Things To Do

Downtown Lake Forest

The town where all things wedding will happen. The downtown has cute shops and restaurants including our favorite we highly recommend a reservation at Le Colonial or casual sandwiches at Foodstuffs.

Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve

A former army post that is now a beautiful forest preserve that opens up onto Lake Michigan. There are great trails and room to really explore.

Chicago Botanic Garden

Lake Forest Beach

The site of Katie and Maja's third and most significant date. It was January, freshly dusted in snow and BITTERLY cold so we went to the beach. Duh. It's also a gorgeous beach (in summer) where you can enjoy the day soaking up the sun. You'll need to get a day pass. Please reach out in advance to the city.

Downtown Winnetka and Wilmette

Two of our favorite downtowns outside of Lake Forest to shop and eat.

Winnetka and Wilmette Beaches

Lots of options for a relaxing lake day before or after the wedding. Our favorite is Gilson Beach where there's public access. You're also right across from Baha'i temple which is beautiful to visit.

John Hughes Movie Tour

Bueller? Bueller? Follow the link for a driving tour of all the John Hughes movie locations on the north shore including the Home Alone House, Sixteen Candles Church, Ferris Bueller's House, and more. It's also just a fun way to see the scenic neighborhoods. And one of the big reasons Maja always dreamt of moving to Chicago (besides all you amazing Miami Ohio people).

Le Colonial Lake Forest

Our favorite French Vietnamese restaurant located in downtown Lake Forest. The restaurant itself is absolutely gorgeous, but the patio is really something special too. Our personal favorite dishes are the chilled shrimp rolls, pork ribs, chicken & cabbage salad, and shaking beef. Round it all out with a few lychee martinis for good measure.

Sophia Steak Lake Forest

Delicious steak. Need we say more?

The English Room & White Hart Pub at The Deer Path Inn

The beautiful Deer Path Inn has some of our favorite dining options including afternoon tea, British pub fare, and an outdoor terrace that will make you feel like you're in the Cotswalds (Meg B). They have a heavy pour (drink, drink..aka a drunken wink). The Pub and Bar are always hopping in summer and sadly do not take reservations. The English Room recommends reservations, especially for tea and brunch. Worth the effort, they're all very popular!

Foodstuffs Market

Quaint little specialty market with easy and delicious sandwiches, soups, and salads in the heart of downtown Lake Forest. A turkey sandwich to rival John's Garden for all you Malibu coastal elites. A great spot to go if you're grabbing goodies for a picnic, the beach, or even the hotel room. Note, closed on Sunday.

Elawa Farm Saturday Morning Market

On Saturday morning you can visit the Farm for a nature walk, farm shop, a fresh smoothie and the best breakfast sammy of your life. Pro tip: get there early before they sell out! (9-11am) A lovely way to explore our venue before you get all dressed up. Market runs Sat & Sun 9-1pm (no "live" food on Sun, but market snacks available)