austin

Austin

chicago

Chicago

denver

Denver

lasvegas

Las Vegas

madison

Madison

nashville

Nashville

philly

Philly

pittsburgh

Pittsburgh

portland

Portland

saltlake

Salt Lake

seattle

Seattle

twincities

Twin Cities

We make podcasts and newsletters that connect people with the cities they love.

City Cast Chicago

A cheat sheet for getting beyond your block.

Emily Mack

, my friends (and coworkers) laughed. Maybe it’s because Avondale feels a little tame. Maybe because the 20-somethings there look like Logan Square overflow. 

Time Out’s “cool” criteria covers culture, food and drink, community, livability, street life, nightlife, and “that hard-to-define sense of ‘nowness’.” Ok, fair: Avondale’s culture is historically Polish and Mexican. That also means great food. There’s 

 are ongoing. Avondale is right off the Blue Line. 

 (between Diversey and Belmont) has vibrant, unique storefronts. 

As for “nowness,” two new buzzy bars did open last month: 

. And nightlife is the criteria I personally swear by, so you know I had to check them out.

On paper, Tune-Up fits the bill of cool. A bar in an old auto body shop? Let’s go. “Anti-freeze” cocktails? I’ll take two. The renovation misses the mark, though, favoring wood paneling over industrial edge. But hey, Tune-Up is open till 4 and 5 a.m. That 

Conveniently, Avondale is already home to one of the best! Alice’s Lounge, a beloved karaoke bar, has been around 

Rick Homuth already visited Belmont Tavern

 and lauded the eclectic addition to the neighborhood. It arrives next to the Belmont Blue Line, in the space of a former Polish dive bar that’s sat dormant for 25 years. Adjacent Logan Square has plenty of overhauled (aka fake) dive bars — like Small Bar and Quality Time, both owned by 

 — but Belmont Tavern felt distinct as soon as I walked in.

It still smelled like sawdust. The drinks were $12, 

. And it was freaking packed. Every time the door opened, a “Cheers” moment broke out as friends found one another. 

I feel like this might be a genuinely cool, laid-back new hang! Good job, Avondale! 

Other cool Avondale recs (as judged by me):

 — stay for pitchers of beer if you can’t get a lane

What do YOU think is Chicago’s coolest neighborhood?

We investigated Avondale ourselves, and think that Time Out might be onto something.

Is Chicago's Avondale really the world's fifth-coolest neighborhood?

Is Avondale Really That Cool?

Everything to know about Chicago neighborhoods: Where to go, eat, shop, drink, and more.

Chicago Neighborhood Guides

Neighborhood Guides

Sidney Madden

Wonder where Black History Month originated? The Wabash YMCA in Bronzeville.

 had been a place for Black residents to temporarily stay after coming to Chicago during the Great Migration, getting education and job training. The surrounding neighborhood became densely populated at the same time. Dubbed the city’s “

,” a thriving cultural scene was born with prominent artists like poet Gwendolyn Brooks and author Richard Wright.

The Renaissance Collaborative, a social services group that has worked to restore and preserve the Wabash Y, shared spots to explore in the area.

 is an art gallery on 47th Street that centers Black and brown curators.”

, opened in 2008, is a Black-owned restaurant in the heart of Bronzeville on 39th Street and King Drive.”

 The Renaissance Collaborative is hosting 

“These Walls Don’t Talk — People Do” on Feb. 28

 at the historic Former Wabash Y. This free, open-house and storytelling event will explore the historic center’s legacy and invite everyone to contribute to the building’s living history with photos, documents, and audio or video interviews.

historian Shermann “Dilla” Thomas’ Bronzeville tour

Check out this guide on what to see, eat, and do in this historic Chicago neighborhood.

Get to Know Bronzeville, Chicago

Get to Know Bronzeville

Western Avenue is the city’s longest continuous road, stretching from Howard to 119th Street. I’ve been exploring those 24+ miles, bopping around 

Today, I headed south — way south — to the bottom of Western Avenue. My stroll took me through West Morgan Park, Kennedy Park, and Beverly Woods, all along the dividing line of Morgan Park.

, possibly the cutest grocery store ever, full of countrified farm stands and stuffed chickens. I picked up a small bucket of fresh Chicago Mix popcorn — just $3 — and chowed down for the rest of my walk.

, but didn't have time to stop. I had to make it to the bottom of Western! Heading south, I passed 

 a dramatization of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s final night in Memphis. It runs from Jan. 15 to 18. Across the street, at 

, which provides uniforms to civil servants, seamstresses were hard at work.

 that stood on Western for 35 years. Then, finally, I got my hot dog. 

, near 115th Street, provided a solid hot dog in a pillow-soft bun, with fries, for $3.75. Can’t complain!

 — the gem of this trip and a time portal to another era. Current owner Jack Dreznes has worked there since returning from the army in 1975. Excitedly, he led me around the crowded shop, jam-packed with wooden crates full of vinyl. Dreznes says classic rock vinyls sell best — Fleetwood Mac, Led Zeppelin — but 

. Rare photos and collages of Holly cover the back wall.

Dreznes, whose parents opened Beverly Records in 1965, remembers when the shop took up two storefronts and hosted karaoke sessions. He remembers raising his children in the neighborhood and his family’s old costume shop, down the road. He remembers bar crawls from 99th all the way to 119th, saying there used to be 40 or so bars on the West side of the street.

As I left, “That's Just the Way It Is” by Phil Collins played. Across the street, I saw people pulling up for lunch at 

. And when I squinted, just a bit further, I could almost make out the end of Western Avenue.

My stroll to the bottom of Western Avenue took me through West Morgan Park, Kennedy Park, and Beverly Woods.

Walk Around the Bottom of Western With Me!

A developer is eyeing Ford City Mall to build an industrial park. At a recent meeting, many neighbors agreed it should close with Ald. Derrick Curtis (18th) saying the Southwest Side is in 

The truth is, the mall is pretty much already dead. I say having recently visited — 

I grew up finding solace in the third spaces of malls all over Chicagoland, so I was excited to see what’s still kicking at Ford City Mall. Although the majority of the mall is empty, remaining stores include:

JC Penney. This is the only anchor store in Ford City Mall, and its lease ends early 2026.

 bought a comic-print suit, pictured below.

The Vault, though it was closed when I was there.

The Shop, which occupies two separate storefronts

Golden Design Jewelers, which took up three consecutive storefronts

Rainbow, a dependable destination for baddies nationwide

Two cell phone repair stores: Connect Cell and We Fix It

The cell phone trend was strong among the kiosks as well. The day I explored Ford City Mall, I counted five active kiosks: Always Cellular, Cell Phone Fix, iFix, Lyla, and Noor. The latter two sell jewelry.

Food, meanwhile, was limited. The food court was full of vacant stands. Two of them, Sweet Honey Tea and New Cajun Grill, appeared to be in business, but neither was open on a Monday afternoon. Auntie Anne’s was my only option. Luckily, their cinnamon bites hit the same way they did in eighth grade.

 isn’t attached to the mall, but the fully functioning megaplex is just across the parking lot.

Neighboring strip malls offer more stores and restaurants than you’ll find in the actual concrete mall — mainly chains. Old Navy and Marshall’s are technically considered part of the general Ford City Mall shopping center. A bit further, on LaCrosse Avenue, there’s a Kohl’s.

 is less than two miles away — walkable depending on your mood! (I’m always in the mood for Vito & Nick’s.)

At least these Chicagoland malls that still exist 🛍️

Once a haven for young mall rats, Ford City Mall may soon become an industrial park. But it's not gone yet.

What's Still Left at Ford City Mall in Chicago?

Wander Through Ford City Mall With Me

Western Avenue is the city’s longest continuous road, stretching from Howard to 119th Street — and even further in the burbs. I’m exploring those 24+ miles to offer different Western Avenue guides.

I bopped around Western and Armitage Avenue

Today, we’re zooming into the Tri-Taylor Historic District, starting on Western and Madison Street and scooting to Roosevelt Road.

The Blue Line to Western on the Forest Park Branch at 430 S. Western Ave. 

to be confused with the O’Hare Branch Western Blue Line.

Bus No. 49 on Western; No. 20 on Madison; or No. 12 on Roosevelt

This journey has a buzzy start: the office of former Ald. Walter Burnett Jr., just a few doors north of Madison. 

Burnett represented the 27th Ward for 30 years and recently stepped down. Mayor Brandon Johnson just tapped Burnett’s son, 

, to replace him. City Council must approve the pick. 

 become the next alder — and keeps dad’s office space — he’ll be right next to 

, which has been serving up diner classics for 

.) When I visited Wednesday, the counter was packed. Cooks were churning out delivery orders and singing along to R&B on the radio. My breakfast potatoes were perfectly done.

. There, I got a massive ground beef taco for $4 and feasted over the expressway at the lovely Claremont Park. On the way, I passed 

After a relaxing lunch in the shade, you might want to recharge at 

, a coffee shop full of cozy couches that doubles as an art gallery space. Eclectic paintings cover the exposed brick walls.

Just beyond Muse, we’ll allow ourselves to venture off Western for a few short blocks to the Vietnam Veterans Survivors Memorial on Oakley Boulevard.

I’d never heard of this memorial, which effectively functions as a quiet park. It was 

cobbled together by Chicago preservationist Bill Lavicka

 in 1987 to honor fellow, often struggling vets. Today, the tile lettering on the ground is half-rubbed away.

, its front window a classic collage of Chicago street food, and beyond that, 

Today, we’re zooming into the Tri-Taylor Historic District, starting on Madison Street and scooting to Roosevelt Road.

Scooter Another Mile Along Western With Me

Western Avenue is like the Nile of Chicago. The city’s longest continuous road stretches from the North Side boundary at Howard Street to 119th Street on the South Side. (It continues further in the burbs.)

Over the next few months, I’ll be exploring those 24+ miles and bringing you different Western Avenue guides. Today, we begin on Western and Armitage Avenue.

Today: Western between Armitage Avenue and Cortez Street (aka Margie’s to Empty Bottle).

We recommend ~10 things to do in that mile.

The Blue Line to Western on the O’Hare Branch at 1900 N. Western Ave.

to be confused with the Western Blue Line on the Forest Park Branch at 430 S. Western Ave.

Bus No. 49 on Western; No. 56 on Milwaukee; or No. 73 on Armitage Avenue

The start of this walk is pretty legendary: 

 has been on Western and Armitage since 1921, serving up decadent sundaes in addition to the titular candy. (For me, it’s that hot fudge … 🤤)

But if it’s too early for sweets, head across the street to 

. Yes, you can go to Arturo’s while the sun is out. The famed night-owl taco joint is (usually) open 24 hours on weekends, the last restaurant standing in its longtime late-night rivalry against the ol’ Lazo’s Tacos.

Across the street, there’s a new breakfast option on the scene too: 

. Their bagels are perfectly chewy, seedy, and light.

, which serves street-style Thai in a lively dining room. (Sometimes there are robot waiters 🤖) Go another block and you’ll find Challengers Comics, a colorful, double-storefront comic shop. (

 A “Godzilla” author will visit Aug. 2.)

Another block and you’ll hit a 606 entrance on Bloomingdale Avenue. Head on up to find 

first restaurant with direct access to the walkway

. On the ground floor, smell their fancy flower bouquets before heading toward North Avenue. 

Just a couple doors west of Western, on the south side of North Avenue, is 

. (There’s no website, but I’ve got the pics to prove it.) Ask for Mario. He’ll hook it up.

Now keep on trekking toward Cortez. On the way, you’ll pass many dentists, several salons, Roberto Clemente high school, 

, an unassuming diner with pop-up Filipino specials.

Finally, past Division, you’re in Ukrainian Village … pretty much at 

. This reliable rock venue has a solid bar — try their Earth Juice with vodka — and free concerts on Mondays. This Thursday, catch the talented (Chicago native) 

Western Avenue is Chicago's longest continuous road. Over the next few months, I'll be exploring the whole thing. 

Your Walking Guide to Western Avenue From Margie's to Empty Bottle

Walk (or Scooter) Down Western With Me

If you get into your car and drive straight north (well not exactly straight but you get the idea) for about an hour and a half, you’ll end up in the city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I grew up just north of Milwaukee, so I’ve got some good recs for those who may want to visit.

Since we’re talking about spring break in Chicago on 

, I wanted to offer a twist on our neighborhood guides for any of you looking to get out of town. Come for a walk with me in Milwaukee!

, are extremely walkable, you might need some transportation to get to other parts of the city. 

My day always starts with a cup of coffee, and one of my favorite coffee shops in Milwaukee is the 

. It’s in the historic Milwaukee River flushing station and it’s a lovely spot to sit, especially in the summer. I often park at the marina across the street, go for a little run along Lake Michigan, and then grab a coffee.

After a run and some good coffee, all I’m thinking about is food. My favorite breakfast spot in Milwaukee is 

 for the good food and that cute brunch vibe. I’m a classic savory breakfast girl (except for a table pancake ofc), so I go for their omelets. A more fun option is the birria skillet with birria beef, potatoes, cheese, eggs, and veggies.

Sweet Diner is located in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward, which is also a popular shopping area. I first stopped at 

 a plant lover's paradise. In addition to plants, you can buy household items, such as reusable towels or ceramic ware. Down the street, 

 offers footwear along with other fun accessories and clothing items. I also love 

, an elevated thrift store owned by Goodwill.

After all that walking, my stomach started to grumble again, so I stopped for lunch. My favorite place to get food in Milwaukee is the 

. There are a ton of vendors to choose from, but I opted for the grilled veggie panini from 

. Tip! If you’re looking for a free bathroom in downtown Milwaukee, this is a great pit stop for you.

I then headed back to Lincoln Memorial Drive to go to the renowned 

 – and it’s truly worth the hype. Not only do they have great art pieces, but the architecture is absolutely stunning. If you’re traveling to Milwaukee with kids, right by the art museum is 

. It offers interactive experiences like petting stingrays, learning about the Great Lakes, or understanding how sound works.

I wouldn’t be a true Milwaukeean if I didn’t mention the Bucks and their stadium. Opened in 2018, the 

 has become quite the hot spot for the city. Maybe you don’t have tickets to a game, but you still want the Bucks experience. Right outside the stadium are an assortment of restaurants and bars including the 

. Grab a Wisconsin beer and watch the game with fellow Bucks fans.

I think Milwaukee is the perfect day or weekend trip for Chicagoans and I hope this guide makes navigating the 414 a little easier 😆

Whether it’s a day trip or a weekend getaway, there is plenty to do in Milwaukee.

Your Walking Guide to Milwaukee, Wisconsin 

Need a Quick Getaway for Spring Break? Walk Around Milwaukee, WI

” is a new podcast revisiting seven of the original subjects in Studs Terkel’s 1967 oral history that chronicled the lives of Chicagoans in the 20th century.

While there is a Division Street in Chicago, Terkel said 

the title of his book was mostly a metaphor

. But that didn’t stop this newsletter editor from walking 

Paseo Boricua and beyond in Humboldt Park

We pick a mile to walk (on Division Street between Humboldt and Campbell).

Bus No. 70 along Division Street; Nos. 49 and 52 buses to Division

National Museum of Puerto Rican Art & Culture

. Explore exhibits on queer local Boricua artists and Three Kings Day. Or go on a docent-led tour, which usually happens mid-month.

 is always nice, but I prefer to go in the summer when you can swim in the 

I am not a gym girly, but if I lived closer to the newly opened 

, I would gladly become a member at the three-story, 45,000-square-foot facility. That Olympic–sized swimming pool makes me want to find my high school swim team cap and do a few laps.

This is the stretch of the walk where I felt like the main character in a movie. I got my little treats at 

 — a guava-filled puff pastry and passionfruit lemonade — and then picked up a bouquet at 

 to add some green to these dark Chicago winter days.

 has dance and drum classes starting this week and next. Add it to our long list of 

 is the place to be. The family-owned restaurant’s coconut oatmeal is so popular they sell it by the gallon.

The humble jibarito sometimes gets forgotten in Chicago food lore. But order the juicy steak sandwich smashed between fried plantains from 

, where Patron shots are $4.50 on Wednesdays.

Want to end your walk with unique shopping? Peruse religious figurines at 

🚶 More walking guides!

“Division Street Revisited” is having a 

 at the Harold Washington Library tonight. Episodes are dropping weekly through March 21.

There's a lot to eat, see, and do along Paseo Boricua.

Your Walking Guide to Division Street in Chicago

Walk a Mile on Division Street

Snow and cold temperatures can’t stop this newsletter editor from getting out and about for walks around Chicago. This week, I walked near and along Taylor Street in Little Italy 🇮🇹

We pick a mile to walk (on Taylor Street between Ashland and Halsted).

What should you eat, see, and do in Chicago's Little Italy?

Neighborhood Guides

Is Avondale Really That Cool?

Get to Know Bronzeville

Walk Around the Bottom of Western With Me!

Latest articles

Wander Through Ford City Mall With Me

Scooter Another Mile Along Western With Me

Walk (or Scooter) Down Western With Me

Need a Quick Getaway for Spring Break? Walk Around Milwaukee, WI

Walk a Mile on Division Street

Walk a Mile on Taylor Street

Walk a Mile on 26th Street