Remind yourself why you love love (hint: unlimited champagne and chocolate fountains)
Valentine’s Day. It can be a tender subject. But don‘t be fooled, it’s not solely for the star-crossed couple at the candlelit table for two: it’s for the foodie, the animal lover, the science nerd, the fitness guru. In Chicago, the V-Day events run the gambit. No matter your style, or relationship status, you’ll find something to love this Feb. 14.
If You’re Staying At Presidential Towers:
It’s a touristy spot, sure. But the Chicago native E. Faye Butler “My Funny Valentine” concert at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion Cabaret With a View in Millennium Park (201 E. Randolph) is something even locals will stick around for. Come out on Feb. 13 to the outdoor, climate-controlled park stage for the holiday-themed show.
How To Get There: Get on the 20 Bus headed toward Michigan at Washington and Jefferson. Get off at Washington and Wabash. Commute Time: 20 minutes
If You’re Staying At Elm Creek Apartments in Elmhurst:
Unlimited champagne. Need we say more? We will: Valentine’s Day Champagne Brunch at Brookfield Zoo (3300 Golf Rd., Brookfield) sets you up in the famous zoo’s Discovery Center on Feb. 12. Hit the carving and omelet stations, but save room for the chocolate fountain at the dessert table.
How To Get There: Drive down E. Roosevelt Rd. and turn right onto US-20 E/US-45 S/US-12 E. Turn left onto E. 31st St. Take a right onto Grand Blvd. then the 5th exit onto Washington Ave. Turn left onto Golf Rd. Commute Time: 25 minutes
If You’re Staying At Kingsbury Plaza:
Shuddering at the thought of an imminent candy and chocolate overload? Work it off in the Cupid’s Chase 5k (1765 N. Stockton Dr.) on Feb. 11. All benefits from the race go to Community Options, Inc., a nonprofit that develops housing and employment support for people with development disabilities. How To Get There: Get on the 156 Bus headed toward Belmont/Halsted at Stockton and LaSalle. Get off at Stockton and LaSalle. Commute Time: 20 minutes
If You’re Staying At 400 N. LaSalle:
Part of the Science is Sexy adult series at Schubas (3159 N. Southport Ave.) is the V-Day edition, Night Lab: The Science of Attraction. This free Feb. 12 talk discusses the science behind online dating, how sex scenes affect movie ratings and how to guess your relationship phase.
How To Get There: Take the Brown Line El headed toward Kimball at Merchandise Mart. Get off at Southport. Commute Time: 25 minutes
If You’re Staying At Riverwalk Place in Buffalo Grove:
D&J Bistro (344 Rand Rd., Lake Zurich) is putting a romantic twist on casual dining. The eatery will transform on Feb. 14 with help from 500 heart-shaped balloons. Indulge in the special 3-course menu that evening, or opt for any of the regular French cuisine or tapas.
How To Get There: Drive west on County Line Rd./E. Lake Cook Rd. and turn right onto US-12 W. Commute Time: 20 minutes
No significant other, no problem. There will be no pity parties for the singletons this Valentine’s Day, but just about every other kind of party. That’s not to say you can’t binge on Godiva over sappy movies curled up in your Habitat Corporate suite. Just trust us, you’ll want to paint the town cherry-flavored-heart-shaped-lollipop red first.