[C2Queen]

Friday & Saturday really are the highlights of every con it seems. Sunday is usually the day where everyone clears out and raids the Dealer's Room for Merch who's prices got slashed. People don't seem to take cosplay as seriously on Sunday too I've noticed. Guess Saturday wipes everyone out, neh? Here's my question -- for those of you who stay really late Sunday or even leave Monday, what do you usually do to have a good time Sunday while everyone else is clearing out?

My group has our room until Monday, so I'm wondering if there's anything local possibly going on (usually things close early on Sunday) that might be going on to where we could continue having some fun? Sunday was pretty depressing last year in the middle of the afternoon. I guess chilling in the hotel room and reflecting on our time at the con/utilizing hotel privileges is fun -- but there really should be more to Sunday than that. I'm not too familiar with the area around the hotel or Chicago, so any ideas/suggestions you can give, links to events, etc. would be really helpful. I'm sure a few other people are also interested in finding something fun to do Sunday as well, whether it's nightclubs, eateries, shopping centers, cosplay meetups, etc. Just make sure if you suggest it, that it's open pretty late into the afternoon after the con is over =] Btw, my group will be at the Hyatt so I'm pretty sure there isn't a pool or anything compared to the DoubleTree (otherwise, I'd be swimming like crazy).


Edit: I think I put this in the wrong Forum ><; But it's technically not con-related considering I'm asking about what to do AFTER the con is over.

This post has been edited by C2Queen: 05 April 2012 - 10:47 AM

[STVO]

Either try visiting downtown Chicago or do what I'm doing... Going to WWE Extreme Rules!!! \m/

LOL, sorry couldn't help it.

[C2Queen]

STVO, on 05 April 2012 - 10:47 AM, said:

Either try visiting downtown Chicago or do what I'm doing... Going to WWE Extreme Rules!!! \m/

LOL, sorry couldn't help it.

You're really stalking the forums lately. WWE Extreme Rules? I used to watch tons of wrestling with my father when I was younger (haven't done that in years) so I'm definitely familiar with wrestling. It's a live match? Is it going to be some pretty huge names or some sort of smaller event?

[linlindesu]

Mitsuwa is always a fun time :x http://www.mitsuwa.com/english/
mind you , I wouldn't wear any cosplay that is too elaborate or anything.
You could always make a cosplay meet up or picnic at one of the many local parks
There's a gameworks out in schaumburg :x And woodfield mall which has a very anime friendly FYE.
There's Ding Dang Dong out in Arlington Heights which has a great selection of Chinese, Japanese, Korean and English Songs. Plus it is located next to my favorite japanese joint in town, Nari.
visiting downtown for photos could always be a fun time as well.

my group never really stays sunday night but since we live in the area, we try to go out to eat after the con ( usually still in costume) to just talk about the fun we had

[YoungBirdcall]

linlindesu, on 05 April 2012 - 10:59 AM, said:

Mitsuwa is always a fun time :x http://www.mitsuwa.com/english/
mind you , I wouldn't wear any cosplay that is too elaborate or anything.
You could always make a cosplay meet up or picnic at one of the many local parks
There's a gameworks out in schaumburg :x And woodfield mall which has a very anime friendly FYE.
There's Ding Dang Dong out in Arlington Heights which has a great selection of Chinese, Japanese, Korean and English Songs. Plus it is located next to my favorite japanese joint in town, Nari.
visiting downtown for photos could always be a fun time as well.

my group never really stays sunday night but since we live in the area, we try to go out to eat after the con ( usually still in costume) to just talk about the fun we had

These are all great suggestions.

[ravenfinch]

well really just hang out with friends and or go to the movies or an arcade.Go to navy pier even though its a some times/miles away its fun ill say...sigh i dont want to talk about anymore leaving on Sundays it is like leaving my home untill a year man i needd more cons sigh...

[STVO]

Extreme Rules is a Pay Per View. Both world titles will be defended, the biggest names will be there, and the returning Brock Lesnar will be in the house so it has been said. Tickets run at $25+, every match is under "extreme rules" so weapons, outside battle, etc can and will occur.

Some non-wrestling stuff you can do:
• Gameworks (21+ after 9 PM) located in Schaumburg
• Mitsuwa, I think closes at 7 Sunday? Located in Arlington Heights
• Galloping Ghost Arcade in Brookfield (might be a distance) old School Arcade that runs til 2 am, can be any age pretty sure Sunday is that too. All you can play $15.
• Various Restaurants in Chicago are open late.

Edit: Late to the post, lol. But yes all those suggestions are good too.

This post has been edited by STVO: 05 April 2012 - 11:19 AM

[Mullenkamp]

Sunday at the con for me:

- Relax in hotel hot tub one last time while everyone else is still asleep.
- Get into comfy costume, often from a less popular series that only me and my friends know and love, or an older series - not the attention-grabbing ones from Friday and Saturday.
- If there's a con worship service, go to church.
- Haul everything to car and check out.
- As noted, hit dealer's room looking for discounts.
- Hang out and relax with friends, casually take pics of any remaining cosplayers - or ourselves in interesting locations, since it's not as crowded and hectic and we can actually get to those interesting locations.
- This year? Very tempted to hit up the Mythbusters exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry.
- Lunch/dinner at Mitsuwa, saying goodbye to those who are heading out.
- Possibly hit up the hobby store a short distance from Mitsuwa to look for figures and stuff that the dealer's room didn't have.

Since I only live a couple hours away, I can stay as long as I feel like and still get home at a decent hour... but somewhere around mid-afternoon, I generally start feeling pet withdrawal and want to go home to be jumped on and rubbed against by our horde of cats and rabbits.

[C2Queen]

linlindesu, on 05 April 2012 - 10:59 AM, said:

Mitsuwa is always a fun time :x http://www.mitsuwa.com/english/
mind you , I wouldn't wear any cosplay that is too elaborate or anything.
You could always make a cosplay meet up or picnic at one of the many local parks
There's a gameworks out in schaumburg :x And woodfield mall which has a very anime friendly FYE.
There's Ding Dang Dong out in Arlington Heights which has a great selection of Chinese, Japanese, Korean and English Songs. Plus it is located next to my favorite japanese joint in town, Nari.
visiting downtown for photos could always be a fun time as well.

my group never really stays sunday night but since we live in the area, we try to go out to eat after the con ( usually still in costume) to just talk about the fun we had

I've never been to Mitsuwa, but I've heard a lot about it. Doesn't it close fairly early though on Sunday? I wouldn't dream of cosplaying there considering it's a serious Japanese place of business. Hmm... local parks? That sounds really relaxing and fun. Oh that Gameworks. Haha. Someone I'm traveling with lives up in Schaumburg, so I'm pretty sure going back towards his home before we have to leave isn't the funnest idea (considering he'll be going back to Schaumburg Monday). Whenever we visit him we usually hit up some of the area anyways. (Surprisingly it's one of the only places I know a bit about when I know next to nothing about everywhere else). Hmm... I've never been downtown. I just get nervous because I grew up in Las Vegas and I'm aware that every city has it's REALLY bad areas you shouldn't wander to. I'm wondering what areas are safe to wander into and somewhat fun... I have no idea what to expect. You guys go out and eat in your cosplay? That sounds like loads of fun. Post con meet n greet? XD

Things like seeing a movie are such average things you could pretty much do any day... are there any beaches or lakes near the con? Maybe going swimming or something of the sort would be a really fun idea. Or even just relaxing at the beach and enjoying the sights. City sounds fun, are there many shopping centers open pretty late? What are some nice parks? (I live 2 hours from the con and so does everyone in my group except my friend who lives in Schaumburg) So something in the inner Chicago area sounds nice. Isn't there some sort of Aquarium in Chicago?

[linlindesu]

C2Queen, on 05 April 2012 - 11:24 AM, said:

I've never been to Mitsuwa, but I've heard a lot about it. Doesn't it close fairly early though on Sunday? I wouldn't dream of cosplaying there considering it's a serious Japanese place of business. Hmm... local parks? That sounds really relaxing and fun. Oh that Gameworks. Haha. Someone I'm traveling with lives up in Schaumburg, so I'm pretty sure going back towards his home before we have to leave isn't the funnest idea (considering he'll be going back to Schaumburg Monday). Whenever we visit him we usually hit up some of the area anyways. (Surprisingly it's one of the only places I know a bit about when I know next to nothing about everywhere else). Hmm... I've never been downtown. I just get nervous because I grew up in Las Vegas and I'm aware that every city has it's REALLY bad areas you shouldn't wander to. I'm wondering what areas are safe to wander into and somewhat fun... I have no idea what to expect. You guys go out and eat in your cosplay? That sounds like loads of fun. Post con meet n greet? XD

Things like seeing a movie are such average things you could pretty much do any day... are there any beaches or lakes near the con? Maybe going swimming or something of the sort would be a really fun idea. Or even just relaxing at the beach and enjoying the sights. City sounds fun, are there many shopping centers open pretty late? What are some nice parks? (I live 2 hours from the con and so does everyone in my group except my friend who lives in Schaumburg) So something in the inner Chicago area sounds nice. Isn't there some sort of Aquarium in Chicago?

well Millennium park is just a short distance from Union Station. It is HUGE and sexy http://explorechicag...millennium.html
However, if cosplaying I would not have a group of more than 9. ( considering what occurred at soycon last year).
There's LOADS of museums. My favorite is the Field. The closest to the large parks would be The Art Institute
Also, Lincoln Park Zoo. Which is free :]]

[YoungBirdcall]

C2Queen, on 05 April 2012 - 11:24 AM, said:

Isn't there some sort of Aquarium in Chicago?

Shedd Aquarium. It's awesome!

[myrla]

I'm staying till Monday night, but I have friends in the area so I'm hoping we can all go out to eat. (I'm staying in ALoft)

[Lina]

Mullenkamp, on 05 April 2012 - 11:22 AM, said:

Sunday at the con for me:

- Relax in hotel hot tub one last time while everyone else is still asleep.
- Get into comfy costume, often from a less popular series that only me and my friends know and love, or an older series - not the attention-grabbing ones from Friday and Saturday.
- If there's a con worship service, go to church.
- Haul everything to car and check out.
- As noted, hit dealer's room looking for discounts.
- Hang out and relax with friends, casually take pics of any remaining cosplayers - or ourselves in interesting locations, since it's not as crowded and hectic and we can actually get to those interesting locations.
- This year? Very tempted to hit up the Mythbusters exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry.
- Lunch/dinner at Mitsuwa, saying goodbye to those who are heading out.
- Possibly hit up the hobby store a short distance from Mitsuwa to look for figures and stuff that the dealer's room didn't have.

Since I only live a couple hours away, I can stay as long as I feel like and still get home at a decent hour... but somewhere around mid-afternoon, I generally start feeling pet withdrawal and want to go home to be jumped on and rubbed against by our horde of cats and rabbits.

The store you are talking about has been closed for months now. The sign is still up, but there's nothing there anymore.

If you enjoy sushi, go to Sushi Station. The food is super delish!

[Alkaren Hyralt]

You could always hang out with me since I don't leave until Monday either :3

[C2Queen]

@STVO: Even Lesnar? I heard he switched back from UFC to WWE. Problem is, none of my friends are really into wrestling. The one guy in my group who likes fighting prefers UFC over everything. Trying to make things into a group adventure... plus with my medical issues I shouldn't travel much by myself ><; It sounds like loads of fun though. You're planning to wear cosplay to this or just go dressed in normal clothing?

@YoungBirdCall: Shedd Aquarium? I've seen that advertised on TV. I've only been to one Aquarium and I LOVED it. Considering this is Chicago, it must be pretty big. Would you happen to know the cost and if it's open Sunday? How far away is it from the con? ><; Sorry if I'm asking questions you don't know the answer to.

@Myrla: Looks like everyone kinda does that afterward. I know last year we left as everyone was clearing out and it seemed like tons of the con goers were at the nearby Mcdonalds. We called it "McAcen" it was like the con moved a few thousand feet to Mcdonald's XD It'd be nice to go out and eat with people before they leave, that seems like it's something we'll end up doing.

@Mullenkamp: You must be at one of the other hotels if yours has a hot tub. Cause I'd be on that if mine had one.

@Lina: Hmmm... I do like me some sushi XD

@LinLin: OH MY GOD! It's that place! I was wondering what that place with the giant sculpture was! Lincoln Park Zoo is free, why is that? My friend coming with us mentioned going to that Zoo sometime. I've never been to a Zoo. Like I said though, scared everything closes really early Sunday and I wouldn't get to see too much. Whats the Field? Whats super appealing about all these museums? I haven't really been to many museums XD

[YoungBirdcall]

C2Queen, on 05 April 2012 - 11:45 AM, said:

@STVO: Even Lesnar? I heard he switched back from UFC to WWE. Problem is, none of my friends are really into wrestling. The one guy in my group who likes fighting prefers UFC over everything.

@YoungBirdCall: Shedd Aquarium? I've seen that advertised on TV. I've only been to one Aquarium and I LOVED it. Considering this is Chicago, it must be pretty big. Would you happen to know the cost and if it's open Sunday? How far away is it from the con? ><; Sorry if I'm asking questions you don't know the answer to.

Yes, Brock Lesnar will be at Extreme Rules (he just made his triumphant return to Monday Night Raw (and therefor the WWE at large) a few nights back during the conclusion of this week's episode.

In reference to the Shedd Aquarium, it is indeed open on Sundays, though it closes at 6 PM. General admission for adults is $8, I believe. But that doesn't include everything that the Shedd Aquarium has to offer. The best passes are like $30-40, and they include all aspects of the aquarium, including the dolphin show. Either way, it's a great time, especially if you love aquariums. However, it is pretty far from the convention site.

This post has been edited by YoungBirdcall: 05 April 2012 - 12:15 PM

[linlindesu]

YoungBirdcall, on 05 April 2012 - 12:14 PM, said:

In reference to the Shedd Aquarium, it is indeed open on Sundays, though it closes at 6 PM. General admission for adults is $8, I believe. But that doesn't include everything that the Shedd Aquarium has to offer. The best passes are like $30-40, and they include all aspects of the aquarium, including the dolphin show. Either way, it's a great time, especially if you love aquariums. However, it is pretty far from the convention site.

But if they have Fantasea! DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY. The regular dolphin show was awesome but that thing.... that thing was just.... why.... So don't spend the extra 15-20 on the show unless it isn't fantasea!... that thing... words... I have none..

[STVO]

Youngbirdcall answered my questions very well. And yes, my friends will be there in cosplay and I'm holding a pre-show huddle (see link below.)

One place in Chicago (if that's an option) is Molly's Cupcakrs on Clark Street. They have coffee and awesome desserts. The layout is really cool, there's board games, and it's open late. Also seeing a new movie at Muvico is a good option for Sunday.

[myrla]

Alkaren Hyralt, on 05 April 2012 - 11:38 AM, said:

You could always hang out with me since I don't leave until Monday either :3

This will be happening. :3 rawr. (mainly because I want to meet you!)

[The Phantom Tapper]

Navy Pier perhaps? Though I would advise you not to go in cosplay. They have rides and food and such there.

[MsLovelyCookie]

Well on Sunday, you have all the time to pack up your bags without the rush of packing everything and hoping that you didn't forget anything while trying to get out the door before 12pm. Last year on Sunday, we saw everything from out of the 7th floor window, we were face towards the the convention center so we got to see everyone else pack up their things and leave.

We watched it rain, it was assume, day or night we were all acting like 5 year old. I saw how the hotel crew cleaned up after Acen weekend, garbage, pizza boxes, beer bottle, glow sticks, you name it it was outside in the halls. I ended up making a video with Glow Sticks , took me awhile to figure out the camera. It is how we spent most of the night at the hotel room, playing with glow sticks.

It all depends on what you and your friends are willing to do. This year I'm by myself so will leave once the day is over.

This post has been edited by MsLovelyCookie: 05 April 2012 - 04:13 PM

[SupremeKai]

Yea the Shedd is nice but somewhat sad its just not big enough to really enjoy went last Sat and even though we had Will Call tickets it took us 45 minutes to get in and the line for the people who just wanted to go was atleast 2 hrs tops, the Science and Industry is always an option but do not know what time they close on Sunday's. I usually stay till about 2 and then leave but since i was finally smart and decided to take the Monday off from work can stay a little bit longer, but since i live so close to downtown i never really think about the cool places to go i just hop the orange line and something pops up

[myrla]

the Museum of Science and Industry is awesome. If people are hanging around until Monday, and have a car, I have 3 extra passes if you'd like to go down there.. then get me back to Ohare by 3 on Monday

[vipstancecom]

I was actually wondering the same thing. I'm cutting out at 5AM sunday morning for a track event. If there's anything interesting going on, I might come back if the adrenaline doesn't completely wipe me out.

[KirbyFanOne]

I need to get an Over 21 Club Meeting at the Green Door and regale you all in the tale of Mom's Mile-High Meatloaf.

They have a pool table.

[vipstancecom]

I have no idea where this is but mile high meatloaf sounds good. Haha!

[chainedbyroses]

Lina, on 05 April 2012 - 11:32 AM, said:

The store you are talking about has been closed for months now. The sign is still up, but there's nothing there anymore.

If you enjoy sushi, go to Sushi Station. The food is super delish!

Which store do you mean? The only one I saw mentioned was Mitsuwa, & I was fairly certain they're still open (and am/was supposed to be going out there tomorrow o_o)...


For other ideas in Roesmont, the minimall/shop strip will be open by con time, so you can always do the bowling and enjoy period/theme food places (Irish pub + Hilton's 1920s eatery: awesome eats & photography, hecks yuss please :o). Muvico will also still be rightthere, and Giordanos will no longer be so crowded and hectic, if you want to go inside and eat dinner there. Weather dependent, you can always explore the forest preserve that's basically just across the street from Denny's, or try the trail that's right behind the Hyatt (though only if the little bridge is still there; haven't checked in ages so YMMV); or, for a more structured nature walk, the Morton Arboretum is not too far away by highway, and they have a proper Japanese garden andTONS of cool stuff to explore (kids' garden is awesome even for grownups, just saying). If you're more indoorsy, I'll echo the Schaumburg consensus and suggest Woodfield/IKEA (this one is HUGE), and, assuming they are open/exist still, Mitsuwa that's about a mile east of the mall area.

Oh!, and downtown Chicago isn't particularly unsafe (not exactly NYC lol) as much as it is overpriced and is more targeted at businessmen and tourists than locals; there are some cool small places though, like Andy's Jazz Club (they make a mean orange salad, and proper classic jazz). I've personally never seen the appeal of Millenium Park, though I've always thought Grant Park was more fun (climby trees!) and was just nicer. The museums are cool - alittle pricey & tourist-merchy in the shops, but they're well done and kept. Safety wise, just stick near where there skyscrapers and things don't look run down/heavily graffitied, keep you bags closed & close, and be alert - really, just be street smart and you'll be fine. ^^

[Lina]

chainedbyroses, on 06 April 2012 - 01:56 AM, said:

Which store do you mean? The only one I saw mentioned was Mitsuwa, & I was fairly certain they're still open (and am/was supposed to be going out there tomorrow o_o)...


For other ideas in Roesmont, the minimall/shop strip will be open by con time, so you can always do the bowling and enjoy period/theme food places (Irish pub + Hilton's 1920s eatery: awesome eats & photography, hecks yuss please ). Muvico will also still be rightthere, and Giordanos will no longer be so crowded and hectic, if you want to go inside and eat dinner there. Weather dependent, you can always explore the forest preserve that's basically just across the street from Denny's, or try the trail that's right behind the Hyatt (though only if the little bridge is still there; haven't checked in ages so YMMV); or, for a more structured nature walk, the Morton Arboretum is not too far away by highway, and they have a proper Japanese garden andTONS of cool stuff to explore (kids' garden is awesome even for grownups, just saying). If you're more indoorsy, I'll echo the Schaumburg consensus and suggest Woodfield/IKEA (this one is HUGE), and, assuming they are open/exist still, Mitsuwa that's about a mile east of the mall area.

Oh!, and downtown Chicago isn't particularly unsafe (not exactly NYC lol) as much as it is overpriced and is more targeted at businessmen and tourists than locals; there are some cool small places though, like Andy's Jazz Club (they make a mean orange salad, and proper classic jazz). I've personally never seen the appeal of Millenium Park, though I've always thought Grant Park was more fun (climby trees!) and was just nicer. The museums are cool - alittle pricey & tourist-merchy in the shops, but they're well done and kept. Safety wise, just stick near where there skyscrapers and things don't look run down/heavily graffitied, keep you bags closed & close, and be alert - really, just be street smart and you'll be fine. ^^

Japanese Toys and Gifts is the store I'm talking about. I have not seen it open in a long time and it doesn't look like there's anything in it. I also never take a close look anymore because I just drive by it and take a quick glance at it, but whenever I would try to go there a long time ago, it was closed. The hours are so random. I have to go out for a bit anyways and will be out in that area since I live close to it, so I'll let you know if it's officially closed.

[DioxideIL]

Navy Pier is almost a must for visitors. It's gorgeous in the late afternoon. Millennium Park is in the same area as well!

This post has been edited by DioxideIL: 06 April 2012 - 10:29 AM

[rondo]

DioxideIL, on 06 April 2012 - 10:26 AM, said:

Navy Pier is almost a must for visitors. It's gorgeous in the late afternoon. Millennium Park is in the same area as well!

When it's a cold day in Chicago, I avoid the Navy Pier like the plague.