Blues Heaven Foundation

Located in what was once known as "Record Row," The Blues Heaven Foundation is the home of what was once the legendary Chess Recording Studio -- a place where stars like Muddy Waters, Chuck Berry, Willie Dixon and Bo Diddley recorded music. Even The Rolling Stones are among the other music stars who spent time there. Visitors can learn about the history of blues music, and its impact on rock and roll.

Parking and public transportation to the Blues Heaven Foundation
The #4 CTA bus stops near the front door. The Green Line train stops, just a few blocks away. Metered street parking is an option. See the city of Chicago's website for a full list of public transportation options.

Best and worst time to go to the Blues Heaven Foundation
It's open only in the afternoons, and on limited times on the weekend. Hours are noon to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, and closed Sunday.

Admission to the Blues Heaven Foundation
$10 per person. Groups of 25 or more are $5 per person.

Must see/do at the Blues Heaven Foundation
Take the tour, usually given by a descendant of the late blues legend Willie Dixon. Walk through the studios, look at memorabilia displays, and learn about blues music.

Other things to see near the Blues Heaven Foundation
Just a short distance away are Millennium Park, the State Street shopping area, and the Chicago lakefront.

Inside tips for visitors to the Blues Heaven Foundation
Come at a time when any of Chicago's many music festivals (including Blues Fest) is happening, and make it part of a an overall music experience.

Author's bio: Jamie Bartosch is a freelance travel writer, an award-winning newspaper reporter, and a lifelong Chicagoan. Follow her on Twitter at @jsbartosch or see jamiebartosch.com.