PODCAST · society
On the Map
by WGN Radio
“On the Map” is a weekly travel-focused program showcasing regional, national and international tourism. Hear insights on everything from unique destinations and landmarks to resorts and places to stay to educate and excite listeners as they plan adventures near and far. Tune in as WGN puts a different destination On the Map every Friday from 6pm to 7pm.
Episodes
-
On The Map: Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns at the Chicago Botanic Garden
Dave Plier speaks with with Jodi Zombolo, Associate Vice President of Visitor Events and Programs at the Chicago Botanic Garden, as the garden’s Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns kicked off on October 7th. More than 1,000 real pumpkins lit with LED lights light up the night and guide attendees on a...
-
Head to Berghoff Restaurant for Oktoberfest!
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Pete Berghoff of the Berghoff Restaurant about the family business and Oktoberfest at the famed restaurant. Oktoberfest at the Berghoff is running now through October 18th.
-
Lincoln Park Zoo holding Fall Fest starting September 25th!
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Meg Hein, Senior Event Manager at Lincoln Park Zoo, to talk about Lincoln Park Zoo’s Fall Fest! Fall Fest is free and runs from September 25th to November 1st. For more information, visit lpzoo.org/event/fall-fest/.
-
Oktoberfest happening this weekend at Goebbert’s
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks to Jacob Goebbert, owner of Goebbert’s Farm, to talk about what Goebbert’s is doing to celebrate Oktoberfest this weekend! Jacob shares food, kid-friendly events, fall activities, and more!
-
On the Map: Ludington’s Lake Michigan steamship adventure and late summer sandy beaches
WGN Radio’s Jon Hansen, filling in for Dave Plier, talks with Brandy Miller, Executive director of Pure Ludington, about why the trip to Ludington, MI is a unique and picturesque experience on Lake Michigan. Brandy shares with Jon ways to enjoy the late summer activities in Ludington with its...
-
Anderson’s Candy: Fair season, caramel apples and more!
Katie Anderson from Anderson’s Candy joins WGN Radio’s Dave Plier to share all the delicious details about appearances at upcoming fairs like Walworth County Fair in Elkhorn, Wisconsin and Sandwich Fair in Sandwich, Illinois. Katie also talks caramel apples, chocolates, fall favorites, and more!...
-
Cruise into history: Berwyn’s Route 66 Car Show returns for Route 66’s 100th Anniversary
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Brian Crowe, Executive Director of the Berwyn Development Corporation, about the Berwyn Route 66 Car Show celebrating 100 years of cruising down the Mother Road. Brian highlights the hundreds of vehicles lining Ogden Avenue with everything from vintage cars and...
-
The Chicago Sculpture Exhibit 25th Anniversary Celebration at The Theater on the Lake
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Pam Cullerton of the Chicago Sculpture Exhibit about the organization’s 25th Anniversary Celebration and its quarter-century of bringing public art to Chicago neighborhoods. Pam shares how the exhibit has connected artists, civic leaders, collectors, and…
more -
On the Map: Exploring iconic TV homes, The Brady Bunch house with Barry ‘Greg Brady’ Williams and owner Tina Trahan
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Barry Williams, who played Greg Brady on “The Brady Bunch”, and Tina Trahan, owner of the iconic Brady Bunch house in Studio City, California. First, Barry reflects on the enduring appeal of the beloved sitcom and why it still matters to audiences today. He…
more -
On the Map: Exploring iconic TV homes, stay at The Mary Tyler Moore House in Minneapolis
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Jessica Barrett, founder of Bigger Picture Solutions to talk all about The Mary Tyler Moore House, the iconic Victorian home featured on The Mary Tyler Moore Show overlooking Lake Calhoun in Minneapolis, one of the most recognizable television exteriors of the...
-
On the Map: The Roxbury Hotel with TV themed rooms, Jeannie, Bewitched, Star Trek, Partridge Family, more
WGN Radio’s Dave Plier talks with Charles Doole, general manager of The Roxbury Experience, about the imaginative, pop-culture-inspired accommodations originally created by Broadway stage designers. Charles explains how the property’s 43 individually themed rooms and suites turn an overnight stay...
-
Art, Beer and Big City Energy in Grand Rapids
WGN Radio’s Jon Hansen, filling in for Dave Plier, talks with Kate Lieto, Vice President of Marketing for Experience Grand Rapids, about why Grand Rapids, Michigan is the easiest and more exciting weekend getaway from Chicagoland. Kate shares with Jon the latest updates on the restoration project...
-
Sturgis roars to life again: Inside the 86th annual motorcycle rally
Dane Neal, filling in for Dave Plier, welcomes El Bandido Yankee NHRA Crew Chief Scott Hamilton to talk about the 86th annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. He shares why the Black Hills gathering is more than motorcycles and major concerts highlighting the charitable impact it brings across South...
-
Wind Creek Chicago Southland: A new stay-and-play escape
Kathy Amos of Wind Creek Chicago Southland joins Dane Neal, filling in for Dave Plier, to share what makes the South Suburbs’ new casino resort a destination for a night out or a full staycation. With 1,400 slot machines, nearly one hundred table games, a spa, over 200 rooms and suites, and ALTO…
more -
The 175th Wisconsin State Fair celebrating agriculture, entertainment, and the Fair-aschino Cherry Cream Puff!
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.
-
Goose Island’s Bourbon County Preview: Tiramisu Cask Finish, Apple Crisp Stout, Pineapple Barleywine & Rye
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…
more -
End of an era at Franks Diner in Kenosha
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...
-
The Original Rainbow Cone celebrates 100 years
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...
-
The McHenry Outdoor Theater celebrates 75 years of cinema!
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…
more -
FuelFest returns to Chicagoland at Seat Geek Stadium
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
-
On The Map: The Taste of River North
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...
-
Navy Pier’s Festival Hall hosts the Illinois Vintage Fest
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,...
-
On The Map: Cheyenne Frontier Days
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...
-
Skilled pilots from around the world, roaring burners, and the National Balloon Classic
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...
-
On the Map: Exploring the American supper club
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...
-
Inside Milwaukee’s Summerfest 2026
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…
more -
Camp Aramoni: Where nature meets luxury
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...
-
A Taste of Traverse City: The Food & Wine Festival Experience
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...
-
Wisconsin’s Most Iconic Supper Club: Inside the Magic of Ishnala on Mirror Lake
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,...
-
Champions of Magic dazzles the Studebaker Theater
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...
-
The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry: From Oz to the Multiverse
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...
-
Visit Saugatuck/Douglas: The Art Coast of Michigan
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...
-
Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon at The Academy Museum
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...
-
Art, Science, and Curiosity: Inside Chicago’s Museum of Illusions
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...
-
Indianapolis, Indiana: Full throttle
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.
-
Anchorage, Alaska: Your next unforgettable getaway
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...
-
Galloping Ghost: Step inside the world’s largest arcade
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...
-
Jurassic Journey: Walk among 60 life-sized dinosaurs in Waukesha
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…
more -
Visit Springfield Illinois: Your gateway to Route 66’s Centennial
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...
-
The Ultimate Escape: Lake Como Wisconsin’s Mars Resort, French Country Inn, The Getaway, Lakeside Coffee
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...
-
On the Map: Previewing the 152nd Kentucky Derby with Claudia Coffey
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.
-
On the Map: The Route 66 Centennial is here: Celebrate the nation’s most iconic highway with Illinois’ Route 66 Centennial Celebration Commission
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...
-
Ishnala Supper Club, Best of the Midwest on Mirror Lake celebrating 73 seasons
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...
-
Ambassador Gold Coast turns 100 in true Hollywood style
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...
-
How the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival turns first-time visitors into honorary locals
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...
-
Inside the real Kellerman’s: Mountain Lake Lodge is the premiere ‘Dirty Dancing’ destination
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...
-
Choose Chicago’s best Easter brunches and Passover dinners: Top spots to celebrate
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…
more -
Fill your Easter basket with Anderson’s Candy’s sweet treats
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...
-
On the Map: Preservation Chicago’s most endangered historic buildings
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...
-
St. Patrick’s Day the Chicago Way: Chief O’Neill’s Pub & The Spirit of Teeling Whiskey, The 27th Chicago Irish Film Festival
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,...
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
“On the Map” is a weekly travel-focused program showcasing regional, national and international tourism. Hear insights on everything from unique destinations and landmarks to resorts and places to stay to educate and excite listeners as they plan adventures near and far. Tune in as WGN puts a different destination On the Map every Friday from 6pm to 7pm.
HOSTED BY
WGN Radio
Loading similar podcasts...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does On the Map have?
On the Map currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is On the Map about?
“On the Map” is a weekly travel-focused program showcasing regional, national and international tourism. Hear insights on everything from unique destinations and landmarks to resorts and places to stay to educate and excite listeners as they plan adventures near and far. Tune in as WGN puts a...
How often does On the Map release new episodes?
On the Map has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to On the Map?
You can listen to On the Map on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts On the Map?
On the Map is created and hosted by WGN Radio.
URL copied to clipboard!