Next Door & Window

The National Veterans Art Museum is committed to collecting, preserving, and exhibiting art created by military personnel inspired by their experiences during active duty. The museum's focus is mainly on the Vietnam War, and its primary goal is to increase the public's understanding of the impact of conflict. By showcasing artworks created by military veterans, the museum aims to encourage dialogue about the effects of war, including its physical, mental, and emotional consequences. Since its establishment, the museum has amassed a significant collection of artwork created by veterans who have served in various wars, including WWII, Korea, the Gulf War, and the Global War on Terror. The collection now comprises over 2,000 pieces, a considerable increase from the 700 works created by 115 artists who served in the Vietnam War. These veterans come from different parts of the world, such as the United States, Australia, Cambodia, Hungary, Thailand, and North and South Vietnam. The museum's collection includes paintings, drawings, photography, sculpture, and literary works by military writers like Kurt Vonnegut and Tim O'Brien. The museum also offers interactive exhibitions, allowing visitors to engage with the ideas and themes presented.

The Empty Bottle sounds like an excellent spot to catch some live music. They offer affordable drinks, reasonable cover, and a fun crowd. It's interesting to note that the bar started as a cat-filled hole-in-the-wall in 1992 but later moved two blocks up the street to a slightly larger and better-equipped venue. They've been putting on great shows for the past 20 years and have managed to maintain their success thanks to their low prices, lack of attitude, and loyal customer base.

AIRE Ancient Baths Chicago provides a unique spa experience where you can see the building's exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and industrial columns. Inside the AIRE walls, you can immerse yourself in a journey through a traditional and exclusive bathhouse inspired by the ancient Roman, Greek, and Ottoman cultures. This journey will take you through a range of sensations in a  serene space that promotes the peace of your mind and body, where time seems to stand still. You can treat yourself to the thermal baths, steam rooms, jet baths, and Flotarium, all set at different temperatures. You can enjoy a full-day spa experience or a relaxing couples massage. So, come to AIRE and immerse yourself in relaxation.

The Wells Street Art Festival is an annual event on the second weekend of June. It is located in Old Town's popular Wells Street corridor and attracts around 50,000 visitors yearly. The festival showcases talented artists from across the continent specializing in traditional painting, sculpture, artisan woodworking, metalsmithing, jewel crafts, digital arts, and more. Additionally, there is a dedicated performance stage where local musicians, performance artists, and cover/tribute bands entertain the crowd throughout the weekend. Moreover, at the corner of Wells Street and Evergreen Street is a children's play area where kids can participate in arts and crafts, watch a performance, or have fun. The festival also has over 20 food and drink vendors who sell a variety of tasty treats. Visitors can try something from all the excellent Old Town restaurants participating.