One of the more unusual venues in town, Historical Monument 157 keeps the underground eccentric. Beyond the iron fence and Ping-Pong table, the old Victorian mansion manages to stay standing, surrounded by blooming plants and random furniture. Walk around to the left, past another gate beside one of three old-school RVs parked in the back, and you’ll find dangling lights, a bar made from found parts and an assortment of couches decorating the yard. A giant wall behind the stage is perfect for projections and movies when the sun goes down and strange music turns the dial to mellow. Then a monkey might appear playing a drum, or a burlesque dancer or two might strut her stuff out among the people. HM157 is kept alive by Brother Reid Maxwell and Sister Charon Nogues, who grow kombucha and host Mad Hatter–esque tea parties and experimental music in one of the most relaxing settings to engage in a square dance. 3110 N. Broadway, Lincoln Heights. myspace.com/hm157. —Daiana Feuer

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