1. Pop in for a Cuban perk-me-up
Take in the strong and rich taste of America’s favorite Cuban coffee when Cafe Bustelo returns this year for its annual pop-up shop in Coffee Alley Cafe. Perk up or wind down as complimentary coffees and espressos are passed out. (The Coffee Alley, 1152 W Taylor St, 7am–9pm. Free)
2. Be a third wheel in an artistic partnership
Tag along with Theodore Roussel and James McNeill Whistler at the Art Institute’s “Linked Visions,” where 175 etchings, lithographs, drawings and paintings give visitors insight into the artistic partnership. The two artists met in 1885 and began a lifelong relationship, working side-by-side and developing new techniques. If only Matisse and Picasso could have been so mature. (Art Institute, 111 S Michigan Ave, 10:30am–5pm. Included in regular admission $14-$25)
3. Take a stand
Comedy’s man of the moment Hannibal Buress’s stand-up show might have sold out too fast to snag a ticket, but the Logan Theatre has you covered when it comes to laughs at its Monday night open mic. This fun and welcoming room is the perfect place to see Chicago noobs and regulars in a laid-back lineup. Why not finally try out that tight five yourself? Sign up starts at 8pm, and at 8:30 the mic heats up. (Logan Theatre, 2646 N Milwaukee Ave, 8:30pm. Free)