coolest chicago music venues

Leah Fishman

I grew up running around with friends at the Park West. I lounged while listening to ABBA cover bands from the lawn of Ravinia. The first place I drove solo was for vegan food and late night tunes at the Beat Kitchen. I feel in love with storytelling at SPACE, danced alone at the House of Blues, and not-so-smoothly chatted up Ryan Gosling at Schubas (true story folks). I don't live in Chicago any more, but its music venues are in my bones. If you're looking for live music any night of the week, this list the best place to start.

The Whistler, Beat Kitchen, Cobra Lounge, Tonic Room, Martyrs', Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom, Elbo Room, Concord Music Hall, Park West, Bottom Lounge, Subterranean, Ravinia, Jay Pritzker Pavilion, The Chicago Theatre, The Riviera Theatre, Vic Theatre, House of Blues Chicago, Metro, City Winery, Constellation