Illinois is known for being a cultural and musical hub in the United States. With its vibrant music scene, the state has produced some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Kanye West, Smashing Pumpkins, and Cheap Trick, just to name a few. There are a variety of music venues in Illinois, ranging from small intimate spaces to large arenas. Here are the best music venues in Illinois that every music lover should visit at least once.
Metro Chicago
Metro Chicago is one of the most famous music venues in Illinois and is located in Chicago. The venue has been around for over 3 decades and has hosted some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, and R. Kelly. The venue has two floors, with the main floor being a standing room only area for large concerts, and the balcony seating area for more intimate shows.
Schubas Tavern
Located in the Lakeview district of Chicago, Schubas Tavern is a historic music venue that has been around for over 100 years. Schubas has hosted some of the biggest names in music over the years, including Mumford & Sons, Bon Iver, and The Black Keys. The venue has a small stage and can accommodate up to 200 people, making it the perfect place for intimate concerts.
House of Blues
The House of Blues is located in downtown Chicago and has become a cultural landmark in the city. The venue has a stunning interior, with a stage backed by a colorful mural of Chicago’s skyline. The venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Prince, Coldplay, and Kanye West, just to name a few. The House of Blues can accommodate up to 1,800 people and has a variety of seating options, including balcony seats.
Riviera Theater
The Riviera Theater is a historic music venue located in the heart of Uptown, Chicago. The theater has been around since 1917 and has hosted some of the biggest names in music over the years, including Radiohead, Arcade Fire, and The Smashing Pumpkins. The venue has a large standing room floor and a balcony with seating for up to 900 people.
The Vic Theatre
The Vic Theatre is another historic music venue located in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood. The venue has a stunning interior, with a painted ceiling and ornate balcony. The Vic Theatre has hosted some of the biggest names in music over the years, including Bob Dylan, Pearl Jam, and David Bowie. The venue can accommodate up to 1,400 people and has both standing room and balcony seating.
The Hideout
The Hideout is a small, intimate music venue located in Chicago’s Ukrainian Village neighborhood. The venue has been around since 1934 and has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Wilco, The National, and Arcade Fire. The venue can accommodate up to 150 people and has a standing room only layout.
The Aragon Ballroom
The Aragon Ballroom is a historic music venue located in the Uptown neighborhood of Chicago. The venue was first opened in 1926 and has since been a popular music destination in the city. The Aragon Ballroom has hosted some of the biggest names in music over the years, including Frank Sinatra, Jerry Lee Lewis, and The Rolling Stones. The venue can accommodate up to 5,000 people and has a large standing room floor and balcony seating.
Bottom Lounge
Located in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood, the Bottom Lounge is a popular music venue that has become a favorite among both locals and tourists. The venue has a stage that is easily visible from anywhere in the room, as well as a balcony with seating. The venue can accommodate up to 800 people and has hosted a variety of music genres, from indie to metal.
Conclusion
Illinois has some of the best music venues in the country, ranging from small intimate spaces to large arenas. Whether you prefer large concerts or intimate shows, there is something for everyone in Illinois. These venues have hosted some of the biggest names in music over the years, making them a must-visit for any music lover.