This one's a keeper...

Chicago's home to some of the finest museums in the world, but unfortunately they can be a little pricey. Fortunately, they offer free days throughout the year. While general admission is free on those days, special exhibitions usually require a paid ticket.

You might have seen that statement on a billboard around town. That's the slogan for this (meaning next) year's fitness center promotion from the Chicago Park District. Each year they open up their 60 fitness centers for free. From January 2 - 16 you can work on being both physically and fiscally healthy. If you choose to sign up for a membership you'll also get a free Nike bag (while supplies last). Memberships range from $40 - $75 for a three-month period. 

Have an oeniphile on your shopping list? Stop by Randolph Wine Cellars tonight or tomorrow and sample what you're giving. They're offering free holiday tastings tonight from 6 to 8pm and tomorrow from 2 to 6pm.

While you're there stop in at the 2nd floor of the Tasting Room and enjoy a great glass of wine and a great view of the Chicago skyline.

Fri, Dec 19, 6 to 8pm

Sat, Dec 20, 2 to 6pm

Randolph Wine Cellars, 1415 W Randolph St, 312.942.1212

In Chicago's up-down restaurant world, Morton's is a stand-out. Why? Because this Sunday it celebrates its 30th Anniversary. Thirty years in a city that sees restaurants come and go faster than a Chicago summer is quite an accomplishment. To say thanks, they're offering free steak sandwiches on Friday from 4:30 to 5:30pm at their Loop (65 E Wacker Pl) and Gold Coast (1050 N State St) locations.

Kitsch'n On Roscoe has such a good special you'll think I'm making it up. Tuesdays through Saturdays you can get an entree AND beer, wine, or soda for only ten bucks. You can barely even get a glass of wine for that, let alone wine and dinner. You don't even have to worry about racing in to get it right away - they're running this through 2009!

Why, you ask? They're celebrating their 10 year anniversary. I've seen a lot of anniversary promotions for restaurants, but this one is truly something to celebrate.

December's Chef's Table will get you in the spirit of the holidays. Join us at D.O.C. Wine Bar as Chef Andrew Easterday and Manager and Wine Director Adam Moore introduce us to a variety of the wines and cuisine that make it such a popular destination.

Once again, it's only $25 and is limited to 30 people, so RSVP right away!

Where:	D.O.C. Wine Bar, 2602 N Clark St
When:	December 17, 6:30pm
RSVP:	$25 (limit 30 people)

Harry Caray's a Chicago icon, and if you've been to Harry Caray's Restaurant then you've seen the memorabilia. Did you know they also have an online store selling clothing, sports items, books, CDs and collectibles? I didn't either until I received a promotional email today.

If your budget's a little tight but your belt's a little loose, you can take care of both with OpenTable's Appetite Stimulus Plan. November 17 - 21, several restaurants are offering 3-course meals for only $35 for dinner and $24 for lunch. As a bonus, you'll get 200 Dining Rewards Points.

The response to the very first Chef's Table has been amazing. If you were thinking about going, sign up ASAP - there are only 3 spots left!

In case you missed it, here are the details:

Meet the Executive Chef and Pastry Chef of Powerhouse and restaurateur Jimmy Alexander as you enjoy wine, champagne, and hors d'oeuvres. Help them celebrate their one year anniversary.

Where: Powerhouse

When: November 19, 6:30

How Much: $25

There's just something about chefs. They take an activity that's a necessity and elevate it to an art form. Over the last few years they've become celebrities as we grow more and more fascinated with their talent. Now there's a mystique associated with the white coat and people will pay a whole lot of money to get some personal time with Chef.