Listen closely on any evening in Chicago and you’ll hear the sounds of people having fun!
At legendary lounges, piano bars, and other great venues, the city pulses with the beat of countless live performances of jazz, mainstream and indie rock, folk and country, world music, and – of course—blues. After all, Chicago is the official home of the blues.
Time your visit to coincide with a performance by the extraordinary Chicago Symphony Orchestra, famed Lyric Opera of Chicago, or another chamber, early music, or classical group. If you’re lucky enough to be in the city on a soft summer night, head to Millennium Park’s astounding Jay Pritzker Pavilion for a performance of the Grant Park Music Festival - the nation’s only free outdoor classical music series.
No matter what genre you favor – pop, rap, hip hop, bluegrass, Celtic, R&B, electronica, gospel, soul, or salsa – you’ll find it in this city that loves music. And if the music makes you feel like you just can’t sit still, step out at one of the city’s sizzling dance clubs.
Follow the sounds of laughter to one of Chicago’s outstanding comedy clubs. Modern improv was born in Chicago. Today the celebrated The Second City, which has produced comic greats since 1959, and ComedySportz deliver the fastest, funniest, and smartest improv you’ll ever witness.
If it’s bowling or billiards you want, or simply a cocktail at one of hundreds of trendy city lounges, neighborhood hot spots, or sports bars, you’ll find it all nearby.
For a listing of Chicago's best nightlife, click here.