If, like Adam, you start listening to Christmas music in August (it's true - he told CeCe on their first date), check out the Uptown Normal's Holiday Open House. Multiple vendors are participating in starting the Christmas Spirit this weekend! It's all within walking distance from the Hyatt Place.
The Coffee House is a Normal, IL staple. It's a local vegetarian and vegan diner and coffee shop. At the young age of seven, CeCe took her first acting classes in the basement.
Medici is one of CeCe's favorite restaurants in Uptown Normal - a frequent stop for birthday and homecoming dinners. Fingers crossed the Bloody Mary bar will be available this fall! Adam is adamant that everyone should know there is a full petrified tree inside of Medici. They brought it in via helicopter!
Fiala Brothers is an open-air brewpub with craft brews, whiskey, and several food options. It's a five-minute walk from the Hyatt Place.
Another great local coffee option in Uptown Normal is the Coffee Hound. We highly recommend trying their Americano!
It wouldn't be a trip to Central Illinois without an Irish pub. Maggie Miley's is also within walking distance of the Hyatt Place, and has a great food and beer selection.
The Garlic Press is one of the many wonderful shops in Uptown Normal and it's a personal favorite for gifts and fun treats. The mom of two of CeCe's high school friends is one of the owners! Shoutout to the Pikers!
Uptown Normal is adjacent to ISU's campus. ISU has a beautiful quad and was recognized as a "Tree Campus Higher Education Institution," for promoting healthy trees and engaging staff and students in conservation. Check out the Arboretum Map linked for reference! Adam and CeCe spent tons of time on the quad in college and high school, respectively (don't worry they weren't dating back then).