Nightlife
Off the Radar: Alternative Things to do in Chicago
Have a cup at the Pick Me Up
Pick Me Up Cafe
This is a local favorite. They’re open 24 hours and boast excellent coffee with free refills and amazing cheese fries. However, as the owner would love to defend, they do not want to be strictly categorized as a “coffee-house.” In fact, this place mostly resembles a creatively decorated diner that serves up favorites like: Vegan French Toast, Kalhua Pancakes, The Garlicious Breast Sandwich, and of course their signature Cheez Fries.
Catch a Flick at The Music Box
The Music Box Theater
This movie venue is a real northside relic that proudly projects indie films, foreign hits, and old favorites. They have a cool special event section that annually includes The Music Box Massacre, a 24 hour horror film extravaganza. They also have midnight movies for us nocturnal creatures. The venue itself is worth the trip.
Watch a Show at IO
IO Chicago Improv
You probably have heard of Second City, but Improv Olympic in Wriggleyville has comedic bragging rights as well. Tickets are priced from $5-15 bucks and you will get your fill in laughs. Inside tip: guys from the Sonic commercials do a Wednesday evening show for $5 dollars and really bring on the hilarity for the cheapest cover.
Have a Drink at Delilah’s
Delilah's
There’s nothing wrong with sports bars, and Lincoln Park hosts quite the array of them. However, there is an abnormal gem often overlooked by the norm. Delilah’s dark decor sticks out at once as defused wires and cables stick out from walls and strange and interesting art looms plentiful. The menu offers around 90 different beers and 120 different whiskeys. The specials include $1 dollar beers on Mondays, $2 dollar whiskey shots on Tuesday and other great specials throughout the week.
Spring Break in Chicago
Whether your break falls in early or late March, there’s a trillion and ten things to do in Chicago. Instead of listing a trillion ideas for your Chicago excursion, here are a few worthwhile stops we think you should make…
Chicago River on St. Patrick's Day
If your vacation coincides with St. Patrick’s Day on March 14th, we advise you to check out the Chicago River being dyed a vibrant green that day. This occasion is followed by the annual parade that rolls through the downtown area and consists of heavy amounts of floats, shamrocks, acrobats, and drunken hecklers of all shapes & sizes. Admission is free. Read more
Meet the Staff & Our Favorite Chicago Spots
We love Chicago. You want to see Chicago. Let’s meet and maybe our interests will give you some hip ideas on seeing our beautiful town. Also, this may give you some tips on experiencing cool stuff not usually found on the average tourist brochure. Oh, and please don’t be intimidated by our good looks…
Charlie Lopez
Q: What is your favorite Chicago venue for music?
A: The Beat Kitchen (Food, Booze, & Music!)
Q: What is your favorite bar/tavern/pub?
A: Goldies (Cheap booze!)
Q: What is your favorite pizza place?
A: Bacci’s Pizza (jumbo slices for cheap in Wrigleyville).
Q: What is your favorite Chicago band?
Q: What is your favorite place to eat in Lincoln Park?
A: Five Guys ( a lil’ pricey for burgers but really good).
Q: What is one of your favorite Chicago pastimes/things to do in the city?
A: Frolicking through Navy Pier.
Q: What is your favorite place to shop?
A: Something Old/Something New
Gangsters, Ghosts, and Boats: Take a Chicago Tour Today
You probably already know of Chicago’s rich legacy of gangsters. However, if you’re interested in knowing more on the extensive subject of infamous criminals, hop on the tour bus and take a trip with Untouchable Tours! You will gain knowledge of the 1920s and 30s Prohibition Era while visiting a vast array of landmarks including: the Biograph Theater, Holy Name Cathedral, as well as the site of the Valentine’s Day Massacre. Read more
Finding Fun Photo Locations in Chicago
You may know that Chicago is seeped in history, but you may not have known how photogenic Chicago proves to be. We encourage you to bring your camera and capture the aesthetic beauty of our city. Here are just a few landmarks that will make great shots:
Take a quick pic with this giant sculpture at Daley Plaza.
Eat & Drink Cheap Near Chicago Getaway Hostel
If you do a little research, you can find some cheap food and drink in Chicago. There are many places within walking distance of the Chicago Getaway Hostel that offer daily specials. Click here to find out which location has the best deal of the day.
Turtle Races! Yeah, that’s right, TURTLE RACES!
Big Joe’s has turtle races every Friday night starting at approximately 9pm.
1818 W Foster Avenue
Chicago, IL 60640
(773) 784-8755
Chicago Concerts & Music Venues
Click here to see who is playing while you’re in Chicago.
Under 21? Try These Nightlife Options
Chicago’s bars and clubs require patrons to be at least 21 years old. There are still plenty of options if you aren’t old enough to legally “hit the sauce.” Here are some of our favorites:
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