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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Illinois

Live music fun activities

Made for those who want their entertainment to be interactive and prefer active participation over passive listening.

Based on 899 Opinions
+896
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Updated May 2026
01
The Captain's Room image 1
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Event venue centers around a chef's kitchen with live music that invites guest participation. Space combines historic charm with sophisticated decor, creating an intimate and elegant atmosphere. Guests experience close-up culinary action alongside gourmet food and exceptional beverage service.

Live music plays during events, adding to the great atmosphere and complementing the multi-course tasting menus and wine pairings.

Events here offer a speakeasy-meets-culinary-wizard vibe that blends classy and fun elements. The team ensures every need is met, making group gatherings of 20-35 people feel unique and unforgettable.

People are saying

"Chef John and his team's food was delicious and exceeded expectations."

"John and his team made our party unforgettable and fun."

"Chef John and his team made it fun and really went above and beyond."

Good to know

1

The venue is ideal for hosting private events and celebrations.

2

Reservations are recommended for private dining experiences.

3

The Captain's Room offers a unique food and beverage menu.

02
Vito’s Vault image 1
Dinner theater

Dinner theater recreates 1929 speakeasy with interactive comedy and live music. Atmosphere blends Old School Chicago charm and prohibition-era decor with engaging performances. Crowd participation and multi-talented cast create a lively, immersive experience.

Live piano music and live singers create a strong presence that often outshines other aspects. Performances include song, dance, and comedy, offering a joyful break from daily life.

A prohibition era speakeasy offers a fun night with interactive shows featuring 20's dancing and singing. It suits birthday parties and lively evenings with yummy drinks and great atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and tasty."

"I had a really fun evening with great entertainment."

"The food and drinks were delish, and the live music was entertaining."

Good to know

1

The $80 ticket includes a 4-course meal and a 90-minute interactive show.

2

Parking is plentiful and easy near the venue.

3

The performers serve meals, creating a unique dining experience.

03
Martyrs' image 1
Live music venue

Small venue with intimate setting and great acoustics hosts lively live music shows. Warm, inviting atmosphere combines with friendly crowd and space for dancing. Sound system and lighting suit the room well, enhancing performances on a big stage.

Big stage and intimate room size create a cozy setting for live music. The venue hosts lively performances with a cool, dark bar atmosphere and reasonable prices.

A fun atmosphere fills the space with a friendly crowd and a dance floor that keeps the energy lively. Monthly open jams and live music add to the enjoyable vibe.

People are saying

"I watched live music and found it to be a great experience."

"It's a fun, cozy venue with a great vibe."

"The ambience here is super chill."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, but it can be difficult to find during busy events.

2

The venue hosts shows nightly, featuring a variety of local and touring acts.

3

Drinks are reasonably priced, making it a budget-friendly option for a night out.

04
FitzGerald's image 1
Live music venue

Live music fills an intimate venue with excellent acoustics and a unique outdoor patio that encourages conversation and offers locally crafted beers. The atmosphere balances friendly energy and relaxed vibes, making it a favored spot for quality performances and casual gatherings.

Multiple stages offer live music with smooth operation. A spacious outdoor garden adds to the experience. Shows come with plenty of food choices and good prices.

Grooving to live bands creates a fun atmosphere with an engaged audience. The patio seating offers a more enjoyable vibe than indoors, making it a great spot to spend time.

People are saying

"You'll find great live music with multiple stages and acts."

"I thought FitzGerald's was the best place to see a band and eat BBQ."

"The live music here is awesome and brings fantastic energy."

Good to know

1

Summer concerts on the patio feature multiple artists performing from day into night.

2

Voice Box Stories & Serenade performances occur on the second Tuesday of each month.

3

Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays with a variety of options.

05
Rookies RocHaus image 1
Live music venue

Small live music venue offers intimate setting with fantastic acoustics and great sound system. Concrete block walls create a loud atmosphere that energizes performances. Seating options include reserved tables and barstool seats near the rail for close views and easy drink access.

Small venues create an intimate atmosphere for live music. Local shows happen in a cozy setting that feels personal and engaging.

Concerts bring a fun vibe with lively energy. Bands perform in a space that feels always fun and engaging.

People are saying

"It's a great, intimate venue for live music."

"Parking available nearby was easy and close."

"I had a super fun time and a blast here!"

Good to know

1

Tickets are cheaper if bought online before the show.

2

Parking is available and is shared with multiple businesses.

3

They do not accept cash at the door.

06
Garcia’s Chicago image 1

Intimate concert venue with excellent sound system and great sight lines puts audiences just feet from performers. Cozy atmosphere supports live jazz and jam band performances with crisp, clear audio at comfortable volume. Two bar areas and well-spaced tables create a relaxed setting for music lovers.

Live music features excellent jazz performances and is booked by a great booker. The venue combines dinner and music for a solid night out.

Fun atmosphere and friendly servers create a lively vibe. Live music adds to the overall fun experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and expertly prepared."

"The sound quality for live music here is crisp and clear."

"The vibe here is really fun."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available for $20, but street parking is cheaper if timed right.

2

The venue accepts only card payments; cash is not accepted.

3

Dinner and show experiences are available, enhancing the visit.

07
Goat Village image 1

Bar combines live local rock music, slot machines, and a cozy yet spacious layout with neighborhood pub vibes. Atmosphere stays lively but not overwhelming, welcoming groups for casual hangouts or events. Regulars enjoy reasonably priced drinks and entertainment like trivia and bingo nights.

Live music creates a casual but lively atmosphere with talented bands performing on weekends. It complements other activities like slots, trivia, and bingo nights.

Wednesday karaoke brings an energetic vibe with lots of fun. Weekly bingo and trivia events keep things engaging and lively. The spot also offers great food and drinks that add to the good times.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are amazing and make you feel so important."

"The live music here is amazing and adds the perfect touch."

"The bartenders here are amazing and make it a fun activity."

Good to know

1

Bingo games are held on Mondays and Thursdays, starting at 7pm.

2

Karaoke night is every Wednesday at 9pm with a lively atmosphere.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm, Monday through Thursday, with discounted drinks.

08
Evanston SPACE image 1
Live music venue

Intimate live music venue with amazing sound quality and a full service bar separate from the main area. Cozy atmosphere invites dancing and enjoying performances by varied talented artists. Recent remodel adds exquisite details including new lobby bar and outdoor seating.

An intimate venue offers close views of a wide range of live bands and artists. The space hosts year-round live music and appeals to all ages in a cozy, fun environment.

Small size creates an intimate venue for live music and shows. The crowd brings a fun and positive vibe with enthusiastic energy. Shows offer affordable fun and a quaint atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a great, intimate venue with no bad seats."

"It's a fun place to see great live music and shows."

"It's an intimate and great venue for live music."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street, making access easy for visitors.

2

Tickets for events are reasonably priced, typically starting at $15.

3

Expect a service fee of $15+ when purchasing concert tickets.

09
The Venue image 1
Live music venue

Small, intimate live music space with excellent acoustics and state-of-the-art sound and lighting creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Crowds gather comfortably around a raised stage with flexible seating arrangements. Outdoor areas offer a clean, landscaped setting nearby for casual rest.

Small and intimate setting creates a cozy vibe for live bands. Offers excellent live music from a variety of artists and genres in a cozy space.

Small size and cozy atmosphere create a fun and intimate setting. The venue feels cute and inviting for casual visits.

People are saying

"It's a small, intimate place with a great view of the stage."

"It's a great place to hear live music."

"It's a fun and cozy place to visit."

Good to know

1

Parking is conveniently located right across the street from the venue.

2

You can bring your own food since the venue doesn't have a kitchen.

3

Tickets can be purchased online quickly and easily through their website.

10
Madame Puffs and Thai Bistro image 1

Modern, chic dining space features luxurious decorations and bright golden lettering outside. Live jazz music creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that complements the upscale Thai cuisine. The small, intimate layout brings diners close to servers, enhancing the lively vibe.

Live jazz music creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that enhances the evening. A versatile singer performs various musical genres, adding to the fun experience.

Live jazz nights create a lively atmosphere that adds to the fun. Lighting supports intimate conversations while servers like Toast provide attentive service enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and full of flavor."

"This place is perfect for dates with its warm, intimate atmosphere."

"The live music here makes for a really fun atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drink.

3

Expect a separate charge for protein in dishes, which can increase total costs.

11
Madcats image 1
Restaurant

Small venue with top-notch acoustics and a professional stage setup creates a lively rock club atmosphere. Crowds fill the space, making it energetic and social, with some areas offering limited stage views. Live music and friendly vibe attract people looking to enjoy entertainment and meet others.

Small venue offers live bands regularly, creating a lively atmosphere. Activities like bingo, karaoke, and trivia complement the music, keeping things engaging.

Activities include bingo, karaoke, trivia, and live bands with weekly events like game nights and open mic nights. The atmosphere stays lively and fun with regular entertainment and a welcoming crowd.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and fresh."

"The live music here is great and makes the experience enjoyable."

"You'll have a blast with the fun live music and karaoke."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Thursday night and is a popular event.

2

Bingo night takes place every Wednesday and is well-attended.

3

Seating at Madcats could be limited on busy nights when there is a band.

12
The Outta Space image 1
Live music bar

Live music venue combines art gallery and intimate setting with a close-knit community vibe. Atmosphere feels casual and celebratory, supporting local musicians and artists. Outdoor patio offers a secluded space for socializing away from crowds.

A cozy, intimate setting hosts a diverse lineup of local bands delivering a fun, casual vibe. The live music offers a decent variety and a celebratory atmosphere for hanging out.

Fun, casual vibe fits live music and hanging out. Walls feature playful art that adds to the welcoming atmosphere.

People are saying

"This bar has a really friendly, artsy crowd."

"The live music here has a fun, welcoming vibe."

"It's a fun vibe here, I had a blast."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Outta Space is free.

2

There is a cover charge, usually no more than $10.

3

The Outta Space does not serve food, but you can bring your own.

13
Yazz Events image 1

Live music blends elegant strings with high-energy DJ sets, creating a dynamic atmosphere that shifts smoothly from refined ceremony to lively reception. Performances feature talented musicians whose energy and charisma keep the dance floor active all night. The experience includes interactive entertainment that appeals to all ages and enhances event flow with thoughtful pacing and lighting.

Live music features a violinist, guitarist, jazz band, and DJ. Performances suit both ceremony and cocktail hour with incredible talent and excitement. Music adds a beautiful, lively atmosphere throughout events.

People are saying

"The DJ kept the dance floor packed all night."

"The live music here makes your wedding feel magical and creates lasting memories."

"The DJ kept the dance floor packed all night; it was so fun!"

Good to know

1

Yazz Events offers both DJ services and live musicians for events.

2

Their online planning portal is user-friendly and essential for organizing events.

3

Yazz Events provides a one-stop-shop for wedding planning, including officiants and musicians.

14
Stardust image 1

Two floors offer distinct atmospheres with dueling piano performances upstairs and a DJ-driven speakeasy downstairs. The space combines futuristic and astrology-themed decor with energetic, authentic Chicago vibes. Music ranges from jazz and blues to R&B, creating a lively and friendly environment.

Live music features a mix of karaoke, live piano singing, and DJ sets that energize the space. The music creates a lively atmosphere in this cocktail bar and late night spot.

Live piano music features Avicii covers that add a super fun vibe. The overall atmosphere feels very lively and entertaining.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are super friendly and welcoming."

"I loved the fantastic live music and the energy it created."

"I found the atmosphere here to be really fun."

Good to know

1

Parking garages are nearby, and street parking is available.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash may be preferred.

3

The venue features live jazz, blues, and piano performances regularly.

15
Blue Chicago image 1
Live music bar

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.

A fun, vibrant musical environment fills the small space with a super positive vibe. The crowd stays fun loving but mature, matching the energy of the tight, hardworking band.

People are saying

"The live music here is phenomenal and top-notch."

"I experienced authentic blues music in a small club."

"The live music here is outstanding and kept everyone dancing."

Good to know

1

Blue Chicago is a cash-only bar, so bring cash for drinks.

2

There is a $15 cover charge to enter Blue Chicago.

3

Live performances start at 9pm, with doors opening at 8pm.

16
Liar’s Club image 1

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.

Fun comes from the rock n roll kiss decor and eclectic vibe. Staff stays friendly and lively, making it a great spot for music fans.

People are saying

"I found the live music here to be great and the vibes were rad."

"This bar's punk vibe is dark, gritty, and loud."

"It's a fun place with great live music."

Good to know

1

Liar’s Club is cash only, so bring cash for drinks.

2

Street parking is the only option available near Liar’s Club.

3

They host Kiss karaoke around Halloween every year.

17
Crooked Arm Vinyl & Tap image 1

Record store combines vinyl browsing with a bar serving local beers and live music. Atmosphere stays relaxed and chill with a family feel and mixed genres playing. Space includes racks along walls, a small stage, and tables for drinks and games.

Live music pairs with craft beers and the chance to buy old albums. Shows happen on weekends with a casual vibe for grabbing drinks and enjoying tunes.

Browsing through every genre mixed creates an exciting and fun experience. The shop offers unique finds and a talkative, professional vibe that makes hanging out enjoyable.

People are saying

"I loved trying all the local beers they offered."

"You can grab a beer and catch some live music here."

"The music selection here is great for fun activities."

Good to know

1

Live music events occur regularly, featuring local bands and artists.

2

You can enjoy drinks while browsing the vinyl collection.

3

They do not serve food, but there are nearby options available.

18
RiverEdge Park image 1
Live music venue

Outdoor venue next to water offers open space with intimate viewing and a large screen for lawn seating. Atmosphere stays laid-back and happy, with live music energizing a friendly crowd. Market and food trucks add variety, while accessible features support inclusivity.

Outdoor shows create a lively atmosphere with live music entertainment. Crowds enjoy the performances and stay in a good mood throughout the events.

Outdoor events offer fun and safe experiences. Seasonal markets add a ton of fun with lively activities.

People are saying

"The Christmas market was a fun time and very nice."

"I found the holiday fun at the market to be good for the family."

"I enjoyed the outdoor live music here."

Good to know

1

Parking is free on the other side of the river during events.

2

Concessions are accessible with short wait times at RiverEdge Park.

3

The park is located across the street from the Metra station for easy access.

19
Plank Road Tap Room image 1

Cabin-style bar with plentiful outdoor seating and fire pits creates a cozy, casual atmosphere. Live music and food trucks add to the relaxed beer garden vibe. Dog-friendly space welcomes a diverse crowd, with a 21+ policy except for family-friendly Sundays.

Live music features a guitar player and singer named Josh performing outside. The music adds a lively atmosphere to the spot.

Friendly and fun people create a lively atmosphere. Thoughtful pairings add to the engaging and enjoyable experience.

People are saying

"They have an extensive craft beer selection with many different beers on tap."

"The outdoor seating area was beautiful and plentiful."

"I found the pairing fun and thoughtful; I planned to return."

Good to know

1

Trivia night lasts 2 hours on Wednesdays, starting at 7pm.

2

Family-friendly Sundays allow guests of all ages.

3

Parking can be tricky during busy events.

20
Des Plaines Theatre image 1
Live music venue

Small, beautifully restored venue with intimate seating and excellent sound quality creates a professional, relaxing atmosphere. Upstairs speakeasy features 1920s velvet decor and antique touches, adding nostalgic charm. Crowded lobby contrasts with spacious seating and free parking nearby.

Refurbished old theatre offers great live shows with a focus on Wednesday & Thursday Nights Live Jazz. The venue includes a speakeasy that features live music, creating a neat atmosphere for concerts.

A fun speakeasy on the second floor offers a unique vibe with great bartenders. The venue hosts amateur boxing events and features a jazz room for relaxing entertainment.

People are saying

"I found the theater beautiful and comfortable."

"It's a fun place to see a show or enjoy live music."

"It's a great place to see live music and shows."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available behind the venue.

2

The theater hosts live music events regularly.

3

A bar and pizza place are located inside the theater.

21
Bottom Lounge image 1
Live music venue

Small, intimate live music venue with a speakeasy vibe and excellent sound quality. Space feels cozy but includes a pillar that blocks some views and no seating inside the music hall. Crowd energy is lively, with a fun bar atmosphere upstairs and re-entry allowed for fresh air.

Live music happens in an intimate setting with a speakeasy feeling in the back room. The sound quality stays clear and undistorted, making it a great spot to catch shows.

Bar area offers a good drink selection and pinball for fun. Hidden space creates an intimate setting for concerts and events with a lively DJ.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and reasonably priced."

"It's a fun spot with a cool, enjoyable atmosphere."

"It's a great place for live music."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; arrive early to secure a spot in the free lot.

2

Bottom Lounge hosts weddings and private events in their upstairs space.

3

The venue is wheelchair accessible, making it friendly for disabled visitors.

22
Zhivago Restaurant and Banquet image 1
Continental restaurant

Chandelier-lit dining rooms with antique silver samovars and walls lined with rare first-edition books create an opulent atmosphere. Live music featuring professional musicians adds a lively, authentic touch that enhances celebrations. The space suits banquets and family gatherings, combining beautiful interiors with a festive vibe.

Live music plays nonstop, creating a lively atmosphere with nonstop dancing. It adds a special touch that makes evenings memorable.

Energetic music and a fun atmosphere create a lively setting. Food, good service, and engaging events add to the overall enjoyment.

People are saying

"The food here is truly delicious and beautifully presented."

"It's a cozy place with a warm, comfortable atmosphere."

"The live music here really adds to the atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Zhivago hosts a music show every Saturday night.

2

A 25% tip is automatically included in the bill.

3

The venue is suitable for hosting various celebrations and events.

23
Fuller's Pub image 1
Irish pub

Small, intimate Irish pub with a blues vibe and live music on select nights creates a lively atmosphere. Regulars and staff foster a welcoming, chill environment that feels like a local neighborhood spot. Drinks focus on whiskey and beer, with no food served.

Incredible live music fills the space with energy. A live band of wonderful people performs well, creating an awesome atmosphere with only drinks served, no food.

Fun bands play on Fridays and Saturdays, creating a lively atmosphere. People here are caring and full of enjoyment, making it a fun spot to hang out.

People are saying

"The live bands here make for such fun activities."

"I enjoyed the awesome live music."

"The bar has a great atmosphere and a chill vibe."

Good to know

1

Dennis Melzer runs a music jam at Fuller's Pub once a month on Fridays.

2

Fuller's Pub hosts a blues jam event on Mondays.

3

Live music is featured every Friday and Saturday night.

24
Live Wire Lounge image 1

Small dive bar with excellent sound system and a decent stage hosts live punk and rock music. Walls display metal and punk memorabilia, creating a laid-back, energetic vibe popular with metal and rock fans. Space is cozy but lively, often crowded with room to dance and socialize.

The venue offers great live music with a fun night atmosphere. It features a neighborhood bar setting that hosts regular live shows.

A tiny bar offers a fun night with live music and a $12 cover charge. The atmosphere suits those looking for fun bands and a lively time.

People are saying

"This dive bar has awesome live music."

"I love the loud local metal music they play here."

"I experienced great live music and a fun time overall."

Good to know

1

Expect a $12 cover charge for live music events.

2

The venue is cash-only, with an ATM available inside.

3

Parking can be challenging due to limited street availability.

25
Carol's Pub image 1

Classic honky-tonk bar with live country music and a lively atmosphere that balances energy without overwhelming. Small venue with up-close concert feel and generous, tasty food like cheeseburgers and fries. Crowd enjoys affordable drinks and a neighborhood vibe with artsy, charming decor.

A classic honky-tonk bar with great live music ranging from classic rock to 90s pop and country favorites. Local bands play regularly, creating a lively crowd and a spot to catch live bands and dance.

A unique, artsy atmosphere creates a fun vibe for all ages. Live music events bring a party feel with a crowd that knows how to have fun.

People are saying

"I loved the live music and the lively crowd."

"I thought the burgers here were pretty good for the price."

"The live music and fun crowd make for a great night out."

Good to know

1

Karaoke events happen on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

2

Trivia night is every Wednesday at 8pm with no entry fee.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

26
EvenFlow Music & Spirits image 1
Live music venue

Small live music venue offers an intimate atmosphere with professional sound system and varied music genres. Crowds include supportive musicians and fans, creating a friendly vibe that encourages dancing and engagement. Lighting effects and a well-designed stage enhance the experience.

Live band karaoke happens twice a month on Thursday nights, with a live band supporting both amateur and professional singers. The venue offers a small, local bar feel that suits enjoying fun, interactive live music.

Live band karaoke offers a lively and engaging experience. Open Jam on Tuesdays adds variety and keeps the entertainment fresh.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the food; it was fantastic."

"The live band karaoke here is super fun!"

"The live band karaoke here is super fun!"

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens on the first and third Thursdays of each month.

2

Open mic night is every Tuesday, featuring local talent.

3

The cover charge for events is typically $10 or $12.

27
The WC Social Club image 1

Intimate event venue with low ceilings and excellent sound system creates a cozy yet cramped atmosphere. Live music features a wide range of local indie and jazz bands, often accompanied by swing dancers. A spacious smoking area and a bar offering flavorful food options add to the experience.

Great live music plays every weekend with no price gauging on drinks during shows. The bar offers a nice setting to enjoy live music performances.

Clean space and fun decor create a lively atmosphere. Shows feature good line-ups and staff bring real passion, making it a fun spot to hang out with plenty of seating.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and reasonably priced."

"It's a fun place with great decor and good line-ups."

"I enjoyed the live music shows here every weekend."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

The venue can accommodate nearly 1,000 people for events.

3

Food and drink prices are reasonable, with no price gouging during events.

28
Burlington Bar image 1

Dive bar with a tight live music venue tucked in the back offers an intimate atmosphere and great acoustics. Dark interior and friendly regulars create a chill, underground vibe where local shows and conversations mix easily.

A lowkey stage sits tucked away in a secret backend area of this dive bar. It hosts live bands regularly, creating a cool spot for music.

A photo booth adds a playful element. The overall environment feels fun and lively.

People are saying

"This bar has a great stage and sound system for performers."

"It's a chill spot with a lowkey live music venue in the back."

"It's a cool spot for live music and fun activities."

Good to know

1

DJ performances happen on emo Saturdays, creating a lively atmosphere.

2

Dancing is allowed in the back, making the space feel open and inviting.

3

Prices at the bar are reasonable for drinks and events.

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