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Local picks

Cool art in Illinois

Made for those who curate their social life around the most visually striking and unconventional creative spaces.

Based on 407 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
City Skyline Chicago - Coffee Lounge image 1
City Skyline Chicago - Coffee Lounge image 2
City Skyline Chicago - Coffee Lounge image 3
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Coffee lounge features aviation-themed decor with real plane seats, cockpit dashboards, and airplane parts used as furniture. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting, suitable for reading, working, or chatting quietly. Space welcomes dogs and offers varied seating with some plugs for charging devices.

Paintings and crafts fill the shared space with the coffee shop. The owner, Maria, decorates the place with her own artwork and explains the flight artifacts on display.

Aviation-themed decor creates a cool air travel atmosphere with seating inside a plane. The owner's pup adds a friendly vibe to the engaging airport concept.

People are saying

"This cafe's aviation theme and decor are super unique and cute."

"The plane-themed decor is super cool."

"The owner's paintings and trinkets really decorate the place."

Good to know

1

The lounge is open until 6 PM daily.

2

Parking is limited in the area.

3

The coffee shop is dog-friendly.

02
Epiphany Center for the Arts image 1

Historic church converted into an event venue offers intimate acoustics and rotating art displays. The atmosphere blends inviting neighborhood vibe with diverse live music, including jazz and DJ sets. Outdoor terrace and garden spaces complement the indoor bar and dance floor areas.

An old church building turned into an incredible space filled with galleries and alcoves showcasing mostly painting and sculpture. The venue highlights a vibrant local artistic scene with murals, stained glass windows, and a strong presence of local talents in music and arts.

Rotating featured art and multiple live music venues create a dynamic vibe. The event space inside the old church and the cool bar add to the unique atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the renovated church space really cool and artsy."

"I saw fantastic art exhibitions from Chicago's top emerging artists."

"This historic church is a stunning space filled with art."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm in the main bar with discounted drinks.

2

Free or low-cost events are available all weekend long.

3

Parking is limited; nearby street and garage options are available.

03
Ka'Lab: The Creative Space image 1

Art studio filled with amazing art on ceiling and floor creates an inspiring and creative atmosphere. Music plays a top-tier playlist that enhances the laid-back, welcoming vibe. Space feels peaceful and safe, ideal for casual gatherings or intimate events.

Multiple projects like canvas painting, glassware painting, and candle making offer creative options. The artist-owner provides simple tips that help beginners start painting easily.

Cool vibes create a relaxed atmosphere throughout. The overall experience feels consistently laid-back and chill.

People are saying

"It's a dope atmosphere for date nights."

"The vibes here are so cool and laid-back."

"The art here is awesome, hilarious, and friendly."

Good to know

1

Ka'Lab has a BYOB policy, allowing guests to bring their own beverages.

2

The mosaic art session is a unique and fun activity for all ages.

3

Expect a well-organized session with plenty of materials provided.

04
Axeclusive Axe Throwing & VR Lounge image 1

Lounge combines axe throwing, splatter painting, and VR gaming for a unique group activity. Atmosphere stays energetic but laid-back, fitting for friends or couples. Spaces include a dedicated splatter room and well-maintained lanes, creating a fun and relaxed vibe.

A separate splatter painting room lets groups paint together. Paintings stay on easels to dry and can be picked up later.

Axe throwing and VR activities create a cool vibe here. The spot offers a fun experience with unique activities to try.

People are saying

"I had so much fun with these innovative activities."

"I loved the axe throwing; my daughter even beat me!"

"It's a cool place to try some fun new activities like axe throwing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure availability.

2

Axe throwing sessions last approximately 45 minutes each.

3

The splatter room is available after axe throwing sessions.

05
The Cornucopia Shop image 1

Shop combines Alice-themed decor with an art gallery hallway showcasing local artists. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with unique tea sets ranging from classic to edgy styles. Paint and sip events add a creative, community-focused energy.

Painting with tea stands out here. They offer tea painting classes and parties on weekends where you can create art using tea as your medium.

Artist alley stands out with a fresh vibe. A local artist gets featured each month in the hallway gallery, adding unique flair.

People are saying

"This Local Spot has an amazing selection of high-quality loose leaf teas."

"I loved painting with tea here!"

"The owner Dave is so nice and attentive."

Good to know

1

The Sip N Paint Party is relaxing and requires prior registration.

2

On the first Friday of each month, there is a new display of art.

3

The shop hosts daily events like tea parties and supports local artists.

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