Anyone seeking sanctuary from the southwest suburban jungle will be hard-pressed to find a more suitable space for quiet contemplation. Visitors enter a sparsely decorated lobby, where they exchange their shoes and their emotional baggage for an opportunity to pursue enlightenment. They can then choose to explore the center's three rooms (which include the lobby/kitchen, a small library and the primary mediation room) at their leisure, or enjoy a tour and some tea with one of the center's hospitable volunteers.

The Vajrayana Buddhist Center is the main location for a full complement of inexpensive classes on Buddhism ($10 per visit), special events and retreats; weekly meditation sessions are also available in Lakeview. Everyone is welcome, and resident teacher Gen Kelsang Khedrub is a compassionate spiritual guide.

Centerstage Reviewer: Jenny Seay