Wandering through the boutiques that make up LuxeHome (website), on the first floor of Chicago’s Merchandise Mart, you didn’t know what you’d find. Tucked away in model bathrooms, kitchens with Wi-Fi ready refrigerators, and next to paint...
Brookfield Zoo is your portal to a world that previously seemed untouchable – especially when living in the midwest. Brookfield Zoo has been offering the chance to connect with wildlife on a much more intimate level since 1934. Their vast selection of attractions,...
Great Lakes Tattoo is taking everything that they’ve come to not fancy about mainstream tattoo conventions and proceeding to do the opposite. GLT’s owner Nick Colella commented: “I feel that present-day tattooing and standardized tattoo conventions have gotten so far...
If you trace history back to the late 1800’s, you may be surprised to find that there are roller derby Chicago origins. That is correct, roller derby was essentially formed in Chicago – although, it has evolved over the years. During the 1930s is when roller derby as...
Being behind the steering wheel and being able to push the pedal to the floor can be one of the most exhilarating feelings in the world. Not everyone has the means to build a racecar; luckily these four venues can get you on a track in race-prepped karts that will...
Taking a step into the New Year does not mean that you need to spend your annual salary to celebrate. Chicago New Years bashes are found on every corner at every price range. However, entertainment can be had for very little commitment from you. You can even snag a...
Filmmakers looking for an interesting setting for their television or film have long been drawn to the Second City; with a rich history, dynamic setting, and a famously cosmopolitan culture, Chicago has strong cinematic appeal across a variety of genres. Over the...
Chicago’s rich with diversity, from activities to people to food. That is why whether you are visiting or a native, a Chicago Food Tour is a phenomenal idea. Not only might you learn of a few new places to indulge in, but you are also able to taste food from many...
The city of Chicago is filled with cultural activities, famous buildings, and hot spots known to the incoming tourists and long-lived locals. But, what local wants to stand in lines and pay cover fees in their own city? From what time to go to The Bean to what day to...
With Chicago’s massive and ever-growing craft beer scene, it only makes sense to incorporate some of the brews into your meals. While it’s always preferred to have a beer with dinner, cooking with beer can elevate the meal so much as well. Chances are you already have...
For some, blasting across Lake Michigan on a jetski– or meeting up with those random Tinder matches that seem like there is a 91% chance that it was not them in their photos– does not quite provide the sense of adrenaline that they crave. For some, they must take to...
The spirit of Oktoberfest can be summed up into a single word– Gemütlichkeit. It essentially means being in a place that makes you happy, relaxed, social, and feel accepted. This must be why Oktoberfest revolves around beer and friends. There is no shortage of...
Let me start off defending the article title. I am aware that there is such a thing as decaf coffee. However, when I began writing this article at 6:30am after pulling an all nighter, decaf was the furthest thing from my mind. Without further ado. Coffee Fest Chicago...
For years, Rush Street and Division Street in Chicago’s swanky Gold Coast neighborhood has been a popular hangout for all sorts of crowds, especially on the weekends. On any given night, you can count on plenty of partying alongside college kids, bachelor and...
Disc Golf remains somewhat of a niche sport. It has definitely grown in popularity over the years and professional series do exist, but there is still a good amount of people who have never played it or don’t know much about it. Fortunately, for the people that do...
I’ve never been to a spa before. The closest I’ve been to a spa is the one I walk by nearly every day that has a picture of an older man hitting another man with a tree branch. Fortunately, my experience at the spa at dana was nothing like that unsettling image. As I...
Dinner and show has been a classic night out since the dawn of time, but the dinner theater has fallen out of favor in recent history. In the 1970s nearly 150 dinner theaters thrived and played host to a number of traveling theater troupes. By the 1980s most of those...
Chicago arcades seemed to have disappeared long ago. However, if you look close enough there are still a handful in existence. They range from the traditional arcade game focus, to more expansive ones that focus on mini golf, laser tag, and bumper cars. Sometimes we...
Most of us began our thrill seeking lives with bumper cars, teacups, and baby roller coasters. You don’t always grow out of that thrill-seeking mode; you may just progress to bigger and better rides. Massive drops, high-speed loops and corkscrews are just some of the...
Summer in Chicago means lots of boats on our big, beautiful lake and long, winding river. When I have company in from out of town, be it friends or family, we often head downtown so I can show off our awesome city on a boat tour. Here are the boat companies I’ve...
Those words come across your screen, “Hey there, how would you like to meet up on Saturday?” Your heart pounds a little harder, your palms start sweating, and your mind races into a thousand different directions. After you come back down to the real world again and...
That’s right, your dog and you can now go out for drinks together. Every Tuesday, June 16th through October 6th from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m, West Town will welcome two and four-legged friends alike. Mahoney’s Pub & Grille, The Matchbox, Aberdeen Tap, and G &...
The colder months can force a lot of us into hibernation mode. We no longer have outdoor farmers markets and the beaches, but that does not mean that we must remain indoors. Chicago winter activities are some of the most enjoyable ways to spend your time in...
Chicago is one of the most amazing cities to visit during the summer months. The lakefront is a buzz with people, the streets are alive with activity, and there are some amazing festivals during the “season” that visitors and residents alike can enjoy. Top 5 Chicago...
Chicago is not only the beautiful backdrop for tourists and residents alike, it also makes the perfect scenery for some of the most popular big screen hits ever made. Check out this list: Top 10 Movies Filmed in Chicago #1 The Blues Brothers Nothing says Chicago...
It’s not required to drive hours to lakes around the state when you can go fishing in Chicago. While it may not be the same as escaping from the hustle and bustle of the city into some place a little more quiet and serene, it’ll definitely help to satisfy your need...
Of course in Chicago we haven’t had the best weather. The past couple of days haven’t been bad, but we are certainly not done with winter. So come along with me as I plan out my points of interest for the year. Some of these I have been to and really enjoyed like a...
While eating out and exploring the extensive amounts of phenomenal restaurants in Chicago is insanely enjoyable– there is perhaps a better way to try new cuisine; cook it for yourself. There are a good amount of options for cooking classes in Chicago. They range from...
Going above and beyond to see sights is not necessarily just a figure of speech. Actually lifting off of the ground to experience aerial sightseeing Chicago, whether that be via hot air balloon or a helicopter– it will put the scale of Chicago into an entirely new...
The winter months can often be pretty brutal in Chicago. Many days are spent hibernating rather than enjoying everything that the city has to offer. When April and May finally make their way around again, everyone is surprised that they did not freeze to death and...
I have a soft spot for live trivia. It’s something that my brother and I try to do on a weekly basis- sometimes as teammates, sometimes foes to see who has to buy the round. With busy schedules, it doesn’t always line up on the same day every week. Fortunately, every...
Divvy Review, From a Traveler’s Perspective: The streets are crowded and parking is expensive. Owning a vehicle in the heart of downtown Chicago is not always the most convenient thing. Public transportation and taxis are great, but sometimes being outside is...
Unless you’re living under a rock, if you’re in Chicago, you know the Stanley Cup Playoffs are going on. And if you want to head out to cheer your Blackhawks on, check out one (or more) of our favorite places to watch the hockey games. 1. Emerald Loop. This downtown...
Some traditions require you to sit in the exact same spot on your couch if you want your team to trump the competition’ others require one of the Chicago sports bars packed with familiar colors. Many bars are equipped with NFL Sunday Ticket, which will expand...
Fall and winter are great times of the year in Chicago, whether you are a resident or a tourist planning a trip. Cooler weather in Fall is ideal in Chicago, not too hot or too cold, and less humid. Temperatures range from the 40s to around the mid-seventies, so its...
In this large city, there are plenty of opportunities for Chicago photography. You may be an enthusiast, professional, or maybe you just really enjoy looking at photographs. Keep in mind, there are a handful of great options for galleries, shops, and schools – but the...
Chicago is dubbed “Blues Capital of the World” and even has the largest in the world Blues festival held every summer for three days to back up its claim. There are many Chicago venues that keep this music genre alive. However, which ones have the best atmosphere,...
Riot Fest is perhaps the oddest duck of the major Chicago summer music festivals. It feels something like a combination of Pitchfork, early 90s Lollapalooza, Warped Tour, and the Gathering of the Juggalos– thanks to its diverse, often random, lineup and collection of...
Chicago is an epicenter of the music scene in this day and age. Any band worth their salt knows that if they’re going on a nationwide tour they need to get to the Windy City at least once. Chicagoans are a diverse musical crowd and there are plenty of places...
Yoga has been growing in popularity immensely over the last handful of years, especially. With many people seeking it out solely as a form of exercise, there are many studios opening that also treat it as exercise, rather than the classical form of yoga which involves...
Humana to present healthy mocktail challenge featuring WXRT DJ Mary Dixon and ‘Check, Please!’ host Catherine De Orio on July 9 Health and well-being company Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM) will showcase its largest ever list of healthy food items through its signature Humana...
The Chicago Air and Water Show is a magnificent spectacle that takes to the skies and lake. I still remember being a young lad and looking up in amazement as planes seemed to perform impossible stunts. My infatuation with aircrafts has slightly lessened into my old...
Halloween is a time that many people look forward to each year. It is a reason to dress up in ridiculous costumes, get together with friends and enjoy themselves. For others, it is a time for family– and obtaining an absurd amount of candy in the traditional form of...
If you closely skim this article, you may notice that it is listed under the Entertainment category. That is because Jeppson’s Malort is not traditionally used for any other reason than as a tool to make your friends cringe (and potentially vomit) while everyone else...
Experiencing a Chicago Christmas season can almost be a surreal experience. The city is swept with Christmas decorations and the sounds of the holiday. Plus, a white Christmas is almost always guaranteed. The spirit of the season takes many forms in Chicago. There are...
Gambling is still not permitted in the city of Chicago, but you’d don’t have to go to a seedy backroom controlled by the mafia if you’re looking to get in on some Vegas action. There are many casinos not far from the city these days; here are a few...
Sure, Chicago has the Cubs and the Sox, but there are plenty of minor league teams spread out across the Chicagoland area. Going to see a minor league game is a cheap way to spend a summer day, and doesn’t involve the hassle of commuting downtown. Minor league...
The search for the best chicken wing is a never ending journey for wing connoisseurs. Once you think, for that brief second, that you have found the best wings and your appetite is suddenly satisfied in each and every way you are wrong. With the sudden realization...
Taking a road trip to Chicago or just trying decide how to spend your lazy days of summer? Chicago is a popular place to visit when the weather gets warm, but whether you’re familiar with the area or are a first time visitor, be careful when driving into and around...
I’ve been traveling outside of Chicago quite a bit lately. That is precisely why I felt the need to tap back into the city a little when I returned from my hiatus in December. I’m that guy that orders friends a shot of Malort if they’ve never had it before– heck, I...