Locals are spoiled for choice in Chicago due to the city’s vibrant music scene that dates back decades. From the deep roots of jazz and blues to the bold house music beats, the city lives and breathes music. Whether you’re dancing at a legendary live music venue, unwinding at an iconic bar, or losing yourself in a festival crowd, here’s a list of things to do for music lovers in Chicago.
1. Vibe to the music at a live performance
Chicagoans are lucky to have lots of live music venues that offer year-round gigs for every music genre. The Empty Bottle in the Ukrainian Village neighborhood is known for indie rock, metal, hip-hop, and jazz shows, with free performances on Monday nights. Then there are legendary spaces, such as Metro, Lincoln Hall, The Vic, The Riviera and House of Blues that have hosted artists in the likes of Bob Dylan, Prince and B.B. King.
2. See iconic music landmarks on the Chicago Music Tour
For those that consider themselves history buffs or want to explore Chicago’s musical roots, a Chicago Music Tour is one of the most interesting activities to get to know the city.
Available in spring, summer, and fall, these guided tours often include visits to popular landmarks and dinners at iconic live music venues like the House of Blues that also serve food. What’s more, if you’re looking for kid-friendly plans to keep the whole family busy, a sightseeing tour is always a winner.
3. Go vinyl digging at a record shop
Reckless Records and Dusty Groove in Wicker Park offer both the latest releases and vintage records of just about every genre. Fans of horror and punk can find a mix of old records, VHS tapes, cassettes and vintage movie memorabilia at Bric-a-Brac Records and Collectibles in Avondale.
On the other hand, rock and pop aficionados should head to Lincoln Square’s Laurie’s Planet of Sound for new and used CDs and vinyl, as well as buy-backs for previously owned items. Additionally, if you’re looking for a soul and hip-hop store with a rich history, Hyde Park Records in South Side should be your go-to spot.
4. Groove at a sophisticated bar or speakeasy
From jazz and blues speakeasies like The Green Door Tavern during Prohibition to housing swanky bars and restaurants with live music during the 1950s and ’60s in the likes of Pepper’s Lounge, Chicago’s bars have played a huge role in the evolution of the city’s music scene.
Today, the tradition continues, as spaces like Blue Chicago, The Bassment, Bordel, Bub City and Dorian’s offer cozier alternatives to the big venues. As you hear up-and-coming artists and local bands, you can grab a quick bite and sip on a refreshing cocktail prepared by some of the city’s best bartenders and mixologists.
5. Visit a famous music museum
Where to start?! There’s the Chicago Hip Hop Heritage Museum that covers the city’s hip hop history and features special artifacts from Twista and Chance the Rapper. Besides hip hop, blues enthusiasts can dive into the genre’s history at Muddy Waters MOJO Museum or head to the iconic Chess Records studio houses Willie Dixon’s Blues Heaven Foundation, set to reopen in March.
Another popular museum is the Illinois Rock Roll Museum on Route 66 located Joliet. This groovy spot is packed with exhibit and memorabilia that used to belong to Cheap Trick, REO Speedwagon, Styx, and Buddy Guy.
6. Celebrate music at ARC
The annual, 3-day ARC Music Festival celebrates features a diverse lineup of international house and techno artists, alongside Chicago’s own pioneers. For those passionate about electronic music, ARC offers a great opportunity to connect with the global house community in the city where it all began. Keep an eye out on their socials for the announcement of this year’s lineup.
Furthermore, Chicagoans can enjoy more summer festivals for every mood and genre. Firstly, the Grant Park Music Festival will return again this summer for its row of free outdoor concerts. Blues aficionados should not pass up on the three-day Chicago Blues Festival this June and country music fans can connect with BBQ lovers at the annual Windy City Smokeout in July.
7. Attend a captivating Candlelight concert
Music is personal and what moves one person might not resonate with another. And sometimes finding something that appeals to everyone can be a challenge. That’s why, Candlelight is a great option when you’re trying to make a plan with people of different musical interests and taste.
Whether you’re a fan of pop, rock, jazz, classical or film music, these performances offer something for every music lover thanks to their diverse programs. Taking place at some of Chicago’s most gorgeous venues, you can appreciate music in a new light—the light of thousands of candles to be exact.
8. Explore Chicago’s colorful music shops
Whether you’re a musician or love all things music, Chicago’s music shops offer on-hand experience for everyone. What’s more, they often serve as community hubs for passionate fans to connect and geek out over their favorite instruments or songs.
From strumming a fresh Gibson at Rock N Roll Vintage to browsing vintage pedals at Chicago Music Exchange and buying your first drum sticks at Vic’s Drum Shop, there’s many spots to choose from. It’s an experience that goes beyond listening—it’s really about feeling the music.
9. Party at one of Chicago’s nightclubs
Chicago’s party scene is vibrant and diverse, stemming from the house music and underground dance scene during the late 1970s and ’80s. Big and upscale nightclubs like Sound-Bar, Prysm, The Listening Room and Spy Bar celebrate EDM, house and techno. Rooftop bars like Offshore and Celeste blend nightlife with gorgeous views of the city. In addition to the high-energy dance floors, the Underground Lounge offers industrial, electro and synth-pop music events.
10. Enjoy a We call it experience
Music lovers can share their love of international genres like flamenco and tango with other art enthusiasts, or people that are just getting in the game at one of the fiery We call it experiences. These shows celebrate both music and dance with professional artists and live music so they make for great plans that all kinds of people might like, from like-minded friends with similar interests to a tad difficult family members.