None of us could have imagined we would be spending Halloween under another lockdown. However, with the State of Illinois reporting the largest 24 hour spike of new COVID-19 cases since March, its time to begin making plans to hunker down in front of a horror film and a bucket of store bought candy.
The recent spikes of COVID-19 in Chicago have resulted in a 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew for all non-essential businesses, which was announced by a mournful, but determined Major Lori Lightfoot over the weekend. Despite this much needed moratorium on “going out” for the time being in the interest of public safety, many of us are still planning to spend our few weeks before the might of winter in style if not at the bar. Here is a brief list of places that are COVID friendly and worth the Instagram hype, not in any particular order. Please check the coronavirus safety protocols before your visit.
1. Bengston’s Pumpkin Farm– Currently Bengston’s farm does not require masking. However, the wide expanse of this down-home pumpkin farm mitigates the risk if you are willing to brave the cold and avoid the crowds. Go for the pumpkin carvings and hayrides sure, but don’t miss out on the apple cider donuts.
2. Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up– Located in Chicago’s downtown, this cute little pumpkin patch pop-up is great for a Fall addition to your Instagram timeline. It is all outdoors, so mask on and you are ready to go.
3. JoJo’s Shake Bar – Have you ever dreamt about a full-sized milkshake topped with whipped cream and a full slice of pumpkin pie? I haven’t had to because I can get one at Chicago’s iconic milkshake vendor, JoJo’s Shake Bar. Stop in to hang out in the courtyard or relax away from the crowds in your own insulated bubble.
4. Replay Lincoln Park- Replay is at it again with a “Stranger Things” pop-up bar featuring a life-size demogorgon, colorful blinking lights, themed cocktails and a drive-through haunted alley. Make sure to reserve your tickets in advance — this place has become popular among those who miss the thrill of a good scare.
5. The FRIENDS Experience Chicago-If you are as unashamedly obsessed with this 90s TV sitcom like me, then you must come down to take pictures in Monica’s apartment, Central Perk and Joey and Chandler’s bachelor pad. The sets, which were brought in from LA, feature interactive stunts. Have you ever wanted to poke the naked man or dance with a turkey on your head? Check the website to reserve tickets and update yourself on COVID procedures.
6. Keller’s Farmstand– Take a day trip out with your friends and family and escape the hustle of Chicago at Keller’s Farmstand. I don’t know about you, but I’m curious to know if the apple’s I picked myself will magically enhance the flavor of the turnovers I plan to make this weekend. If not, at least I got some great Instagram photos. Hurry, they close for the season Oct 30.
Click on this link to a google map detailing the location and websites of each Fall destination!