Midwest travel: Fly high at Chicago Botanic kite fest
Chicago
Noize in the ‘hood
This flashback weekend of fun features six blocks of incredible global cuisine, continuous entertainment, Antique and Classic Car and Motorcycle Show, a dynamic children's area with family activities and tons of merchants showcasing unusual goods. For the community, the 20th Retro on Roscoe street festival uses proceeds to improve the business district and parks. It's a win-win proposition for all when acts performing the hits of yesteryear rock three stages. 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7; noon to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 8-9, at Damen and Roscoe, Chicago. Suggested donation is $10. starevents.com/festivals/retro-on-roscoe
Luxe life
Le Méridien Chicago-Oakbrook Center now offers an exclusive package that will make someone feel like the queen — or Oprah. The Neiman Marcus Package includes a one-night stay in one of the hotel's elegant rooms and private access to Le Méridien's Executive Club, where you can enjoy daily breakfast, evening snacks and relax in the 9th floor Club Lounge, with spectacular panoramic views of Oakbrook and downtown Chicago. When it comes time to shop, there's a $1,000 Neiman Marcus Gift Card, your own stylist and a “Beauty Insider” appointment complete with a complimentary gift bag. The Neiman Marcus Shopping Package also includes a luncheon for two at the new NM Café. Le Méridien Chicago-Oakbrook Center, 2100 Spring Road, Oak Brook. Package is priced at $1,059. Call (877) 782-0116 and mention promo code LWZ, or go to lemeridienoakbrook.com
Pretty fly for a kite guy
Take the family to enjoy kite-flying performances set to music and kite-making workshops at the Chicago Botanic Garden's Kite Festival. Shows are courtesy of members of the Chicago Fire Kite Team and the Kite Society of Wisconsin & Illinois. Take a leisurely stroll or take the free tram to the festival area. Be sure to save room for drinks, sandwiches, snacks and ice cream, which can be purchased on the garden's west meadow. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 8 and 9, at Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Admission is free, but parking rates apply. (847) 835-5440 or chicagobotanic.org.
Midwest
I can sing for miles and miles
If you've been to any local festival, you've no doubt had your fill of tribute bands. Mile of Music, in Appleton, Wisconsin, is packed with singer-songwriters and multi-piece bands showcasing original Americana, roots, indie rock, country, soul, R&B, jazz and folk. Nearly every event is free, and there are lots of hands-on musical education events for all ages. Count on 800 live performances, 200 artists and 65 venues on one walkable mile of town. Performers are coming from Los Angeles, Nashville, Athens, Georgia, New York City, Mississippi and more. Appleton is about 30 minutes south of Green Bay. Thursday to Sunday, Aug. 6-9. Venues vary but all are along Downtown Appleton's College Avenue. See mileofmusic.com for a schedule.
Plenty of fish
Families can get in on Fishing for Eagles at the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, Minnesota. The program is free with paid admission and includes everything needed for a great afternoon of fishing — rods and reels, life jackets, bait, and a dock on the Mississippi River right outside. Staff and volunteers help kids identify the fish and learn about responsible angling. Kids can donate their catch to feed the bald eagle ambassadors, too. Children under age 15 and residents of Minnesota do not need a license. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday, Aug. 5 and 6, at National Eagle Center, Wabasha, Minnesota. Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors (62+) and $5 for kids ages 4-17. Ages 3 and under are free. nationaleaglecenter.org
Adventure capitalists
The Grand Geneva Resort & Spa in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, adds The Adventure Center to its roster of activities offering resort and destination adventures throughout the year. Activities at the new Center include: mountain biking (and rentals) through 8.5 miles of trails, ranging from easy to expert; hiking through two trails (easy and moderate); and an 18-hole disc golf course that includes a map and score card. Additional adventures include six slacklines, two sand volleyball courts and archery. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (with last rentals at 3 p.m.) daily at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Prices for activities vary, and season passes are available. Entrance fees are $5 for individuals and $10 for families. (800) 558-3417 or grandgeneva.com