The history of anything is concerned with the passage of time, but this is particularly true of whiskey.
It’s all-important transformation from grain to spirit is contingent on a process of careful aging. The spaces where it has been (and continues to be) enjoyed are some of the oldest and most storied. In a time where attention is frequently placed on newness, whiskey is beloved for embodying the exact opposite quality.
There’s no better example of this than Old Forester, who have the historic distinction of being the first distillery to bottle bourbon. They’re inviting whiskey lovers to taste their way through history with Whiskey Row - a release of four distinct bourbons plucked from the Louisville distillery’s past. Ever wanted to know what their 1870 Original Batch tastes like? How about their 1920 Prohibition Style bourbon? Short of a time machine, this is your best bet.
With this reverence for days gone by in mind, we’re teaming up with Old Forester to raise a glass to the past by highlighting some of Chicago's best Historic Haunts. NONE of these places are new, and that’s exactly the point. Much like a truly exceptional glass of whiskey, they’re aged to perfection…
But before you go digging into our picks, Enter to Win a Whiskey Row prize pack including holiday merch from Old Forester.
Photo Via: Facebook/Second City
230 W. North Ave. - Old Town
The history of Second City in Chicago goes deep with the venue! The comedy spot opened up back in 1959 and has been making the city laugh ever since. Their alum features an extensive lineup with the likes of Joan Rivers, Bill Murray, Martin Short, and dozens more. It’s been a longtime hangout spot for some of the funniest people out of Chicago.
Photo Via: Unsplash/Hudson Thomas
225 S. Canal St. - The Loop
Since Union Station’s completion in 1925, the train station has been a gem in the heart of Chicago. With its grandeur and decor, the landmark is popular beyond just traveling. It’s also a hotspot for dining, retail, and taking in its awe-inspiring looks.
Photo Via: Facebook/Rosehill Cemetery
5800 N. Ravenswood Ave. - Lincoln Square
Rosehill Cemetery has been part of Chicago since the 1800s, and is the final resting place of famous individuals like Oscar F. Mayer, and John G. Shedd. In 1975, the cemetery joined the National Register of Historic Places. The historic spot also offers walking tours and is even open to the public - but is said to be haunted by paranormal occurrences.
Photo Via: Chicago Architecture Center
N. Michigan Ave. - Magnificent Mile
Another beloved and historic district in Chicago that’s located right along the Magnificent Mile in the city’s Near North Side. Several buildings hold accolades on the National Register of Historic Places as well as the Chicago Water Tower being an American Water Landmark, and one of the buildings that survived the Great Chicago Fire. Throughout history the district has always been a popular spot for Chicagoans and tourists alike.
Photo Via: Unsplash/Blake Guidry
1060 W. Addison St. - Wrigleyville
Established back in 1914, Wrigley Field is the longtime home of the Chicago Cubs, it even used to be called Cubs Park! The popular spot is a favorite for catching a baseball game or one of the many concerts it hosts. The stadium is central to Wrigleyville and also by several sports bars.
Photo Via: Facebook/Chicago Cultural Center
78 E. Washington St. - The Loop
Located right in the loop, the Chicago Cultural Center is one of the city’s top tourist attractions. They even host a variety of free public events. Make it a mission to stop by the beautiful building and learn more about the history of our favorite city.
Unsplash: Tommao Wang
78-98 E. Adams St. - The Loop
Have some time and wanna go to LA? You’re in luck, because Route 66 starts right in Chicago! The 2,400-mile highway will take you right to the west coast. Keep your eyes peeled for historic signs denoting the roadway all over the city.
Photo Via: Facebook/Holy Name Cathedral
735 N. State St. - Near North Side
In case you’re out of the loop - opened in 1874, Holy Name Cathedral is kind of a big deal. It’s a world-famous cathedral, and one of the largest Roman Catholic dioceses in the country. The church is also incredibly stunning, inside and out with its gothic revival style.
Photo Via: City of Chicago
1200-1600 Blocks of Astor St. - Gold Coast
With its beauty and historical significance, Astor Street District was designated a Chicago Landmark in 1975. The area was constructed over the course of 60 years, wrapping up in 1940. Be sure to take a stroll along the street and see a variety of stunning homes.
Photo via: Facebook/Chicago Food Authority
1960 N. Western Ave. - Logan Square
1813 W. Montrose Ave. - North Center
Margie’s Candies has been satisfying Chicago’s sweet tooth since they opened in 1921. Be sure to come by for the finest homemade candy in all of the city! Plus, they have an ice cream parlor! You can find them in both Logan Square and North Center.
There you have it - our picks for the best Historic Haunts in Chicago. They may have been here for over a hundred years, but perhaps they’ll be new favorites for you. If you’re to continue your dive into the past, here’s where you can try the historic flavors of Old Forester’s Whiskey Row for yourself.
