Selisa S.

The Harold Washington Cultural Center

Named after the first African American Mayor of Chicago, The Harold Washingtn Cultural Center opened it's doors in 2004, after delayed development and criticism by other city officials and politicians.

Yet, when the doors finally opened the community flocked to the venue for a series of neo-soul concerts.

Located in the midst of the up and coming Bronzeville, the architecture and design is a beautiful step in the right direction.

PROS: Great concert venue located on the South Side of Chicago
CONS: Needs more/better PR to promote events

House of Blues

The House of Blues Chicago is an awesome place for a concert!

With a small venue offering only general admission, you receive low ticket prices, not a bad view in the house, an intimate concert with your favorite performer, and the bar is easily accessible from wherever you stand in the house.

Being that the HOB is a small concert venue, it enables your favorite artists, artists who perhaps couldn't sell out a large venue, a place to have a concert.

PROS: Intimate setting, good drinks for decent price
CONS: tickets sell out fast for popular artists

Charis Books & More

I love the vibe of this bookstore. This house turned bookstore is quaint, with a independent feel, and creaky floors. The store clerks are friendly and cultured. There is a large variety of books written by women. There is even a consignment program from independent authors.

So sit back on the old loveseat, sip on free herbal tea and enjoy the girl power and just be!

PROS: Women's bookstore with topics of concern to women, friendly staff
CONS: Small, limited seating

Powell's Book Store

Powell's Books located in historic and trendy Hyde Park on the South Side of Chicago is a long standing business with customers who return, bringing others.

My father swore by this store, finding great finds for years. I finally visited, and found books for a 1/3 of the price of other bookstore chains. I have now introduced a third generation, but nephews and son, to this underrated gem in our own backyard!

Convenient to the CTA and Metra

PROS: used books in good condition, in trendy and cultural neighborhood
CONS: Not all titles in stock, no seating area.

Borders Books & Music

I love bookstores, while Borders is a megastore offering a wide selection of books, music and movies, it lacks the small trendy personal of some independent bookstores.

Prices are average, but definitely higher than that of other book outlets such as amazon.com. And the cafe, while huge, tries hard to mimick the ambiance found at more trendy cafes.

But if you're looking to shop for books, while sipping a latte, this is your place!

PROS: Ability to shop while drinking your favorite cup of Java
CONS: Sometimes overpriced, BIG Business, not independently owned.