Romantic Restaurants, Getaway Places in South Holland

"Plan ahead to pack a few stops in the surrounding area of this museum. You could explore the beautiful campus setting (University of Chicago in the leafy Hyde Park neighborhood) as well as other Museum Campus South attractions — like DuSable Museum of African American History — with budget-friendly admission prices. At the Smart Museum, everything is free."

"Photo courtesy of Courtesy of the Smart Museum of Art at the University of Chicago. Photo by Chris Strong. No, it's not the University of Chicago waving its intellect at the rest of us (although it is on the campus), but rather this Hyde Park museum is named for brothers David and Alfred Smart, the original publishers of Esquire magazine."

"AshburnAs much as we enjoy the occasional deep dish excursion, us urbanites know that real Chicago pizza means square cut, cracker thin tavern-style. And there’s no better place to rev your authentic pizza engine than Vito & Nick’s, a South Side institution that’s been perfecting the crunchy, fully-loaded style since 1923. The crust hits the spot, for sure, but it’s the toppings, a broad expanse of meats, veggies, and palate-scorching giardiniera stretching all the way to the flawlessly blackened edge, that slyly steal the show.How to book: Stop by for first come, first served seating and take-out."

"A South Side institution, the old school Vito & Nick's restaurant has specialized in thin crust pizza for nearly a century. It's been featured on Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," among other shows. Recommended for Family Friendly because: It's a South Side institution, known for the best thin crust pizza in Chicago."

"Frequently recognized as one of Chicago’s best brunch spots, the family-owned Nana in Bridgeport has just reopened in May 2021. Boasting a delicious brunch menu made with sustainably and ethically sourced organic ingredients from local farmers, Nana offers a unique array of Mexican-American food. There are some extraordinary Latin-influenced brunch options that you’re unlikely to find anywhere else in the Windy City."

"This organic, sustainable Bridgeport eatery is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They feature everything from a fresh veggie burger to a cubano pulled pork sandwich to pan-seared salmon and BBQ braised pork. Their food is sourced directly from farmers and orchards in the Midwest, including 9 in the greater Chicago area."

"The team behind Nana strives for perfection by maintaining a sustainable, local and organic menu. What they serve is high-quality and delicious food. While not a completely vegetarian restaurant, the avocado fries and tofu scramble have us commending the commitment to perfection."

"Though Chicago might be a major population center and port of call, it’s still hip deep in midwest agrarian culture. Homestead has a rooftop garden that reflects both the pastoral and the civilized, with drinks and food that clearly have taproots in natural flavoring and healthy living."

"Since the 1960s, Jeffery Pub has serve patrons bright-colored cocktails while giving them the space to cut loose. Look for DJs and other entertainment at this venerable venue."

"Boasting stunning views of distant skylines of Chicago, Rainbow Beach Park is situated on the southern side of Chicago. One of the best amenities the park offers is the complimentary Wi-Fi that visitors can use. The beach isn’t pet-friendly, but Rainbow Beach has abundant wildlife that both kids and adults can enjoy observing."

"Locals still tell friends to meet them at “Jimmy’s” the name of the the bar’s former owner (Jimmy Wilson died in 1999). Regardless, this tried and true dive bar has provided a meeting point for generations of college students, professors, and Hyde Park residents. Pitchers of beer are popular here as are the burgers."

"After you find a seat in this Irish pub’s beer garden in Beverly, it’s decision time: Which of the 20 draft beers will you try first?. (To make your choice even harder, there are 40 varieties of bottled and canned suds to choose from, too.) If you visit on a Friday night, you can snag snacks from local food trucks; recent visitors have included Cheesie’s and Aztec Dave’s. 10614 S Western Ave.; 773-445-2675 or corkandkerry.com"

"Cork and Kerry is an award-winning Irish pub in the heart of Chicago. The tavern serves a classic pub-style menu that features favorite dishes such as burgers and fries, grilled cheese, pulled pork sandwiches, mac and cheese, and a variety of salads and sides. A full-service bar offers an excellent selection of beers and brews on tap and by the bottle."

"Its sprawling patio is a great place to spend a summertime afternoon—and if your stay extends into the evening, no one will judge you."