This Aurora Metra station is downtown Aurora. Take the train to the city and explore some more! Book an architecture tour, visit The Bean (Cloud Gate), walk the Magnificent Mile! This is the closest train station to the venue & Holiday Inn Express (if you book there).
Chicago Premium Outlets offers a variety of shopping from Old Navy to Armani.
Anna previously lived in Naperville and going downtown to her old stomping grounds is still a favorite activity. From an old school candy shop to pizzerias to boutiques, you can definitely smash through a few hours here!
If you brought the kids and need an activity—this is your destination.
You cannot go wrong with Fiamme. Dietary restriction friendly, this is a favorite of the couple when it comes to ‘za! They have Neapolitan style and Detroit style pizza. (If you are looking for Chicago style, we recommend Lou’s…or Giordano’s while in the suburbs.)
If you’re looking for Chicago-style pizza, this is a Fink Family favorite! Lou Malnati’s is located in an old firehouse in downtown Naperville. (There are other locations that do carry out as well, but this location is dine-in.)
Naper Nuts & Sweets is a favorite of the Fink cousins, we had to put this on the list! From chocolates and popcorn to old fashioned candy—this is the spot. Jars filled with gummy bears, shelves filled with Laffy Taffy and Necco wafers…there’s quite the variety.
Fox Valley Mall is your basic mall. They are currently redeveloping the area to multi use so there is some construction. You can find Denny’s, rotary sushi, Naf Naf Grill, Steak & Shake and Bawarchi Biriyani (Indian) around the outer circle. Across the street is Park Shopping Center which hosts a variety of Asian restaurants from pho to boba tea and karaoke bar.
Mission BBQ is Sam’s favorite BBQ spot to date! Show up at noon to sing the National Anthem if you fancy.
Looking for a quick cup of coffee or to just sit and chat? This cute coffee shop is located downtown Aurora and offers small meals and pastries as well.
Aurora boasts a plethora of taco joints—and you can’t go wrong with the taco trucks. But Altiro offers a quaint dining experience and fusion vibe for fun, unique tacos.
Ballydoyle’s offers Irish themed and American pub style food. We know some of you need a late night snack or claim some Irish heritage, so we put this on there for funsies.
Located in Downtown Aurora near the Metra station, this Two Brothers Roundhouse features a cafe, the Zephyr Room, and the supper club restaurant. Anna recommends their Prairie Path, because it’s great for the gluten sensitive!
Craft Urban offers a quaint dining experience and hip vibes. Pop in for a cocktail or a meal.
Wyckwood House has grown its locations to surrounding towns, but this is the main hub. They strongly support buying local and you can find cute gems here.
Route 59 is the second closest train station to the venue. Located on the border of Aurora & Naperville, this is not far from Interstate 88. For those staying at SpringHill this can be a great train to take to the city. Or, pop into the downtown Naperville station. Parking is free in downtown Naperville parking garages, you just might need to take a quick walk.