The Chicago Traveler

The best place to see live local and indie bands in Chicago, the Empty Bottle is crowded, dirty, smoky, loud… everything you would expect a good rock club to be. And even though it sits right on the corner of its intersection, you may have a hard time finding it. That’s because the Empty Bottle’s sign isn’t easily recognizable from the street, so you’re better off just looking for the faded black awning that declares “Dancing” and “Friendly” over the door.
Once inside, the front room greets you with a few couches, a pinball machine, and a pool table. The venue …read more

1 Comment

My best friend and I went out last night to a small pub I had wanted to visit for a long time. It’s classic, cozy, and even haunted! The Red Lion Pub in Lincoln Park is full of Chicago history and is a must-see for history buffs and ghost-seekers.
There are several bars that line Lincoln Avenue in the neighborhood but you can’t miss the bright white sign with the red lion figure. The wood and brick building was originally built in 1882, and at the time it was on the northern edge of the city, surrounded by countryside and farms. …read more

3 Comments

When I was a little kid, I had my own “secret” space where I felt safe and where I thought no one would find me unless I wanted them to. The Hideout is appropriately named; it’s a spot where you can be among friends and listen to great music, and people not in the know will have a heck of a time finding you.
In fact, the first time I was brought here, I was so turned around, there’s no way I would’ve been able to explain to anyone where I was. A couple of young patrons on cell phones stood …read more

3 Comments