If you're a Chicagoan, you've probably been to Navy Pier, walked the boardwalk, saw the fireworks, admired the skyline, etc, etc. But have you scoped out the Beer Garden?

It's surprisingly stop-worthy for a number of reasons. First: Stellar local musicians play for free every Monday and Tuesday. Second: All those fireworks you've been watching from various points on the pier are nothing compared to the synchronized edition in the Garden, with '70s, '80s and '90s chart toppers booming and sparkling with in-house DJ beats. Then: Thursday hosts karaoke, but not tiny club karaoke—we're talking 3,000-seat stadium training—and Fridays are fare game for touring bands.

Since it's a Bud Light sponsored stage, expect an abundance of Budweiser products in addition to other domestics—MGD, Miller, Leinenkugel's at $4—and imports like Heineken and Blue Moon at just a buck more.

Food is equally simple and carnival-esque, with bratwurst, chips, hamburgers, hotdogs and such. Menu options get a little more advanced if you slate the spot for a private party, but still stay in that finger-food category. It's really not a place for fine dining, but rather a dazzling offbeat venue on the waterfront.

Centerstage Reviewer: Gavin Paul