Back in the day when I was a kid, my granny and her children used to pay bills IN PERSON at the stores that they had credit. Several of those places reside in Oakbrook Center and it’s where my cousins and I spent a large majority of Spring and Summer vacations. Never going in any of those stores, but staying in the car while they paid bills. Thank goodness for growing up.
Now, Oakbrook Center is a place I enjoy walking around and shopping for myself, and I don’t even mind that it’s an outdoor mall. A lot of my favorite stores are there, and they are the perfect spot to shop in for those last minute holiday gifts that you need to get. Or, if you’re feeling a bit like Buddy, you can always take your very own Adventure to Santa.
Back by popular demand, Oakbrook Center and DreamWorks Animation are again teaming up to present Adventure to Santa, with this year’s narrated tour featuring the cast of Kung Fu Panda. Adventure to Santa elevates the traditional mall holiday visit by blending the latest technology with captivating stories while Kung Fu Panda and his friends guide family members on an unforgettable adventure to the North Pole to meet Santa.
Reservations can be made online at www.adventuretosanta.com with the purchase of a photo package. Adventure to Santa will kick off the holiday season on Saturday, November 5, and will be open during extended Oakbrook Center holiday hours through Saturday, December 24.
Once everyone is crossed off the holiday shopping list, guests can take a break and visit the new, state-of-the-art AMC Theatre, located on the Upper Level between Nordstrom and Sears. Featuring IMAX screens, the 12-screen cinema offers guests an upgraded film presentation and RealD® 3D capability. The theatre also offers reserved seating and plush power recliners, as well as a full menu, seat-side service and a full bar serving beer, wine and cocktails.
Creating a more relaxing holiday shopping experience, a three-level parking garage next to the new AMC Theatre will improve vehicle access. Further enhancing parking efficiency, the garage will feature a real-time digital management system that will help customers find a parking space, easing the search for a spot.
More information about holiday happenings at Oakbrook Center and exact dates will soon be available at www.oakbrookcenter.com, as well as on Facebook at www.facebook.com/OakbrookCenter, and Twitter and Instagram via @OakbrookCenter.
Oakbrook Center is located in Oak Brook, Ill., on the corner of Route 83 and Cermak Road just off of Interstates 88 and 294. The center features a unique collection of more than 160 shops and restaurants. Shopping hours are: Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For complete information, please visit www.oakbrookcenter.com or call 630/573-0700.
So, you still have enough time if you’re in the Chicagoland area – guys, I’m especially talking to you all! However, remember the real reason of the season, and make sure you smile and be nice to everyone you come in contact with. It may be a tough time of year for them. Happy Holidays!
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