Classic dive bar with dark, gritty atmosphere and punk rock decor sets a raw, authentic tone. Loud, powerful live music energizes the space, attracting fans of punk and rock scenes. Tight layout offers room to dance without feeling cramped, creating a vibrant, underground vibe.
Live band energy fills the room with vibrant sounds. The venue hosts live music and DJs that bring strong performances and good vibes.
Cheap drinks include beer and shots. Prices stay low throughout the menu.
"I found the live music here to be great and the vibes were rad."
"This bar's punk vibe is dark, gritty, and loud."
"The drinks here are cheap, especially the beer and shots."
Good to know
Liar’s Club is cash only, so bring cash for drinks.
Street parking is the only option available near Liar’s Club.
They host Kiss karaoke around Halloween every year.
Massive outdoor patio covered in vines offers a relaxed, open vibe with pool tables and fireplaces. Live music energizes the space while bartenders contribute to a friendly, chill atmosphere. The bar feels like a hidden gem with a unique, welcoming setup.
Small stage hosts live bands and karaoke on weekends with an intimate feel and close sound. The outdoor patio adds a fun vibe to the live music experience.
Cheap drinks stand out here, including beer and cocktails. Multiple pool tables add value without extra cost.
Good to know
Karaoke night is every Sunday and Friday, attracting a lively crowd.
Free pool is available on Mondays, making it a great night to visit.
The bar does not serve food, so plan accordingly.
Honky-tonk bar with authentic character and traditional country music creates a lively, nostalgic vibe. Walls display memorabilia under iconic neon lights, inviting a crowd that enjoys top-quality live bands and affordable drinks. Seating is ample but reflects the venue's historic, older style.
Live music features incredible bands playing regularly after 6:30 PM. The venue offers a very cool atmosphere with friendly bartenders and reasonably priced drinks.
Fresh and cheap beers pair with cheap bar food here. The spot offers a Recession special alongside good music.
Good to know
Robert's Western World serves a recession special: a beer and a full meal for $6.
Live music starts at 6:30 PM, featuring traditional country acts.
The venue hosts a band every hour, with a tip bucket for donations.
Dive bar with a punk rock vibe offers live jazz music and a super chill atmosphere. Outdoor seating provides good people watching and space for smoking. Drink prices stay affordable while the crowd enjoys lively shows.
Live music features frequent jazz performances with a lively crowd in a relaxed atmosphere. The venue stands out as one of the few downtown spots offering this experience.
Drinks come at cheap prices here, especially the beers. The menu offers a solid selection of affordable drinks.
Good to know
Monday Night Jazz Jam starts at 8pm and features local bands.
The bar offers a variety of drink specials throughout the week.
Food options are limited but available for purchase.
Small, long, and narrow venue offers an intimate atmosphere with awesome sound clarity and no barricades between stage and crowd. Friendly, comfortable vibe supports live music with a great local scene feel. Stage fog thickens by night, adding to the immersive experience.
Affordable venue with a great environment hosts live music shows featuring some of the nicest performers in the scene. Drinks are available to enjoy alongside the music.
Events have cheap tickets and drinks come at low prices. The venue feels divey and affordable for live shows.
Good to know
Tickets to events are generally affordable, making it easy to attend.
Parking is free and available within a short distance from the venue.
The venue is accessible, but some areas may pose challenges for those with mobility issues.
Live music venue with intimate layout and excellent sound quality hosts lively, energetic crowds in a space featuring multiple bars and an outdoor patio. The atmosphere blends a 60s-70s vibe with modern energy, creating a packed yet engaging setting for performances.
Cozy venue hosts rock and metal live music with an amazing atmosphere. It offers a fun spot to catch shows and gather with friends.
Drinks come at a cheap price here, especially for a music venue. TV Eye stands out as a spot with consistently affordable drinks.
Good to know
Bands play every weekend at the venue.
The venue hosts lots of events, including punk cover bands.
The bar has a happy hour with discounted drinks.
Country western bar with live music and a saloon feel offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere is loud and fun, often packed with a relaxed vibe and occasional live bands. Space feels smaller than expected, with a backyard patio that includes garden space and TVs.
Live music happens regularly with great bands playing even on weekdays. The vibe feels local and friendly, supported by amazing staff who keep the energy up.
Fairly cheap beer stands out here, making it a budget-friendly spot. Drinks overall come at a relatively low cost.
Good to know
Live music starts at 9pm on Saturdays with a popular local band.
Trivia night happens every Tuesday, creating a fun atmosphere.
Happy hour offers discounted drinks, but check the specific hours.
Bar blends classic dive style with Chicago sports decor and arcade games like pinball and shuffleboard. Atmosphere stays relaxed and warm, inviting guests to enjoy drinks and food while watching big screens. Regulars come for authentic Chicago hot dogs and a lively yet refined vibe.
Live band karaoke on Wednesdays changes the whole karaoke vibe. It mixes music with social fun, making it more than just singing.
Cheap drinks and Chicago influenced food stand out here. Both the food and drinks come at a super cheap price with good quality.
Good to know
Happy hour runs daily from 2pm to 8pm with great drink specials.
Live band karaoke happens every Wednesday night.
Drag Bingo is hosted every Thursday evening.
Bar offers an upscale karaoke setup with an easy queue system and live music on Sundays. Decor combines cozy lounge-like and beautiful aesthetic elements, creating a classy and fun atmosphere. DJs and karaoke hosts maintain a lively vibe with great music and song availability.
Live band plays on Sundays, adding a fun atmosphere with karaoke nights that bring energy and engagement.
Drinks come at a cheap price and taste great. Prices stand out as reasonable compared to most spots in the city.
Good to know
Karaoke is free, but tips for the DJ are appreciated.
Happy hour runs daily from 5 to 7 PM with discounted drinks.
There is no cover charge to enter the bar.
Honky-tonk and dive bar blend creates an edgy dive dance den with a small, crowded dance floor and live country music bands. Atmosphere feels local and casual, welcoming people who enjoy two-step dancing and watching others. Patio seating and a taco truck outside add to the laid-back vibe.
Live music features a local band playing country tunes that get people dancing. The atmosphere stays lively and festive with a crowd that enjoys both music and dancing.
Cheap beer stands out here, with drinks priced low enough to notice. The bar offers a dive bar atmosphere that pairs well with the affordable prices.
Good to know
The cover charge is $10, payable in cash only.
Happy hour runs from 4pm to 8pm with discounted drinks.
Two-step dance lessons are offered at 7pm Thursday through Sunday.
Small, vintage blues bar with an intimate, no-frills setup focused on live music. Atmosphere feels authentic and cozy, with close proximity to local talent performing on a narrow stage at the back. Venue stays lively until late, attracting an enthusiastic crowd and offering cash-only service with room to dance.
Phenomenal live band music plays late into the night, creating a cozy spot downtown. The shows offer top-notch entertainment that transports listeners to another time and place.
Drinks cost between $6 and $10, making them notably cheap. Both beers and other drinks stay within this affordable range.
Good to know
Blue Chicago is a cash-only bar, so bring cash for drinks.
There is a $15 cover charge to enter Blue Chicago.
Live performances start at 9pm, with doors opening at 8pm.
Bar with eclectic decor featuring mosaics and sculptures creates a psychedelic, bohemian vibe. Live music, often Dada and Funk, energizes the space, especially in the garden patio. Cash-only setup and limited seating add to the intimate, artistic atmosphere.
Live music features incredible performances with a live band playing regularly. The venue offers a gorgeous patio that complements the music experience.
Cheap drinks include fairly priced beers and basic cocktails. Live music adds value without raising costs.
Good to know
Live music plays from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am, Monday through Saturday.
Open mic nights occur on Mondays, featuring various musical groups on other nights.
Venice Café only accepts cash payments; no credit cards are accepted.
Metal bar with live bands, gogo dancers, and horror-themed decor creates a lively, friendly atmosphere. Small, intimate space filled with nostalgic horror posters and strong sound quality. Crowd enjoys loud music and vibrant performances, making it a standout spot for metal fans.
A heavy metal theme sets the tone with live shows in the back of the venue. Live music happens regularly, though not every visit includes a performance.
Metal bar features cheap drinks and cheap beer. Gogo dancers add to the atmosphere.
Good to know
Live heavy metal bands perform on weekends with a cover charge of $10-20.
Drag king bingo takes place every Monday night.
Happy hour offers discounted drinks from 4-7pm on weekdays.
Narrow space combines dive bar vibes with a small concert venue featuring live jam bands and eclectic shows. Walls display local art, and wooden bench booths add to the creative, relaxed atmosphere. Crowd is diverse, lively, and drawn by affordable drinks and authentic counterculture energy.
Live music plays in the back room, creating a great atmosphere while you enjoy a drink. Shows happen regularly, and you can hear the music clearly from the bar area.
Cheap drinks stand out here, especially the house lager which is both tasty and affordable compared to typical American beers.
Good to know
There is a $10 minimum for card payments, equivalent to two drinks.
Expect a lively atmosphere with frequent live events like comedy and music.
Open mic nights happen regularly, showcasing local talent.
Bar combines classy interior with a killer outdoor patio featuring live music and big screens. Atmosphere stays friendly and fun with an incredible bass and multiple areas to relax or party. Two friendly dogs roam freely, adding a unique, pet-friendly touch.
Live music happens both inside and on a killer patio. A great DJ often plays alongside live bands, creating a lively atmosphere.
Drinks come at a very cheap price here. The beverages offer good value without sacrificing quality.
Good to know
Karaoke happens every Thursday night, starting at 10pm.
Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.
The bar is dog friendly, welcoming pets in the outdoor area.
Dark, grungy bar with a metal and punk music focus hosts loud live shows and local bands. Decor features skulls and gothic murals, creating a laid-back yet intense vibe. Amenities include pool and foosball tables plus a jukebox for quieter times.
Live music happens regularly with a focus on local performances. Shows can get ear-splitting loud, making it hard to hear conversations.
Drinks come at cheap prices with beer priced reasonably. The spot stays fun and loud while keeping costs low.
Good to know
Goth nights happen every Thursday, offering a unique community experience.
Karaoke events take place on Fridays, featuring Mr. Black as the host.
Burlesque shows are held every other month, providing a special entertainment option.
Punk rock dive bar with free live music and a no-judgment zone atmosphere. Crowd is friendly and tight-knit, often engaging deeply with the music. Features include pinball and an outdoor area for quieter moments, creating a unique and gritty vibe.
Live music happens every weekend and often on weekdays. Shows are always free, making it easy to enjoy the performances.
Fun dive bar with cheap beer and affordable drinks.
Good to know
Karaoke happens every Monday night, featuring a variety of songs.
Live music is typically on weekends, with vinyl DJs during the week.
Femme Punk DJ night occurs every last Thursday of the month.
Small space combines motorcycle club decor, exposed brick aesthetic, and karaoke stage for a unique vibe. Atmosphere feels lively with live music performances and resident singers adding energy. Late-night barbecue scene attracts those seeking flavorful skewers and refreshing cocktails.
Live music creates a great vibe and adds to the atmosphere. It plays alongside late night Chinese BBQ and seafood boil, making the experience lively and entertaining.
Prices stay cheap across food and drinks, especially during happy hour. Skewers and beer come at a low cost without sacrificing quality.
Good to know
The restaurant has a happy hour from 4 PM to 6 PM with $1 lamb skewers.
Expect a 40-minute wait for food during peak hours.
The menu is a scan-to-order format for efficient service.
Arcade bar with free indie games and custom cabinets creates a unique, energetic vibe. Space includes two big rooms and a backyard patio, hosting diverse crowds like couples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and gamers. Music ranges from jazz to electronic, supporting a lively, creative atmosphere.
Live music features niche arcade game vibes with a mix of tunes to listen and dance to. The spot offers cheap drinks and a nice atmosphere that fits well with the music and games.
Cheap drinks stand out here, often strong and tasty. Happy hour offers deals like two drinks for $12-$16. Arcade games add to the fun without extra cost.
Good to know
You need to show ID at the door and be 21 years or older to enter.
The arcade is FREE to play, making it a unique attraction.
Beers are priced between $4-6, which is reasonable compared to other bars.
Neighborhood dive bar with a fun and casual vibe and an eclectic crowd. Live music and occasional karaoke add to the welcoming atmosphere. Dog friendly with good drink prices and sports on TV.
Live music happens on Thursdays and Fridays with a solid lineup. Performances are consistently decent to amazing.
Drinks come at a cheap price and pack a strong punch. Prices stay low without sacrificing strength.
Good to know
Karaoke happens every Wednesday night, hosted by John.
Trivia night is a fun event that occurs weekly.
Live music is featured on Thursdays and Fridays.
Decrepit building with grimy dive bar character hosts live blues music and offers pool and dance floor space. Atmosphere feels lively and authentic, attracting those who appreciate old-school vibes over modern lounges. Frequent live performances create a distinct, memorable energy.
Live music plays every night with a mix of blues, jazz, and funk. The spot has a dive bar vibe that pairs well with the music and a casual drink.
Drinks come at cheap prices here. The bar offers cheap beer and consistently affordable drinks.
Good to know
There is a $10 cover charge that is cash only.
Parking is difficult; consider using Uber instead.
The venue gets packed after 10pm, especially on weekends.
Central water feature creates a cinematic and calming effect that balances tranquility with liveliness. Dive bar atmosphere feels friendly and welcoming, with live music and comfortable seating supporting social gatherings and entertainment.
Live music fills the space with a friendly atmosphere and pairs well with affordable drinks and pub food. The spot draws a crowd looking for a mix of tunes, cold beer, and sports.
Drinks come at a cheap price here. The menu offers affordable options that keep costs low.
Good to know
Karaoke happens every Thursday night, starting at 8pm.
The bar stays open past 10 PM, making it great for late-night outings.
Parking is available outside, so finding a spot shouldn't be an issue.
Social club offers live music and a nice dance floor where people dance and enjoy themselves. Atmosphere feels friendly and familiar, with smiles, laughter, and a fun crowd. Features include a patio and ample seating for gatherings, creating a welcoming space for community events.
Live music events happen regularly, adding a lively atmosphere to the venue. The performances serve as a nice addition to the overall experience.
Cheap drinks are a clear highlight here. The club offers consistently low prices on beverages.
Good to know
Dinner begins at 5pm.
They host live music events regularly.
Sunday breakfast is priced reasonably.
Historic theater offers beautiful architecture and an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Perfect acoustics and an amazing sound system enhance live music and comedy shows. Multiple bars and comfortable seating add to the welcoming environment.
A classic small venue with a beautiful setting creates a special atmosphere for live music. The space suits concerts well but selling beer and snacks feels out of place.
Parking costs just $5 all day and stays easy and efficient. Tickets and drinks come at cheap prices. Even the cheap seats offer great views and sound quality.
Good to know
Parking is available nearby but can be expensive; consider public transport.
The theater hosts concerts and events regularly, check the schedule online.
Seating can be cramped, especially in the second level; arrive early for better options.
Live music bar with local bluegrass bands and pool tables, darts, and pinball machines creates a laid back, downhome atmosphere. Crowd enjoys cheap drinks and mingling in a friendly neighborhood vibe. Patio opens during warm months, adding outdoor space for socializing.
Wednesday nights feature live music with incredible drink specials. The spot offers a chill vibe to catch local bands or play pool.
Cold drinks come at a cheap price, including some top-shelf options. No food is available, but the chill atmosphere complements the affordable drinks.
Good to know
The Gig has no kitchen and does not serve food.
Wednesday nights feature live music and incredible drink specials.
Happy hour offers great drink deals every night.
Live music fills a renovated interior with open space and warm lighting. The vibe stays laid-back and welcoming, attracting a mix of music lovers and casual visitors. Pool tables and a dance floor add to the energetic atmosphere during shows and events.
Live music creates a great vibe and energizes the atmosphere. The venue hosts live concerts regularly and offers a classic hometown bar feel with music as a key feature.
Strong drinks come at a cheap price here. The bar offers affordable shots that stand out for their value.
Good to know
The comedy night occurs every Monday at 8pm.
Karaoke sessions are held on Wednesdays starting at 9pm.
Fridays feature a pop-up karaoke event at 10pm.
Intimate blues club with multi-level seating offers a laid-back vibe and outstanding live music from blues and jazz artists. The historic setting features a good sound system that fills the space evenly. Crowds enjoy close-up views of energetic performances in a chill atmosphere.
Consistently excellent live bands play daily in an intimate setting. The music ranges from blues to boogie, creating an energetic and engaging atmosphere.
Drinks come at cheap prices and include plentiful beer options. Food also stays affordable and good.
Good to know
Bring cash for the cover charge at the door.
Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.
Happy hour features a lively crowd and great music.
Live music fills a cozy dive bar with an intimate stage and eclectic lineup spanning genres like jazz and punk rock. The atmosphere blends grunge charm with welcoming, diverse crowds, creating a lively yet safe space. Affordable drinks and a small size contribute to a big, vibrant vibe.
A cozy spot with an eclectic lineup of live music. It serves as a hub for live music enthusiasts.
Offers cheap draft beers and affordable beer options. Good spot for those looking to drink without spending much.
Good to know
Cafe Nine hosts live music events regularly, with affordable ticket prices.
The Jazz Jam occurs every Saturday, showcasing local talent.
Parking is available nearby, but it can fill up quickly during events.
Courtyard design and retro decor create a martial arts world atmosphere with soft lighting and wooden furniture. Live music and occasional singing add lively energy on some days, while the space stays quiet enough for conversations. Skewers are prepared in the kitchen to avoid smoke, making it comfortable for groups and friends to hang out.
Live singing performances happen some nights, adding a fun, energetic touch to the atmosphere. The music pairs well with the food, making the wait more enjoyable.
Prices stay consistently cheap across the menu. Food offers affordable options without sacrificing taste.
Good to know
Cakes need to be booked in advance.
You should call ahead to avoid waiting in lines.
The tavern does not take reservations ahead.
Dive bar with live blues music and a huge outdoor patio creates a warm, welcoming vibe. Crowd leans toward an older, biker community, with a tight-knit feel that can limit open mic participation. Known for world-famous cheeseburgers and a lively atmosphere several nights a week.
Live music features live bands and karaoke nights that add to the entertainment. The venue combines good food and drinks with a lively music scene.
Drinks come at cheap prices here. The overall cost feels very budget-friendly.
Good to know
Parking can be tricky to find on weekends, so arrive early.
Karaoke night is popular, but regulars often get priority for performances.
Food and drinks are reasonably priced, making it a budget-friendly option.