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Symphony

The swell of a symphony is the only thing that can clear the mind.

Based on 469 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
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Chicago Symphony Orchestra image 1
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Symphony Hall shines with exceptional acoustics and historic architecture. World-class musicians deliver perfectly played notes in an intimate, classy setting. Experience one of the nation's finest orchestras in a gorgeous concert hall.

The symphony delivers world-class performances with every note played perfectly. The concert hall offers a gorgeous setting that enhances the experience of one of the finest orchestras in the nation.

People are saying

"The Symphony's performance was truly wonderful and amazing."

"The kids' programming with costumes and storytelling was fantastic."

"The view from the highest balcony was amazing."

Good to know

1

Children's concerts are interactive and educational, perfect for family outings.

2

Arrive at least 15 minutes early to ensure seating for performances.

3

The venue hosts movie concerts, enhancing the experience with live orchestral music.

02
The Hemmens image 1
Performing arts theater

Hemmens offers superb acoustics and comfortable seating with clear views from every spot. Symphony shows feature top-notch talent and themes like Star Wars tributes. Beautiful architecture adds charm to this spacious, well-maintained venue.

Performances feature top-notch talent and wonderful acoustics at The Hemmens. Themes like Star Wars tributes and Hollywood magic highlight the orchestra's range.

People are saying

"I thought the Symphony performances were top-notch and amazing."

"Parking available is plentiful and convenient."

"The bathrooms here are clean and a nice improvement."

Good to know

1

Parking is free in the nearby garage, making it easy to access the venue.

2

The Hemmens has clean restrooms and accessible facilities for those with mobility issues.

3

The auditorium features excellent acoustics, ensuring a great sound experience.

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Hemmens Auditorium image 1
Performing arts theater

Spacious theater offers marvelous acoustics and excellent views from every seat. Elgin Symphony Orchestra performs Beethoven 9th Symphony and Nutcracker with dance under conductor Goodmanโ€™s top-notch direction. Lighting enhances the intimate, comfortable atmosphere.

Performances feature the Beethoven 9th Symphony and the Nutcracker with dance. The Elgin Symphony Orchestra plays at Hemmens Auditorium under conductor Mr. Goodman, noted for his amazing style and top-notch direction.

People are saying

"I found the Symphony performances here to be top tier."

"I found the parking available here to be very convenient and nearby."

"I feel a strong emotional connection to this Kid Friendly place."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available in the adjacent garage next to Hemmens Auditorium.

2

There is limited accessible seating available for those with mobility issues.

3

The venue has recently added an elevator for easier access to the balcony.

04
Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church image 1

Sanctuary offers a nice stage and acoustic backdrops perfect for the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra's performances like The Planets and Star Wars. The atmosphere is welcoming with wonderful people and a great kids program supporting family involvement.

Performances feature the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra playing pieces like The Planets and Star Wars. Concerts take place in a church with a nice stage and acoustic backdrops suited for the orchestra's size.

People are saying

"I found this church to be a fantastic and wholesome place."

"I saw the Elmhurst Symphony perform The Planets and Star Wars."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly on weekends.

2

The church hosts a kids program every Sunday during service hours.

3

The facility is accessible for individuals with disabilities.

05
Ravinia Festival image 1
Event venue

Outdoor venue offers amazing ambiance with reserved and lawn seating. Chicago Symphony Orchestra performs under Maestro Marin Alsop, blending passionate leadership with video and tributes. Sound quality is excellent, creating a family friendly and lively atmosphere.

Performances feature the Chicago Symphony Orchestra with Maestro Marin Alsop's passionate leadership and a focus on detail. Shows blend orchestral music with video and include tributes, film screenings, and collaborations like Beck, all set in an amazing outdoor ambiance.

People are saying

"I loved bringing a picnic to enjoy the beautiful grounds and music."

"The bathrooms here were super clean."

"I enjoyed the Chicago Symphony Orchestra's great concert."

Good to know

1

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

2

Lawn tickets only allow you to hear the concert, not see the stage.

3

Bring your own chairs, food, and drinks for the lawn area.

06
Auditorium Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Auditorium Theatre blends historic architecture with rich acoustics for a magical live experience. Symphony shows feature Senegalese drummers and unique soundtracks like Black Panther. Comfortable seating adds modern comfort to classic charm.

Live orchestras perform alongside films like The Goonies, Black Panther, and Love Actually, creating a unique soundtrack experience. Shows often feature Senegalese drummers and dancers and highlight outstanding drum performances that stand out even among the symphony.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, historic venue for performing arts."

"The seats are clean and comfortable."

"The Symphony here is in a gorgeous, historic venue."

Good to know

1

Parking is a pay lot right across the street from the theatre.

2

Expect seating issues due to pillars blocking views in some areas.

3

The show starts at 7pm; arrive early for best seating.

07
Symphony Center image 1
Concert hall

Concert hall boasts excellent acoustics and elegant architecture that enhance every symphony performance. Plush seating offers comfort and clear views of top-tier musicians. Children's choirs add a lively touch during entry and intermission, enriching the overall experience.

Excellent acoustics fill the classic hall where the orchestra performs with outstanding harmony. Every seat offers a good view of the graceful architecture and top-tier visiting musicians.

People are saying

"The Symphony performances here are always outstanding."

"I loved going to concerts at the Symphony Center."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation at the Thomas Club grants access to unbeatable views.

2

Parking is available at the Grant Park South Garage, but it can be a 15-minute walk.

3

Use 'Parkwiz' to secure your parking spot ahead of time.

08
Fox Pointe image 1
Live music venue

Small outdoor venue offers great acoustics and a large pavilion for dining. It hosts the Northwest Indiana Symphony with a focused atmosphere and clear rules for silence. The place feels family friendly with free parking and onsite food and drinks.

The setting hosts the Northwest Indiana Symphony with clear rules like silencing phones and no talking at the start. The atmosphere stays focused on the music throughout the performance.

People are saying

"I loved the fun, free live shows here."

"Parking available is limited, especially for handicap access."

"I enjoyed the Symphony at Fox Pointe."

Good to know

1

Most concerts at Fox Pointe are free to attend.

2

Parking is free, but can be difficult if arriving last minute.

3

Food and drinks are available, but outside food is not allowed.

09
Marriott Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Theater in the round offers a 360-degree view and close seating for an intimate feel. A live orchestra plays with an all-female cast, though sometimes the sound feels disconnected. The setting creates a personal and interactive atmosphere that draws audiences in.

A live orchestra performs alongside the cast, all of whom are female. Sometimes the orchestra pipes in from an adjoining room, which can feel a bit disconnected and occasionally overpowers the singers.

People are saying

"The performing arts here are amazing, with outstanding singers and actors."

"It's an intimate setting with no bad seats in the house."

"The singers here are amazing and the music is excellent."

Good to know

1

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

2

The theater offers free parking for all visitors.

3

There is only one bathroom for the entire theater.

10
Harris Theater for Music and Dance image 1
Performing arts theater

Underground theater offers an intimate vibe with great acoustics and excellent sight lines. Orchestra and choir face mediocre clarity due to unusual layout. Cozy, modern design ensures a focused, inviting experience away from street noise.

The orchestra and choir perform at a venue with an unusual layout, placing the balcony at street level and the orchestra several stories below. Acoustics are mediocre and lack clarity during live performances.

People are saying

"The theater is beautiful and modern, a great place to see a show."

"The ballet performance was amazing, with beautiful grace and control."

"I saw the Grant Park Symphony and it was outstanding."

Good to know

1

Parking is validated at the Millennium Park Lot for easy access.

2

Accessible seating is available for those with mobility issues.

3

The venue offers student and teen discounts for affordable access.

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