So my girlfriend and her sister will be hanging in the Loop on Thursday. Going to take the Blue Line down from my place and spend the day.

The only thing lined up is a visit to the Art Institute and a trip over to the Virgin megastore to sample some new music. She's from Washington state and has two small kids, and just wants to check out a few things (she's pretty laid back but has varied tastes). My sister was thinking of some coffeehouse or such that might have live music/acoustic guitar but I have no idea on a Thursday afternoon.

So give me some sights, scenes, coffeehouses, sushi, places to drink, etc.

Much appreciated.

or tower instead.

If the kids are small, but school-aged the Field or Shed might keep there attention better than the art museum, and going to the observation deck of the sears or hancock would also be something to try.

Shuold have been more clear - she is without kids this weekend, hence the diversion into the city.

I don't know what the time frame is, but Buddy Guy's sometimes has music early, like 5pm or so.

Might as well stop at Marshall Fields while it's still Marshall Fields

maybe send them over to the Signature Room up in the Hancock. Although its supposed to be a tad rainy...they might get a great view and a decent meal as well.

Step up. I expect more from you in this thread. Have at it.

hmmm, live music in the loop on a Thursday afternoon? I see a Potbellys in their future...

I know it's kind of commercial, but I think House of Blues might have live music during the day in their dining room, and they actually have pretty good food; and to be honest, I don't think you're gonna find much cool live music or chill places in the loop in the middle of the work day. Also, if she's at all into jazz or blues, I'd recommend going to the Jazz mart at 444 North Wabash (actually just a stone's throw from HoB). Huge record store that''s about 90% jazz, but also has a very good blues section (and a very large selction of vinyl too).

Other fun places...the original Heaven on Seven...111 North Wabash, 7th Floor. This is still the best Heaven on 7 to visit, plus the weird ambiance of going to the former 7th floor cafeteria in a jeweler's building...pretty good unique Chicago experience (but be prepared to wait in line during lunch).

If you don't mind going a bit out of the loop, go to Manny's for lunch. Some of the best corn been sandwiches in town.

Also, if you want to do breakfast in the loop, I would definitly recomend Lou Mitchells at 565 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago. You get to rub elbows with all the businessman and politicians; and they make some of the best breakfast food out there (nothing special or fancy...just good breakfast food). Again though, be prepared for a line.

if i read flavorpill correctly, the chicago cultural center always has something going on in the afternoons. and for free! which makes it better. i don't feel like searchng the entire site but here's where you can find their calendar and some info...

also, check out the awesome chicago blog gapers block. they are always listing semi- fun, semi-intellectual goings on in the area.

And Milennium Park is a nice thing to walk through (might have free orchestra rehearsals in the shell), if the weather gets nicer.

Excellent suggestions, so please keep them coming. Any cool shops to check out (or foot or short cab ride)? Recommended pubs?