Sometimes, listening to an album on repeat alone at home doesn’t feel (or sound) as good as the real thing. Even in the middle of winter, the city’s live music scene does not quit, with plenty of clubs offering rock, jazz, blues and karaoke nightly. Find which of these Chicago music venues best suits your taste from the list below…
Kingston Mines
A Half-Century of Blues: Chicago is the birthplace of electric blues, and Kingston Mines has served as the city’s premier blues club since 1968. The rustic Lincoln Park venue has two stages, and the music goes until 4 a.m. on weekends. Doc’s Kitchen offers BBQ and Southern favorites.
Howl at the Moon
Dance the Night Away: Howl at the Moon in River North combines live music with quality cocktails. It’s the place to drink, dance and enjoy high-energy performances in the heart of the city. The live music show plays dance hits and party anthems that will get you on your feet in no time.
Brando’s Speakeasy
Steal the Spotlight: Be part of the entertainment at Brando’s Speakeasy in the Loop and Lincoln Park. This vintage-style karaoke bar provides an enjoyable evening paired with small plates and house-crafted beverages. The Loop location has an adjacent lounge to sit back and relax after belting your heart out.
Green Mill Cocktail Lounge
Legendary Past: Uptown’s historic Green Mill was Al Capone’s favorite jazz club. Nearly 100 years later, the bar has kept its vintage charm. It has some of Chicago’s best jazz every night of the week starting at 8 p.m.
Reggies Chicago
Rock, Roll, Ride: Reggies isn’t a typical live music joint. It has three rooms that cater to any need: live music, sporting events and even comedy. Formerly an auto repair shop, this unique venue in the South Loop has everything, including food, which you can find at its Music Joint.
Andy’s Jazz Club
Swing into Chicago’s Best: One of the most respected jazz venues in Chicago, Andy’s offers live music and casual dining. With two shows a night, five days a week, there’s plenty of music to hear.
Thalia Hall
Come Together: Formerly a performance hall and community center named after the Greek muse of comedy and poetry, Pilsen’s Thalia Hall was revived in 2013 after being closed to the public in the 1960s. This venue is now one of Chicago’s most celebrated places to see indie rock acts perform live.
Buddy Guy’s Legends
Legends Never Die: A world renowned club owned by a true blues icon, Buddy Guy’s Legends overflows with the history of Chicago’s music scene. While local bands play on most nights, the stage has been graced with performers from all over the world, including Eric Clapton, David Bowie and John Mayer. Grab some Cajun food and Buddy’s own beer, The Buddy Brew.
Empty Bottle
Full Glass: Getting its start as a hole-in-the-wall joint in the Ukrainian Village, Empty Bottle has grown into one of Chicago’s best locations for indie rock lovers to hear live music, drink cheap beer and chat with the friendly staff. Open seven nights a week, check out this bar to see both local and touring bands while grabbing a bite to eat.
The Hideout
Off the Beaten Path: The 100-seat Hideout is tucked inside a Lincoln Park industrial corridor and named for its tenure as a Prohibition-era speakeasy. You can see anything from a band making its debut to a famous punk rocker playing covers under a pseudonym.