You know you're not going to the nominating conventions just for love of country. Where to mingle with the politicos:

In Denver (last call: 2 a.m., officially), they'll be at (John) Elway's, a swanky steakhouse in the new Ritz-Carlton. Keep an eye out for Steve Farber, co-chair of the DNC host committee. The man once described as the "101st U.S. senator" is cohosting a party on convention eve at the Denver Art Museum, now graced with the stylings of architect Daniel Libeskind.

In St. Paul, walk a quarter mile from the RNC site to the St. Paul Hotel, where McCain's home-state delegation is staying. Its mahogany-lined restaurant is a favorite of the Mondales and Colemans. Try the 55-year-old Macallan Scotch for $525 a shot. The St. Paul Grill closes at 2 a.m., but party on: during the RNC, at least 32 bars can pour till 4.