/r/AskChicago

Photograph via snooOG

/r/AskChicago is a place to ask Chicagoans questions about the Windy City.

/r/AskChicago is a place to ask Chicagoans questions about the Windy City.


RULES

Click here for full rules

  • All submissions must be a question related to Chicago
  • All submissions must include a clear, concise question as the post title
  • Be civil
  • Don't break the law

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/r/AskChicago

73,639 Subscribers

0

Hostels near the salt shed that will book to 19 y/o?

Hi! Im planning to go to a concert at the salt shed next week and I was wondering if there were any hostels nearby that will allow 19 year olds to book. I saw some had restrictions on who could book based off of zipcode on ID, and I live about 1.5hrs away in northern illinois (60172). Im looking to book a hostel because because I dont necessarily want to drive back after the concert since it may end late in the night. It doesnt necessarily have to be super close because I could just uber but the closer the better. Any recommendations are greatly appreciated!

3 Comments
2025/02/01
07:53 UTC

0

How to feel safe in elevated first floor unit?

My husband and I are looking to buy a condo in Uptown or Rogers Park, and we've seen some elevated first floor units that we're really interested in (we rent in Uptown now). I have always lived in second or third floor apartments, and I'm wrestling with the pros and cons of moving to the first floor - primarily related to safety.

I like to keep the windows open as much as possible, including at night in the summer (best way to cool things down while keeping AC usage to a minimum). That said, we both like the possible energy savings of being on a lower level, as our current top-floor apartment gets hot as hell in the summer (even with all those open windows). Cutting down on the number of stairs would also be nice, as would not having to worry as much about our own noise levels because there wouldn't be neighbors below us in some of the buildings we've looked at.

Obviously, being closer to the ground with an open window heightens the chance of a break-in, and I also know that break-ins can happen to any building/floor. All that said - how big of a concern do you all think open elevated first-floor windows actually are? Are there break-in deterrents that would allow us to keep windows open a couple of inches in the bedroom at night to let in a cool breeze? I don't think I'm overly paranoid about safety stuff, but I do want to feel reasonably secure in my home, especially if I own it. And I want to be able to open a window.

14 Comments
2025/02/01
05:53 UTC

0

Any Jobs that is located in the Chicago are hiring ?

Any Jobs in Illinois hiring ?

Mom of 1 here , I’ve been struggling to look for a job since December & also been to a job fair just recently . Does anyone where there’s any other job fairs being held or any job hiring ? I’m very mobile since I just got a new car willing to drive anywhere as of now .

22 Comments
2025/02/01
05:27 UTC

1

Where in Gold Coast to play pickup basketball?

Moving to Gold Coast soon.

Where are the best places where people are consistently running pickup games?

Preferably in a gym and near or in Gold Coast

Thanks!!

2 Comments
2025/02/01
04:49 UTC

95

Do you know anyone who thought Lake Michigan was the ocean?

Apperantly this happens ALOT more then you'd expect

132 Comments
2025/02/01
04:02 UTC

1

Any thoughts on living in Pilsen?

I live in WestLoop right now which feels v homogenous and honestly not really my vibe (I don’t drink and go out to eat often, and honestly a bit of a culture shock coming from NYC). I do like the buildings with more amenities but not enough to keep me here (esp. considering rent is so high).

I have a few friends who live in Pilsen (closer to Halsted), but there’s a beautiful unit that just opened up near Harrison Park. Not as familiar with the area but curious from anyone re: if it’s relatively safe for a single woman, mid 20’s to walk around there?

Considering Pilsen bc of close proximity to Pink Line and a few stops to work (I work in West Loop).

36 Comments
2025/02/01
03:27 UTC

1

Recommendations for fun part time jobs in the city?

Hi! I work full time, but don’t make enough, so I’m looking to tack on a part time job. preferably something with a flexible schedule (retail, tutoring, etc). The only thing I can’t do is restaurants/coffee/bartending. Other than that i’m pretty flexible! I’d love to get out of the house and meet more young people, but i’m fine with taking something remote. doesn’t need to pay that much - any little bit will help me.

For example, i was thinking i might apply to trader joe’s

Also, i don’t have a car - so preferably nothing in the suburbs or south of the loop.

5 Comments
2025/02/01
03:12 UTC

1

Affordable and cta accessible vet recs for picky dog with kidney disease?

For those whose picky dog has kidney disease, where do you take your dog for ongoing and affordable vet care that’s cta accessible? I’m in the Logan/bucktown area. My dog is not doing well and At this rate it’s looking like monthly visits hence looking for a place that’s affordable. He was recently diagnosed in early Nov so all this is still newer to me so I’m looking for a knowledgeable vet that can guide me on how best to care for him and get him to eat 😔.

3 Comments
2025/02/01
02:35 UTC

1

Motorcycle classes in the city?

I’m interested in obtaining my motorcycle license and would like to start classes soon. Are there any affordable schools in the Chicago area?

4 Comments
2025/02/01
02:33 UTC

1

Good recommendations for a PCP?

Any good PCP you recommend in the city that are in network with Aetna-PPO that’s accepting new patients?

Preferably in the northwest side (Hermosa or Logan Square neighborhood), but open to any in the city.

Thank you. 😭❤️

4 Comments
2025/02/01
02:04 UTC

0

Would mount greenwood be racist towards an Asian woman and white husband ?

Asking for a friend thinking of moving to the neighborhood. Tia

11 Comments
2025/02/01
01:48 UTC

0

What’s the best pizza place in Chicago?

19 Comments
2025/02/01
01:36 UTC

0

Can Someone Recommend a Broker to Help Me Find An Apartment?

Hi, I’m moving back to Chicago after a year away and am looking for a reliable broker who can help me find an apartment in the city. Does anyone have recommendations? Thanks!

4 Comments
2025/02/01
01:04 UTC

0

Any parking lots or decent places to park to see the skyline for a few minutes?

7 Comments
2025/02/01
00:57 UTC

21

I asked tourists and others who have visited Chicago what's one word they'd use to describe the city. What word would you use?

So I asked people who are not from Chicago this, as to not skew things, but have simply visited it a while back and I got responses such as:

Grand, Noir, Grungy, Dark, Cold (in terms of vibe not weather), Clean, Gothic, Gritty, Dizzying, Massive, No-Nonsense, Beautiful, Bustling, Intense, welcoming, cool etc.

What word would you use? And maybe note if you're a transplant, tourist or resident.

175 Comments
2025/02/01
00:47 UTC

1

Which plasma center pays the most?

Hello, I am new to Chicago and planning to donate plasma. I am donating here in bloomington at CSL plasma but trying to get that new donor benifits.

10 Comments
2025/02/01
00:40 UTC

2

A question for parents of children in elementary school?

When I attended public elementary school in the 60s and 70s, we weren't graded with the A through F system. Instead, we had E (for Excellent), G (for Good), F (for Fair), and the dreaded U (for Unsatisfactory). I was just wondering if this grading system is still in use or has it been replaced with the A through F system.

6 Comments
2025/02/01
00:02 UTC

91

is pole dancing a good way to meet polish guys in the city?

only problem is i don't have a pole

48 Comments
2025/01/31
23:49 UTC

6

Is there a no right on red sign at Southbound McCormick Blvd and Howard St?

Hi folks!

I just received my first red light ticket ever. The location is Southbound McCormick Blvd at Howard St. They claim I turned right on red when it’s a no right on red location, however, I don’t recall seeing any signs that said I can’t turn, nor are any visible in the pictures that were included with the violation.

I want to fight the ticket, but am trying to double check before I spend the time to fight it. Anybody live or go through that intersection the same direction that could confirm or share a picture? (I live way in the burbs, so it’d be quite a drive just to see myself!)

31 Comments
2025/01/31
22:41 UTC

1

Stupid question but I’m confused?

So I just recently got my learners permit and I just looked at it and it shows a REST: B* what does that mean? I looked online and it said it means I need glasses but l've never needed glasses like ever. Should I be worried about it?

6 Comments
2025/01/31
22:37 UTC

5

Recommendations for ED treatment around Chicago land area?

Helping my partner find care, she’s considering either the residential program or the partial hospitalization, does anyone have any personal or close experience with any of the following? Center for discovery Rodgers health Compass Monte Vido Center for eating disorder Sun life

Any comments on experience, recommendations or advice would be much appreciated thank you!

0 Comments
2025/01/31
21:54 UTC

0

Recommendation for a quiet non-downtown hotel?

Anyone recommend a hotel not in the Loop or the near North Side, preferably a nice quiet neighborhood-feeling place? Specific area is open. My travel will take me from Hyde Park to Rogers Park. Familiar with CTA bus and L network.

Would appreciate any local gem recs. Thanks.

24 Comments
2025/01/31
21:10 UTC

54

How does a sober 27 year old make friends here?

I’m 27F and have been here a month and have yet to make any friends. I don’t drink so I’m not down to meet people at bars. I’m part of a church but I feel like I’m having a hard time making connections. I did Bumble BFF and have matched with a couple people but I’m really struggling with loneliness right now and hoping to find some more female friends.

77 Comments
2025/01/31
20:23 UTC

0

Does anyone know how I can get into working for Costco or Walmart?

I know with DEI many people are against Walmart but I am in need of a job. Honestly if anyone knows of a job currently hiring and can point me in that direction.

Thanks in advance! 🫶

5 Comments
2025/01/31
20:21 UTC

1

adult beginner guitar lessons in the city?

hi! i’m looking to find beginner friendly guitar lessons, specifically more aimed at rock/alternative styles. preferably north side, don’t really have a preference between group and private. i know this question has been asked a few times in here but the most recent one i could find was 2 years ago.

thank you :)

10 Comments
2025/01/31
19:57 UTC

42

Anyone know what’s going on around the United Center today?

There’s all kinds of police vehicles and barricades shutting down the street on Madison in front of the United Center. This is at noon.

18 Comments
2025/01/31
18:12 UTC

0

moving in summer, looking for job advice?

Hello, a friend and I are moving to chicago in the summer and i was looking for best tips for seeking employment in the area. Were moving to the northhalstead area and i need a job that pays at least 20 a hour, should i start applying for jobs now? this is also my first major move to a new city any advice on making new friends and get myself adjusted as im coming from a small city.

5 Comments
2025/01/31
18:02 UTC

0

Can someone recommend a good school for CPR/First-aid?

Hi, I’m looking for a school that maybe has a curriculum with more than just the basic certifications. I’m not sure where to begin looking but I want to get a good education from professionals and not just pass a test to get a cert. Are there any dedicated schools for this in the Chicagoland area that someone can recommend?

5 Comments
2025/01/31
17:46 UTC

1

Anybody know of a reliable tailor near Belmont Craign? Would be great if they can do custom polo/shirts?

0 Comments
2025/01/31
17:34 UTC

0

How to live in Chicago when you hate the cold?

I left Chicago last year, but for a variety of reasons (job, I'm queer, COL, family), I have decided to return. There are many things I love about it, but I absolutely hate the cold. My ideal weather is Miami all the way, but I am staying far away from Florida for obvious reasons. I have weighed options in other cities for months, but none make as much sense as Chicago. I'm just wondering, is it truly possible to be happy and fulfilled as a cold hater in Chicago? If you do hate the cold but live in Chicago, what do you do to stay sane in the winter months? Really need some advice! Positive vibes please!! Thanks :)

24 Comments
2025/01/31
17:03 UTC

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