Neighborhood News: As we Spring Forward, Curling has one last fling in Chicago
As we set clocks ahead this Sunday, March 9, signaling the end of winter and the beginning of longer days, the city offers one last chance to enjoy the Olympic winter sport of Curling in Chicago!
What is Curling?
As described by NBC Chicago, two teams take to the ice to slide granite stones toward a target. Each player has a curling broom that they use to sweep the ice ahead of the stone. Sweeping warms the ice’s surface, changing the path of the stone and reducing its curl to movie straighter.
A curling tournament is called a bonspiel.
Upstairs at the The Gwen Hotel
On the Art Deco-inspired terrace at the Gwen Hotel, 521 N. Rush Street, the combination of curling lanes plus fire pits and hot cocktails equals major fun!
Heat lamps are set up around the perimeter to keep things toasty and you can also hang out with a group around one of the fire tables.
+Your $25/person admission includes access to the curling court and firepit table for 1 hour along with a featured seasonal treat.
+Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes. The rink is artificial, not made of ice; however, the surface still may be slippery.
+Please ensure to arrive on time to maximize the most of your one hour experience.
Kaiser Tiger Curling in the West Loop
At the Kaiser Tiger, 1415 W. Randolph Street, curling season runs from Mid-November until Sunday, March 9.
To make it the best experience possible, they even have a Curling Master onsite to explain the rules, help with scoring, and ferry the stones back to your group.
Curling is $80 per one lane per forty minutes. There is a maximum of four players per lane and due to space limitations, they don’t allow switching players on and off the courts.
‘Chicago’s Best Beer Garden’ takes great pains to say that a reservation for a Curling Court does not include a dinner reservation. They highly recommend making a table reservation as well!
NOTE: They do not refund cancellations, time changes, or re-booking, so please make sure you have chosen the correct date and time.
If you are looking to book further than four days in advance, have a larger group, or would like a book Private Event, please email events.kaisertiger@gmail.com For more information and reservations, click here.
Harry Caray’s Tavern at Navy Pier’s CURLING BY THE LAKE
Harry Caray’s Navy Pier, 700 E. Grand Avenue, offers a $100, 90-minuteCurling Rink + Igloo experience at their lakeside Curling Rink and adjacent cozy Warming Hut for up to eight guests. They’re accepting reservations through the end of March.
Their rink is made of Polyglide synthetic ice with “real ice feel and performance,” according to their website.
New to curling? No worries, says Harry Caray’s! They provide simple, step-by-step instructions, making it easy and fun for everyone.
Big party? Their cozy indoor Lakefront Lodge has room for an additional 12 guests and extend the party to 2 ½ hours for an additional $100. The cabin-themed Lodge features a fireplace, leather seating, and cozy rustic touches throughout. For reservations and information, click here.
The Oldest–Chicago Curling Club
Founded in 1948, the Northbrook -based Chicago Curling Club, 555 Dundee Road, welcomes all visitors and members. The facility has four sheets of ice, locker rooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, dining area, and a large social and viewing area.
They’re open year-round and host bonspiels, summer camps andother events to promote community and fun, creating a warm and welcoming place where you can enjoy a competitive sport and make and expand friendships. For more information, click here.
Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago
