Ridge Animal Clinic

They do surgery, board animals, and have a nice staff. They allow you emergency services, so you can usually get in even at a moments notice. They also stay open late, so they're really accomidating to people with jobs and pets.

They've been in business for a long time, and my family has taken pets there even before I was born. It's located down a main street in Lansing, so it's really easy access to people in the nearby area.

Munster Smoke Shop

At the corner of a main street not far from the expressway, this shop offers a decent selection of products at a reasonable price. Being close to the Illinois border, it's always cheaper because of the state taxes.

The store isn't exactly huge, but you can still browse a nice selection of cigarettes. Also, there is a wide variety of cigarrs for purchase.

The service is always friendly, and it's usually quick to get in and get out.

J & J Glass Co Inc

We've used their services years back to install windows, glass in doors, and in bathrooms. They are very good at trying to finish the work in a reasonable amount of time, and the people that have been sent out to our home were easy to get along with.

Also, they do free estimates for those curious to know of costs.

Crescent Jewelers

Very reasonable pricing compaired to other stores of similar services. We've taken many watches in to be fixed, and have always had good service. You can also pick up batteries and other various parts so you don't have to buy a new one.

They also have things like military antiques that people bring in for sale like medals and weapons. It's almost worth your time just to go in so you can see some of these items on display.

Basically, it's a small store with a lot of variety, and fun for browsers and shoppers alike.

PROS: good cheap service, interesting military items
CONS: small

Komo's Food & Catering

Just an average family owned grocery store where you can pick up good quality meats. They also bake some of their own products. Bananna bread is our favorite. Also, the deli has a good variety of salads.

Price wise, the store is very reasonable and the staff was always friendly every time we were in.

Plus, this store is really good when it comes to catering an event. Family parties especially would benefit from their services.

The Pet Set

The quality of service was excellent, and we'd take dogs to them on and off through the years. If there was any medical problems with the animals, they were very helpful as to notifying us what they thought we should do about it. They gave extra tips on getting tangles out of the hair, and how to keep the nails in good condition. Also, some times our animals were really hard to work with at this place, and still they did their very best to calm them down and everything always worked out.

Price is very reasonable as well.

PROS: great pet lovers, good service
CONS:

The Vic Theatre

The Vic is a pretty cool chicago venue made up of multiple "levels" where you can pretty much get a good look at the band no matter where you are in the building. Also, they have a "brew and view" where you can get together with some friends and watch old movies and drink.

Like other small venus, the Vic tends to get some pretty big name bands on occassions, but also is a great place to see smaller acts. It's worth checking out.

John G. Shedd Aquarium

This is just one of the best places in the midwest to learn about marine life and have a firsthand look at many types of animals. Pricing can be expensive though, especially when you factor in parking. However, you can take a train and jump on a trolley to get here.

The best part has to be the dolphin show, which is located next to a window with a beautiful backdrop of the lake. The penguins are also really cool.

This is not to be missed for families.

PROS: lots of marine life, cool shows, nice lake views
CONS: price

Truckomat-South Holland

This is a good place to go for a truck wash and detail. However, I'd go for the CB equipment. There is a decent selection of radios, antennas, and microphones (at a much better price then you'd get from a regular store), but not a whole lot else.

A couple isles of food, and always hot coffee.

I do know people who used the wash services though that were very pleased. I just wouldn't recommend to travelers looking for a place to take a long break.

PROS: great wash, cb equipment at a good price
CONS: really small store

Badlandz

If you're looking for a good place to get skate board equipment, you'll like it here. You can pick up decks, wheels, and get your equipment worked on. There is also a good amount of paintball equipment.

Bands can even come in to have shirts made to sell at shows, and buttons can be pressed. You can purchase clothes as well.

The service has been great every time I've been in there, and I'd recommend them.