Taylor Excavating

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.

Chicago is renowned worldwide for its architecture, and the Chicago Architecture Foundation offers a variety of tours to showcase some of the city's most exceptional buildings. With walking, bus, and boat tours available, visitors can explore the downtown area or one of the city's many charming neighborhoods. Expert docents will guide you and share the stories behind the buildings, whether you visit iconic skyscrapers, elegant hotels, or legendary houses designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. With dozens of tours, you may need help selecting just one.

The Apollo Theater is a must-visit attraction in Chicago for anyone who loves live theater. Located in Lincoln Park, the theater has provided an intimate setting for live performances since 1978. It has two stages that offer classic and contemporary plays, allowing you to experience the best of the theater world up close. The company produces shows perfect for families and draws nearly 50,000 people annually. The Chicago Sun-Times has named the Apollo the most innovative theater in Chicago for families. So, whether you're looking for a fun and educational experience for your family or want to enjoy a night out with friends, head over to the Apollo Theater and enjoy some of the best live theater that Chicago has to offer.

If you're searching for a fascinating magic show, be sure to check out the performances of Dennis Watkins. Dennis is a third-generation magician and an award-winning entertainer who grew up surrounded by magic. His grandfather owned a small magic shop in Dallas for nearly 30 years and was a close-up magician. When Dennis was only seven years old, his grandfather explained that the purpose of magic wasn't to deceive people but to stimulate their imagination and bring back the feeling of being a kid. Dennis has carried forward his grandfather's legacy by creating a show entertaining three generations of audiences. His debut show was based on the life of Harry Houdini, which turned out to be a huge success. The show was sold out for eight consecutive performances. Dennis played the lead role of Harry Houdini and even performed Houdini's famous Water Torture Cell escape in each show. In 2012, he was honored with a Joseph Jefferson Award for his work on the show, "Death and Harry Houdini."