Remember When

Remember "the good 'ol days?"  Take a break from texts, social media, politics and negativity.  Spend the day enjoying a simpler time when every memory became sweeter with time. 

Speaking of sweet, your first stop is at Ma & Pa's Candy in Historic Downtown Long Grove.  Depending on the size of the group, participate in a candy making class (limit 20 ppl).  Then contemplate the variety of the barrels of "penny candy" to bring some nostalgic goodies home for later. 

The other half of your group can visit the Sock Monkey Museum, where they hold the world's record for the most handmade sock monkeys - over 2000!  Not only can you tour the colorful museum, also stuff your own monkey to take home.  There are plenty of other items in the store such as apparel (for you and your new pal), books, mugs and even a Christmas section.  

All that hands-on work deserves a hearty lunch and your next stop is Dover Straits Restaurant.  It is our "supper club" because once you step through the door, it's a walk back into time.  Operated by the five Metropulos brothers, their motto is "to meet every customers need by providing good food and good service."

After lunch, your group relaxes right in their seat.  Local humorist, Todd Hunt will tickle your funny bone and take you back with stories about growing up in simpler times.  Revisit old TV shows, favorite childhood candy and cringe-worthy ads like Clorox toothpaste and candy cigarettes that promised “Just like Dad!” (Do you still have your mood ring and Barbie doll?)

This itinerary is perfect for a shorter day trip or extend it with a musical at the Marriott Theatre, overnight stay and visiting the Volo Museum the next day.  Reminisce about your first car by browsing the auto museum and visit their huge antique mall to bring a piece of the past home with you.   

Suggested Dates (or you choose the date):

Retro Day - February 27

Sock Monkey Day - March 7

National Barbie Day - March 9

National Vintage Store Day - May 17

National Candy Day - November 4

National Supper Club Day - 2nd Sunday in January

Collector Car Appreciation Day - 2nd Friday in July

Lake County, Illinois, is packed with history and scenic spots that can really bring back those nostalgic feelings. From charming small towns to vintage shops and historic sites, it’s the perfect place for senior adults to revisit the past and create new memories.

For more information, contact your VLC Group Tours Manager Jayne Nordstrom, or call directly at 847-662-2700. Continue here to return to the Group Tours Itinerary page.