Happy Holidays from the Ray’s crew! We’re gearing up for a busy holiday break, with folks coming to stay from all over. Whether you’re looking for a New Year’s party spot, or a quiet Christmas hamlet to escape the family drama, Ray’s still has a few rooms available to further your holiday cheer. Speaking of cheer, the Bucktown neighborhood has a royal ton of bars and boutiques to either finish off, or if you’re like me and drastically unprepared for this gift season, jump-start your shopping and celebrations. These are all within walking distance of Ray’s, so put on your coat and get to adventuring!
For any and all cocktail/beer needs: Burk’s Web Pub, 2026 W. Webster Ave. Jukebox, darts, $3 dollar drafts and two blocks from Ray’s. What more could ya need? Charleston Bar, 2076 N. Hoyne Hip lights, a unusually good looking person is usually spinning records. If you’re cool, or want to be, this is the bar for you.
Corner Bar, Bell and Leavitt Sports, ten-dollar PBR pitchers. So close to Ray’s you’ll only have to brave the winter for exactly three whole seconds. Map Room, 1949 N. Hoyne Good coffee, better beer. I freakin’ love this bar.
For any and all eclectic gift needs:
Sideshow Gallery, 2219 Western Ave. Tarot cards, crystals, and shrunken heads, oh my! Half art gallery, half funky gift shop, worth a look just for a full-on weird experience. Red Balloon Toy Store, 1940 N. Damen Ave. Classic toys, whimsical vibes. Three Stars Resale Shop, 2600 W. Fullerton Ave. Looking for a mid-century modern couch that will make your apartment look straight out of Mad Men? Welp, here ya go. Really beautiful used and antique furniture.