The Emerald Isle is a popular Irish pub in Chicago's Edison Park neighborhood, which is just south of Park Ridge and near Niles, Morton Grove and Des Plaines. It features food and drink specials and frequently has entertainment on weekends.
With over 650 students, Cary-Grove Performing Arts Centre is the place to be if you want to dance and sing. Open since 1998, the studio provides a place for both beginners and accomplished dancers of all ages to explore many different disciplines. Classes offered include ballet, tap, jazz, modern, pointe and hip-hop. Also available are pre-dance classes for ages 2-1/2 to 4. Voice and piano lessons for any level are provided, as well as swing choir classes for those who want to combine their love of singing with dancing to pop and Broadway music.
The iWireless Center is the main multi-purpose arena in the Quad Cities area. Located along the banks of the Mississippi River in Moline, Ill., the arena hosts hockey and basketball games, in addition to concerts from some of the nation's biggest acts.
iWireless Center Parking
Parking is widely available at the iWireless Center. The main parking lot is located adjacent to the area, while an additional parking structure sits across River Drive from the facility. For events, parking runs anywhere from free to $10. City lots are also available further away from the iWireless Center, but there are typically enough spaces in the arena lots to make that the better option.
Hotels Near iWireless Center
The most convenient option is the Radisson on John Deere Commons, which is just a short walk away from the iWireless Center. Plenty of options are also available across the river in Davenport, Iowa, where there are three high-end hotels (Isle Hotel, Hotel Blackhawk, Comfort Inn and Suites) with reasonable prices.
Seating at iWireless Center
For the best sight lines in sporting events and concerts, check out the seating along the sidelines, which gets visitors close to the action without paying dearly. For family-friendly deals, go to the 200-level, where there are usually good deals on tickets.
Food at iWireless Center
The food is pretty generic at the iWireless Center with options like burgers, brats and pizza. One specialty, though, is Whitey's Ice Cream, which is a local company and a novelty within Iowa and Illinois.
Beer at iWireless Center
The iWireless Center offers a modest selection of beer with brands like Leinenkugel's and Coors, but certain stands do offer some local microbrews. Prices are pretty reasonable, ranging from $3-8.
Parking Alternatives at iWireless Center
The MetroLINK bus system has a hub near the iWireless Center, so there are multiple routes that drop off in front of or near the arena. There are a couple taxi companies that run there.
What to Bring to iWireless Center
Being an indoor arena, there is no need to bundle up or use sunscreen. However, seat cushions are a good thing to bring along, as only certain seats have cushioning.
Insider Tip for iWireless Center
If you're going to the concession stands, be sure to get the Whitey's Ice Cream for just a couple dollars (usually $2-3). Not only is it rated as one of the best ice cream companies in the nation, but it is a very good value.
Author's bio: Michael Benson is a life-long Illinois resident and an avid traveler throughout the Midwest.
Bill Pollack, a booking agent for musicians, has been in business in Evanston for over 25 years. Corporations depend on him to hire musicians for weddings, galas and other important events. Pollack and his children, local residents, are actively involved in the Evanston community.
Wilmette Theatre has been a staple of the community for more than 90 years. The theatre was renovated in 2006 and now offers a classic movie experience in an updated environment. Aspiring actors can visit the website or establishment to learn more about acting classes offered throughout the year.