Northern Fox River Valley Center Stage – A Cultural Tour

The Fox River Valley is rich in arts and creativity. Discover the area’s talented artists with this tour that combines Opera, Classical Music, the Visual and Performing Arts with boutique shopping and dining.

Please contact the Elgin Area Convention and Visitors Bureau to check on availability and rates for your group.

Day One

After arriving into the area and checking into your hotel, enjoy a unique and memorable dinner at TL’s Four Seasons Chinese & Japanese Restaurant, where you’ll find delicious Japanese & Chinese cuisine and a full assortment of sushi at great prices, all combined in a soothing and charming environment.

For your evening’s entertainment, treat yourself to an unforgettable performance of The Elgin Opera. Check with the Elgin Area and Convention Visitors Bureau for an updated schedule of performances.

Day Two

Our stop today is to the State Street Market Shops, a unique variety of quaint shops located in a 1920’s millworks building…charmingly transformed into a culturally diverse Shoppers’ Delight of over 35 shops.

Delicious soups, salads and sandwiches plus home-baked pastries are available for lunch at Cafe Veranda in a charming patio-on-the inside atmosphere.

After lunch, your group travels to Elgin Community College and is treated to an exclusive presentation at the Visual and Performing Arts Center, which offers varied and unique family entertainment, including the “CenterStage Series, the “Marquee Theatre Series” and the “ClubJAZZ Series”. Be sure to contact us for details on the offerings during your visit.

Upon departure of Elgin Community College, your group travels to your host hotel, where you check in, unwind, relax and change for an evening of culinary and musical delights.

Tonight your group will enjoy dinner at the very unique and quaint Italian restaurant, Chooch’s Pizzeria, in downtown Elgin. Homemade Italian dishes made with only the freshest ingredient, Chooch’s has fast become a favorite of not only Elgin resident, but folks of local surrounding communities as well.

For your evening’s entertainment, treat yourself to an unforgettable performance by the Elgin Symphony Orchestra, performing at the Hemmens Cultural Centre in Elgin. This incredible ensemble of musical mastery was recently rated by the Illinois Symphony Society as one of the top symphonies in the state, second only to the world-renowned Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Enjoy a performance of powerful symphonic music with such timeless works by Beethoven, Bach, and Strauss presented by world-class performing artists in the comfortable, intimate setting of the Hemmens.

After this evening’s performance, your group transfers back to your hotel for the night.

Day Three

Start your day at Alexander’s Restaurant, serving home-cooked breakfast meals made fresh on the premises.

Located on the eighth floor of the historic Professional Building in downtown is Elgin Art Showcase, which offers an intimate space for local artists and performers.

Lunch today is at Al’s Café & Creamery, a local favorite restaurant which provides its customers with comfort food alongside more innovative dishes that are sure to delight your palate.  Thanks to the creative touch of Chef Tony Jamin, each dish is made from scratch, and tastes better than even Mom’s homemade dinners.   

After lunch, you depart for home.