Rain, sleet or snow, and winds that blow, Chicago arts community is unfazed. The city stays on the pulse of what’s relevant and moving. This avant-garde approach is evident in the collections at The Nicole Gallery. Same holds true for Creative Arts; be sure to check their performance listings this 2009-2010 season as well as that of MPAACT, which still remains on the cutting edge of original productions.

Is it possible to get your nails done and feel like you’re at a party as well? Certainly, if you’ve made an appointment at the Nail Fetish; which features Karaoke Thursdays. No sense in stopping the joy; might as well make a night of laughs at Chicago’s Jokes and Notes; which keeps a pretty good line-up every week. Do what Chicago natives do, join in on a steppers dance. Get a few lessons with the Chicago Style Steppers classes. You’ll be ready for the next family reunion, lodge function, or wedding.

For sixty years Army and Lou's have been a mainstay in Chicago; experts in the soul and southern culinary traditions, this place stays busy and is sure to satisfy the appetite. We know the winter puts on the pounds, but save dessert for a cocktail and jazz and Chicago’s M Lounge. A sexy little spot to stop midway on way to your evening which should end at The Shrine, where you’ll have the opportunity to dance off that mac and cheese you had earlier in the day.