Chicago, the largest city in Illinois, is rich in diversity. The city's lakefront allure and nightlife attract residents as well as tourists. Chicago is known for its many upscale dining establishments as well as the many ethnic restaurant districts and a marquee downtown. There are several trendy African night clubs in the area.
Ontourage is one of the hottest African clubs in Chicago, with two dance floors, four bars, seven VIP areas reserved for bottle service, restrooms on both levels, plush seating and a fireplace. Both levels of the club have their own sound systems, DJ booths and music styles. The upper level features private seating with curtains and an intimate dance floor. The venue’s Inlaid Color Kinetics System creates a display of color panels extending from the wall to the bar. The shift from one color to another creates an ever-changing atmosphere. Plasmas embellish the walls, creating visual stimulation throughout the night. The club is available seven days a week for birthday parties, corporate outings, seated banquets, fundraisers and holiday galas. Music styles include jazz, blues, '70s, '80s and high-energy dance.
Ontourage
157 W. Ontario
Chicago, IL 60610
312-573-0267
ontouragechicago.com
The Wild Hare says that it is known universally as "America's Reggae Capital." The African club plays a variety of music styles, including hip hop, reggae, blues and jazz. As of March 2010, the staff bases the price of the cover charge on the night of the week: Tuesday and Thursday there is no cover charge; Wednesday is Ladies Night and costs $7 for women and $10 for men; Friday has a half-price special for college students; and Saturday the cover is $12 for everyone. The club offers drink specials that change each night of the week as well. The club recommends checking its website for the calendar of upcoming events.
The Wild Hare
3530 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60657
773-327-4273
wildharemusic.com
The Griffin Lounge (formerly Climax Lounge) is an upscale, swanky African club with a casual dress code. The venue has a capacity for 665 patrons, and the four-room club features three bars and meager lounge seating for table service. There is plenty of open floor space for dancing. The club plays disco, hip hop, dance and house music. The cover charge ranges from $15 to $25 (March 2010), depending on the night. Hours are from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Wednesday through Friday and 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. on Saturday. The club offers valet parking, and the building is wheelchair accessible. accessible.
The Griffin Lounge
326 W. Chicago Ave.
Chicago, IL 60610
312-280-9800
