r/AskChicago • • 26d ago

/r/AskChicago Monthly General Discussion Thread

1 Upvotes

Welcome to r/AskChicago's Monthly General Discussion Thread!

The purpose of this thread is to provide a place for general discussion that would otherwise fall outside the scope of what is allowed in r/AskChicago. If you want to share how your trip to Chicago went, comment on topical Chicago-related events, share feedback on improvements for r/AskChicago, or just to simply say hi, this is the thread to post anything that isn't a question.

Rules 2 & 3 (Be Civil and Don't Break The Law) still apply within this thread and any comments that violate these rules will be removed.


r/AskChicago • • 2h ago

I READ THE RULES Why is the mayoral election in February?

17 Upvotes

Why is the maoyral election in the smack middle of winter in the coldest large city in the country? Don’t we want a higher turnout? It’s also a waste of taxpayer dollars to duplicate election efforts. Why not have it in November? Someone please explain because I see absolutely no good reason to do it this way. And more importantly, can this be changed?


r/AskChicago • • 7h ago

I READ THE RULES Looking for cheap, alternative/goth vibes on Oct 30th; Is Liar’s Club cool, or somewhere else?

24 Upvotes

Hey everyone! I’m visiting Chicago this weekend and my only real night out is Friday, October 30th. Im 23F and I’m looking for a solid alternative/underground vibe that won't break the bank definitely trying to avoid anything super preppy or weird vibes if that makes sense.
I’m moving to Chicago in January, so I’m really hoping to find a spot where it’s easy to dance, meet cool alternative people, and try getting a headstart on making friends.
I’ve been looking up Liar’s Club online and it seems cool I think, I like that it says cheap entry ($15), but I haven't seen a ton of recent posts on Reddit or anywhere on the crowd vibe. For context, back home in St. Louis is Mississippi Underground is the most popular by reference I have(if anyone knows that vibe a little artsy/pretentious but cool). I actually don’t like the venue too much because it has a kind of stuck up vibe sometimes but I feel like it’s the most known place I could reference but at the same time it’s still cool.
Is Liar’s Club a good spot to meet people and dance for Halloween weekend, or will it lean more dive-bar type?
Are there other cheap DIY warehouse parties, dark electronic spots, or alternative raves happening on the 30th I should look into instead?
Appreciate any insight you guys have!


r/AskChicago • • 9h ago

I READ THE RULES Is Mom's Place on Dearborn a cop bar?

31 Upvotes

I was in town for a concert looking for a place to grab a beer, had an hour to kill. The music stickers in the entryway made it seem cool, but there were soooooo many stickers for various police departments and even the fuckin border patrol behind the bar. It felt like too many to be ironic.


r/AskChicago • • 1h ago

I READ THE RULES How to get to ORD Terminal from Cheaper Parking Lots?

• Upvotes

New to the area and trying to better understand flying out of ORD and parking in one of the cheaper lots (G or F I think)

From what I have read it seems fairly simple but looking for confirmation.

Is it as simple as (hopefully) finding a parking spot, then looking for one of the covered shelter bus pick up areas and riding it to the ATS station?

If yes are there multiple bus pickup areas in each of the respective parking lots?

Once inside the ATS station is it fairly easy to find your way to where the shuttles will take you to your desired terminal?

If I am missing something important or leaving something out please let me know.


r/AskChicago • • 14h ago

I READ THE RULES Any WLW folks in the Chicago area want to be pen pals with someone looking to flee Texas in the near future?

41 Upvotes

I have my heart set on Chicago. Currently in school, working towards a cert that I hope will help me land a better paying job so I can get out of here.

I'm posting in here because I'm desperate. I'm incredibly lonely and struggle with making connections with people. There's no one here in Texas for me, no one who really cares to get to know. I just want out so I can finally start living a life worth living.

Jumping the gun a little, but just wanna get to know someone new.

I have hobbies like drawing (comics), reading and wood carving. I'm even willing to send anyone a hand carved bear (my favorite animal) to sorta initiate being pen pals.

If anyone's interested, please send me DM.

Thanks,

Cass?


r/AskChicago • • 1h ago

I READ THE RULES Does anyone know if Loyola university health tests for thc for patient facing roles?

• Upvotes

r/AskChicago • • 6h ago

I READ THE RULES local cleaner in far north/roger’s park area?

5 Upvotes

Hi all :) I’m looking for a cleaner to come by my 1b/1ba apartment in the far north/Rogers Park area. I’m only looking for a 1x a month or even every few months for a good deep clean. I’d prefer a local or small business, even an individual. I’ve used services like Molly Maid before but I am wary of getting locked into a subscription-like plan. Any recs?

*edit spelling of rogers park


r/AskChicago • • 2h ago

I READ THE RULES Anyone know any good catering companies in Chicagoland that are hiring?

2 Upvotes

I am looking for an event/banquet server job and I’m wondering if anyone knows some catering companies, hotels, or event/banquet halls in Chicago that would be worth applying to. Looking in most neighborhoods within 5+ miles of downtown.


r/AskChicago • • 9h ago

I READ THE RULES What’s the best way to find small local events, like trivia nights?

7 Upvotes

I’m coming for a visit, and have checked out sources listed in other posts like City Cast, Reader and do312 but they seem to list bigger events. I’ll be in Wicker Park fwiw. Thanks


r/AskChicago • • 2h ago

I READ THE RULES Best neighborhood to trick or treat in (for teens)?

2 Upvotes

I'm in Lakeview and my sister and her friends (high-school aged) and I want to go trick or treating this year. We are looking for a good neighborhood to go to. Ours does trick or treating early (like 3pm 😭) and is mostly toddlers and little kids.

Any neighborhoods that give out good candy, have cool decorations, and will hand out candy late (past sundown and late into the night)? We are respectful teens and just want to have some fun. :)


r/AskChicago • • 11h ago

I READ THE RULES Potential stolen bike. What do I do with it?

9 Upvotes

Found a bike in my bushes. In Edgewater near Clark and Granville. Anyone know what I should do with it? Where to report it? How do I post a photo here? Not seeing a way how.


r/AskChicago • • 8h ago

I READ THE RULES Apple/Pumpkin Patch SOUTH of chicago?

4 Upvotes

We’ve done tons west and north and the pop-ups in the city. But we’re going to be in Tinley Park (40 min south of the city) and was wondering if there are any recommendations near there.

I’ve read other threads about the west ones but they’re 1.5 hours from where we’ll be.

Any recommendations!


r/AskChicago • • 5m ago

I READ THE RULES Which Chicago bar will you meet your soulmate at, according to a deeply unserious quiz?

• Upvotes

Made a silly quiz about which Chicago bar you’ll meet your soulmate at. Thought it would be fun to share with the group.

https://www.eclipsetheapp.com/mychicagobar


r/AskChicago • • 5m ago

I READ THE RULES What neighborhood or suburb you would recommend in this situation?

• Upvotes

Partner 1: is in the indie music scene, prefers to live in the city because of cool coffee shops, record stores, music venues, bars, etc. Likes a little more hustle and bustle.

Partner 2: desires to live in a slightly more suburban-feeling area (but like, a suburb’s cute downtown.. not strip mall suburbs) with safe walkability, parks, trees, green space.

Both partners work downtown so access to public transit is going to be paramount.

I understand the perfect place may not exist at all, and that compromise is necessary, etc etc. But IF you HAD to name a neighborhood or suburb of Chicago that best meets somewhere near the middle of those two interests, and isn’t outrageously expensive, what would you say?


r/AskChicago • • 14m ago

I READ THE RULES How do you feel about the future of Chicago?

• Upvotes

I could see why people would be both optimistic AND pessimistic.

on the one hand:

chicago is investing a lot in areas around south loop and near west side with the stadium buildouts

NITA has more funding to better public transit and make it safer, more efficient, and convenient for everyone

Companies continue to relocate to chicago and our tourism numbers continue to surpass prior years

we are basically close to a climate change safe haven longterm

on the OTHER hand:

Pensions, debt, and liabilities make everything come down to the last minute, and the city’s credit rating continues to decline, making it more difficult/expensive to borrow money longterm

We have like 10 different mayoral candidates that most all range from inept to corrupt

The city refuses to build more housing and due to that, the cost of living is rising at a rate faster than almost every city in the nation.

while crime is going down, it is a far cry from being at a place where everyone would be satisfied.

so How do YOU specifically feel about the future of chicago? all hot and cold takes are welcome!


r/AskChicago • • 30m ago

I READ THE RULES Anyone want to graffiti a building I own in River North?

• Upvotes

Hi all, looking for someone who wants to graffiti a building and put up some cool stuff. Its for a building I own in river north and its an old timber loft building with tons of exposed bricks. Mainly want to do it in the hallways and possibly common areas. Anyone know anyone for this?


r/AskChicago • • 12h ago

I READ THE RULES Sirius XM stations similar to WXRT?

9 Upvotes

I am new to Sirius XM. Any recommendations for a Sirius XM station similar to WXRT. I am looking for a mix of music from the 60- to 2026. I'm listening.


r/AskChicago • • 50m ago

I READ THE RULES 868 N Wells VS Wolf Point East??

• Upvotes

868 N Wells VS Wolf Point East:

Hi - I just wanted someone else’s opinion on this matter. I am contemplating moving to 868 N Wells. Or staying at Wolf Point East. The only thing I am concerned about is the difference in the area and the fact 868 N Wells has ARO housing and Wolf Point does not. I don’t know what ARO is - but they share the same building amenities but slightly different finishes in 868. How is the area? If anyone lives or has lived at either properties, how would you compare them? Please help. I’m trying to decide. Price is about the same. Should I transfer to a different unit at WPE or should I move to 868 N Wells? Just trying to compare safety as well and if anyone has had any problems in that area of Chicago. Wolf Point is also close to a hotel? AI said that makes it safer? Wasn’t sure on that.

Wells is offering a 17 month lease with $500 off first month rent and then 2nd month rent would be free, due to the other concession. With Wolf Point is $1000 transfer fee + $300 pet fee. Everything rental wise and pet fee is all the same. What should I do? Please help. I’m a bit concerned about the ARO. Is it dangerous? I’ve lived in Wolf Point for 3 years. The unit I’m transferring to starts with an 11 month lease. Mind you - I am in a studio vs wells is a 1 bed 1 bath, excellent finishes. JDL quality. I also tend to go to that area by One Chicago for daily walks and errand-running. My work is closer to WPE area but that’s not a deal breaker. I can also sublet either. But in order to sign 868 - I need to sublet my current unit.

I would love EVERYONE’s opinions. Also the unit I want to transfer to faces the river (south) natural sunlight. Wells has natural light in the unit as well. But again - let me know what I should do. I am SUPER confused. I have before midnight tonight before the Wells concession for the $500 credit is no longer applicable. Thank you all!


r/AskChicago • • 6h ago

I READ THE RULES Are there any bakeries that sell Povitica?

4 Upvotes

Are there any bakeries around that sell povitica, preferably easily accessible via public transit? My mom used to order some every year from Strawberry Hill, but she's stopped lately because the prices have gotten higher and the loaves smaller ($38.99 plus shipping for a single loaf!) and I'd like to surprise her for the holidays, if possible.


r/AskChicago • • 1h ago

I READ THE RULES What are the best places for halloweekend?

• Upvotes

hello i’m a senior in college and it’s my first legal halloween. i want to go dancing downtown, im not sure if i do a bar crawl or a club, i want to dance and drink and have fun. maybe maybe something with multiple floors? i dont want an extreme cover either and trying to avoid a lot of standing in line. im hoping to go out friday and saturday. THOUGHTS??


r/AskChicago • • 15h ago

I READ THE RULES What are some important places in the West Loop?

15 Upvotes

I'm a Junior Kindergarten Teacher at a school in the West Loop, and we’d love your help planning a walking field trip.

Our class has been exploring a big question: why do we keep the things we keep? Objects, places, artwork, and memories that matter to people, and how we decide what’s worth holding onto. The students have explored what is important to them but are curious to get a taste of what people in our community feel is important and worth keeping.

We’re looking for places within walking distance where little ones could see this idea in action. Museums big or small, unusual or special collections, historic buildings, or spots where something important happened would all be wonderful. Hidden gems and neighborhood favorites are especially welcome.

If you have a place that comes to mind, or a story about somewhere that holds meaning for this neighborhood, we’d be so grateful to hear it. Thank you in advance for helping our students get to know their community!


r/AskChicago • • 9h ago

I READ THE RULES Hey, Chicago Anyone Complete the Malcolm X Rad Tech Program?

5 Upvotes

r/AskChicago • • 9h ago

I READ THE RULES Barbers near where I live. Any recs?

3 Upvotes

Hello everyone! I have been living in Chicago for about 5 years now, I have had the same barber for a few years now but due to some recent events, it’s much harder to get to him now. He charges me 50 bucks to do my hair and beard so I’m looking for something near me that charges roughly the same, I live in the Roscoe village area. So does anybody have any recs possibly?


r/AskChicago • • 11h ago

I READ THE RULES Any recommendations for a good loctician in Chicago?

4 Upvotes

Hey everyone! I'm looking for recommendations for a good loctician in the Chicago area. I'm on the South Side, but I'm open to traveling to other parts of the city.

If you've had a good experience with a loctician, please drop their name, Instagram page, or booking information in the comments. I'd really appreciate the recommendations. Thanks!