It's no secret that St. Charles is home to first-class theatres that host incredible music, theatrical, and comedy shows on just about any night of the week. People travel far and wide to have this experience - and it's really no surprise once you catch a performance for yourself. However, there is so much more that one can do before or after a show that will, in turn, transform your typical concert trip into an unforgettable St. Charles getaway. Keep reading below to learn more!
Theatres
Photos Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography
Before we dive into some exciting activities to take part in before or after a show, let's first take a quick glance at the impressive selection of theatre, theatre groups, and performance venues that this town offers:
Venues | Address |
105 E. Main St, St. Charles, IL | |
101 S. 2nd St, St. Charles, IL | |
105 E. Main St, St. Charles, IL | |
113 E. Main St, St. Charles, IL | |
Performances at Various Venues | |
220 N. Randall Rd, St. Charles, IL | |
7 S. 2nd Ave, St. Charles, IL | |
1040 Dunham Rd, St. Charles, IL | |
111 W. Main St, St. Charles, IL |
Dine
Photo 1 Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography
Enjoy a pre-show meal! Nothing is worse than trying to enjoy a performance while your stomach is calling for some food, so make sure you get your fill beforehand. Within walking distance of the downtown theatres, you'll have plenty of culinary options to fit whatever mood you may be in - including spots directly across from the Arcada Theatre like El Puente Riverside Pizza & Pub, or Crazy Fox Bar & Grille. Don't want to leave the theatre? Rock 'n Za is located in side the Arcada Theatre, and is open during shows for a cheesy slice of pizza! For a more upscale experience - try visiting Mio Modo, The Graceful Ordinary, or La Za'Za' Trattoria. Dining at any of these renowned establishments will surely have you already planning your next trip to St. Charles
Photos Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography
If you're looking to make a stop after the show, you'll have a wide selection of bars and breweries to visit to end your evening with a nightcap. With six breweries in town, and three being in walking distance of the downtown theatres (Alter Brewing + Kitchen, Pollyanna Brewing & Distilling, and Broken Brix Homebrew Shop), it won't be tough to find a unique brew that you've never had before. Additionally, there are ample bars around town, like The Lewis and The House Pub, and spots where you can get a quick bite along with your drink, like at The Hive Tavern & Eatery, Crazy Fox Bar & Grille, or Rox City Grill. These are just a few of the many food and drink options in St. Charles. To explore more places, please click the button below.
Explore
Photos Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography
If you're going to a show in the evening, make sure to leave for St. Charles a little earlier in the day so that you can enjoy the beautiful nature in town while the sun is still out. There are multiple parks just steps away from downtown, like Lincoln Park or the popular Mt. St. Mary Park that is filled with amazing public art. And you can't forget the award-winning Pottawatomie Park which is home to Riverview Miniature Golf, Kayak and Pedal Boat Rentals, Pickleball Courts, and more.
Photos Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography
If you'd rather experience nature while getting your steps in, St. Charles is home to plenty of trails, both locally in parks and forest preserves, as well as regional trails such as The Fox River Trail or the Great Western Trail. Regardless on the length your looking to hike, there's a trail in St. Charles perfect for you! Click the button below to start exploring the outdoors in St. Charles today!
What is Your Favorite Pre/Post Show Activity?
Pre-Performance Meal
Enjoying an Activity
Exploring the Nature in Town
Post-Show Drinks
Play
Photo 1 Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography. Photo 2 Courtesy of @RachelKawate
There are so many ways that you can compete and play in St. Charles before your concert. If the weather calls for it, you can play a round of mini golf at Riverview Miniature Golf Course, or if you're up for it, 9-holes at the award-winning Pottawatomie Golf Course. If it's not the right season, you can head just west of downtown to try your luck at St. Charles Bowl! Not only do they have 24 lanes to bowl on, but they also have arcade games, food and beverage options, and more.
Shop
Photos Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography
You simply cannot make a trip to this city without visiting some of the amazing retailers that call St. Charles home. We are truly fortunate as a community to have such a wonderful shopping scene - with incredible products that you can only find here in this town. Before you head into your show, explore the nearby shops to find the perfect item that will help you remember your time here. A great place to start would be downtown, where you can explore shops such as The Pep Line, Townhouse Books, or Makoma House to just name a few of many. However, you can find incredible shopping even outside the downtown area at spots such as trend + relic or Industrial Treasures. To explore more amazing stores throughout St. Charles, please click the button below.
Stay
Photo 1 Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography. Photo 2 Courtesy of @Rachelkawate
Now, after learning all about all the exciting experiences you can enjoy after a show, we're betting that your starting to daydream about extending your stay. Turn that dream into a reality and book a night at one of the hotels we have in town, including the historic Hotel Baker that is just steps away from numerous restaurants, theatres, and shops. To view all the accommodation options in St. Charles, please click the button below.
The luck of the Irish is coming to St. Charles! On Saturday, March 15th, put on your very best green outfit and head downtown to enjoy all the St. Patrick festivities! Featuring an Opening Ceremony on the 1st Street Plaza, Lucky Photo Opportunities, a Shamrock Hunt, and of course, the St. Patrick's Parade kicking-off at 2pm. Click above to learn more and to start planning your visit today!