Summer Festivals in Chicago
Wow. It’s already July, but the good news is that we still have a ton of cool events for you. From food to live bands and airplanes, check these out:
Mmmfood, let’s celebrate summer by eating and drinking outside. Luckily, we have The Windy City Ribfest as well as the new Roscoe Village Burger Fest to check out. These events are free to attend, include live music, and some great barbecue. The Ribfest is going on from the 16th-18th of July, but the Burger Fest is from the 10th-11th.
Quick Q & A w/ a Guest.
Festivals, Feasts, Fiestas & Fun in Chicago
Wow. We are on the brink of a ton of festivals in Chicago. Its high time to give you the heads up on the fun to come, book your room with us and party your heart out….
Mayfest in Lincoln Square
Delightful Dive Bars Near Our Hostel
If clubbing the night away or screaming loudly in sport’s bars just ain’t your thing, check out some local dive bars that just might have you addicted to a dimly-lit setting & sipping cheap booze with the regulars….
Rose's Lounge
Oh Rose’s, thank you for existing so close to our hostel. You are a remaining relic in an increasingly modern neighborhood. We love your old sofas, cheap drinks, and pool table. In fact, we even love the way you smell at night. Check this place out.
Lollapalooza 2010 is Coming.
And its coming sooner than we think.
Our rooms are selling super fast, so if you need accomodations…make them quick. We are just a quick trip from the music. We had a crazy weekend for Lollapalooza ‘09 and we expect a wild time for 2010 as well. The 2010 lineup is ridiculously fueled with awesome talent.
Experience an epic concert hostel style.
Small Music Venues in Chicago That Deliver Big Sounds
The Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle is a cozy little venue that offers an intimate experience for any music lover. Don’t expect Lady Gaga, but do anticipate a diversity of cool stuff from this place including: Farmer’s Market events, indie rock, DJs, and Windy City Soul Night. Read more
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 on weekends 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.
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
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.
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
