a Corn Dog' - a personal recommendation for a perfect wrap-up to the thrilling NASCAR weekend!
Website: Visit their website
Top Chicago places to hang out, far from the NASCAR crowds - key takeaways
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As we said, there’s no reason to let NASCAR steal your thunder on the first weekend of July in Chicago.
Whether you're solving mysteries at Fox in a Box, cycling the Lakefront Trail, admiring the cityscape from 360 CHICAGO, or savoring deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's, these locales are a testament to Chicago's vibrant culture and the best things to do this January.
So take a breather from the fast lane this weekend, and take the opportunity to explore and fall in love with our city anew, far from the madding crowds.
Featured image credit - Dawid S Swierczek / Shutterstock.com.
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