Explore every episode of the podcast On the Map

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Shari Black, CEO of the Wisconsin State Fair, about this year’s State Fair, going on Thursday August 6 through Sunday August 16th. Visit wistatefair.com for more information.

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier welcomes Mike Siegel, Director of Innovation at Goose Island Beer Co., for an exclusive first look at this fall’s highly anticipated Bourbon County Brand Stout lineup. They preview this year’s barrel-aged variants, including Tiramisu Cask Finish, Apple Crisp Stout, Pineapple, Barleywine, and Rye, while exploring the inspiration, brewing innovation, and craftsmanship […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Kevin Ervin, longtime proprietor of Franks Diner in Kenosha, Wisconsin, as the iconic 100-year-old railcar diner marks the end of an era. Kevin reflects on nearly 25 years of ownership, made-from-scratch menu favorites, and the diner’s rich history as the oldest continuously operating lunch car diner. With stories of […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier celebrates 100 years of a Chicago classic with Lynn Sapp, third-generation owner of the Original Rainbow Cone. They dive into the family-run business’s roots dating back to 1926, the story behind its iconic five-flavor stacked cone, and how a partnership with Buona has expanded the brand across all of Chicagoland. Lynn […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier welcomes Scott Dehn, proprietor of the McHenry Outdoor Theater, the only drive in movie theater in Chicagoland, to celebrate 75 years of providing excellent cinemagoing experiences to travelers from near and far. Scott also previews their throwback season starting with a John Hughes triple feature, Cars and Talladega Nights, Jurassic Park, and […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Cody Walker, the founder of Fuelfest and brother of the late Paul Walker, to discuss Fuelfest’s return to Bridgeview, IL on July 18th. For more info, visit https://fuelfest.com/chicago

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Jackie Cahan, the treasurer and Board of Directors member with the River North Residents Association, to detail the Taste of River North ​Friday and Saturday, July 17th &18th on Wells Street and Ontario St in Chicago. For details, please visit https://www.tasteofrivernorth.com/

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Ben justice, Co-Founder of The Illinois Vintage Fest, with over 170+ vendors this year making it the BIGGEST event to date! Vendors will be selling a large selection of vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, collectibles, and many other unique items. For more info, head over to https://navypier.org/pier-events/illinois-vintage-fest/

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Tom Hirsig, CEO of Cheyenne Frontier Days, which is currently running through July 26th. Tom elaborates on the festival’s heart-pounding rodeo action, the unforgettable night shows, and the rich experience of Western culture. For more information, visit https://cfdrodeo.com/

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Staci Scheurenbrand, Executive Director/CEO of The National Balloon Classic, which is currently running through August 8th in Indianola, Iowa. Staci lets our listeners know how to experience an unspoiled and out-of-the-ordinary destination where the whoosh of a hot air balloon is felt and heard. To learn more go to […]

WGN Radio’s On the Map host Dave Plier explores the timeless charm of classic supper clubs, featuring legendary destinations across Southeast Wisconsin and one iconic Chicago favorite. From handcrafted Old Fashioneds, fish frys and prime rib to rich history, family traditions, and unforgettable hospitality, discover why these beloved dining landmarks continue to define the classic […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Scott Ziel, Vice President of Entertainment for Milwaukee’s Summerfest, about why “the big gig” on the Lake Michigan lakefront remains the world’s largest music festival and a must‑do summer tradition for Chicagoans and beyond. Scott talks about how Summerfest has grown into 75 acres of music with a 23,000‑seat […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Camp Aramoni General Manager Stephanie Bias about why this boutique campground and event venue near Starved Rock State Park should be your next Midwestern escape. Stephanie shares how a 19th‑century brickyard was transformed by her family into 96 acres of luxury glamping with safari‑style tents, chef‑driven dining, and the […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Chief Operating Officer at Traverse City Tourism Whitney Waara about Traverse City Food & Wine happening August 19-23. Listen in while Whitney gives listeners an inside look at what they can expect when they come out to West Grand Traverse Bay in late August to try some world-class food […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Bob Prosser, owner of Ishnala Supper Club, which is celebrating 73 years! Located on Mirror Lake, Ishnala offers you the chance to unplug and take in the beautiful scenery while sipping on an Old Fashioned and eating prime rib or roast duck. For more information, visit Ishnala.com.

Dane Neal, filling in for Dave Plier, speaks with Richard Young of Young & Strange, the dynamic British illusion duo starring in the hit touring production Champions of Magic, now playing a limited summer engagement at the Studebaker Theater in Chicago. The pair discuss the global success of the show, what audiences can expect from its […]

Dane Neal, filling in for Dave Plier, speaks with Dr. Voula Saridakis, Head Curator at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry about two of its limited exhibitions open to the public that you will not want to miss. First, Dr. Saridakis talks about Crafting Character: the Costumes of Paul Tazewell, the first exhibition dedicated to the […]

Jon Hansen, filling in for Dave Plier, speaks with Kristin Armstrong, Executive Director of the Saugatuck Center for the Arts and board member of the Saugatuck Douglas Convention & Visitors Bureau, about why this destination is a favorite just 2.5 hours from Chicago. Kristin highlights CommUNITY Pride Week festivities, Broadway-caliber theater and live entertainment, and […]

Jon Hansen, filling in for Dave Plier, speaks with Sophia Serrano, Associate Curator at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures and curator of the new Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon exhibition opening on May 31. The exhibit is not only the largest exhibition ever of Marilyn Monroe’s screen-worn costumes, but features hundreds of original objects, including […]

Jon Hansen, filling in for Dave Plier, speaks with Pien Koopman, PR Manager for the Museum of Illusions, a one-of-a-kind attraction located in Downtown Chicago. With a blend of education and entertainment, this museum is where art, science, and psychology come together to spark curiosity. Pien talks about the museum inviting guests to “play outside […]

Dane Neal, filling in for Dave Plier, travels east to Indianapolis, Indiana and is joined by Clare Clark of Visit Indy, who highlights everything visitors can experience as they travel in for the Indy 500. For more information on things to do and how to plan your trip, go to visitindy.com.

Jon Hansen, filling in for Dave Plier, travels north to Anchorage, Alaska and is joined by Jack Bonney of Visit Anchorage, who highlights the city’s unique blend of urban comfort and untamed wilderness. Visitors can enjoy easy access via major flights or perhaps an Alaskan cruise and partake in unforgettable experiences like spotting moose within […]

Jon Hansen, filling in for Dave Plier, visits the legendary Galloping Ghost Arcade in Brookfield and talks with owner and founder Doc Mack who highlights how the arcade has grown into not just big, but the largest in the world with more than 1,000 games available to play. Galloping Ghost has a unique free-play model […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Shirley Walczak about Jurassic Journey, the Midwest’s largest animatronic dinosaur collection at the Waukesha County Expo Center May 8–25. With more than 60 life-sized dinos, including a 40-foot T-Rex, this prehistoric experience includes family-friendly favorites like dino rides, the Jeep off-road driving course for kids, the dino maze and […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Amy Beadle of Visit Springfield Illinois about why Springfield and the Illinois stretch of the iconic Route 66 should be at the top of your travel list during the 2026 centennial year! During their conversation, Amy highlights a packed season of Route 66-themed experiences including David Schwartz’s “The Road That […]

Arney Silverstri, owner of four iconic destinations on Lake Como, Wisconsin, joins WGN Radio’s Dave Plier to talk about the best getaways just across the border. From celebrating the warmer weather and enjoying an old fashioned, famous ribs, Friday Night Fish Fry and Prime Rib Saturdays at the century-old Mars Resort to enjoying scenic stays […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier is joined by Claudia Coffey, Emmy-Winning Journalist, host of Countdown to Derby with Claudia Coffey on Spotify and Kentucky Derby Insider with Churchill Downs Incorporated, about next week’s race, the activities, the horses, the traditions, and more.

This week on On The Map, Dave Plier welcomes WGN Radio’s very own Dave Schwan while they invite the Chair of Illinois’ Route 66 Centennial Celebration Commission, Cory Jobe, to join the show to talk about the legacy of Route 66. Listen in while Cory shares details surrounding the celebration showcasing the nation’s most iconic highway […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Bob Prosser, owner of Ishnala Supper Club, now celebrating its 73rd season on Mirror Lake. Fresh off winning the Best of the Midwest Award from Midwest Living magazine, Bob shares what’s new this year, including appetizers like duck wontons, walleye bites, and deep-fried pickle chips, along with five spirit-free elixirs. The […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Pierce Hutchings of The Chicago Hotel Collection about the 100th anniversary of the Ambassador Gold Coast, Chicago’s first boutique hotel. Once a hangout for silver-screen icons like Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, and even John F. Kennedy, the Ambassador Gold Coast and its star-studded history still shapes the […]

Jon Hansen, in for Dave Plier, takes a trip to The Big Easy for the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and is joined by Kia Robinson Hatfield, Director of Programs, Communications & Initiatives. Kia paints a vivid picture of the eight jam-packed festival days with 14 stages of music that ranges from jazz to […]

Joining Jon Hansen, in for Dave Plier, is Lyndsi Hale, Assistant Hotel Manager of Mountain Lake Lodge, the picturesque mountaintop resort in Pembroke, Virginia where much of Dirty Dancing was filmed. The property, which stood in for Kellerman’s, embraces its movie legacy while also offering a one-of-a-kind Blue Ridge getaway. Hale shares the rich 1800s […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier chats with Jason Lesniewicz from Choose Chicago about the best spots in town to celebrate Easter Sunday with a fabulous brunch or enjoy a memorable Passover dinner. Whether you’re planning a festive feast or just looking for the perfect place to relax with family and friends, Jason has all the insider tips you […]

Katie Anderson from Anderson’s Candy joins WGN Radio’s Dave Plier to share all the delicious details about their Easter goodies! From chocolate bunnies to handmade chocolate bars, learn about the perfect treats to fill your Easter baskets. Sweeten up your holiday and visit Andersonscandyshop.com for more!

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier is joined by Ward Miller, Executive Director of Preservation Chicago, to discuss the group’s annual list of Chicago’s most endangered historic structures. Among the buildings highlighted this year are the Chicago Stock Exchange Trading Room, several historic Chicago River Bridge Tender Houses, and St. Mary of the Assumption Church. You can […]

This week on On The Map, WGN Radio’s Dave Plier is joined by the team at Chicago’s #1 Irish pub Chief O’Neill’s, Siobhan, Anluan and Etain to talk about the legend of Chicago Police Chief O’Neill, the art of pouring the perfect pint of Guinness, their classic Irish cuisine, private label scotch, beer, music and […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier is joined by Peter Greenberg, travel expert and host of WGN Radio’s ‘Eye On Travel,’ to highlight the upcoming Chicago and Adventure Show. Then, Peter reveals the most peaceful international destination to visit right now, breaks down the growing competition between United Airlines and American Airlines, and shares insider travel strategies to help you book […]

Landis Beverly, general manager of Caché 310 located at 310 S. Canal St. in BMO Tower, joins WGN Radio’s Dave Plier to share details about the 1920s Paris-inspired moody, red-hued cocktail lounge opening on Valentine’s Day in Chicago’s beloved West Loop.

Wendy Snyder, sitting in for Dave Plier, welcomes Bess McCoy, St. Louis Mardi Gras Organizer, who breaks down the everything you need to know about Mardi Gras in the Midwest! Bess covers The Bud Light Grand Parade, The Mayor’s Mardi Gras Ball, the Bud Light Party tent featuring country star Chris Janson, and The Party […]

Wendy Snyder, sitting in for Dave Plier, welcomes Andrew Booth, Director of Communications for Daytona Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. Andrew covers all things Daytona 500, the twenty-three miles of beaches around the area, Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in Florida, Daytona Aquarium & Rainforest Adventure, restaurants and entertainment, and even gives Wendy […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier is joined by Kate Lieto, Vice President of Marketing for Experience Grand Rapids, to highlight winter getaways in Grand Rapids including Beer City Brewsader and Flights of Flavor passports, the dining scene, and the new 12,000-seat riverfront amphitheater opening in spring. Then, Bill Kirk, Communications Director for Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc, […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier welcomes a trio of ski and travel experts to share insider tips for hitting the slopes this winter. The conversation features Sarah Beatty from Coloradoski.com, who offers insights on Colorado’s premier ski destinations and mountain experiences; Megan Munley of Big Sky Resort in Montana, who highlights Big Sky’s world-class terrain, new […]

Jon Hansen, sitting in for Dave Plier, welcomes Craig Dorsey, local historian and Master of the Living Historians Guild of DuPage, who introduces WGN listeners to the Mayslake Peabody Estate in Oak Brook, Illinois. Located at 1717 31st St., a quarter mile west of Route 83, the Peabody Estate is a fascinating time capsule and beautifully […]

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Mark Klaus, creator of Castle Noel, “America’s largest year-round indoor Christmas entertainment attraction.” Experience 40,000 square feet of amazing installations, retail holiday windows, Christmas movie props and more! Visit castlenoel.com.

Isaac Reichman, director of corporate communications for Choose Chicago, joins WGN Radio’s Dave Plier to share great places to enjoy your holiday meal with friends, family or that special someone. ChooseChicago.com

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier sits down with Kelly Stewart Harcourt, daughter of screen legend Jimmy Stewart, to reflect on her father’s enduring legacy and to talk about the Jimmy Stewart Museum in Indiana, Pennsylvania, which celebrates his life and remarkable career.

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Paulo Villabona, new owner of Chicago’s Gale Street Inn, about the return of this beloved Jefferson Park classic. Ribs baby! Galestreetinn.com for more information.

WGN Radio’s Dave Plier is joined by Jason Sierpien of Santa’s Village to discuss their holiday drive-thru, which features over three-million synchronized lights, hot chocolate, funnel cakes, Santa photos, and more! Go to santasvillagedundee.com to learn more.

Choose Chicago’s Jason Lesniewicz joins WGN Radio’s Dave Plier to highlight the many holiday pop-up bars coming to Chicago this season, including the Bamboo Club in Wrigleyville, “8 Crazy Nights” at the Graystone Tavern, Pink Squirrel Bar, and more. Go to choosechicago.com to learn more!

Brandi Berry Benson, artistic director of the Bach & Beethoven Experience, joins WGN Radio’s Dave Plier to talk about “Twas the Week Before Christmas in Chicago,” a not-so-classical concert of carols, holiday cheer and a Chicago-themed version of the famous story. The concerts will take place Thursday, Dec. 4, at The Den Theatre and Friday, […]