Summertime seems to be the perfect time for any ty...

Summertime seems to be the perfect time for any type of outdoor activity, and really, who doesn't like live music- regardless of who is playing.

While parking is certainly not cheap, admission into the Grand Performances stage/ viewing areas is free. There's plenty of room for everyone, though I suggest getting there at least half an hour to an hour early to snag yourself a good spot near the stage or on one of the terraces overlooking the courtyard. The acoustics are great, so sound quality is never a problem- it's 360 degrees of superb audio.

Another cool thing about this place is that it not only has some pretty neat restaurants right near the courtyard where you can grab anything from a Starbucks Frapp, to a grilled cheese sandwich, Subway, or even some snacks & surprisingly high-quality prepared foods to-go at the Famima convenience store they have on site.

The bands & performers vary from week to week, and you can always go to their page to check out the lineup; who knows, one of your favorites may be playing one of these weekends, and you get to see them live, practically for free- minus parking. And who doesn't love being out and about on a cool Summer's night, in the big city, being surrounded by bright lights, tall skyscrapers, good food & company, and great music?