Restaurants In Chicago

Black History Month In Chicago is rich in art, cuisine, music, history, and events that make for a wonderful celebration. There are various establishments and occasions that pay homage to Black history, achievements, and culture that have been an especially integral part of Chicago’s history. There are so many ways to celebrate this month and all year round. You may even find hidden gems that will become your new favorite places to frequent in the city. 

1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605

The Field Museum is holding several events to commemorate Black History Month. There are so many important stories to be told and art to be enjoyed that will be highlighted throughout these events. 

Africa Hall 30th Anniversary Celebration: This year is the 30th anniversary of the Africa Hall opening will take place on February 20th, from 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm. Enjoy a Muntu Dance Theater Performance and learn why the opening is a revolutionary moment in history. 

Still Searching – Chicago’s Missing Women and Girls: Coping with unimaginable loss and deep feelings of grief is meant to be recognized. Join the museum in an effort to raise awareness around the epidemic of Black girls/women going missing and understand how families and communities are coping with those losses on February 23rd, from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The brilliant works of art done by Chicago artist Damon Lamar Reed, creator of the Still Searching Series, will be on display at the event. There will also be a discussion around the documentary, Still Searching, created by Field Museum Senior Multimedia Creative Latoya Flowers.

Changing Gateways to Science: On February 28th, from 3:30 pm to 7:00 pm, the museum is highlighting the work of a late colleague, Lynika Strozier, and the exhibition in her memory: The Changing Face of Science. This panel and mixer will allow students and early-career professionals to explore the many gateways to science and make lasting industry connections. 

740 E 56th Pl, Chicago, IL 60637

DuSable is the nation’s oldest independent African American Museum. The museum is home to more than 15,000 pieces including paintings, sculptures, print work, and historical memorabilia. There are various special exhibitions, workshops and lectures to highlight accomplished artists and historical events. 

The March is a powerful, immersive virtual reality exhibit at the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center that transports you back to the monumental 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. 

Check out the upcoming events celebrating Black History all month long. 

Trial in the Delta: Honoring Emmett and Mamie Till, the Trial In Delta will run from February 9th to the 19th at The DuSable Black History Museum & Education Center. Visit collaboraction.org/trial-in-the-delta for more.
History of Black Martial Arts: Learn about the history of black martial arts and its influence in the film industry on February 17th from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
The Torture Letters: Face the cruelty and darkness in the history on February 22nd from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm
History of Black Politics: On February 24th from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm

1601 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614

Explore Chicago’s connection to the origins of Black History Month with loved ones on February 25th from 10:30 am to 2:00 pm. With an extensive program, The Chicago History Museum is one of the best places to learn Black History in Chicago. Take your little ones and learn about famous icons, important dates, and recent developments in the African American community and gain a better understanding of our city.

5700 S Dusable Lk Shr Dr, Chicago, IL 60637

Visit the Black Creativity and Juried Art Exhibition and explore African American art in Chicago and around the country. This exhibition is the longest-running exhibition of African American art. There is work from professional, amateur, and youth (between the ages of 14 and 17) African American artists from around the country. It is open now until April 23rd, 2023. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/CoQGT1uPsv0/

Founded in September 2015 by Lauran Smith (native Memphian, Chicago resident), Chicago Black Restaurant Week was designed as a way to celebrate food/beverage/dessert businesses in the African American community. Each year the celebration grows and CBRW proudly partners with large corporations to serve the community. 

Beyond the restaurant industry, there are also flourishing Black-owned businesses all around the city. Explore over 500 Black-owned establishments here, or explore our list of Top 10 Black-Owned Restaurants in Chicago, Black-Owned Coffee Shops in Chicago, and 11 Black-owned Boutiques in Chicago!

600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

Navy Pier is hosting a Black Makers Market every Saturday and Sunday this month to celebrate talented Black artists and makers from Chicago. Shop and support Black-owned businesses from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm every weekend in February. Check out featured market participants to see who will be at the market each weekend. 

230 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

The Second City is celebrating Black excellence all month long featuring a heart-warming experience called “Dance Like There are Black People Watching: A Black Excellence Revue”. This brilliant performance will showcase brand-new sketches, songs, and their world-famous improvisation to warm your soul and bring you true belly laughter.

170 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60601

This Black History Month, Goodman Theatre presents an original play by Lydia R. Diamond that tells the inspiring story of Toni Stone. Toni faced extreme difficulties and challenges as she chased her dream to play professional baseball. She was rejected by the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League because of her race, so she sets out to become the first woman to play in baseball’s Negro Leagues. 

4701 S Martin Luther King Dr, Chicago, IL 60653

The Harold Washington Cultural Center will feature to special events to honor Black History Month in Chicago this year. On February 17th and February 18th at 7:00 pm, Queens of the Policy tells a triumphant story of four women in 1940s Chicago striving to carve out their own niche in the male-dominated world of policy. On February 26th at 4:00 p.m., A.M.A.D.D Rhytms Tribute to Nina Simone will celebrate the life of Nina Simone through dance, song, and important conversation.

Featured Image: Museum of Science and Industry

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Another benchmark has been cleared in the ongoing developments of the Chicago Bears relocation plans to Arlington Heights. In a statement released by the team on February 15th, the Bears announced that they have officially closed on the property that will be their future stadium on the grounds of the former Arlington Racecourse. They state, decisively, that “…this is only a step in their vision of constructing an enclosed state-of-the-art stadium and multi-purpose entertainment district.”

While this isn’t confirmation that the Chicago Bears will in fact be moving, it’s a pretty damn good indication that’s where this is heading. There are still plenty of hurdles to clear in a very long and trying process, but this feels like a major step forward and one you do not take unless you have the utmost confidence that this plan will go through.

This is the second open letter the team has released. The first, released last fall, sparked conversation from all sides. Fans found them torn between logic and emotion, with some drawing a hardline in the sand and going as far as saying they’d disown the team entirely if they moved, almost assuming they’d somehow rebrand as the Arlington Heights Bears. Those of logic and reason variety understand that the only way to stay relevant in the modern NFL is to advance your franchise, and to do that your reputation as a franchise is directly tied to the product not only on the field, but the status as a business. The Dallas Cowboys haven’t won a damn thing since Bill Clinton was president but people still turn toward Jerry Jones as the litmus test of the league as a whole. Also, the Dallas Cowboys don’t play in Dallas.

In the long run, the Chicago Bears plan to move from downtown to the suburbs is 100 percent rooted in the need to advance. Yes, the Chicago Bears are a historic franchise, and yes, they’ve played at historic Soldier Field for half a century but Soldier Field is not some museum you visit a few times per year, touch nothing, and then meticulously curate to preserve history. Soldier Field, while iconic, is a hassle. It’s a logistical nightmare that’s both dated and too small to house a franchise in the modern NFL. It’s also not owned by the Chicago Bears.

The move to Arlington Heights opens up the opportunity for the Bears to have full control of their stadium, the ability to create an entertainment district around the stadium a la Wrigleyville, and this all goes without saying the importance of having an enclosed stadium to not only (a) protect the games from Chicago’s harsh winter conditions and (b) open up the door for Chicago to become a premier destination for major sporting events such as The Final Four, year round concerts, and to host a coveted Super Bowl.

In the end, we hope it happens. We understand the importance of the Bears owning their stadium and the financial benefits that come from that. It would also be pretty cool to have a Super Bowl played five minutes away from this writer’s house. Time will tell how this process plays out moving forward but for the time being this is a massive step in the right direction for the Chicago Bears to make the leap to new digs in Arlington Heights. That is if Lori Lightfoot doesn’t chain herself to the building doors in protest first.

Featured Image Credit: Hart Howerton, Chicago Bears

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As Black History Month draws to an end, if you haven’t checked out some of the best black-owned restaurants in Chicago, now is your last chance. The Chicago Black Restaurant Week will end on February 26th, leaving us only a few days to discover what these brilliant restaurants have to offer.

Image Credit: CheSa’s Bistro

CheSa’s will serve special brunch and dinner menus during the celebration. Regular menus also will be available. Both menus offer a 100 percent gluten-free Creole/Cajun adventure. The special brunch menu will be served on Saturday and Sunday, February 12, 18 and 19, 25 and 26. The special dinner menu is available Tuesday, February 14 through Saturday, February 18 and from Tuesday, February 21 through Saturday, February 25.

4609 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

Known as one of Chicago’s best southern kitchen, Luella’s is featuring a special menu for for this year’s Chicago Black Restaurant Week. The menu highlights Red Bean Soup with ham hocks, andouille, and rice, Mississippi Hot Tamales, and a delicious Blood Orange Sorbet at $42.23 per person.

3137 W Logan Blvd, Chicago, IL 60647

Lately launched their brand new brunch menu, The Duplex is currently hot on our radar! Come in and explore their special menu before February 26th. Indulge in their signature Braised Short-Rib cooked in red wine and Alexander James whiskey for $41.23, served with roasted vegetables, roasted garlic, mashed potatoes, and corn bread with salted caramel butter! Pair it with the Victory Lap cocktail if you’re a loyal Old Fashioned fan!

1155 S Jefferson St, Chicago, IL 60607

Trust me. No problem in life cannot be fixed by some hot, fresh tacos and fries. Now through February 26th, diners can grab 3 FAKE Tacos for $10.23 (usually $15.60) or 2pc Birria Combo for $10.23 (usually $13.50). If you’ve never tried Mimi’s tacos, now is the perfect time to explore their menu!

Image Credit: Surf’s Up

6427 W North Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302

With Mardi Gras and Lenten coming back to back, what’s more suitable than some seafood boil from Surf’s Up in Oak Park? This Chicago Black Restaurant Week, enjoy 40 Dolla Halla with crab and shrimp (one of their all-time best seller!), regular and large shrimp boils, and their iconic Catfish Dinner with Fried Biscuits, all at discounted prices!

2115 S State St, Chicago, IL 60616

Enjoy a special three-course dinner at Bureau Bar South Loop by February 26th. The menu features appetizers like Philly Cheesesteak Eggrolls and Buffalo Cauliflower, main dishes like Grilled Lamb Chops, Pan Seared Salmon, and Will’s Famous BBQ Ribs, and desserts such as Peach Cobbler and Chocolate Chip Cookie Sundae (choose one per course).

Bronzeville Winery

4420 S Cottage Grove Ave, Chicago, IL 60653

Keep that Valentine’s Day vibe going at Bronzeville Winery! For the restaurant week, Bronzeville Winery is offering $23 plates of shrimp, regular or vegan burger with fries, or vegetarian gnocchi. Make sure you ask the staff to help you find a bottle to pair with your meal! After all, you’re visiting a winery!

Featured Image: Mimi’sTacos & Fries

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Spring is so close we can almost feel it, but there’s guaranteed to be a few more of those blustery cold nights where you don’t want to brave the weather, so you opt for an indoor activity. Instead of heading to your neighborhood bar or typical restaurant, why not try something new for the night? You’re likely getting the itch to enjoy those summer night patio hangs, but before then, it’s important to check out some of the most incredible indoor entertainment the city has to offer. Whether it’s an extravagant Broadway show, stunning acrobatics, or a casual night of comedy, here are 8 shows to see in Chicago this spring!

32 W Randolph St 14th floor, Chicago, IL 60601

Cabaret Zazou has been receiving incredible reviews since the opening of their new show, “Luminaire”, on September 7th, 2022 – and for good reason! This exciting dinner show is packed with music, comedy, cirque performers, and of course an incredible dinner menu. Located on the 14th floor of the Cambria Hotel, this show will literally take your night out to new heights. Ticket prices range on your proximity to the stage, but there is no bad seat in the house.

151 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601

The Book of Mormon first hit the Broadway stage in 2011, and takes a comedic view of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This Spring, you can find the Book of Mormon from March 28th through the Cadillac Palace Theatre. With nine Tony Awards, you can guarantee that the Book of Mormon will be full of entertainment, great music, and tons of laughs. Get your tickets at Broadway in Chicago! 

18 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603

Loved Hamilton? Check out another history-based musical! 1776 is based on the historical events that led to the signing of the Declaration of Independence, but it is packed with music and action. In this modern take, patrons will see this story through the passionate lens of our founding fathers, but with a cast that reflects multiple races, genders, and ethnicities. 1776 is running now through March 12th, so get your tickets quick! 

230 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

You know how they say “laughter is the best medicine?” Well, I’m not sure who they are, but laughter can definitely boost a night out. The Second City, one of, if not the most famous improv comedy schools in the country is located right in our own backyard! With shows pretty much every day of the week, you can buy tickets at the Premium, GA, or Value level. Right now, you’ll find the show “Do the Right Thing, No Worries if Not”, which pokes fun at relationships, code-switching, and other things we pretty much all experience. 

1721 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622

It can certainly be fun to lean into the sexy side of life, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Bordel. On Thursdays and Fridays, you can enjoy “Vaudeville”, a sensual show that combines music, magic, fire-eating, burlesque, and more! At Bordel, you can sip on a tantalizing cocktail while enjoying a show that’s possibly just a bit outside your comfort zone – but that’s what makes it exciting, right?

33 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654

If you thought the 2020s were going to be anything like the 1920s and have wound up pretty disappointed, here’s your chance to take a peek into the past. Nitti’s Supper Club, part of the Harry Caray’s Restaurant Group, has a show that is set during the Prohibition era of 1932 and is packed with fun. With music, dancing, gangsters, and flappers, you’ll feel like you were transported directly back to those golden years! The menu here is a selection of Harry Caray favorites so you won’t be left looking for more. 

23 E Galena Blvd, Aurora, IL 60506

Aurora is the state’s second-largest city, and home to another great show you should make some time for this Spring. At the Paramount Theatre, you can find “Into the Woods” running through the end of March. This show combines the plots of several Brothers Grimm fairy tales and emphasizes the phrase “be careful what you wish for”. Tickets to must-see show in Chicago this spring can be found HERE.

5050 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640

Lean into your inner child and enjoy some literal magic. At Chicago Magic Lounge, there is a rotating schedule of performances, so you can choose the show that resonates with you the most. Love live music? Check out the Music and Magic show with a live jazz band. Looking for more of a performance? Try the Showcase! The tried and true performance of the Chicago Magic Lounge will always be The Signature Show, where you can socialize with close-up magicians while you enjoy hanging out with friends!

Featured Image: Bordel

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Tired of the city? Explore some of the nearby suburbs! We’ve toured Aurora, Naperville, and many other areas in the past. Now, we set foot onto Oak Grove, a quaint town tucked off the Mississippi river. Oak Grove is a village in Rock Island County, Illinois. Right next to many scenic parks, there are tons of things to do in Oak Grove whether you prefer to explore the beautiful winery in-town or take a short hike around.

10814 1st St W, Milan, IL 61264

Nothing beats a wide range of wines and crafted cheese boards. No matter what time of year it is, you are guaranteed a great time at the Old Oaks Winery. Whether you choose to walk in during their weekend hours or pre-plan your next event, you will not be disappointed. What’s better than delicious wine at $6 a glass or $24 a bottle? 

The ambiance is warm, inviting, and cozy. The perfect setting for your choice of red, white, or rose and a tasty charcuterie box on the side. As the weather warms up, their spacious patio will open back up, live music will bring an added bit of life to the place, and they even set up bags. It is also the ideal place to have a beautiful wedding at a cozy winery closer to home. 

Image Found on Google

8716 Knoxville Rd, Milan, IL 61264

Located on the outskirts of Oak Grove is Knoxville Tap. It is a beloved town favorite. One of the best low-key spots in the area for a few drinks and classic bar games for a night to unwind. Knoxville has games like slots, pool, darts, and more that make for a chill date night or a more quiet night with friends. It is even the perfect place to drink alone given the inviting service and regulars that populate the place every weekend.

For an added bonus (giving Knoxville its traditional dive bar feel), they serve peanuts and fresh bagged popcorn. The perfect combination with any drink. 

4801 11th St, Rock Island, IL 61201

Black Hawk State Historic Site is full of natural, ecological, historical, and archaeological features that make for an afternoon of exploration. For history buffs and those who enjoy learning about a unique cultural history, the Hauberg Museum and Refectory are great visits. They even offer field trips for an educational experience perfect for kids. 

If you can bear the cold, there is also a beautiful park with a playground and several walking trails. It is a picturesque place to hike and isn’t too difficult of a trek, so feel free to make it an outing for the whole family.

209 S Illinois Ave, Carbondale, IL 62901

Everything you’d expect from a family-owned bakery and more. Upon entrance, guests can feel the love and care put into this place. Cristaudo’s offers delectable pastries daily and have a full café menu with breakfast and lunch items. They also have a wonderful espresso menu with organic, fair-trade coffee. This is the perfect place to catch up with an old friend or bring your laptop to enjoy their beloved treats and free wifi. 

They also serve local wine, beer, and spirits. So, it makes the ideal spot for a quiet girl’s night or a cozy first date. There is something here for everyone to enjoy on any occasion. 

2020 1st St W, Milan, IL 61264

The Backyard Bowl and Abides Bar and Grill is a great spot for family fun, a night out with the friends, a date night, or to book an event. It’s entertainment and activity for any audience. They have several lanes accompanied by large screens above to enjoy the day’s important sports games. There are also tons of arcade games on the second level that will keep the kid’s busy all night long. It is an affordable place to eat, drink, bowl and play. It is your one-stop spot for a fun night out. 

If you have a birthday in need of celebrating, sports team season coming to a triumphant end, or any large celebration in need of a large space with lots to do, Backyard Bowl is the place to book. They also have a banquet room that seats 80-100 people. 

1430 N 7th St, Murphysboro, IL 62966

Hospitality, lots of beer, and great company are all you really need. They have an expansive range of brews for beer lovers of all kinds. From a light-bodied ale to a traditional milk stout, their offerings are must try. If you can’t choose just one, they offer flights to get a little taste of everything. The brewery is a spacious local establishment that makes enjoying a good beer and company easy. If you find that the evening here has left you a bit famished, there are a ton of great restaurants nearby that are just a phone call away. 

Featured Image: Old Oaks Winery

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If you’re planning a trip to Chicago, you’ll want to get your itinerary in order before you arrive. The Windy City has a lot of great things to offer, and you’ll want to stay on top of things regardless of whether your plans include business or pleasure, you’ll be in better shape if you make your plans carefully in advance. 

In order to get around town without unnecessary delays or hassles, you should think about using a charter bus rental company. Some of the better companies will cater to your group needs and provide you with a first-class experience while you explore the city. Your Chicago charter bus rental should give you the features you want and help make your experience memorable.

City of business and artistic excellence

Although it is sometimes overshadowed by New York and Los Angeles, America’s third-biggest city has a ton to offer both in terms of entertainment, as well as business. As a venue for multiple corporate events on an annual basis, the city has a well-developed infrastructure for hosting sophisticated guests both from around the country and from around the world. 

In Chicago’s famous Loop district, you’ll find many of the city’s professional clusters and along with them, venues for hosting events, five-star restaurants, and top-notch hotels. If you’re visiting town for a particular corporate event, you will find a wealth of options for places to meet and socialize with fellow attendees.

Exploring cultural Chicago

Beyond business, Chicago is home to many great centers of culture, including the famous Art Institute of Chicago. Housing the world’s biggest collection of impressionist and post-impressionist art outside the Louvre, art enthusiasts come from far and wide to get a glimpse of these famous pieces.

The art institute isn’t the only museum in the city, of course. The Museum of Contemporary Art, The Chicago History Museum, and the DuSable Black History Museum are just a few of the many other places you can expect to find fine art around town.

Let’s also not forget that Chicago is widely considered the second capital of jazz after New Orleans. As the city grew rapidly during the Great Migration in the early 20th century, jazz musicians flocked to the city and set up shop in local clubs, particularly on the South side of the city. To this day Chicago remains famous for its music, and music lovers continue to make pilgrimages there to hear live jazz in person. Every Chicago trip should include a visit to at least one famous jazz venue.

You’ll need transportation to get there, though. You can arrange transportation through a Chicago charter company that will take you to all the sites without hassle.

Don’t miss out on the local food

Let’s not forget the city’s most famous dish – deep dish pizza! You might try other pizza elsewhere that brands itself “Chicago style,” but real Chicagoans will tell you that you won’t find the real thing outside the city. As bagel shops are sacred to New Yorkers, deep dish pizza holds the same level of reverence among residents of Chicago.

There are other dishes native to the area, as well. Chicago barbecue is always a big hit among natives and visitors alike. Jibarito sandwiches offer a little piece of Puerto Rico, right in the middle of the city as immigrants invented this creative sandwich that includes plantains and other assorted ingredients. For those with a sweet tooth, the rainbow cone is also a symbol of the city.

Remember too that Chicago is home to others of the nation’s biggest and most well-established immigrant communities. The largest Polish population outside of Warsaw calls the Portage Park neighborhood home. There are also significant populations of Tanzanians, Ethiopians, Greeks, and many others, all of whom brought their restaurant culture along with them from the Old Country.

Find your transportation option today

In order to reach these neighborhoods, of course, you will need ground transportation services. If you’ve got a small group, you might consider minibus rentals. Start poking around online as you’re planning your trip and see what you find.

All your ground transportation needs will be met in Chicago. Start searching, and you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for!

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Are you finding it difficult to uphold your New Year’s resolution to lead a healthier lifestyle? Has your workout routine become boring and rudimentary? Do you want to start your fitness journey but don’t know where? May it be a hotel wellness retreat, or new fitness studios in Chicago to explore, there is an answer to any fitness-related question right here in Chicago. Explore what is offered by numerous studios, gyms, and facilities with a wide range of equipment and classes to meet any need, and get your 2023 fitness calendar going!

2501 West Chicago Avenue, Chicago, 60622

Strength, cardiovascular-focused, mobility, flexibility, speed, agility, you name it and the coaches at the Garage Chicago will help you reach your goals. Whether it be personal training or one of their many group fitness classes, you will leave feeling invigorated. For those who need the extra push and methodical guidance, The Garage Chicago is for you. 

If you don’t believe me, check out what others are saying about their experience at The Garage Chicago. 

664 North Wells Street, Chicago, 60654

If you feel like you have tried everything in the book and traditional exercise isn’t for you, come experience revolutionary technology combined with full body training at Vibez fit. These classes involve a high-speed workout using vibration training to help strengthen and tone your body. Not convinced? Give it a try for just $7 for a week of classes. 

1714 N Damen Ave, STE 2N, Chicago, IL 60647

For those who love variety, SALT is your goto solution to bring life to a boring workout routine. They offer classes that everyone can enjoy and eventually wonder how they ever lived without it. Choose from barre, cycling or strength training classes and make functional fitness exciting again. 

2805 North Sheffield Avenue, Chicago, IL

Ready to take your mind-body connection to the next level? Experienced teachers will lead you through fast-paced yoga that connects your breath to the beat of the music. All while you flow in a 98 degree studio. The classes incorporate yoga philosophy, static postures, choreographed flows, yin, meditation, and a eucalyptus towel massage. 

This is truly a one of a kind experience your body will thank you for. 

6610 W Dakin St Chicago, IL 60634

This studio offers a range of classes like crossfit, strength training, yoga, martial arts and kickboxing. Not only are their classes diversified, they also coach under principles with your health as their number one priority. They also offer additional support with nutrition and believe regeneration is vital in every fitness journey. 

1550 N. Cleveland Ave, Chicago, IL 60610

While we all can work up a sweat dancing at the club, the tequila shots and late nights that got us here aren’t great for our health. If you are passionate about dancing and music and are looking to incorporate this into your lifestyle, look no further. Dance forever’s mission is to fuel these passions while achieving the year’s fitness-related goals. 

1642 West Division St, Chicago IL, 60622

High-intensity training is not for everyone (and frankly is sometimes too much stress on the body), but there are ways to get in shape without forcing yourself to endure another dreadful Instagram workout or fast-paced group fitness class. Solidcore offers  low-impact full body workouts designed to sculpt and strengthen your body. 

1357 West Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60642

Pilates has gone viral on social media for a reason, this actually works. Not only does pilates sculpt and tone your body, you obtain a ton of other benefits fundamental to your health. You will leave understanding more than you ever have previously. My personal favorite benefit is the posture work that is incorporated into each workout (you will know why if you are also hunched over your desk over eight hours a day). 

New to using a reformer? New members can save over $100 on two private sessions to help you get comfortable using the equipment. Once you become familiar, you’ll never go back. 

For even more fitness options, check out Classpass’s Chicago City Guide. Sign up now and get free credits to try activities for one month. Start your journey or switch up your routine for $0. Now you really have no excuses. 

Featured Image: SALT Fitness

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It feels like the new year started only a couple of days ago, and yet, we’re less than a week away from the month of February. While there’s plenty to look forward to next month in the world of sports, like the Super Bowl and the start of Spring Training for the MLB, only one thing is on our minds these days: the 2023 NBA All Star Game.

This year’s All Star Game includes the draft format the league presented us with six years ago. However, for the 2023 NBA All Star Game, things are going to be a little bit different.

Next month, right before the game takes place on February 19, both team captains will draft up their rosters and then head straight into play. The 2023 NBA All Star Game captains and starters were announced last night, with LeBron James named the West’s captain, and Giannis Antetokounmpo named the East’s. None of our local favorites were named starters last night, but we’ll dive right into who else was, which of our guys still has a shot to be a reserve, and some of our favorite Chicago Bulls All Star moments as we look forward to the 2023 NBA All Star Game!

Three voting groups determined the starters:

• Fans (50%) • NBA players (25%) • Media panel 25%)

Complete voting results here: https://t.co/M8btg7M0GP

Below are the overall scores for the top finishers at each position. pic.twitter.com/HQ9W20Z6Ke

— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) January 27, 2023

2023 All Star Game Starters

This season, the following players earned All Star Game starter status after fan, player, and media voting concluded:

East All Star Game Starters

Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)

Kevin Durant (Brooklyn Nets)

Kyrie Irving (Brooklyn Nets)

Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics)

Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers)

West All Star Game Starters

LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers)

Zion Williamson (New Orleans Pelicans)

Nikola Jokic (Denver Nuggets)

Steph Curry (Golden State Warriors)

Luka Dončić (Dallas Mavericks)

Like we said before, none of our guys made the cut, but the Chicago Bulls still have a chance to represent in the 2023 NBA All Star Game.

Next Thursday, on February 2, the league plans to announce the reserve players for the game on the show NBA Tip-Off on TNT at 6 PM CST. Unlike starters which are selected by a combination of voters, where fans account for 50%, current players for 25%, and media for the other 25%, the reserves are chosen by all the 30 head coaches. And this is where the Bulls have a shot at sending a guy to the game.

It might only be one guy, and if we had to put our money on it, we’d bet that DeMar DeRozan is named a reserve for the 2023 NBA All Star Game. When he’s not named a starter like he was last season, DeRozan often gets in with the coach vote given his history in the league. To add to that, he finished 4th in player voting in the East and 6th in fan voting. 

Joel Embiid and Jaylen Brown are almost a given to be selected as reserve representatives for the East, and we have no reason not to believe DeRozan won’t be there in one of the other 5 openings.

Our Favorite ASG Bulls Moments

His Airness Wins The Dunk Contest

He may have taken home his first All Star Game MVP trophy back in 1988, but what Michael Jordan did in the dunk contest that year might be more impressive.

Going head-to-head with fellow hall of famer, Dominique Wilkins, both players put on a show in what is considered one of the best dunk contests in league history. Jordan’s famous free-throw line dunk helped secure the victory for the GOAT. And the way he glided through the air on that attempt led him to earning the nickname Air Jordan for life.

MJ Makes History

In his second full season back after returning from his time-off playing baseball, Michael Jordan once again found himself in the NBA All Star game in 1997. The year prior, Jordan found himself winning All Star MVP, but what he did the year after is one for the record books.

After leading the NBA with over 2.4 million votes, which is 600,000 ahead of the second-highest player, Jordan went on to notch the first triple-double in NBA All Star game history with 14 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists. Even though he didn’t win back-to-back All Star MVPs with that impressive feat, one of his teammates managed to walk away with an award during the weekend.

Kerr Shoots Like Curry

While his teammate was out creating All Star Game history, Steve Kerr created a bit of personal history during the three-point contest in 1997.

Going against defending three-point contest champion, Tim Legler, Kerr edged him out 22-18 in the final round to secure his first ever three-point contest win. It was the fourth attempt of his career, and up until that point he had only ever finished as high as 3rd.

And now, he coaches one of the greatest three-point shooters in the history of basketball. Funny how that works.

D-Rose Ends Our Drought

Following the Jordan-era Bulls of the 90s, the franchise would find themselves without an All Star player for the entirety of the 2000s. That all changed with a young Bull in 2011.

In his first All Star Game appearance, Derrick Rose finished with eight points, four assists, and three steals in his 15 minutes of play off the bench. It wasn’t the flashiest of performances, but his participation in the game brought the Bulls back to the All Star Game, and the trend continued for the rest of the decade to today. The year prior to his first All Star appearance, Rose won the Skills Challenge during his rookie season, and has been the only Chicago Bull to ever win the competition.

You can watch the 2023 NBA All Star Game on Sunday, February 19 at 7PM CST on TNT and TBS. Don’t forget to tune in a bit early, because the All-Star Draft will take place right before the big game. Earlier in the weekend, the popular All-Star Celebrity Game and Rising Stars Challenge will take place on Friday, February 17. And then on Saturday, there will be an HBCU Classic at 3PM CST followed by the skills challenge, three-point contest, and slam dunk contest.

Visit the NBA’s website to learn more about the upcoming NBA All-Star weekend!

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One of the coolest things about Chicago businesses is how conscious and aware they often are. As we know, Windy City is all about equality and diversity. From the many queer-owned small businesses to larger establishments prioritizing providing a safe, inclusive experience for every guest, Chicago stands at the forefront of developing a healthy, respectful, and accepting environment for all.

Among all the booming industries in Chicago’s business world, the travel and hospitality industry is undoubtedly a leading player and showcases Chicago’s inclusiveness the most. This year, Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel is recognized as a 2022 Gay Travel AwardsSM winner in the U.S. City Hotel category.

GayTravel’s Founder, Steve Rohrlick, said:  “The goals of the GayTravel Awards are two-fold: first, to recognize achievement among inclusive travel-related companies and destinations; and second, to inspire other companies and brands around the world to embrace a broad spirit of diversity and inclusiveness as well as continuous improvement in hospitality excellence.  Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel epitomizes these values, and on behalf of GayTravel.com, we congratulate them!”

Image Credit: Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel

Located at 1 W. Wacker Drive, Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel is perfectly situated in The Loop along the Chicago River. This 560-room hotel puts you in the exciting heart of Chicago and near countless attractions in the Windy City providing guests with an inspiring and exhilarating experience.

Boasting comfortable rooms, elegant interiors, and luxury amenities. the hotel is a travelers’ favorite and a local spot when Chicagoans plan for a staycation in Chicago. Featuring local artwork in the lobby, performance talents in the musical hall, the hip, uplifting urban rooftop bar RAISED, and a full-size indoor pool, the Hotel provides a true Chicago experience on its premise.

“We are thrilled to have been selected as a winner as we always strive to inspire and exhilarate our guests, offering them a space where they can wholeheartedly be themselves,” said Kristin Duncan, General Manager for Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel. “Treating our guests like friends and family is at the core of who we are.”

Image Credit: Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel

For those looking for a true Chicago experience, the hotel is located right in the city’s heart, facing the beautiful riverwalk and only blocks away from some of Chicago’s most iconic and diverse neighborhoods, such as the theatre district. With the 2023 Chicago Theatre Week coming up, a stay here will immerse you in the arts from wake to sleep. Meanwhile, art lovers will be delighted to find the Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the River North art district within a stone’s throw from the hotel. As for the foodies: the Fulton Market, one of Chicago’s most diverse, booming dining and drinking scenes, is right around the corner, too.

For more information on Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel, please visit www.marriott.com/chisr or follow the hotel on Instagram at @RenChicagoDowntown or on Facebook at @RenaissanceChicagoDowntownHotel.

Featured Image: Renaissance Chicago Downtown 

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