Chicago peeps - things to do to meet people

[niccig]

My sister will be in Chicago on and off for several months at a time. Her boyfriend works and often travels out of town. She is very sociable and I get the feeling that he comes home from work and she pounces on him as hasn't talked to anyone during the day.

I know what it's like as I went through similar thing when moved to LA - didn't know anyone, so very reliant on DH. I told her she needs to get out and meet people, do things, build her own life there.

She's a university professor on sabbatical and is writing a book on a years long research project she just finished. She can't stay in the apartment all day long. She's near Evanston.

So, suggestions for things to do, groups to meet up with etc?

Thanks.