Uptown Art District

Yes, Chicago is a great, great art town, but look out for Michigan City, Ind. The neighboring town (about an hour's drive from Chicago) is getting into the art game with its emerging Uptown Art District. You can get a sample of what's on display, do some shopping, grab a bite to eat and enjoy live entertainment during the Uptown Art District First Friday. Besides viewing artwork at galleries in Uptown, other participating businesses open up their shops with special offers and events each month. Go to the website for participating galleries.

5-8 p.m. Friday in historic downtown Michigan City, Ind., 11th Street north to Lake Michigan; free admission