Sometimes a trip off the beaten path can give people more things to learn and talk about. Take a drive from Mount Carroll to Scales Mound, and there's something for everyone.

The NIU Steelband will perform a free concert at the DeKalb Public Library Friday, April 17.

The Stage Coach Players will open its next production, the comedy play “The Play That Goes Wrong,” on April 9 in DeKalb.

One million blooms are expected this year at Kuipers Family Farm in Maple Park, which is celebrating 25 years this spring.

You don't need to travel to Vegas to enjoy the bright lights at a casino in northwest Illinois.

Northern Illinois is home to some notably beautiful botanical gardens and arboretums waiting to be explored.

Other performers this summer include The Beach Boys, Gov't Mule, Poi Dog Pondering, Lauren Alaina and tributes to Bee Gees, Led Zeppelin and many more.

Iniga Pizzeria is located in downtown DeKalb at 206 E. Lincoln Highway, in the former Eduardo's Restaurant location.

DeKalb High School is set to open its spring production the musical “Hairspray the Broadway Musical,” April 16.

Spring is here, and that means it's the perfect season to get out and explore new destinations.

Fans of Tamales Los Girasoles soon won’t have to head to Malta to get their fix of authentic Mexican food. A second location in DeKalb is anticipated to open this spring.

Spring and the return of baseball bring hot dogs back to the forefront. So here are 10 places to get a legit, Chicago-style hot dog in the suburbs.

Discover Sycamore's Taste of Spring is from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, April 9.

Louise Harrison, the late George Harrison’s older sister, hand-picked the musicians who portray Ringo Starr, John Lennon, Paul McCartney and her brother.

Sample 21 curated wines with small bites at participating businesses in downtown Sycamore.

Spring festivals are blooming across northern Illinois in April and May.

From animal encounters to Glow Wild nights and dino-sized adventures, Brookfield Zoo Chicago offers new experiences and seasonal favorites for guests of all ages.

The Spring Valley ‘Uriah’ Walla Walla Valley Red Wine 2022 is a dark, brooding red with blackberry, plum, cedar, tobacco leaf and cracked pepper flavors.

Led by ESO Music Director Chad Goodman, the concert features works by Quinn Mason, Robert Schumann and Ludwig van Beethoven.

Spring is here, and that means the return of some of the area's most popular beer and wine festivals of the year.

The historic theater hosts tribute bands, comedians and more throughout the year.

Six Flags Great America in Gurnee has announced plans to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026.

The festive fundraiser, “A Serenade to the Fox Valley,” will feature a special ensemble performing timeless tunes in a loving tribute from the ESO to the community that has been its home and inspiration for 76 years.

Several communities in DeKalb County are hosting Easter events this weekend.

The Voluntary Action Center will host Stand Up for Seniors, a special comedy fundraiser featuring the nationally touring Bad Momz of Comedy, with all proceeds benefiting Meals on Wheels of DeKalb County.

Pick up your Easter chocolate at these fine chocolatiers in northern Illinois. Easter is Sunday, April 5.

Easter is Sunday, April 5.

Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark is located on site at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.

That Arena Rock Show will perform the biggest hits of the '80s rock era at the Egyptian Theatre on March 28.

That Arena Rock Show will transform the Egyptian Theatre into an '80s arena rock concert, performing the biggest rock hits from the '70s and '80s.

The Midwest Tulip Festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.

The Abbey Resort, located near Lake Geneva, offers fresh-air adventures, family-friendly activities, seasonal dining and relaxing spa experiences this spring.

The Belfry House creates an intimate experience for couples and adult travelers, bringing together seasonal fine dining, live entertainment and personalized hospitality.

DeKalb County families can look forward to various festive egg hunts and family-friendly community events as Easter approaches on April 5.

Northern Illinois offers a vibrant international food scene ready to tantalize your taste buds.

Additional performances include The Second City and the "Happy Together 2026" Tour.

Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra's Spring Pops Concert is Friday, March 20 at NIU's Boutell Memorial Concert Hall.

This blockbuster program showcases some of the most iconic and beloved film scores ever written—music that has become part of America’s cultural soundtrack.

The NCAA basketball tournament kicks off Thursday, March 19. Watch all the action at these northern Illinois bars.

Beyond the local favorites and hidden gems, a handful of suburban restaurants offer a touch of celebrity.

The all-new, visually stunning experience opens March 19, featuring larger-than-life glowing animals, cultural performances and conservation storytelling after dark.

Fatty's Pub & Grille will host the St. Patrick's Day 0.1K Fun Run at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 14.

The band will perform Thursday, March 12 at the Egyptian Theatre in downtown DeKalb.

St. Patrick's Day is Tuesday, March 17 but there's plenty of Irish fun with parades and parties across northern Illinois this weekend.

Irish wood shipped from overseas, crowd-pulling music, history-rooted stories and a sense of welcome that treats strangers like family awaits guests at Frank O'Dowd's pub in Galena.

The Beach Boys are known for hits like “Surfin’ USA,” “Fun, Fun, Fun,” “I Get Around,” “California Girls,” “Help Me Rhonda,” “Barbara Ann,” “Good Vibrations,” “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” and “Kokomo.”

“Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue,” is set to open Friday, May 8, at EXP, the new immersive entertainment venue at The Pearl District.

Illinois and Wisconsin boast a wealth of spa getaways, offering luxurious pampering and relaxation just a short trip away.

Comedian John Caparulo will perform at the Sandwich Opera House on Saturday, March 7.

Hundreds of small, locally-owned boutiques and shops in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin will participate in this one-of-a-kind event March 6-7.