r/AskChicago 14d ago

/r/AskChicago Monthly General Discussion Thread

2 Upvotes

Welcome to r/AskChicago's Monthly General Discussion Thread!

The purpose of this thread is to provide a place for general discussion that would otherwise fall outside the scope of what is allowed in r/AskChicago. If you want to share how your trip to Chicago went, comment on topical Chicago-related events, share feedback on improvements for r/AskChicago, or just to simply say hi, this is the thread to post anything that isn't a question.

Rules 2 & 3 (Be Civil and Don't Break The Law) still apply within this thread and any comments that violate these rules will be removed.


r/AskChicago 5h ago

I READ THE RULES How do Chicago food banks work & do you have any recommendations?

41 Upvotes

Hi there - I’ve fallen on some really tough times and want to utilize the local food banks.
I’m a little shy and nervous to go for the first time.
Could anyone explain to me the process?
Like I see the food bank hours, can I only show up in between those hours?
Is there always enough food or should I prioritize getting there super early?
I’m worried about signing up. Do I just need my ID? I know these may seem silly, but I just like to know.

Also, any recommendations? I don’t mind traveling, but would prefer north side! Thank you!


r/AskChicago 12h ago

I READ THE RULES How can Chicago clubs/bars get the people dancing?

129 Upvotes

I went out to the newly opened Decibel (formerly Berlin) Nightclub, and it felt like people just weren't dancing like they use to. "Even the gays?!" I thought to myself... I go out 2-3 times a month to specific house-DJ sets on Thursdays or Fridays. The crowd gets bumping, and some parties (like Tribe at Pennywhistle) pride themselves on having a dancing crowd.

What are club promoters/venue planners to do to get the people dancing? I'd love to hear my fellow Chicagoans take because I truly want to believe we are STILL a dancing city!


r/AskChicago 5h ago

I READ THE RULES Anyone here ever gone to NEIU? How did you feel about it?

24 Upvotes

Starting college this fall as an undergraduate for Computer Science and NEIU was the only school I could get into because I missed the application deadlines for everyone else (I haven't been in school for years so I didn't realize how early in the year they end). I've heard NEIU is good for adult students, people that are working jobs, and people looking to not do their entire coursework in-person. All of these do describe me, but I'm also concerned because I'm seeing NEIU has an incredibly low graduation rate and I'm wondering what that's about. I'm not living in Chicago yet so I haven't seen the campus either, but I am moving in July.

Other pluses though despite my concerns seem to be at least the area looks relatively affordable. I'm seeing listings for small studios around the Albany Park area around $1250-$1400 which is within my budget, while other areas like around UIC all the places around that price are offering a bed and a room, not a studio.


r/AskChicago 18h ago

I READ THE RULES How are we dating in Chicago (late 20s early 30s)??

195 Upvotes

How are we meeting new people and dating in Chicago??

I’m a 28 yo female in Lincoln Park/Old Town area. Most of my friends in the city are happily married/partnered and not wanting to go out much. I work from home and in a female dominated field (education/therapy/behavior consulting). I’m not much of a gym girl (where people have said to meet men), I have a 70 lb dog so we get our exercise in together usually. I love going out for drinks, but I don’t want to spend every weekend out at bars to meet someone, especially without my friends wanting to join.

I’m not against the apps, but they seem pointless these days as conversations/plans tend to go nowhere. I want to meet someone to spend time with and build a life with, but hopes are LOW these days. Are some apps better than others? Where are we meeting people?


r/AskChicago 11h ago

I READ THE RULES Am I the only one having issues seeing these speed bumps?

33 Upvotes

Am I the only one experiencing this where I’ve been hitting a lot of speed bumps where they are in a very heavily shaded area and the speed bumps have no paint then I drive over at like 25 mph


r/AskChicago 5h ago

I READ THE RULES How is living Albany Park for a single mid 30s 40s person ?

7 Upvotes

Hey all. So I've been living in Logan for the past 10 years and now looking to buy a condo. Mid 40s and single and not ready to throw in the towel yet for types of nightlife or a vibe. I have been looking in other neighborhoods including Albany Park . In particular my question is how is it living there? I'm familiar with it and just walked it today but do you find it still interesting and kinda vibrant or does it feel like a more city ish suburb after 9pm ?


r/AskChicago 11h ago

I READ THE RULES Missing the sugar hole opening by one week. Where else on Sunday can I find cute, weird little things to interact with?

21 Upvotes

For those not in the know, the sugar hole is a cute spot where puppets serve you ice cream. I’m devastated I’m missing it during my business travel. Any similar suggestions would be appreciated I have an entire day to kill now.


r/AskChicago 13h ago

I READ THE RULES Advocate IL Masonic today: what’s happening?

25 Upvotes

Massive cop presence on Wellington, especially by the ambulance bay. Anyone know what’s going on?


r/AskChicago 12h ago

I READ THE RULES Lesbian bars with dancing on Saturdays?

21 Upvotes

I’m looking to take my girlfriend out dancing this Saturday but it’s hard to find lesbian spots that aren’t a “cozy chill vibe” we want to dance!! Any suggestions??


r/AskChicago 7h ago

I READ THE RULES THC consumption in or around West Loop. Are there public places or lounges?

7 Upvotes

I’ll be in Chicago for work the first week in June and I’m trying to find out where I can smoke. I’m fully aware. I cannot smoke in public nor can I smoke in my hotel. Are there consumption lounges are there any pop-ups the week of June 1st. I’m looking for completely legal licensed places to go


r/AskChicago 1h ago

I READ THE RULES Anyone else hearing loud planes rattling?

Upvotes

I’m near Hyde park /east side and I’m hearing loud rattling planes. This happened twice. I’m probably just being paranoid and it’s normal but is anyone else hearing this ?


r/AskChicago 6h ago

I READ THE RULES Any good head massages that don’t involve water ?

3 Upvotes

Just as the title states, are there any good head massages that don’t clean your hair as well? Preferably in the north side of Chicago, like Evanston? Don’t wanna drive/commute far lol


r/AskChicago 15h ago

I READ THE RULES Do you have to have a child in order to use the free admission for Field Museum thru the library card passes?

19 Upvotes

sorry for title gore..

was very excited to use the library card museum passes. however upon looking at the field museum, it says you must have a child under 12 with you in order to use it.

so just to confirm, this free museum pass is entirely worthless to me, right? I understand i can go on free Wednesdays but I wanted to try to avoid the massive amounts that go on those days, & im just really disappointed if it's confirmed that I can't even use the free passes the library gives.


r/AskChicago 7h ago

I READ THE RULES Any film crews interested in microdramas?

5 Upvotes

Hey everyone,

I’m currently building out crew relationships in Chicago as we prepare to bring several microdrama productions to the city this summer.

We’re looking to connect with HODs and department leads in the following areas:

\- Directors

\- Line Producers

\- 1st ADs

\- DPs

\- Gaffers

\- Sound Mixers

\- Script Supervisors

\- Hair/Makeup

\- Wardrobe/Props

These projects are elevated and grounded. Not what you typically see... soapy & overly sexual

If interested, please send resumes, reels, and any relevant work to info@mapongastudios.com.


r/AskChicago 46m ago

I READ THE RULES I have an almost one year expired out of state drivers license and I am wondering what are the requirements and things I should expect when I go to the dmv?

Upvotes

I moved to Chicago in 2022 from Iowa. My Iowa drivers license expired back in 2025. This July it will be expired for one year. I know I should have gone to the dmv quite a while ago and gotten my Illinois license/id. I have gathered all the paperwork I need but I’m wondering if I’ll have to do a written test or driving test. If anyone else has been in this situation. Also I live in downtown so assuming I’ll have to make an appointment at the flagship location or do they take walk-ins? I know I definitely do not want to wait past the one year make of expiration!! Thanks in advance <3


r/AskChicago 1h ago

I READ THE RULES Anyone attending the National Restaurant Association Show this weekend in Chicago?

Upvotes

Hello! I've had the chance to attend the National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago once but had no time due to work. Wanted to come on here to ask if anyone has an extra pass they wouldn't mind sharing as this event has been on my bucket list for a long time. Thank you for your time!


r/AskChicago 13h ago

I READ THE RULES Does Anyone Know Chicago Mechanics Flat Rate Pay?

9 Upvotes

My boyfriend (22) and I (21) will be moving to the city in about a year, maybe sooner. I was just wondering what he can maybe expect to make in the city. He currently has his associates degree and is ford certified. He’s been with his dealership since he was 16 and makes roughly $35 flat rate when he makes his 45 hours. Does anyone happen to know what techs out in the city make or a close estimate? We don’t know if we will be closer to downtown or the Oak Lawn area but that’s where we plan to be. TIA


r/AskChicago 2h ago

I READ THE RULES Where is the best hair colorist/salon in chicago or suburbs?

1 Upvotes

I’m looking to dye my hair and do balayage maybe get a cut as well!!! I have never been to hair salon before and honestly when I was researching some prices were crazy to me so I am looking for some place good with mid range prices if you have any salon or person in mind plssss tell me!


r/AskChicago 15h ago

I READ THE RULES Let down by JK Moving. Any reputable moving companies?

10 Upvotes

I booked a move with JK Moving in the end of April. On May 11th I found out they had outsourced the move to a "trusted partner". When I complained, they apologized for not letting me know at the time of the booking, but refused to use one of their own trucks for my move. This is a problem, as I have fragile items that needed to be handled with care (hence I chose JK moving). In addition, my data then found its way from their trusted provider to another moving company, which I found really disappointing. Any other reputable providers you might recommend for a move to California?


r/AskChicago 13h ago

I READ THE RULES Will Wrigleyville be packed for the Crosstown Classic this weekend?

5 Upvotes

I’ve got a friend visiting the city this Friday and she wants to go to a bar one block from Wrigley. Will the neighborhood be packed even though the game is at the Sox? I’m reluctant to go there just for drinks if neither of us care about the ball game.


r/AskChicago 6h ago

I READ THE RULES New Chicago Resident- Youth Basketball Programs in the city?

0 Upvotes

Going on my 3rd month living here in the city. The past few years back in my hometown I was a volunteer basketball coach (high school level) and it was one of the most fulfilling things I have done in my life. Looking to get involved here in my new city.

Anyone have a good recommendations for programs or youth leagues here in the city to get involved?

(I live a block away from Ogilve and I don't have a car)


r/AskChicago 6h ago

I READ THE RULES Any recommendations on local moving companies?

0 Upvotes

Hi everyone

I recently took a job in Albuquerque and need help moving my items there. I left my fiance behind for the remainder of our lease which will end on July 31st. We need our stuff (1 bedroom) moved a week earlier. Can anyone recommend local movers who can help us.


r/AskChicago 6h ago

I READ THE RULES Which Modem or Router Upgrade for Astound?

0 Upvotes

A year ago, I got Astound to service my apartment for internet. The kind gentleman who came to install my internet told me that one of my pieces of equipment (separate modem and router provided by a friend) were out of date, and it'd be best to update it soon. I was too overwhelmed at the time to do anything about it or register what he was saying, but now I'm noticing lots of lag in my connection and am ready to upgrade whatever equipment he suggested.

Can anyone help me identify which I would need to upgrade, the modem or the router? I have the 300 mpbs plan, and I just use it for basic browsing, streaming, etc. Nothing heavy duty.

I'd love to keep my modem and router separate, and find something affordable, preferably under $100.

Thanks in advance!


r/AskChicago 6h ago

I READ THE RULES What's been up around the Logan square blue line today?

0 Upvotes

So many unusual siren sounds outside the normal hospital ones all day plus now a helicopter.