LINCOLN PARK. Grab a cue stick and a friend and begin a friendly game of pool or don your dancing shoes ­ either way, you're sure to enjoy the atmosphere at this spacious dance club. The crowd here is young and energetic, exuding an enthusiastic vibe that seems to energize the place. The music includes a variety of '80's, New Wave, Hip-Hop, and R&B. Trendy dress appropriate.

LAKE VIEW. "Rolling Stone" magazine named it "Best Dance Club" in Chicago for good reason. This intimate joint has two bars, a small dance floor with a tiny stage, and bass cabinets that double as platforms for drag queens, exotic dancers, or fetish shows that perform on occasion. Video screens run "out there" reels that are put together by DJs. Music varies from new wave to house, and the last Wednesday of the month is disco night. Not for the closed-minded; a mixed crowd prevails.

LINCOLN PARK. A svelte see-and-be-seen crowd gathers at this popular and ever-so-stylish lounge. Indeed, Blu caters to the good looking yuppie set. The interior is edged with stainless steel and evokes a '70's feel, inviting guests to mingle and make their presence known on the dance floor. Talented DJs keep things running smoothly while bartenders keep cocktails and martinis at the ready. Trendy dress a must. Valet parking available.

Students, tourists, locals, and die-hard fans make the pilgrimage to this Southside blues venue. One word of caution ­ you may want to take a cab to this spot because the neighborhood is not as welcoming as the Checkerboard is. Established in 1972, Junior Wells calls the lounge home. Offering card games during the week and live blues nightly, this spot is not to be missed if you want an authentic experience.

RIVER NORTH. Diversity is key here ­ in clientele, music, dancing, and environment. The club's swanky 4½ floors offer everything revelers could ask for. Live music and DJs play nightly. The first floor is a cabaret lounge; the second, a pool/game area. A large dance floor occupies the third floor, and the "½ " is the Cityscape Show Lounge that has views of both the dance floor below and the Chicago skyline. Seven seductive underground rooms called the Catacombs offer opportunity for more dancing.