An eclectic musical appetite, commitment to community building and friendly staff keep this cozy bar in a class of its own. Don't leave without ordering a Wooden Leg.
This is Chicago’s premier indie rock club, hosting cutting-edge bands from home and abroad. “Cheap Sundays” and free Mondays remove the financial risk from gambling on an unknown bill.
On Sundays, the venerable music venue delivers the best of Chicago's rockin' kids' music scene to little scenesters, with names like Jeanie B and the Jelly Beans and Mr. Singer & The Sharp Cookies.
Former TOC Theater editor Christopher Piatt hosts a weekly "live magazine" called the the Paper Machete at this rock venue.
This gorgeous city landmark building is home to photography and sculpture exhibitions, and hosts film festivals.
Take in everything from Senegalese hip-hop to tropicalia on World Music Wednesdays. It’s still a school, too, by the way: satisfy your undying urge to learn the Autoharp or oud.
his city-sponsored venue hosts world-music and jazz shows in a beautifully designed bandshell in Millennium Park. The city curates indie gigs in the summer in its killer Downtown Sound series.
This jazz institution is legendary for three things: it was once a Capone hangout, it’s haunted, and the no-nonsense staff will shush you and the friends who dragged you in during jazz sets.
Best rooftop hang in the South Loop. Shoot some hoops and cool down under the shower...
With a marquee that lights up Morse (a welcome improvement over the glow of police cameras), the Rogers Park house hosts comedy, world music and even hirsute dude-rock groups like Jaill and Earth.
