By Michelle Leach
Chicago has been ranked as a top city for singles by the likes of Forbes magazine. So, throw your personal ad aside or stop trying to find the right words to advertise yourself online, and get out of the house. There are plenty of venues (outside of the virtual world) to suit your personality, style and age group and to even find your Mr. or Ms. Right.
Redhead Piano Bar
The piano bar draws an older crowd, but it's in a spot that never sleeps -- close to attractions such as the Rock and Roll McDonald's and even night club Excalibur (see below). The club exudes class but is still comfortable, which makes it easier to approach people.
Redhead Piano Bar
16 W. Ontario Street
Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 640-1000
www.redheadpianobar.com
Excalibur
The club often has lines -- which is always a good sign. The nightclub features several floors and usually attracts a crowd in the mid- to late-20s. Dress is polished but not over the top. Just leave your jerseys, baggy pants, collar-less shirts and tennis shoes at home.
Excalibur
632 N. Dearborn
Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 266-1944
www.excaliburchicago.com
The Green Mill
The Mill is a legendary Chicago spot that often packs in the (eligible) crowds. No wonder Al Capone used to frequent it so much during the days when he called the shots. It is a sophisticated spot, yet unpretentious. It boasts a mix of live jazz music and conversation.
The Green Mill
4802 N. Broadway Avenue
Chicago, IL 60640
(773) 878-5552
www.greenmilljazz.com
Chicago SummerDance
Skip the bars and clubs altogether, as well as their pricey covers. SummerDance is an 11-week offering during the summer that exposes people to free dance lessons at an open-air dance floor at Grant Park. The dance lessons, accompanied by live music, range from salsa and swing to cajun and line dancing.
Grant Park, Spirit of Music Garden
601 S. Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60605
(877) CHICAGO
About the Author:
Since 2000 reporting and writing has taken Michelle Leach to Michigan, Nebraska, Washington, D.C., Chicago, London and Sydney, Australia. Her stories have appeared in various media outlets including NBC's "The Today Show," Reuters, Chicagoland dailies and network affiliates across the United States. Leach has a master's degree from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism and a bachelor's degree in journalism/politics from Lake Forest College.
