In addition to my traveling, I mentor entrepreneurs through Score NYC. This morning, prior to setting out I had a couple of zoom calls with people who are working to grow their small business. This was a benefit to them and me. I needed time to sit, rather than running around.
After the calls I set off for Lincoln Square, a neighborhood in Chicago’s North Side. I went there to meet a friend and former client. Jeffrey now works at the Old Town School of Folk Music. He gave me a tour which was enlightening and fascinating.
The school, founded in 1957, is dedicated to teaching and celebrating music, dance, and folk traditions. It is enormous; approximately 7,000 students participate in classes, with many of them young children. They also host concerts, featuring local and international artists and work out in neighborhoods all around Chicago. I’d known about Old Town for a long time but had no idea of the size or scope of their offerings—they are impressive.
The school has two buildings across the street from each other. I could have spent hours poring over the artwork, posters, and music paraphernalia on display. Instead, Jeffrey and I went for lunch at The Warbler, a neighborhood gem. Lunch was delicious, both for the food and company. It was great to catch up.
After lunch I took a stroll through Lincoln Square. It seemed appropriate, since my neighborhood in NYC is also known as Lincoln Square. The two neighborhoods could not be more different. The NYC neighborhood is center city, home to Lincoln Center and high rises. Lincoln Square Chicago has a small-town feel, and is known for its German heritage and family-friendly atmosphere. Residential blocks are tree lined and filled with vintage walk-ups, greystones, and single-family homes.
At Jeffrey’s suggestion I spent time in Merz Apothecary, an old-fashioned pharmacy and homeopathic shop that has been in business since 1875. I even bought a couple of items. His other suggestion was Gene’s Sausage Shop. This large deli shows off the area’s German heritage.
From there I returned to center city to visit the Driehaus Museum, which several locals suggested. It is a meticulously restored Gilded Age mansion that offers a glimpse into the opulence of late 19th-century America. The house details are stunning; carved woodwork, marble, onyx, tiles, mosaics and more. On display are period decorative art, including many beautiful Tiffany pieces. I was amazed that prior to this visit I’d never visited the museum or even heard of it.
I made a quick stop at Eataly, a marketplace with restaurants, cafes, retail counters, and gourmet grocery, representing all of regions of Italy. I picked up some prepared food. With my delicious food I ate in my hotel room while watching TV. I needed a night off!