Every summer from June through September, Ravinia attracts about 600,000 listeners to more than 120 events that span all genres from classical music to jazz to musical theater. First opened in 1904, it's the oldest outdoor music festival in North America. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs, tables, blankets, beverage and food.www.ravinia.org

Home of the Waukegan Park District’s Cultural Arts Division, the Center provides fine arts instruction for music, dance, theatre, art, and traditional craft and lecture programming. It plays host to theater, opera, choral and symphonies, too. And yes, it’s named after the famed comedian who is from the town. www.waukeganparks.org/cultural-arts/jack-benny-center.htm

Founded in 1954, the Lyric Opera of Chicago is one of the world's greatest opera companies. It is renowned internationally for its artistic excellence and financial strength. The company performs consistently thrilling, world-class opera, with a balanced repertoire that encompasses core classics, lesser-known masterpieces, and new works. www.lyricopera.org

This historic concert hall and movie palace in Waukegan showcases live entertainment without the cost or hassle of going to the city. Experience top-notch comedians, musicians and Broadway acts in the beautiful, totally restored venue. The theater seats 2,427 people and opened in 1927.

Oenophiles, rejoice! This modern restaurant has its own private winery, and the menu was created with its own handcrafted wines in mind. Signature menu items are created for pairing with specific wines. Cooper's Hawk includes five distinct areas: the restaurant, a full-service bar, a private barrel-aging room, a Napa-style tasting room and retail gift store.

A fantastic family-friendly restaurant started in 1963 by Dick Portillo with a small hot dog stand. It has grown into one of Chicago's most famous restaurants, featuring hot dogs, Italian beef, amazing salads and some of the best ribs in town. Always a popular tourist spot, you can even ship their delicious food back home. For dessert, try the Chocolate Cake Shake!

The Vernon Hills favorite offers a wide range of palate-pleasing menu items, from sushi and seafood selections to steaks, salads, and vegetable dishes. The Japanese restaurant's robust beverage menu boasts an inviting collection of specialty drinks, imported beer, authentic sake and Mugi Shochu, for those with cosmopolitan tastes.

Considered the oldest family name in Chicago deep-dish pizza, Lou Malnati's is as rich in history as its pizza is in flavor. Located only a couple blocks from the hotel, this pizza parlor showcases a true family spirit. About 25 percent of its full-time staff have been there 10-plus years. What's the secret recipe? A flaky, buttery crust passed down from generations.