For the first time in months, I had a two-week period without leaving the Chicago area. Even with this travel hiatus, this past weekend was jam-packed.

It started when I met Svengoolie, also known as Rich Koz. Svengoolie is a legendary television host of a show featuring horror and science fiction movies. Svengoolie was making an appearance at the Barn at Arabian Knights Farm in Willowbrook, Ill.

Arabian Knights Farm, featuring three barns, 60 stalls and five acres of sprawl, is a horse lover’s dream. It also has a petting zoo and a very cool barn which hosts musical performances, theater and more. Its rustic appearance is full of character and is great for a date, a party or just hanging out.

Saturday morning, we started our day at Stacked in Oak Lawn. We shared orders of the banana bread French toast and the red velvet French toast. Both were outstanding, but the red velvet was just so unique.

We ventured to the Bridgeview Sports Dome to attend the tryouts for 2014 Chicago Bliss. The Bliss won the Legends Football League championship. These women are tough, serious football players led by coaching veteran Keith Hac. I talked to several players, including tight end Deena Fagiano and their passion for the sport was palpable and impressive. As the sport has gotten more serious, its fanbase has been growing.

After a few hours of football fun, we went to the Wheaton Haunted Halloween Flea Market. After browsing hundreds of booths, I picked up some beautiful glass bottles, vintage record albums and plenty of fresh-baked goods.

We finished the day at DC Sarnies with a meal of crab cake sliders, vegetarian ravioli and lobster bisque. My mouth is still watering as I write this. My friend described it as a higher level of comfort food. I just called it ridiculously tasty.

I spent Sunday watching football. I earned the rest, although I am not complaining about anything. I had a lot of fun and great food without leaving my home area.

— John Wroblewski, online contributor