Neighborhood News: Just in time for the Winter Olympics, Go Curling in Chicago!
Think of the sport of Curling as playing shuffleboard on ice, possibly with brooms. Or hockey with a much bigger puck. And how much fun it might be to play it in Chicago!
Originating in Scotland in the 16th century, and known as “The Roaring Game,” according to Wikipedia sources, due to the sound of the stones on the ice, Curling is a competitive and popular sport to play throughout the world.
As the world gears up for the Winter Olympics, starting on Friday, February 6 in Milano Cortina, Italy, several Chicago area spaces offer an experience for Curling’s competitive thrills and warm, cozy companionship.
Take, for example, the West Loop’s Kaiser Tiger, 1415 W. Randolph Street. The sausage, bacon, and beer bar offers curling in its backyard beer garden, by reservation only, through mid-March. You can make reservations on their website, with new slots open every Sunday and Thursday, by clicking here.
But …what if I don’t know the rules?
No problem! Kaiser Tiger provides a Curling Master on the ice with you at all times, showing you the rules, techniques, and pushing back the stones. Also, as NBC5 Chicago noted, instead of standing on the ice, guests remain on non-slip mats at the end of the rink to keep warm and to avoid injury in case players are tipsy. Players are also not given brooms and instead push the stones across the ice from one end of the rink to the other.
How Much Will It Cost?
At Kaiser Tiger, curling is $80 per lane, per 40 minutes. A maximum of four (4) guests can curl at one time, per lane.
Note: All reservations are final, and they cannot refund or change your date or times once you have booked. And don’t be late! There is no ‘grace period’ for latecomers. To make
Also: Curling reservations are not table reservations. If you want to eat before or after your match, make a table reservation separately by clicking here.
In River North at the Gwen Hotel, Upstairs at the Gwen, their rooftop bar, transforms into Gwen’s Winter Curl & Chill, 521 North Rush Street. For $25 per person, you and your friends and family have access to the curling court and firepit table for one hour, and your admission includes a featured seasonal treat!
For an ala carte charge or an add-on to your experience, the Gwen offers a variety of seasonal bites (like sweet and savory fondues) and winter-themed beverages like spiced mulled wine, boozy hot chocolate and handcrafted cocktails.
Notes: Upstairs at the Gwen advises curlers to dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes. Though their rink is artificial, the surface still may be slippery.Additionally, they gently suggest that you arrive on time to maximize the most of your one hour experience. To make reservations, click here.
At Navy Pier, Harry Caray’s Tavern, 700 E. Grand Avenue, offers Curling By The Lake through March.
Like Gwen’s Winter Curl & Chill, Harry’s rink is crafted from synthetic ice, located on their lakeside patio. They say the Polyglide surface provides “the authentic feel and performance of real ice.”
What if I don’t know how to curl?
As they say on their website,if you’re new to curling? No worries! They provide simple, step-by-step instructions, making it easy and fun for everyone.
How to Reserve Time at Curling by the Lake
They have several packages available for Curling at Harry Caray’s Navy Pier. You can reserve the Curling Rink + Igloo for 90 minutes for up to eight persons for $100. Another package offered is the Lakefront Lodge + Curling + Igloo for 2 hours, 30 minutes, priced at $225. The cabin-themed Lodge features a cozy fireplace and leather seating. Harry Caray’s full menu is available at the lodge or igloo for an additional charge. To reserve, click here.
Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago
