Skip to content

Chicago is known for its vibrant music scene, with a wide variety of genres and styles represented throughout the city. For those looking to experience live music while enjoying a drink or two, Chicago's bars with live music offer the perfect opportunity. Here are some of the best bars with live music in Chicago.

  1. Kingston Mines

This legendary blues club in Lincoln Park has been around since 1968 and features live blues music every night of the week. With two stages and a lineup of talented musicians, Kingston Mines is the perfect place to experience authentic Chicago blues.

2. The Green Mill

This historic Uptown jazz club has been around since 1907 and has hosted some of the biggest names in jazz history, including Al Capone's favorite band. Today, The Green Mill still features live jazz music seven nights a week in a cozy, speakeasy-style setting.

3. The Empty Bottle

This dive bar in Ukrainian Village has been a staple of the Chicago music scene since 1992, with a focus on indie rock and experimental music. The venue hosts both local and touring acts and has a reputation for booking up-and-coming artists before they hit it big.

4. Rosa's Lounge

This blues club in Logan Square has been around since 1984 and features live blues music seven nights a week. The intimate setting and authentic vibe make Rosa's Lounge a must-visit for any blues fan.

5. Martyrs'

This North Center venue features live music seven nights a week, with a focus on indie rock, folk, and Americana. The venue also has a full bar and restaurant, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends.

6. The Hideout

This beloved dive bar in Noble Square has been around since 1934 and has hosted everyone from local legends to national acts like Arcade Fire and Wilco. The Hideout has a cozy, intimate atmosphere and features live music several nights a week.

7. The Double Door

This Wicker Park venue has been around since 1994 and has hosted everyone from The Rolling Stones to Nirvana. Today, The Double Door features live music seven nights a week, with a focus on rock, punk, and indie acts.

8. Reggies

This South Loop venue features live music on two stages, as well as a rooftop bar and restaurant. With a focus on rock, punk, and metal, Reggies is the perfect spot for a night of headbanging and beer.

9. The Whistler

This Logan Square cocktail bar features live music several nights a week, with a focus on jazz, soul, and indie rock. The venue also has a creative cocktail menu and a cozy, speakeasy-style setting.

10. The Jazz Showcase

This historic jazz club in the South Loop has been around since 1947 and has hosted some of the biggest names in jazz history, including Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, and Ella Fitzgerald. Today, The Jazz Showcase still features live jazz music seven nights a week in an intimate, club-like setting.

In conclusion, Chicago's bars with live music offer a wide variety of genres and styles for any music lover to enjoy. Whether you're in the mood for blues, jazz, rock, or something in between, these venues are sure to provide a memorable night out.

Latest