North Side Neighborhoods
NORTHCENTER
Northcenter is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood providing a hub of commercial activity that stems from retailers, restaurants, and many service-oriented businesses. In fact, more traffic flows through the middle of Northcenter (where Lincoln Avenue, Irving Park Road and Damen Avenue meet) than most any intersection in Chicago. Stop by for the annual Ribfest June 8 and 9, on Lincoln Ave. between Irving Park Rd. and Warner Ave. It runs from noon to 10 p.m. both days.
The history and heritage of Northcenter is just as rich and diverse as its stores and restaurants. The neighborhood is deeply rooted in German, Irish, Polish, Romanian, Russian, Swedish, Adriatic, Hispanic and Asian cultures. The Northcenter community’s appeal is that of a small-town feel within the city, where families of all varieties have enjoyed living and working for generations. Northcenter’s blend of retail, service, manufacturing, art, theater, and technology offers residents true quality of life.
GOLD COAST/NEAR NORTH
Home to many of the city's movers and shakers as well as landmarks like the Chicago Water Tower and the giant John Hancock Center, the Gold Coast blossoms up from the Streeterville and River North areas along the Chicago River. It's anchored on the south by N. Michigan Ave.'s "Magnificent Mile" and Oak St. shopping areas and hugs the Lake Michigan shoreline and its famous Oak St. Beach up to North Ave. "The Gardens of Chicago's Magnificent Mile" is a self-guided tour; call (312) 409-5560 or visit themagnificentmile.com. The area is also home to Rush and Division streets' watering holes and restaurants, as well as the historic row houses of the Astor Street Historic District. History and modernity are married in this neighborhood, from the gracious Drake Hotel to the Museum of Contemporary Art. The Dearborn Garden Walk and Heritage Festival, held July 20 from noon to 5 p.m., gives visitors a chance to tour this neighborhood's elegant streets.
LAKE VIEW
North of Lincoln Park, Lake View is more than Wrigley Field and the Chicago Cubs, though it's hard to imagine summer without them. A heritage of its immigrant past, a wide selection of culinary delights — from North African to Thai — can be experienced in Lake View's many restaurants. Belmont Ave. is popular for its informal night life and theaters. The Music Box revival movie theater and Mercury and Athenaeum theaters anchor the N. Southport portion of the neighborhood. Its Halsted St. area is known as "Boys Town" because of its large gay population and numerous gay clubs. Lake View is ground-zero for street festivals, from the Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest, held June 2 and 3, to Retro on Roscoe, Aug. 4 and 5.
LINCOLN PARK
The gracious, historic Lincoln Park neighborhood draws its name from the beautiful lakefront park, once the city's cemetery, that now includes the Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago Historical Society, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, and Lincoln Park Conservatory. The neighborhood's landmark, architecturally interesting townhouses and brownstones were mostly built after the Great Fire of 1871. DePaul University, the nation's largest Catholic school, nurtures the neighborhood's "life of the mind," while its many off-Loop theaters — including the Tony Award-winning Steppenwolf and Victory Gardens — provide its cultural backbone. Lincoln Park is also home to many of the city's fine restaurants, happening clubs, and charming stores. It is, indeed, a shopper's paradise, from Armitage Avenue's unique boutiques to the Clybourn Corridor's home and garden superstores. During the Lincoln Park Art Faire, Sept. 15 and 16, visitors will flock to 2045 N. Lincoln Park West.
LINCOLN SQUARE
A standing sculpture of Abraham Lincoln at Lawrence Ave. gazes south down Lincoln Ave., the heart of the North Side's old German neighborhood which retains many landmark German businesses and preserves "a Touch of Europe" in its other shops and restaurants. At the heart of the neighborhood is the Lincoln Square mall, anchored by Giddings Plaza, one of the city's most charming outdoor spots. At Leland and Lincoln avenues there is a beautiful, large mural paying homage to Germany, painted by Lothar Speer and local students. Farther south along Lincoln Ave. are the performance and teaching home of the Old Town School of Folk Music as well as the popular Sulzer Regional Library. The annual German American Fest, Sept. 5-7, brings the old country to life with brass "oompah" bands, fresh pretzels, and, of course, plenty of beer.
RAVENSWOOD
Straddling north-south Ravenswood Ave., this "unofficial" neighborhood is nestled amongst, and shares portions of, the Lincoln Square, Uptown, and Edgewater neighborhoods. The housing mix includes apartment buildings and an amazing array of Victorian single-family homes, while businesses thrive in a long-time manufacturing corridor along Ravenswood Ave. and the Chicago Northwestern Railroad. The community's love of nature is evident in its large and fragrant gardens.
OLD TOWN
Though considered part of Lincoln Park, Old Town has its own unique identity. The N. Wells St. and North Ave. shopping and dining areas are its heart. During the 1960s and 1970s it was a popular place for the city's "hippies," and it has long had a strong artistic bent that lives on in the Old Town Art Fair. The Second City improvisational theater — where John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, and other stars of "Saturday Night Live" got their start — thrives on Wells St. The Old Town Art Fair is one of the oldest such fairs in the nation. Head to Menomonee, Lincoln Park West, Wisconsin & Orleans streets from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 9 and 10 for
he Fair.
UPTOWN
Long a port of entry for diverse immigrant groups, most recently for Southeast Asians, Uptown was once a neighborhood of great gentility and one of the city's entertainment centers. Its Broadway/ Lawrence Ave. intersection, with the Green Mill lounge, the Riviera, the Aragon Ballroom and the historic but idle Uptown Theatre, shows promise as a renewed entertainment district. Along Argyle St. and nearby portions of Broadway you'll find a host of Asian restaurants and shops. The neighborhood's diversity — in food, music and more — will be on display during the annual Uptown Summerfest, held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. August 2 at Truman College, 1145 W. Wilson Ave.
WICKER PARK/BUCKTOWN
Here's the neighborhood where great writers like Nelson Algren and Saul Bellow once walked. In recent years it's been a "hot" artistic neighborhood, yet a walk through the community's historic district — roughly surrounding Damen Ave., between North Ave. and Augusta Blvd. — offers a peek at Victorian mansions built in the late 1800s. The six-cornered intersection of Damen, North, and Milwaukee avenues offers a mix of trendy and upscale bars, clubs, restaurants and shopping. The intersection also features the historic Flat Iron Building, which now serves as home to local artists and actors.
ANDERSONVILLE
Originally a Swedish neighborhood, Andersonville preserves those influences in its Swedish American Museum, restaurants, and delicatessens, testimony to one of the city's true "melting pots." Now Clark St., which runs up its center from Lawrence to Bryn Mawr avenues, is the site of restaurants of a dozen different ethnicities, including several excellent Middle Eastern eateries and groceries. The annual Midsommarfest, June 11 and 12, is a great opportunity to walk this diverse neighborhood. Drop by 5200 N. Clark St. around 11 a.m. and soak up the fun until 10 p.m.!
PARADES & FREE CITY FESTIVALS
MAY
Memorial Day Parade
May 24
State from Wacker to Van Buren
Start Time: noon
(312) 744-3315
Chicago Turkish Fest
May 28-31
Daley Plaza50 W. Washington St.
10 a.m.-6 p.m.
(312) 744-3315
chicagoturkishfestival.org
JUNE
Chicago Gospel
Music Festival
May 30 to June 1
Millennium Park
May 30; 6 - 9:30 p.m.
May 31; 5 - 9:30 p.m.
June 1; 4:40 - 9:30 p.m.
(312) 744-3315
Chicago Blues Festival
June 5-8
Grant Park
11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.
(312) 744-3315
Puerto Rican Parade
June 14
Columbus from Balbo to Monroe
Start Time: Noon
(773) 292-1414
Family Christian Parade
June 21
Columbus from Balbo to Monroe
Start time: Noon.
Gay & Lesbian Pride Parade
June 29
Halsted/Belmont to Broadway, south on Broadway to Diversey, east on Diversey to Cannon Drive
Start Time: noon
Richard Pfeiffer
(773) 348-8243
Taste of Chicago
June 27 to July 6
Grant Park
11 a.m.-about 9 p.m.
(312) 744-3315
Race to Taste
5k Run & 2-mile walk
June 29
Location: Columbus & Balbo
Start Time: 8 a.m.
(312) 744-3315
JULY
Independence Day
Fireworks Spectacular
July 3 & 4
Lakefront (view fireworks from both sides of lakefront)
Concert begins at 7:30 p.m.
Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.
(312) 744-3315
Mayor's Cup
Soccer Tournament
July 12 & 13
Montrose and Lake Shore Drive
9 a.m.-6 p.m.
(312) 744-3315
Disability Pride Parade
July 26
Clark from Van Buren to Washington
Start time: noon
Chicago Outdoor
Film Festival
July 15-Aug. 26
(Tuesday nights)
Butler Field in Grant Park at Lake Shore Drive and Monroe
Venetian Night Boat Parade and Fireworks
July 26
Along Lake Michigan between Shedd Aquarium at Roosevelt Rd. and Chicago Yacht Club at Monroe St.
8:30 p.m.
(312) 744-3315
AUGUST
Independence of Ecuador Parade
Aug. 10
Montrose, from California to Kimball
Start Time: noon
Carlos Aguillar, (773) 267-2314
India Independence
Day Parade
Aug. 16
Devon from Western to California
Start Time: noon
(312) 593-3210
Chicago Air & Water Show
Aug. 15, 16 & 17
Aug 15; starts at 3 p.m.
Aug. 16 & 17; from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
North Avenue Beach
(312) 744-3315
Viva! Chicago Latin
Music Festival
Aug. 23 & 24
Grant Park
11 a.m.-9 p.m. both days
(312) 744-3315
Chicago Jazz Festival
Aug. 28 - Aug. 31
Grant Park & Millennium Park
11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.
(312) 744-3315
SEPTEMBER
German Von Steuben Day Parade
Sept. 6
Lincoln Ave. from Irving Park Rd. to Lawrence
Start Time: 2 p.m.
Helga Zettl, (630) 653-3018
www.germanday.com
Mexican Independence
Day Parade
Sept. 6
Columbus from Balbo to Monroe
Start Time: noon
(312) 744-3315
Central American Parade
Sept. 7
Montrose from California to Kimball
Start Time: noon
Julio Montoya, (773) 294-8437
Celtic Fest Chicago
Sept. 13 & 14
Grant Park
11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.
(312) 744-3315
Neighborhood Festivals
MAY
Lane Tech Down Memorial Lane Festival
May 23 to 26
2501 W. Addison
Noon to 10 p.m.
Chicago Antique Market
May 24 & 25
1340 W. Washington - Plumber's Hall
9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
May Fest
May 29 to June 1
4700 N. Western, 2300 W. Leland
May 29; 5 - 10 p.m.
May 30; 5 to 11 p.m.
May 31; Noon to 11 p.m.
June 1; Noon to 10 p.m.
Belmont-Sheffield
Music Festival
May 31 to June 1
On Sheffield between (3200 N.) Belmont & (3300 N.) School
May 31: Noon to 11 p.m.
June 1: Noon to 10 p.m.
Do-Division Street Fest &
Sidewalk Sale
May 31 & June 1
Division, between Damen & Leavitt
Noon to 10 p.m.
JUNE
Art Therapy Connection Chalk Festival
June 7
Oz Park, 2021 N. Burling St.
9:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m.
CareFair-Art Festival
June 7
4908 N. Damen
10 a.m.- 3 p.m.
Artworks on Walton
June 7 & 8
Walton St. (930 N.) from State to Dearborn
8 a.m.-9 p.m.
Printer's Row Book Fair
June 7 & 8
500 - 700 N. Dearborn
10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Ribfest:
Taste Flavor of Northcenter
June 7 & 8
From 4000 to 4128 N. Lincoln Ave.
Noon-10 p.m.
Lincoln Square Chamber
of Commerce Summer Concerts
June 12, 19, 28
4731 N. Lincoln Ave.
7 to 10 p.m.
Chicago Cares
Serve-a-thon
June 14
Grant Park
Lower Hutchinson
8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Lincoln Park Greek Festival
at St. George
June 14 & 15
2701 N. Sheffield
June 14: 4 - 10 p.m.
June 15: 1 - 10 p.m.
St. Michael Celebration
June 13-15
N. Cleveland & W. Eugenie
June 13: 5 - 10:30 p.m.
June 14: Noon to 10:30 p.m.
June 15: Noon. to 9:30 p.m.
Wrigleyville Summerfest
by Resurrection Lutheran Church
June 14
3309 N. Seminary
11 a.m. to 12 a.m.
Wells St. Art Festival
June 14 & 15
Wells St. from Division (1200N) to North (1600N)
10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Andersonville
Midsommarfest
June 14 & 15
5200-5400 N. Clark from Foster to Rascher
11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Old Town Art Fair
June 14 & 15
1763 N. North Park Ave.
10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Artists of the Wall
June 14 & 15
Lakefront 6800 North & Bench/ Wall
8 a.m. to Dusk
Artworks @ Mariano Park
June 14 & 15
Rush @ State (1100 N. State)
8 a.m.-9 p.m.
Artworks @ Water Tower
June 21 & 22
Pearson at Michigan & Chicago
8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Taste of Randolph St.
June 20 - 22
Randolph from Peoria
to Racine
June 20: 5-11 p.m.
June 21: 2-11 p.m.
June 22: 2-10 p.m.
River North Summer Fest
June 22
Erie Park
Erie St, Between Kingsbury & Larrabee
11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
32nd Annual American Spanish
Dance Festival
June 18-29
Northeastern
Illinois University Dance Studios
5500 N. St. Louis Ave.
773-442-5916
St. Josaphat Parish 19th
Annual Summerfest
June 20-22
Belden between Southport and Wayne
June 20: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
June 21: 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
June 22: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Shades of Riverview 13
June 19 - 22
2501 W. Addison
Lane Tech Parking Lot
June 19, 20: 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
June 21, 22: 1 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Close Up 2
Smooth Jazz Festival
June 20 - 22
State St. & Van Buren
Noon-10 p.m.
Chicago Summerfest
in Lincoln Park
2200 N. Clark
June 21 & 22
June 21: noon-10 p.m.
June 22: noon- 9 p.m.
River North Summerfest
June 22
Erie from Kingsbury to Larrabee, plus Erie Terraces & Erie Park at Kingsbury
11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Lincoln Park Pizza Fest
June 21 & 22
Lincoln Park; Racine between Fullerton and Belden
12 to 1 p.m.
773-868-3010
Chicago Pride Fest
June 28
Halsted at Waveland
11 a.m.- 10 p.m.
NBGC Family Fest
& Carnival
3900 N. Rockwell
June 25 - June 27: 6 - 11 p.m.
June 28 & 29: 2 - 11 p.m.
Rocks Pride Event
June 29
Montrose Harbor, Cricket Hill
11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Artworks @ Connors Park
June 28 & 29
900 N. Wabash (Delaware to Chestnut)
8 a.m.-9 p.m.
Back Lot Bash
June 28 & 29
5238 N. Clark St.
June 28: 3 - 10:30 p.m.
June 29: 2 to 9:30 p.m.
Belmont Arts and
Music Festival
June 28 & 29
Belmont from Damen to Leavitt
noon-11 p.m.
Raza Unida High and Low
June 29
3300 N. Campbell
10 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
JULY
Independence Day at History Museum
July 4; 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Museum's Uihlein Plaza
1601 N. Clark St.
Lake View Music Fest
July 5 & 6
Sheffield from Waveland to Newport
Noon-10 p.m.
Lincoln Square Chamber of Commerce
Summer Concerts
4731 N. Lincoln, Giddings Plaza
July 10, 17, 19, 24, 31
7 - 10 p.m.
Black Thai International
Arts and Crafts Fest
July 9-11
Canal & Jackson to Van Buren
9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Chicago Folk & Roots
July 12 & 13
Welles Park
4400 N. Lincoln (at Montrose)
Noon-10 p.m.
Rock Around the Block
July 12 & 13
3400-3600 N. Lincoln Ave. (at Addison)
Noon-10 p.m.
Artworks @ Mariano Park
July 12 & 13
Rush & State (1100 N. State)
8 a.m.-9 p.m.
Celebrate Clark St.Fest
July 13
6950-7100 North Clark St.
1 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Pitchfork Music Festival
July 18-20
Union Park
1501 W. Randolph
July 18: 5-10 p.m.
July 19 & 20: noon-10 p.m.
World's Largest Block Party *
July 18 & 19
700 W. Adams
(at DesPlaines)
5-10:30 p.m.
Summer on Southport
July 19 & 20
3700-2900 N. Southport Ave. (from Waveland to Byron)
July 19: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
July 20: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sheffield Garden Walk & Festival
July 19 & 20
Webster & Sheffield
noon-10 p.m.
Dearborn Garden
Walk & Heritage Festival
July 20
Dearborn & Goethe
Noon-5 p.m.
Newberry Library
Bughouse Square Debates
July 26
Washington Square Park on Walton St.
noon-4 p.m.
Chicago Antique Market
July 26 & 27
1340 W. Washington
9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Wicker Park Summer Fest
July 26 & 27
Damen from North Ave. to Schiller
Noon-11 p.m.
Taste of Lincoln Avenue
July 26 & 27
Lincoln from Fullerton to Wrightwood
Noon-10 p.m.
An Arts Adventure
July 27
Superior & State
9 a.m.-5 p.m.
AUGUST
Uptown Summer Fest
Aug 2
Truman College Mall
1145 W. Wilson Ave.
10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Artworks on Walton
Aug. 2 & 3
Walton (930 N.) from State to Dearborn
8 a.m.-9 p.m.
Retro on Roscoe
Aug. 2& 3
2000-2400 W. Roscoe (from Damen to Western)
Noon-10 p.m.
Gold Coast Art Fair
Aug. 8-10
LaSalle, Superior, Huron, Erie, Wells & Clark
Aug. 8: noon-6 p.m.
Aug. 9 & 10: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Ginza Fest in Old Town
435 N. Menomonee St.
Aug 8 -10
Aug 8: 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Aug 9: 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Aug. 10: 1:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Caribbean Fest
Jamaican Independence Day
Aug. 8 - 10
1501 W. Randolph
12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Northalsted Market Days
Aug. 9 & 10
Halsted from Belmont to Addison
11 a.m.-10 p.m.
West Fest
Aug. 9 & 10
Chicago Avenue from Damen to Wood
noon-10 p.m.
Lincoln Park Fireman's Cook-Off
Aug 16 & 17
2500 N. Clark
12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Great American Cornhole Festival
Aug 16 & 17
Horner Park
2741 W. Melrose
10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Artworks @ Mariano Park
Aug. 16 & 17
Rush & State (1100 N. State)
8 a.m.-9 p.m.
312-642-4907
Northside Summerfest
Aug. 15-17
2000-2050 W. Belle Plaine
Aug. 17: 5-10 p.m.
Aug. 18: noon-10 p.m.
Aug. 19: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
St. Demetrios of
Chicago Greekfest
Aug. 15-17
2727 W. Winona, Lincoln Square
Aug. 15: 5-12 a.m.
Aug. 16: 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.
Aug. 17: 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.
$2, 773-561-5992
Chicago Raggae Fest
Aug. 23
1501 W. Randolph
12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Ukrainian Festival
Aug. 23 & 24
Smith Park
2500 W. Grand Ave.
Noon-10 p.m.
23rd Annual Bucktown Arts Fest
Aug. 23 & 24
Oakley Ave. at Lyndale
11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Taste of Greece
Aug. 23 & 24
100-400 S. Halsted St.
Noon-11 p.m.
Whole Foods Flavorfest
Aug. 23 & 24
Jonquil Park
Wrightwood, Lincoln,
Sheffield
11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Chicago Antique Market
Aug. 30 & 31
1300 block of W. Randolph
9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Annual Stay-N-School Picnic
Union Park, 1500 W. Randolph
Aug 30
10 - 6 p.m.
SEPTEMBER
Artworks @ Mariano Park
Sept. 6 & 7
Rush at State (1100 N. State)
8 a.m.-9 p.m.
German American Festival
Sept. 5-7
Lincoln, Leland & Western
Sept. 5: 5-11 p.m.
Sept. 6: Noon-11 p.m.
Sept. 7: noon-10 p.m.
Guinness Oyster Fest
Sept. 6
Roscoe from Damen
to Leavitt
Noon-11 p.m.
Lakeview East
Fine Art Festival
Sept. 13 & 14
Broadway from Belmont to Roscoe
Sept. 13: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Sept. 14: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Wine Crush in Old Town
Sept. 13
Wells between North & Evergreen
10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Lincoln Park Art Faire
Sept. 13 & 14
2045 N. Lincoln Park West
11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Renegade Craft Fair
Sept. 13 & 14
Division from Damen to Hermitage
Noon to 10 p.m.
Winefest
Sept. 19-21
3840 N. Lincoln Ave.
Sept. 19: 5 - 10 p.m
Sept. 20: 2 - 10 p.m.
Sept. 21: 2 - 8 p.m.
Chicago Antique Market
Sept. 27 & 28
1300 block of W. Randolph
9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Oktoberfest Chicago
Sept. 26-28
3000 N. Lincoln Ave. (at Southport)
Sept. 26: 5-10 p.m.
Sept. 27: Noon-10 p.m.
Sept. 28: 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
Sights to See
American Indian Center
1630 W. Wilson Ave., (773) 275-5871. Hosts an annual pow-wow and other Native American events. www.aic-chicago.org.
Buckingham Fountain
Grant Park, Congress Parkway and Lake Shore Drive. The fountain features a water show daily, 10 a.m.-11 p.m., with major water displays every 20 minutes, and a spectacular display with lights and music every evening 9-11 p.m., through Oct. 1. (312) 742-PLAY.
Chicago Cultural Center
78 E. Washington St., open Monday through Thursday 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Friday 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. The city's old central library, with its intricate mosaics, is now home to art exhibitions, concerts, performances, lectures and more. (312) 744-6630, (312) FINE-ART (24-hour hotline), TTY (312) 744-2947.
Chicago Mercantile Exchange
20 S. Wacker Dr. Visitors' Center. Traders hedge their bets—or lose their shirts—in futures. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. (312) 930-1000. www.cme.com.
Daley Plaza
Washington and Dearborn streets, home to "the Picasso," site of political protests, farmers' markets and daily "Under the Picasso" cultural events, weekdays at noon. (312) 346-3278, TTY (312) 744-2947.
Goethe-Institute Chicago
150 N. Michigan Ave., (312) 263-0472. Offers German language classes, hosts German literary readings. www.goethe.de/ins/us/chi/enindex.htm.
Harold Washington Library Center
400 S. State St., open 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Central library features a top floor Wintergarden and many special programs daily. Free. (312) 747-4300. www.chipublib.org.
John Hancock Center Observatory
875 N. Michigan Ave., open daily, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. See the city from the renovated observatory on the 94th floor. Multi-media display, educational programs, outdoor skywalk. $10.25 adults, $8 seniors age 62 and over, $6.50 ages 5-12, free for children under 5; plus tax. Parking available in garage, (312) 751-3681. www.hancock-observatory.com.
Lincoln Park Conservatory
2400 N. Stockton Dr., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Free. Greenhouse with a lush variety of plants, seasonal flower shows and outdoor gardens. (312) 742-7736, TTY (312) 935-3718.
Lincoln Park Zoo
2200 N. Cannon Dr., grounds open daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m., buildings open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Features the Farm in the Zoo, a favorite place for kids to see and pet animals. Free. Parking on Cannon Dr. costs $14 for up to 3 hours, $16 for 3-4 hours, $20 for 4-5 hours, and $24 for more than 5 hours. (312) 742-2000. www.lpzoo.com.
Macy's
111 N. State St., daily 9 a.m.-8 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Macy's on State Street, the second largest department store in the world, is listed on the national register of historic places. Shop, dine, tour, meet, and experience a tradition for generations of Chicagoans. The city's oldest department store, formerly called Marshall Field's, is also home to the world's largest unbroken Tiffany glass mosaic. (312) 781-1000. www.visitmacyschicago.com.
Navy Pier
600 E. Grand Ave., museums, mini-golf, music, restaurants, Shakespeare and an IMAX theater. (312) 595-PIER. www.navypier.com.
New Maxwell Street Market
Sundays 7 a.m.-3 p.m., Canal St. at Roosevelt Rd. More than 500 vendors provide a taste of Chicago's bustling Maxwell St. in a new location. (312) 922-3100.
Riverwalk Gateway
400 E. Wacker Dr. (at the river's edge). Riverwalk Gateway by Ellen Lanyon tells the history of Chicago and its river. The magnificent 336-foot long wall installation consists of 16 narrative panels and 12 decorative panels.
Sears Tower Skydeck Observatory
233 S. Wacker Dr., entrance on Jackson Blvd. between Wacker Dr. and Franklin St., open daily 10 a.m.-10 p.m. April through Sept. The city's highest view, from the 103rd floor observatory. $12.95 adults, $9.50 ages 3-11, free for children under 3. (312) 875-9696. www.the-skydeck.com.
James R. Thompson Center
100 W. Randolph St. Open daily 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Worldwide attraction. State agencies and offices combined with a commercial area of shops and restaurants. This unique building also features a State of Illinois Gallery, Illinois Artisans Shop, and one of the largest collections of contemporary Illinois artworks. (312) 814-6684.
Water Tower and Pumping Station
806 N. Michigan Ave. Built in 1869, the only downtown building to survive the Great Fire of 1871. The Water Tower now houses the City Gallery, which displays Chicago-themed photographs. Free admission. Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (312) 742-0808. TTY (312) 744-2947. A tourist office and visitor information center, as well as the Lookingglass Theatre, Hot Tix, gift shop, and restaurant, can be found in the Pumping Station across the street at 163 E. Pearson, (312) 744-8783.
Wrigley Field
1060 W. Addison St. One of the nation's oldest baseball stadiums is home to the beloved Chicago Cubs. (773) 404-2827. Ninety-minute tours of Wrigley Field are offered at $25, and advance reservations are required. (800) THE-CUBS. Cubs.mlb.com.
Museums
Adler Planetarium
and Astronomy Museum
1300 S. Lake Shore Dr. Celebrating 75 years. Open seven days a week 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; first Friday, 9:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Features three floors of exhibits on astronomy, space exploration, telescopes and navigation. Featured attraction is the sky theater. Admission to museum with two sky shows is $23 adults, $19 children age 4-17, and $21 seniors age 65 and over; admission with one sky show is $19, $15, and $17 respectively. Chicago residents with ID save $1 on admission. Admission is free June 17-22, but shows do cost. For show specials, call (312) 922-STAR. adlerplanetarium.org.
Art Institute of Chicago
Michigan Ave. at Adams St., open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Ongoing exhibitions, with an especially good collection of Impressionist art. Donation is $12 for adults; $7 for students with ID, children ages 12 and over, and seniors; and free for children under 12. (Tuesday is free day.) From Memorial Day to Labor Day, enjoy Target Free Evenings on Thursday and Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. You must pay to check certain items: long umbrellas, backpacks, backpack-style baby carriers, briefcases, large handbags or shopping bags. No food or drink can be carried in. (312) 443-3600, artic.edu.
Chicago Children’s Museum
Navy Pier, 700 E. Grand Ave., open Sunday-Wednesday and Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Thursday & Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. (From June 15 to Aug. 31, Friday hours will be extended to 8 p.m.) Features more than a dozen hands-on, interactive exhibits. Admission is $8 for ages 1-59; $7 for seniors; and free for children under one. Admission is free for everyone Thursdays 5-8 p.m. Also, admission for children ages 15 and younger is free on the first Monday of each month. (Does not apply to school groups.) (312) 527-1000, chichildrensmuseum.org.
Chicago History Museum
1601 N. Clark St. Open Monday-Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Thursday 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; and Sunday noon-5 p.m. Admission is $12 adults; $10 for seniors aged 65 or older and for students aged 13-22 with ID; and free for children aged 12 or younger. Mondays feature free admission to everyone. (312) 642-4600, chicagohistory.org.
Field Museum
1400 S. Lake Shore Dr. Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Last admission at 4 p.m. Enjoy exhibits and displays of more than 15 million artifacts and specimens, including "Sue," the world's most nearly complete Tyrannosaurus Rex. Admission for Chicago residents is: Adults $10; seniors, students, and children $6. Additional exhibits are available for a higher ticket price. (312) 922-9410, TDD (312) 665-7009, fieldmuseum.org.
The Hellenic Museum
801 W. Adams St., fourth floor. Open Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; and Saturday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Regular admission is $5. (312) 655-1234. hellenicmuseum.org.
International Museum
of Surgical Science
1524 N. Lake Shore Dr. Summertime hours are Tuesday-Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Monday closed. Admission is $8 for adults, $4 for students and seniors. Guided tours take place Saturday at 2 p.m.; make a reservation at ext. 3130. (312) 642-6502, imss.org.
Latvian Community Center
and Folk Art Museum
4146 N. Elston Ave. Emphasizes textiles and ceremonial costumes. Hours 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and by appt. (773) 588-2085.
McCormick Tribune
Freedom Museum
445 N. Michigan Ave. Focus on the freedoms guaranteed by the First Amendment. See the beautiful two-story sculpture 12151791, named after the date of the First Amendment. Open Wednesday through Monday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. General admission , ages 6 and up, is $5. Children aged 5 and under are admitted free. Active military duty, Reservists, and National Guard with ID are also admitted free, as are Scout groups, registered and in uniform. (312) 222-2860. freedommuseum.us.
Mexican Fine Arts
Center Museum
1852 W. 19th St. Free. Open Tuesday-Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (312) 738-1503. mfacmchicago.org.
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 E. Chicago Ave., open Tuesday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Exhibitions of painting, sculpture, video, film, and performance created since 1945. Umbrellas, backpacks, and unwieldy items must be left in the free coat check area. The museum is completely accessible by wheelchair. General admission $10, $6 seniors and students, free for children 12 and under. Free admission on Tuesdays. (312) 280-2660. mcachicago.org.
Museum of
Contemporary Photography
600 S. Michigan Ave. within Columbia College Chicago. Open Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. Features works by national and international photographers. Free and open to the public. (312) 663-5554. mocp.org.
Peggy Notebaert
Nature Museum
2430 N. Cannon Dr. Open weekdays 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., and weekends 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Interactive nature exhibits and a butterfly haven. $7 adults, $5 seniors 60 and over as well as students 13-22, $4 children 3-12. Chicago residents receive a $1 discount on admission. Free admission on Thursdays (suggested donation of $7 per adult). Special show of Robots and Us costs an extra $3. (773) 755-5100, naturemuseum.org.
The Polish Museum
of America
984 N. Michigan Ave., is one of the largest and oldest ethnic museums in the country. Housed in an old ballroom, the museum has a permanent collection of Polish cultural and historic artifacts, and hosts a rotating series of art exhibitions. The museum is open daily 11 a.m.-4 p.m., except it's closed Thursday. Admission is $5, $4 for seniors and students, $3 for children under 12. (773) 384-3352. pma.prcua.org.
John G. Shedd Aquarium
1200 S. Lake Shore Dr. Summer hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; on Thursdays from June 21 through Aug. 30, the Aquarium will stay open until 10 p.m. The world’s largest indoor aquarium and oceanarium, with more than 6,000 freshwater and marine animals. Residents of the city of Chicago receive a 25 percent discount on admission every day. Must present valid ID. All Access pass offers the Oceanarium, Wild Reef, Lizards and the Komodo King, Amazon Rising, the Caribbean Reef, and Waters of the World. It costs $23 for adults; $16 for children ages 3-11 & seniors. However, for just the aquarium, the admission would be $8 for adults and $6 for children & seniors.
Discount Days at Shedd Aquarium feature free general admission, with admission to both the Oceanarium and Wild Reef for an additional fee. Discount Week is June 17-21. Discount days are Sept. 10, 17, and 24. With ID, teachers, active-duty military personnel, police officers, and firefighters always get free admission to the aquarium and the Oceanarium, and Wild Reef is $6.
For parking rates, call or check online. (312) 939-2438, TTY (312) 986-2302, sheddaquarium.org.
Spertus Museum
618 S. Michigan Ave. Displays historic photographs and artifacts depicting the Jewish experience. Spertus Museum has a new building which opened in the spring. Site-specific artworks, off-site exhibitions, and limited programming within the permanent exhibitions are occurring. For more information, call (312) 322-1700. spertus.edu.
Swedish American
Museum Center
5211 N. Clark St., open Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Located in Andersonville, a Swedish enclave in Chicago. The Swedish American Museum Center offers the Children's Museum of Immigration for kids aged 3-12. The museum lets children experience hands-on the perils and pleasures of leaving the old world for a new life in America: Kids swaddle a baby, cook on an old-fashioned iron stove, board a 20-foot steamer, enter a pioneer log cabin, and weave, spin and card fleece. A nominal donation is suggested for admission. (773) 728-8111, samac.org.
Ukrainian National Museum
2249 W. Superior St. Open Thursday-Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Monday-Wednesday by appt. Admission $2 per person. Known for its collection of Ukrainian Easter eggs, and thousands of artifacts. (312) 421-8020.
Tours to Take
Chicago Architecture Foundation
224 S. Michigan Ave. Bus, bike, boat and walking tours through summer. (312) 922-TOUR. An expansive schedule of tours is sponsored by the Chicago Architecture Foundation (CAF) to enhance the public's awareness and appreciation of Chicago's outstanding architectural legacy. Complete tour and event information is available on the Web site: architecture.org.
CAF Architecture River Cruise
Spotlights over 50 historic and architecturally significant sites on a 90-minute tour. Tours leave several times each day from the CAF/Mercury Cruise Line dock at the southeast corner of the Michigan Ave. bridge and Wacker Drive. $28 weekends & holidays, $26 weekdays; advance tickets recommended, call (312) 902-1500 or TicketMaster.com. Discounts available for groups of 20 or more, call (312) 922-3432, ext. 226.
CAF Highlights by Bus
Runs every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. (3.5 hours) Cost: $38 (Seniors or students $33, CAF members $31). Prepaid, nonrefundable reservations required; please call (312) 902-1500, or visit TicketMaster.com. (Walk-ins welcome if space permits.) Discover the diversity of Chicago's finest buildings on this wide-ranging odyssey. Begins at the CAF Shop & Tour Center in the Santa Fe Building, 224 S. Michigan Ave.
CAF Historic or Modern
Skyscrapers walking tour
At 10 a.m. daily; also at 3 p.m. except Wednesday which is 5:30 p.m. (This one is a Happy Hour tour which ends with a complimentary beverage.) Modern Skyscrapers walking tour at 1 p.m. daily except Friday which is 5:30 p.m. (Happy Hour Tour). Two hours each. Cost for either tour: $15, students and seniors $12 each. Begin at the CAF Shop & Tour Center in the Santa Fe Building, 224 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 922-3432.
CAF walking tours
Many different options here, from Andersonville to Streeterville. For specifics, visit architecture.org. No reservations needed. Tours go rain or shine. Cost: generally $10. Students and seniors generally $5 (CAF members free). Starting point depends on the tour you choose. (312) 922-3432.
Chicago’s First Lady
Boat tour departs from Michigan Ave. and Wacker Dr. (the southeast corner of Michigan Avenue bridge). Tickets are $26 Monday-Friday, and $28 Saturday, Sunday, and holidays. (847) 358-1330. cruisechicago.com.
Chicago From The Lake
Departs from 465 N. McClurg Ct. Architectural and historical boat tours, 90 minutes each, with free Starbucks coffee, lemonade, and cookies. Tickets are $32; ages 60 and up, $30; ages 7-18, $18; ages 6 and under, free with a paying adult. (312) 527-1977. chicagoline.com.
Chicago Gray Line Tours
Palmer House Hilton, 17 E. Monroe St., bus and trolley tours of the Loop, lakefront, Hyde Park, Michigan Ave. and the Gold Coast with a friendly guide. (312) 251-3107 or (800) 621-4153. grayline.com.
Chicago Neighborhood Tours
Bus tours of the city's neighborhoods. Tours are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors/ students/ children aged 8 and up, and include refreshments. The tours are about four hours long and depart from the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St. Special interest tours are about five hours long and cost $50 for adults, and $45 for seniors/ students/ children aged 8 and up. Special interest tours include lunch. To receive a CNT brochure, call (312) 742-1190 or visit chgocitytours.com.
‘Gardens of Chicago's
Magnificent Mile’
Sponsored by the Greater North Michigan Avenue Association (GNMAA). From June 24 to Sept. 30, see numerous interpretations of urban gardening, each with explanations, and discover ways of using small spaces and ways of gardening in shaded or partly shaded areas. Pick up a copy of this self-guided tour at the concierge desk of one of the four shopping centers: The Shops of North Bridge, Chicago Place, Water Tower Place or 900 N. Michigan Ave. Shops, or call (312) 409-5560 or (312) 642-3570, or visit themagnificentmile.com.
Herb's Downtown Walking Tours
If the idea of a friendly walking — or limo — tour with an enthusiastic Chicago native as tour guide appeals to your group, check out Herb's Downtown Walking Tours and Limo Tours. Contact him for prices and details. Call (773) 404-2400 or visit herbstours.com.
LPCAI sculpture walk
The Lincoln Park Community Art Initiative enriches the 43rd Ward by publicly exhibiting the works of local talented sculptors on the streets of Lincoln Park. Take a walking tour of featured old and new sculpture. For more information, call (773) 327-9111 or visit lpcai.org.
Noble Horse
Horse–drawn carriage rides available 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., and 6 p.m.-midnight. Travel in turn of the century, handcrafted antiques that are stationed at N. Michigan Ave. (corner of Michigan and Chicago). The cost is $35 for 1/2 hour, or $70 for one hour, for up to four passengers. An additional charge applies for more than four passengers. (312) 266-7878, noblehorsechicago.com.
Odyssey Cruises
Brunch, lunch, dinner, and midnight cruises depart from Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. (866) 305-2469, odysseycruises.com.
Dining Guide
Café Selmarie
4729 N. Lincoln Ave. (in Giddings Plaza), (773) 989-5595. Known as a neighborhood favorite by many Chicagoans, Café Selmarie in Lincoln Square is a great place to meet a friend, bring family or have a special date. From May until September, the café offers alfresco dining in beautiful Giddings Plaza. The seasonal menu focuses on fresh ingredients with a wide range of choices for breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. For over 20 years, Café Selmarie has remained a prime destination for not only superb food, fine wines and beer, but also delicious baked goods and beautiful wedding cakes. Café Selmarie's hours are Monday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 8 a.m.-11 p.m.; and Sunday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. (brunch 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.). Visa and MasterCard are accepted. For more information, call (773) 989-5595, or visit cafeselmarie.com.
Celtic Crown
4301 N. Western Ave., (773) 588-1110. Dine in or carry out at this Irish public house. It delivers "a bit of Ireland" from 11 a.m. - 2 a.m. daily. A nice variety of drinks, appetizers, entrees and sandwiches, with daily specials. TV sports, pool, darts, live music; kitchen open late.
Chicago Brauhaus
4732 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 784-4444. This Lincoln Square restaurant features excellent German and American cuisine. Specialties include sauerbraten, wiener schnitzel, roast veal shank and roast duck. Great beer selection. Live entertainment nightly and lots of Gemütlichkeit! Open 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Monday-Sunday. Closed Tuesdays.
Club Lucky
1824 W. Wabansia Ave., (773) 227-2300. The flair of the forties meets the 21st century at Bucktown's most popular restaurant and unique cocktail lounge. Generous portions of traditional Italian food are served family style. Specialties include handmade pastas, chicken vesuvio, pork chops, eggplant parmesan, vegetarian antipasti and a large specials card. Try one of their famous killer martinis with hand-stuffed blue cheese olives—voted Chicago's best. Private dinners and cocktail parties are available in the Club Room. Special family menus are also available on a per person basis. Good food and fun! Outdoor patio now open. Call Club Lucky at (773) 227-2300 to book your party today.
Costello Sandwich and Sides
At two locations: 2015 W. Roscoe St., (773) 929-2323; and 4647 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 989-7788. Costello's has established itself as a neighborhood favorite. The atmosphere is cute and cozy, the food is delicious and the prices are reasonable. There are delicious oven-baked sandwiches ("crispy on the outside, melty on the inside"). Try the Tuna Grinder, Turkey Lite, Baked Falafel Wrap, and Chipotle Mac & Cheese. Specialties include Baked Caprese, Village Vegetarian and the Costello, a tasty mix of mortadella, hot cappicola and provolone baked on a crusty Italian loaf with marinated artichokes, tomato, black olives and roasted red peppers. Also unbaked sandwiches, delicious salads and sides, and hearty homemade soups. Owners Lisa Costello and brother Chris bring a personal touch to everything they do. Eat in, alfresco, carry-out and delivery. Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Fireside Restaurant & Lounge
5739 N. Ravenswood Ave., (773) 878-5942. From traditional to unique, Cajun to Italian, vegetarian to hand-cut filets, Fireside offers something for everyone at a moderate price. The multilevel outdoor patio offers late-night service and a retractable awning system. Voted No. 1 Bloody Mary Bar in Chicago!
Four Farthings Tavern and Grill
2060 N. Cleveland Ave., (773) 935-2060. Specializing in USDA Choice steaks and fresh fish. Enjoy outdoor dining in a setting with fresh flowers and bright yellow sun umbrellas. All meals, wines and cocktails served in the dining room and saloon are also served alfresco daily.
Glascott's Saloon
2158 N. Halsted St., (773) 281-1205. A Lincoln Park favorite since 1884, this tavern offers tasty beverages, dancing and socializing in a unique setting. Private rooms available for parties. Summer fun starts here.
The Huettenbar
4721 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 561-2507. The only open-air bar in Lincoln Square, the Huettenbar offers a great selection of imported beers, wines and liqueurs. Open Monday-Sunday until 2 a.m.
John Barleycorn, to say John Barleycorn is only a saloon is to say that the Great Wall of China is only a fence! Several saloons came and went in this building until a Dutchman purchased the property in the early 1960's, calling it the John Barleycorn Memorial Pub. The eccentric Dutch proprietor collected the artifacts, handmade ships and paintings displayed around the room. Some of the ships date as far back as the late 1800's. Many of the pieces were obtained while he was visiting such places as Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Hong Kong, and Europe. Over the years, many interesting patrons have quaffed a brew here. John Dilinger was a frequent patron. The quiet, well-dressed bank robber was more than generous with his booty. It seems he used to enjoy "buying the house a round.”
Lincoln Park located at 658 West Belden Ave., Phone: 773.348.8899. Hours: Monday-Friday: 5:00pm-2:00am, Saturday: 10:00am-3:00am, Sunday: 9:00am-2:00am
Wrigleyville located at 3524 N. Clark St., Phone: 773.549.6000. Hours: Monday-Tuesday: Closed, Wednesday-Friday: 5:00pm-2:00am, Saturday: 10:00am-3:00am, Sunday: 2 hours prior to Bears games.
Jury's Food & Drink
4337 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 935-2255. This classy neighborhood restaurant and bar also offers outdoor dining on the sidewalk cafe or the beautiful patio out back. Jury's cheeseburgers have been featured on WBBM Channel 2 as "Best of Chicago #1." In addition, Jury's was featured in the National Geographic book "The Ten Best of Everything" as the #5 Hamburger. TimeOut magazine's issue of the Top 55 burgers lists Jury's as #5 Classic Burger. Jury's just received a Gold Plate Award from the Best Independent Restaurant Association.
Open for lunch and dinner, Jury's offers much more than just burgers. They offer a great salad selection, pasta, seafood, barbecue ribs and aged steaks.
There are specials every day, and they boast a wine list of over 50 different wines by the bottle, pretty impressive for a little neighborhood joint. Special value wine list on Saturday and Sunday. Monday night two for one for up $10, Tuesday —great selections for $12 including a $12 bottle of wine, Wednesday is Burger Day with 1/2 pound burgers for $5.95, and Thursday is Steak Night with all steaks on sale. Friday's special is Lake Perch. Make Jury's one of your stops this summer.
Kincade’s
950 W. Armitage Ave., (773) 348-0010, and Kelsey’s, 2265 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 348-1666. These two popular Lincoln Park hangouts are local favorites. They specialize in bachelor/bachelorette parties. Book summer parties now. They run party buses to Bears games and the Tweeter Theater for Jimmy Buffett and Dave Mathews; $10 fee includes transportation to and from show, refreshments on bus.
Kingston Mines
2548 N. Halsted St., (773) 477-4646. Known around the world and now celebrating their 36th anniversary. "Ain't Nothing but the Blues," seven nights a week. Two stages open 8 p.m., show time 9:30 p.m.; 'til 4 a.m./ 5 a.m. Saturdays. MC at Chicago's blues center is Frank Pellegrino. "Doc's" ribs are not to be missed!
Pat’s Pizzeria
2679 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 248-0168. Delicious thin-crust pizza, pasta, seafood, vegetarian entrées and more. Outdoor dining available. Take out, dine in and delivery. Free parking.
Pauline's
1754 W. Balmoral Ave. at Ravenswood Ave., (773) 561-8573. The home of "simply good food," Pauline's offers hearty, homestyle breakfast all day, belt-busting sandwiches, soups and salads with daily specials, and delectable ice cream. Eat indoors or out on the pleasant Balmoral terrace. The service is friendly and the atmosphere is upbeat. Open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day.
Planet Sub
734 W. Fullerton Ave., (773) 404-PSUB (7782). Deli classics, premium vegetarian products, and tasty gourmet creations. Home of the famous Yello Sub. "We make our bread from scratch daily." Delivery available. www.planetsub.com.
Take Five
3747 N. Southport Ave., (773) 871-5555. Enjoy the food, the drinks, and the fun at Take Five. This sports bar features l8 television sets including two gigantic screens. All complete meals and hors d’oeuvres are only $5. There is a pool table in the rear of this large restaurant, and seating capacity is l56 people. However, for private parties, 275 people can be accommodated. There is a sidewalk café when weather permits, and brunch is available. Although there is limited street parking available, patrons can park for $l0 at the nearby Blaine School lot.
Tom and Wendee's
Homemade Italian Ice
1136 W. Armitage Ave., (773) 327-2885. Make summertime fun extra-special with a delicious, refreshing treat from Tom & Wendee's. Their homemade Italian ices are made on the premises from all natural fruit juices and purees, and you can choose from 16 rich, luscious flavors including lemon, strawberry lemonade, pina colada, orange-tangerine, black raspberry, and banana strawberry.
Don't pass up a chance to taste their fat free chocolate ices either. You can enjoy your gourmet treat in their air-conditioned store or bask in their sunny outside seating. Open noon-10 p.m. seven days a week.
Twisted Lizard
1964 N. Sheffield Ave., (773) 929-1414. Mondays: Half-price appetizers, $3 Pacifico bottles, $5 off margarita pitchers. Tuesdays: Half-price fajitas, $2.50 margaritas, $3 Carta Blanca or Bohemia bottles. Wednesdays: Half-price tacos, $3 Negra Modelo or Modelo Especial bottles. Thursdays: Half-price queso fundito, $2.50 margaritas, $3 Carta Blanca or Bohemia bottles. Sundays: $11.95 brunch, $3 Corona Light bottles, $3 margaritas. Open Monday-Thursday 4-10 p.m., Friday-Sunday 11 a.m.-midnight. thetwistedlizard.com.
Shops to Browse
Cardinal Wines and Spirits
4905 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 561-0270. "Lincoln Square's beer center," offering over 200 types of beer along with a wide selection of fine wines, cigars and kegs. Free parking. (Visit the tap room, it's great!)
Gallimaufry Gallery
4712 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 728-3600. This delightful shop is the place to find handcrafted treasures since 1975. Jewelry, kaleidoscopes, frames, incense, art glass, candles, jewelry boxes, pottery, vases, toys and more.
Kozy Cyclery
Four locations: Downtown, 601 S. LaSalle at Harrison - (312) 360-0020; Lincoln Park, 1451 W. Webster at Clybourn - (773) 528-2700; Near North 219 W. Erie between Wells & Franklin - (312) 266-1700; and North Side, 3712 N. Halsted near Waveland - (773) 281-2263. We offer one-stop shopping! Compare four great brands: Cannondale, Giant Bicycles, Schwinn and Specialized. Choose from a wide variety of models. Test ride, accessorize and ride! No interest & no payment for six months! Our Freedom To Ride credit program is an easy way to get the bike and accessories you want right away.
International Fashions by Ingrid
4710 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 878-8382. This international women's boutique specializes in clothing imported from Europe, including sweaters, skirts and blouses.
Lincoln Park Market
2500 N. Clark St., (773) 477-9372. Offers convenient shopping by phone. Call in orders Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Same-day delivery, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Open daily.
Merz Apothecary
4716 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 989-0900. Also in Macy's, first floor, 111 N. State Street, (312) 781-4000. Merz specializes in herbal and homeopathic remedies and European toiletries. The store also offers books, nutrients and the expert service of professional registered pharmacists. You can shop online at smallflower.com.
New Balance
Clark St. and Fullerton Ave., (773) 348-1787, newbalanceCHICAGO.com. Free one hour parking validation for Belden Self Park, one block south of store, east of Clark St. Extensive selection of New Balance athletic shoes and dress/casual footwear, including New Balance running shoes, walking shoes, cross-training shoes, tennis shoes and more. Find New Balance Shoes in a great range of sizes and widths, and also Dunham by New Balance, so you get the styles you want in the size and fit you need. Open Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-7 p.m., closed Sunday.
Northern Home Furnishings
4662 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 561-6910. For over 60 years, Northern Home Furnishings has offered Chicago's largest selection of fine European furniture, with low prices, easy credit and free delivery. Find classic and contemporary furniture for today's urban lifestyle, imported from Germany, Italy and other countries. Store hours are Monday and Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sunday noon to 5 p.m.; other days 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Visit northernhomefurnishingschicago.com.
Old Town School
Different Strummer
4544 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 728-6000. Staggering variety, outstanding quality and unbelievable prices for all you need from your local folk music school.
Robert's Cycle
7054 N. Clark St., (773) 274-9281. Established in 1935, this store offers sales, service, parts and accessories. Need a tune-up? How about a new bike? The new expanded showroom displays Raleigh, Gary Fisher, Diamondback, Haro, and used bikes too. Watch for Web specials and discounts; visit robertscycle.com.
Salamander Shoes
4740 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 784-7463. We have specialized in European shoes for over 50 years. Find shoes and sandals from 18 different European companies in this store! Visit www.salamandershoes.com.
Stanley Brown Jewelist, Ltd.
4751 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 561-7229. Known for honesty and integrity since 1912, this fine jewelry shop offers appraisals, personal service, expert repairs, custom designs, and remounting. This is one of Chicago's oldest family-owned and operated fine jewelry stores. Try the custom design services or choose from a large selection of unique ready-made items at affordable prices. From your smallest repair needs to your largest purchase, you will receive personal service and attention. Allow Stanley Brown Jewelist to help you to create or restore your family treasures. The shop is closed Tuesday and Sunday. Visit www.jewelist.com.
Topcat
www.topcatshack.com. Apparel line, e-commerce site. Topcat offers quality high-end, funky, fashion T-shirts that feature original artwork designed by artists from the Midwest. The shirts are all 100 percent cotton (some of the softest fabric around) and prices range from $45 to $70, depending upon the complexity of the graphic.
Urhausen Greenhouse
6973 N. East Prairie Rd., Lincolnwood, (847) 675-1573. Established in 1922, it features a large variety of annuals, geraniums, New Guinea impatiens, over 150 types of potted roses, herbs and more. Visit www.urhausengreenhouses.com.
1730 Outlet
1730 W. Wrightwood Ave., (773) 871-4331. Dinnerware, candles, linens, garden, bridal gifts, and even furniture. Closeout and discontinued goods. Merchandise 50 to 70 percent off. Open Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.,
closed Sunday.
Services
Belden-Stratford Hotel
2300 Lincoln Park West, (773) 281-2900. The charming Belden Stratford is a historic landmark hotel in Lincoln Park, overlooking the lake and across from the zoo and conservatory. Furnished or unfurnished apartments for short-term rental, and hotel rooms. Visit beldenstratford.com.
Also worth visiting is the Seneca Hotel & Suites, 200 E. Chestnut St., (312) 787-8900. The Seneca Hotel Chicago is a 268 room and suite property located in the heart of Chicago's Magnificent Mile, nestled between Water Tower Place and the John Hancock. It's a quaint European-style boutique hotel with everything that you would expect in a luxury downtown hotel. Visit www.senecahotel.com.
Another top place is the Sovereign Apartments, 1040 W. Granville Ave., (773) 274-8000. Located in the Edgewater/ Loyola neighborhood, it is two blocks from Lake Michigan and one block from the el Red Line (20 minutes to the Loop). You'll appreciate the 24-hour front desk attendant, 24-hour on-site maintenance staff, and state-of-the-art fitness center. Visit www.thesovereign.com.
Chicago Printmakers Collaborative
4642 N. Western Ave., (773) 293-2070. Here's the place to take classes in Screen printing, Etching, Photo-etching, Relief, Lithography, Polaroid Transfer and more. CPC offers work sessions, membership and a gallery, too. CPC is located in Lincoln Square, just across the street from the Brown Line el stop, on the west side of the street, between Wilson and Leland avenues. For more information or to register for a class, please call or go to chicagoprintmakers.com.
The Chopping Block
Merchandise Mart and 4747 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 472-6700. With two locations, The Chopping Block is a cooking school and culinary store for the home cook. Hours for the specialty retail store are Monday—Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cooking classes are held daily. Class schedules are available at the store and posted on the Web site (thechoppingblock.net); call to have one mailed to you.
Ed Corrigan Insurance
4538 N. Western Ave., (773) 878-1200. Ed Corrigan tells us: "I have been giving service to my policy holders in the '50s, '60s, '70s, '80s, and '90s, and the new millennium. People are a lot of fun and I hope to enjoy many more years with my policy holders."
Lakeside Bank
Full service banking facility offers individual and business accounts, checking, savings, mortgage, and commercial loans. Locations at Board of Trade (141 W. Jackson Blvd.), North Loop (55 W. Wacker Drive), UIC/Near West (1055 W. Roosevelt Rd.), Lakeview/Lincoln Park (2800 N. Ashland Ave.), also South Loop and Chinatown/Pilsen. Visit lakesidebank.com.
Lincoln Park
Hospital
550 W. Webster Ave., (773) 883-2000. Nestled in the heart of one of Chicago's most flourishing neighborhoods, Lincoln Park Hospital is among the city's finest community hospitals. Neighbors come for care and support, patients are treated as guests, and compassion flows freely. Lincoln Park Hospital offers a wide array of patient-focused services delivered by caring and talented medical staff committed to making this the very best hospital in the area. Visit www.lincolnparkhospital.com.
Lincoln Square
Chamber of Commerce
4732 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 728-3890. Lincoln Square is an area rich with history, dating back to the late 1800s. In the 1920s, the area thrived as a major shopping district was built. The area continues to offer a variety of unique specialty stores, most with a European flavor, and hosts a variety of special events. It is easily accessed by the Ravenswood el's Western Avenue stop. Visit lincolnsquare.org.
Lillstreet Art Center
4401 N. Ravenswood Ave., (773) 789-4226. Lillstreet Art Center offers classes and workshops in ceramics, drawing, painting, jewelry making, textile arts and more. So take a class, visit the gallery and café, escape the everyday and find a new skill—or just have some fun. Visit lillstreet.com.
North Community Bank
(773) 248-9500, northcommunitybank.com. A full-service bank serving Chicago's North Side. Locations at: 2 W. Elm., 448 N. Wells., 1561 N. Wells, 3180 N. Broadway, 3639 N. Broadway, 5342 N. Broadway, 1401 W. Belmont, 2758 W. Belmont, 2335 N. Clark., 2500 N. Clark, 3420 N. Clark, 4701 N. Clark, 5301 N. Clark, 1600 W. Chicago, 1555 N. Damen, 742 W. Diversey, 2000 W. Division, 1244 W. Grand, 2001 N. Halsted., 180 N. Michigan, 2800 N. Western, 3401 N. Western, 5241 N. Western, 800 N. State and 2000 W. Montrose.
Quality Optical
4610 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 561-0870. "A Very Unique Optical Boutique." High fashion trendy to the coolest vintage specs. Comprehensive eye exams available. We accept most insurance vision plans. See our advertising on page 30
Riehn Insurance
4541 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 561-4200. Riehn Insurance has been a trusted provider of insurance to families, individuals, businesses and property owners in the Chicago area, Illinois and Wisconsin since 1956. As an independent agency, it represents a range of insurance options from financially sound and respected companies.
Customers benefit from competitive pricing, attentive service and insurance packages customized to fit their lives. If you need help evaluating your insurance needs, the staff of expert customer service agents can determine the best solutions to protect your quality of life. Visit riehninsurance.com.
Saint Joseph Hospital
Where Diversey meets Lake Shore Drive. A full service health care facility serving Chicago's North Side. As the proud recipient of the most HealthGrades awards of any Chicago hospital, Saint Joseph Hospital has a proven health care team with an outstanding record. Visit sjh.reshealth.org or call (877) RES-INFO.
Swedish Covenant Hospital
Physician Referral Service
5145 N. California Ave., (773) 989-3838. Referral operators can give out information on over 300 physicians as well as hospital services and support groups. The hospital is a member of Northwestern Health Care.
We'll Clean Auto Spa
(773) AUTOSPA (288-6772). Pamper your car. Several locations, including 1515 W. Diversey Pkwy., 1520 N. Halsted St., 2707 N. Ashland Ave., 3033 N. Western Ave. Pick-up and delivery available. Valet service at 1557 W. Diversey Pkwy. and relax in the We'll Clean Relaxation Center.
River paddling event slated for end of summer
Come out for an evening of paddling in the quiet moonlight; enjoy the finest natural scenery and wildlife of the North Branch of the Chicago River. A riverine tour will be given by Ryan Chew of Chicago River Canoe and Kayak, followed by a delicious catered dinner buffet style. Rain or Shine. If weather is unsafe for canoeing, dinner will be held in the historic main hall of Revere Park, 2509 W. Irving Prk.
What: Moonlight canoe on the North Branch, includes all canoe equipment and catered dinner.
When: Sunday September 7th, 5:30pm – 9:00 pm
Where: Richard Clark Park- Rockwell and Roscoe.
Cost: $50 per person payable to Clark Park Advisory Council/Friends of the Parks, C/O William Donahue, 2334 W Melrose, Chicago, IL 60618
Please RSVP your attendance, BY Aug 24th, via e-mail to Donah150@aol.com and mail your payment to the address provided above.
New attractions added to 'Bike the Drive'
Brand new attractions at this year's 'Bike the Drive' Post-Ride Festival, May 25, will keep the unrestrained bicycling euphoria going long after the last bicycle rolls off Lake Shore Drive.
"The ride lets participants feel as free as a bird, and the festival is the perfect celebration to express that incredible exuberance," said Rob Sadowsky, executive director of the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation.
New this year:
· Beatles tribute band American English rocks from 9 to 11 a.m.
· Bike polo teams from Chicago and around the Midwest demonstrate their mad skills
· Clif Kids Zone returns with fun games and activities for kids and parents
· Goose Island offers three breakfast options for $7, providing the only kind of fuel participants need to enjoy all the post-ride festivities
"The new additions give all our participants a festival where they can enjoy the kind of things money just can't buy, like basking in glory, reveling with friends or relaxing with family," Sadowsky said.
Free Concert, Image Show at Millennium Park honors Planets, Outer Space
"The Planets" at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park will be held Friday, August 22, at 7:30 p.m.
For the first time ever, the Chicago Sinfonietta will grace Millennium Park's Jay Pritzker Pavilion with a free summer concert. The Chicago Sinfonietta will perform Ulysses Kay's Overture to the Theater Set and Estancia Dances composed by Argentinean-born Alberto Ginastera. In this first-ever performance, the Chicago Sinfonietta will resurrect a collaboration with the Adler Planetarium, Holst's The Planets. In May 2006 Adler Planetarium Astronomer and Digital Photographer Dr. José Francisco Salgado created a video extravaganza, synchronized with the Sinfonietta's performance of The Planets. Throughout the entire 50-minute piece, stunning images of the solar system and cosmos will be projected on a cinema screen behind the orchestra, complementing Holst's haunting music while taking the audience on a journey across the solar system. This concert is sponsored by The Pritzker Foundation. Audience members will be invited to gaze at the stars during the performance through telescopes provided by the Adler Planetarium.
New Ravenswood Fest Enters Chicago Summer Festival Scene
In an effort to rebuild their local playground, the Ravenswood community launches the north side’s newest festival. Highlighting their community, The Raven will feature local restaurants, showcase local artisans/vendors and include neighborhood non-profits with two stages of live music all weekend long. A huge kids area will be held inside the park with pony rides, inflatables, a kids stage and much, much more.
Sponsored by the Chase Park Advisory Council, the Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce, the Community Building Tutors, the Ravenswood Community Council, Alderman Gene Schulter and the Chicago Park District. Visit RavenChicago.com for more information.
Event to be held Chase Park (4701 N. Ashland) and the 4700 block of North Clark Street. Use public transportation as parking is limited.
It is slated for Saturday, August 16 from noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday, August 17 from noon to 8 p.m.
For over 75 years Chase Park in Ravenswood has been a gathering place for local families. Throughout the year it is home to an after-school program, an outdoor pool in the summer months and numerous yearlong sports leagues (indoor and outdoor) for people of all ages. The park also entertains the fine arts with numerous plays produced by its community theatre group. After 75 years of use, it is time to upgrade the playground in order to provide further enjoyment for future generations and to comply with current safety standards. The Raven will benefit Chase Park by providing funds to build a new playground and replace existing equipment.
Zoo holds charity run
Grab your running shoes and head to Lincoln Park Zoo for the 26TH annual “United Run for the Zoo” to support wildlife conservation and education efforts. Register now for the 5K and 10K race which takes place June 1.
Participants will run for raptors, zoom for zebras and dash for wild dogs on this USATF-certified, chip-timed race. For those in the mood to mosey, there’s also a 5K Fun Walk, and a free Gorilla Gallop for children 10 years old and younger.
“This annual race is unique because it actually goes through zoo grounds among our animals. It attracts a big crowd, so we’re encouraging people to register soon because we expect to meet capacity,” said Dana Jussaume, manager of events for Lincoln Park Zoo. “There will be great prizes for winners, and the registration proceeds help keep Lincoln Park Zoo free to the public year round. “
Prizes for the “fastest,” “largest,” and “most spirited” teams will be awarded. There will also be prizes for the top three men and women runners in various age categories. Grand prize for the overall male and female winners of both the 10K and 5K Run will be a pair of domestic United Economy® airline travel certificates.
All participants receive a Nike Dri-FIT t-shirt with paid registration. Register online at the zoo’s website: www.lpzoo.org/events/run08.html. Registration for the 5K Fun Walk is $20, and the 5K and 10K runs are $30.
Ribfest Chicago lights grill for summer fun
Ribfest Chicago will be held from noon until 10 p.m. Saturday, June 7, and Sunday, June 8, at the intersection of Damen, Lincoln and Irving Park. Started in 1999 to benefit the Northcenter Chamber of Commerce, it features 19 bands on two stages with a blend of indie, rock, alternative country, and authentic honky tonk. There is fun for all ages with the Red Baron Kids Square and Senior Oasis, and, of course, ribs and a plentiful menu of other food items from all over the Chicagoland area. Aficionados can vote for the best ribs. Local artisans and crafters are a big attraction. With an estimated attendance of 30,000+ people, this is one saucy event you won’t want to miss!
Memorial Day Parade in Lake View
The Graceland Cemetery Division of the Grand Army of the Republic will sponsor their annual Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 26, stepping off from Lake View High School, 4015 N. Ashland Ave., at 9 a.m. Roger Bodin, Grand Marshall of the parade, invites the entire community to come out and remember the sacrifices made by those who have laid down their lives in the service of our nation. ROTC band units from area schools will participate in the parade, which will make its way east from the school along Irving Park Rd., entering Graceland Cemetery at the corner of Irving Park Rd. and Clark St. Once participants are inside the cemetery, there will be a brief memorial service. For more information, contact Rev. George Rice at (773) 248-5893.
American Indian Center Holds Powwow to Welcome New Zealand Visitors
by Peter von Buol
On the evening of May 15, the American Indian Center, located at 1630 W. Wilson, celebrated the arrival of a group of special visitors from New Zealand with a powwow (a traditional native American celebration) and potluck dinner to which the public was also invited.
While the visitors are from a far-away island nation in the South Pacific, they share a common thread with the American Indian Center community. Like their hosts, the New Zealand visitors (who are Maori and call their country Aotearoa-the land of the long white cloud) are descendents of the original inhabitants of their own country and both are known as "First Nations" peoples. New Zealand was originally settled by Polynesian settlers about 1500 years ago and the Maori are cousins of native Hawaiians.
"As a community, we are doing a welcome for them. We will have a drum and our dancers will come out [dressed in traditional ceremonial regalia]. From about 6-7 PM, we will put on a potluck feast for them. Participants who want to share can bring [their] own dish. We are going to have venison and wild rice and also a lot of American-style dishes," said Joseph Podlasek, the executive director of the American Indian Center.
The Maori visitors were in Chicago to participate in a pair of partnerships with the American Indian Center. One component includes visitors who will be working with the center and Chicago’s Field Museum to collaborate on the usage of Ruatepupuke, a late 19th Century Maori Meeting house that since 1993 has been on display in one of the institution’s Pacific Halls. Since the mid-1980s, descendents of Ruatepupuke from the small sea-side town of Tokomaru Bay have actively been involved with how the house has been used at the museum. As seen in the movie, ‘Whale Rider’, meeting houses continue to be an important part of Maori culture.
"While the [descendents] are not always here, if other people want to use the house, we want to be able to assist those [groups] but so they can do that respectfully. [While] so many of our cultural traditions are similar, there are differences. To do it the right way, it is important [for us] to learn from a first-voice perspective. We needed to ask them [for help directly]," said Podlasek, who did so while on a September visit to New Zealand.
One of the visitors, Arapata Hakiwai, who serves as the Maori Director of the National Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa (which is based in the capital city of Wellington) and who has visited the center on numerous trips told Inside the American Indian Center holds a special place in his heart and he appreciates its collaborative relationship with the Field Museum.
"The relationship that has been created with the American Indian Center is a relationship that is underpinned with meaning and significance. It is very important to acknowledge and respect the relationship with the First Nations Peoples and their relationship with the Field Museum just as it is to recognize the relationship with the Maori people of Aotearoa, New Zealand. Working together and respecting one another is an important dimension to this project," said Hakiwai.
The second component of the collaborative effort includes a group of Maori artists who are working with local native American artists.
"It’s really about getting artists together in Chicago. The Maori artists are participating Close Encounters, an exhibition in Hyde Park and also at the Trickster Gallery in Schaumburg, which is the only native American-operated arts institution of Illinois," said Podlasek.
Established in 1953, the American Indian Center is the oldest native American urban center in the United States and provides social-services and educational programs. Its Wilson Avenue location has long served as a gathering place for special occasions within the community and according to its web site, "it is the principal cultural resource for Indian Chicago."
Architecture Foundation exhibit on display
A permanent exhibition is remains open at the Chicago Architecture Foundation (CAF), 224 S. Michigan Ave. Titled Chicago: You Are Here, the exhibition is free and open to the public daily in the Arcelor Mittal CitySpace Gallery from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Designed to encourage visitors to explore the architecture and infrastructure that make up the environment of Chicago, You Are Here includes a scale model of the Loop, along with bold images, artifacts, and multimedia presentations. It invites audiences to “start here” to get a feel for Chicago before going out to experience the city for themselves.
The exhibition orients visitors by offering the big ideas to consider while out and about. You Are Here includes a high energy tour of the neighborhoods that define Chicago, everything from the Bungalow Belt to Boys Town. It explores the meaning and significance of myths such as the “first skyscraper” and the “Chicago School of Architecture.”
“Chicago: You Are Here serves as a map for visitors and local residents alike,” said Gregory Dreicer, vice president of exhibitions and programs at CAF. “Its exploration of tall tales and realities will enhance the experience of visiting and living in Chicago.”
Find out how the design of the built environment and the stories of people who live in that environment are inseparable. This exhibition provides a fresh, critical take on the city’s history, in all its political, economic, and social dimensions. For more information, call (312) 922-3432 or visit architecture.org.
A primer on museums
By Nancy Alloggiamento
Special to Inside
Chicago has many of the world’s top museums, but between the huge ones and the smaller must- sees, where do you start? Don’t head out until you check off these highlights of the Windy City.
* The Art Institute of Chicago, 116 S. Michigan Ave., (312) 443-3600. You’ll be greeted by the fabulous lions in front. Don’t miss “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte,” the 1874 Seurat masterpiece, then walk through the world-renowned collection of Impressionists/Post Impressionists. On to “Picture of Dorian Gray," Ivan Albright, 1943 (yes, it was a famous movie, too), and “American Gothic,” Grant Wood, 1930.
On the lower level, visit the Trading Floor of the 1893 Stock Exchange, one of Adler & Sullivan's best. (The Stock Exchange was razed in the 1970s amid great controversy.) In addition to this 19th century classic, there is the exhibit “Fragments of Chicago’s Past," a collection of architecture beginning with the Great Chicago Fire 1871 that includes windows, doors, moldings, and frescoes of stunning late 19th and early 20th century buildings that were torn down. These are awesome, especially the Frank Lloyd Wright windows. (Well, who was better?) If you have time, treat yourself to lunch at the popular Garden Restaurant.
* The Field Museum of Natural History, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, (312) 992-9410 — Chicago’s most visited museum. Discover the past? How about 3.8 billion years! As you enter, you can’t miss Sue, the largest, most nearly complete, most famous T. Rex yet discovered, as well as the two giant elephants from the 1893 World’s Fair. Much of the museum's remarkable collection is from 1893 and was moved here when the museum opened in 1921. Funded by Marshall Field, designed in Neo-Classical style by Daniel Burnham, it’s a stunning museum, as much a work of art as the collection inside.
* Museum of Science & Industry, 57th Street and Lake Shore Drive, (773) 684-1414. MSI started life as the Palace of Fine Arts in 1893, and today is the only building remaining from the World’s Fair. Over a century later, it continues to be an amazing experience. Favorites for generations are the U-505 Submarine, the Coal Mine, Colleen Moore’s Fairy Castle, the Great Train Story, and Yesterday’s Main Street. (Enjoy a soda at the old-fashioned 1913 ice cream parlor.) One of the world’s largest, most creative museums. Don’t miss it!
* John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, (312) 939-2438. The largest indoor aquarium in the world, home to more than 8,000 fish, sea horses, lizards, piranhas, iguanas — they're all here. The top attraction is Wild Reef, a floor-to-ceiling exhibit where you come face to face with sharks, stingrays, eels, and more. A wildly popular museum that kids love, it is second only to the Field in attracting visitors.
* Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, (312) 922-STAR. A 75-year-old treasure in a 1930 Historic Landmark Building. One of the world’s finest planetariums, the Adler offers a breathtaking view of Chicago from atop its dome. See over 2,000 astronomical artifacts and ever-changing exhibits. Be sure to catch a Sky Show featuring space exploration, new discoveries, black holes, the sun, the moon, stars, and more. The Galileo Café and The Infinity Gift Shop, like the museum, are out of this world.
Now try to find some time for the smaller, no less brilliant museums:
* Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., (312) 280-2660 — a razor-sharp, inventive museum. See the outdoor plaza for outstanding, "can’t not stare at" exhibits. Special cutting-edge galleries of new European and American art and art forms make this museum an event whenever you make a visit. Take a break at the Wolfgang Puck Café with a lovely view of Lake Michigan.
* Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., (312) 642-4600 — a dazzling walk through Chicago history with exhibits that document the lives and times of Chicago’s past. See terrific interactive displays that make history come alive. Beginning with the City before the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, it tells the story of the triumphs and tragedies that have shaped Chicago into the city it is today. History buffs…this is a gem.
* McCormick Tribune Freedom Museum, 445 N. Michigan Ave., (312) 222-2860. “Let Freedom Ring” at this terrific new addition to the Magnificent Mile. This is the first museum in the United States devoted to improving Americans’ awareness and understanding of Freedom with a focus on those freedoms guaranteed by the First Amendment. See the beautiful two-story sculpture 12151791, named after the date of the First Amendment.
So, do spend time soon at one, two or more of Chicago’s stellar museums. Whether it’s something very new or very old, museums offer a sense of time, a sense of place, a sense of wonder.
Warnings for skin cancer
With the warm weather finally here, everyone looks forward to spending more time in the great outdoors and enjoying the sunshine and fresh air. This is a good time to review some precautions as recommended by the American Cancer Society. Here is the ABCD rule, a convenient guide to signs of melanoma:
A is for Asymmetry, when half a mole or birthmark does not match the other;
B is for Border — look for irregular, ragged, notched or blurred edges;
C is for Color, if the color is not the same all over and there are differing shades of brown or black or patches of red, white, or blue;
D is for Diameter, if the area is larger than six millimeters across (the size of a pencil eraser top) or if the area is growing.
The most important warning sign for skin cancer is a spot on the skin that is changing in size, shape, or color over a period of one month or one to two years.
Dermatologists recommend a monthly skin check in order to find skin cancer when it's still small. This is also a good time to purchase a good sun block product and make sure everyone in the family uses it before venturing out.
For more information, contact the American Cancer Society at (800) ACS-2345. You can call this number 24 hours, 7 days a week. More information is also available at www.cancer.org.
'Bungalows by Bus' tour available for home, history buffs
The Historic Chicago Bungalow Association (HCBA) and the Chicago Architecture Foundation (CAF) are once again offering a “Bungalows by Bus” tour through Chicago’s bungalow belt. The Sunday, June 8 North Tour will showcase homes in Chicago’s Ravenswood Manor, Portage Park, Galewood, and Villa communities. The tour will last four hours and be conducted by docents from the CAF, who will provide commentary on the history of the homes and neighborhoods.
Although walk-ins are available if space permits, reservations are encouraged. The cost is $35 for nonmembers and $30 for CAF and HCBA members. Interested residents should call the CAF at (312) 922-3432 or visit architecture.org.
For more information on the Historic Chicago Bungalow Association, please call (312) 642-9900 or visitchicago bungalow.org.
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