Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
10pin
A modern interpretation of the classic bowling alley, this
lounge is tucked away under the Marina Towers complex on the
Chicago River. Everything feels bright and new (even the rental
shoes), and there's a full menu of designer beers and upscale snacks
(gourmet pizzas, smoked salmon, specialty martinis). A giant video
screen overlooks the 24 bowling lanes, and a top-notch sound
system gives the place a nightclubby vibe. You don't
have
to bowl—
the bar area is a casual, welcoming place to hang out—but I'd cer-
tainly recommend giving it a try.
330 N. State St. (between Kinzie St. and the
Chicago River).
&
312/644
-
0300.
www.10pinchicago.com. Subway/El: Red Line to
Grand or Brown Line to Merchandise Mart.
RUSH & DIVISION STREETS
Around Rush Street are what a bygone era called singles bars—
although the only singles that tend to head here now are suburban-
ites, out-of-towners, and barely legal partiers. Rush Street's glory
days may be long gone, but there are still a few vestiges of the old
times on nearby Division Street, which overflows with party-hearty
spots that attract a loud, frat-party element. They include
Shenani-
gan's House of Beer,
16 W. Division St. (
&
312/642-2344
);
Butch
McGuire's,
20 W. Division St. (
&
312/337-9080
); the
Lodge,
21
W. Division St. (
&
312/642-4406
); and
Mother's,
26 W. Division
St. (
&
312/642-7251
). Many of these bars offer discounts for
women, as loud pitchmen in front of each establishment will be
happy to tell any attractive ladies who pass by.
OLD TOWN
The center of nightlife in Old Town is Wells Street, home to Second
City and Zanies Comedy Club, as well as a string of reliable restau-
rants and bars, many of which have been in business for decades.
You're not going to find many trendy spots in Old Town; the
nightlife here tends toward neighborhood pubs and casual restau-
rants, filled mostly with a late-20s and 30-something crowd.
Corcoran's
Owned by the same family for more than 30 years,
this is one of Old Town's favorite local hangouts, and it makes a good
stop before or after a show at Second City, which is located right
across the street. The cozy, wood-lined interior and hearty pub food
(bangers and mash, shepherd's pie, fish and chips) will put you right
at ease. In nice weather, check out the beer garden in back, which
offers a tranquil retreat from the city traffic.
1615 N. Wells St. (at North
Ave.).
&
312/440
-
0885.
Subway/El: Brown Line to Sedgwick.
