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Performing arts in Chicago

A night at the theater is ruined if you spend the intermission stressing over the restroom line.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Davis Theater, Chicago image 1
Davis Theater, Chicago image 2
Davis Theater, Chicago image 3
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Small theater blends historic charm with modern technology in a cozy, comfortable setting. Atmosphere feels lively yet relaxed, with roomy seating and a connected restaurant enhancing the experience. Sound quality is clear but not overwhelming, creating a welcoming environment for local moviegoers.

Bathrooms stay clean and well maintained. They blend updated fixtures with the theater's historic charm.

A small theater with no bad seats and a great vibe. It hosts events like indie film nights and student premieres, staffed by friendly people.

People are saying

"I loved watching movies at this lovely movie theater."

"It's a beautiful theater with soul and personality."

"The bathrooms here are clean."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street and is free after 10 pm.

2

The theater does not accept cash; credit cards and mobile payments are required.

3

Matinee prices are $9 for everyone before 6 pm.

02
Studebaker Theater image 1
Performing arts theater

Historic theater offers an intimate setting with beautiful architecture and comfortable seating. The space features tremendous acoustics that enhance performances, creating a cozy and engaging atmosphere.

Bathrooms stay clean and spacious. VIP experience includes a private bathroom with comfortable seats and a private bartender.

Small and intimate, the theater offers incredible acoustics and no bad seats. It hosts a variety of performances from musicals to radio shows in a beautifully restored, historic setting.

People are saying

"The theater's atmosphere is gorgeous and comfortable."

"The show was a ton of fun and incredibly well done."

"The bathrooms here are really pretty and clean."

Good to know

1

The Studebaker Theater is wheelchair accessible for all guests.

2

Garage parking at Grant Park South is available across the street.

3

The theater does not accept cash for purchases; credit cards only.

03
James M. Nederlander Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Performing arts theater showcases 1920s art deco decor and gorgeous interior with comfortable seating and great stage views. Atmosphere feels breathtaking and grand, creating an unforgettable experience with incredible sound. Exclusive suite service offers private lounge with drinks and snacks, enhancing the overall visit.

Bathrooms stay clean and quick with a well-oiled ushering process. Staff manage lines smoothly and help find open stalls during busy times.

Shows like Hamilton, MJ The Musical, and Tina Turner play here with strong performances. The theater offers a beautiful setting and great sound system that enhance the experience.

People are saying

"The theater is gorgeous and beautifully ornate."

"The seats here are really comfortable."

"The bathrooms here are clean and well maintained."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a garage just around the corner from the theater.

2

Expect long lines for the restrooms during intermission; plan accordingly.

3

The balcony seats provide great views and are less expensive than front-row seats.

04
Broadway Playhouse image 1
Performing arts theater

Intimate theater with about 500 seats offers comfortable seating and excellent sound and lighting. The space feels cozy and quaint, ensuring every seat has a good view of the stage. Shows often have a lively, adult-oriented vibe.

Bathrooms stay clean and well-maintained. Plenty of stalls in the women's room keep lines short during breaks. ADA bathrooms offer spacious accommodations. Multiple bathrooms are available throughout.

Small and intimate theater with about 500 seats creates a close-up experience. Shows include improvisational performances and musicals, all visible from any seat with no bad views.

People are saying

"It's a cozy theatre that makes you feel close to the stage."

"The theater feels intimate and cozy, making it a delight."

"The bathrooms here are really clean."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a garage next door, but it can be limited.

2

The starting times for shows are exact, so arrive early to find your seat.

3

Discounted parking is available with ticket validation.

05
Lookingglass Theatre Company image 1
Performing arts theater

Very small theater with everyone within 40 feet of the stage creates an intimate setting that draws audiences into unique, engaging worlds. Performances combine inventive storytelling, excellent music, and well-crafted scenic design for a deeply immersive experience. The venue feels open and inspiring, supporting high-caliber, emotionally honest productions.

Unisex bathrooms offer no waiting lines and quick access. Universal restrooms serve as effective accessory restrooms throughout the venue.

Open and inspiring theater with intimate setting and good acoustics creates a perfect venue for performances. Productions feature strong acting, acrobatics, musical elements, and detailed set design.

People are saying

"I loved this theater; I'd highly recommend it."

"Watching Circus Quixote was a lot of fun."

"The bathroom remodel was brilliant and they used universal restrooms effectively."

Good to know

1

Tickets for shows are affordable, making it accessible for families.

2

The theater is easy to find and has good seating arrangements.

3

Restrooms are accessible and conveniently located within the venue.

06
Auditorium Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Auditorium Theatre offers historic architecture with ornate design and classic ambiance that transports visitors back in time. The space fills with rich acoustics that enhance live performances, creating a magical atmosphere. Comfortable seating and a mix of old charm with modern touches define the experience.

Clean and abundant bathrooms keep lines moving quickly. Plenty of restrooms on the lower level and good staffing maintain a smooth flow.

Beautiful old theater with great sight lines offers a historic setting for plays and concerts. The venue hosts unique events and has easy access with nearby parking.

People are saying

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

"The seats are clean and comfortable."

"The bathrooms here are really clean."

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
Park West image 1
Live music venue

Intimate live music venue with excellent acoustics and close seating that offers a comfortable concert experience. The space balances modern design with enough room to avoid feeling crowded, creating a cool and engaging atmosphere. A disco ball adds a unique visual touch during performances.

Bathrooms stay clean and have a thoughtful attendant present. They smell great and staff return forgotten items like phones.

Smaller, more intimate theater offers no bad seats and a nicely laid out space. It suits comedy and rock shows well, with good sound quality and friendly but sometimes stiff staff.

People are saying

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

"There are several bars, so you won't have to wait in line."

"The bathrooms here are nice and clean."

Good to know

1

Parking near the venue is often difficult to find, with only street parking available.

2

The parking fee can be as high as $40, which may be surprising.

3

There is no Apple Pay accepted at the bar, and no ATM is available.

08
Logan Square Auditorium image 1

Old school auditorium with historic architecture and a cozy, nostalgic vibe reminiscent of high school corridors. Space feels comfortable and well maintained, hosting events like plays and wrestling with a cash-only bar on site.

Bathrooms vary widely, with some being clean and large and others tiny and disgusting. Many have huge urinals and are well stocked.

Spacious seating and cozy comfort make the theater inviting. Performances come across as well-presented in a fun little theater setting.

People are saying

"The bar here is cash only."

"It's a nice, fun little theater for performing arts."

"The bathrooms here are clean and well stocked."

Good to know

1

The bar only accepts cash payments.

2

There is paid street parking available in front of and around the venue.

3

The bathrooms were clean and well stocked.

09
Schubas Tavern image 1
Live music venue

Old school narrow tavern leads to an intimate concert space with excellent acoustics and a chapel vibe. The atmosphere feels casual and historic, drawing a crowd that appreciates eclectic live music in a cozy setting. Shows fill the space comfortably, creating a familiar and enjoyable experience.

Bathrooms stay clean throughout visits. Their small size is easy to overlook.

People are saying

"It's a great neighborhood bar with good drinks and food."

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

"The bathroom here was clean."

Good to know

1

The venue hosts a variety of indie bands and musical acts regularly.

2

Parking is available nearby, but it can be difficult to find.

3

The sound quality during performances is consistently praised as excellent.

10
Thalia Hall image 1
Live music venue

Historic opera house converted into a modern music venue offers intimate concerts with great acoustics and vintage architecture. Spacious layout includes a balcony and multiple bars, creating a cool atmosphere with excellent views from all angles.

Modern restrooms feature all-gender stalls and walled-off urinals, making trips quick with no waiting. Bathrooms stay clean and easy to access during shows.

A historic theater with a beautiful old design hosts multiple musical acts with smooth transitions between performances. The theater and lounge offer a great setting for shows.

People are saying

"It's an intimate venue with awesome sound and good acoustics."

"The bathrooms here are spacious and clean with all-gender stalls."

"I found the theater to be beautiful and amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking in the area can be rough; add time for street parking.

2

The coat check costs $5.

3

Food is reasonably priced, with popcorn at $4 and hot dogs at $5.

11
Epiphany Center for the Arts image 1

Historic church converted into an event venue offers intimate acoustics and rotating art displays. The atmosphere blends inviting neighborhood vibe with diverse live music, including jazz and DJ sets. Outdoor terrace and garden spaces complement the indoor bar and dance floor areas.

Huge bathroom area includes a lounge. Basement bathrooms sit next to old catacombs. Toilet rooms are hard to find and access gets tough with crowds, causing long lines.

A large event space hosts high-quality musicals like The Obama Musical, delivering performances on par with NYC Broadway. Shows celebrate musical talent and cultural diversity.

People are saying

"I found the renovated church space really cool and artsy."

"The performing arts here celebrate Black voices and local talent."

"The bathroom area was huge with a lounge."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm in the main bar with discounted drinks.

2

Free or low-cost events are available all weekend long.

3

Parking is limited; nearby street and garage options are available.

12
Copernicus Center image 1

Elegant theater with intimate, beautiful interior and Roman-style architecture creates a captivating atmosphere. Comfortable seating and a cool sound system enhance live music experiences. Spacious layout includes a room for food and drinks, with a small bar offering beverages and popcorn.

Quick access leads to clean and accessible restrooms inside the center. Four bathrooms exist but can cause lengthy wait times during events.

A beautiful and intimate theater offers a unique use of lighting and excellent sound with Technics equipment. The venue feels accessible and secure, making concerts feel close and personal.

People are saying

"I found the theater beautiful and historically charming."

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

"The bathrooms here are really clean."

Good to know

1

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

2

The Taste of Polonia festival features a variety of Polish food and music.

3

Concerts at the Copernicus Center offer great views due to its smaller size.

13
Athenaeum Center for Thought & Culture image 1

Historic theater blends old architecture with modern renovations in an intimate setting. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming with a neighborhood vibe and excellent views from the balcony. Performances often feature authentic music and unique acts, supported by an open bar and art gallery.

Bathrooms sit on an upper floor, which can be inconvenient. Only two stalls exist on each side, and signage for the larger bathrooms needs improvement. Accessibility is good, but the bathrooms could use an upgrade.

A historic theater with a beautiful old design and a neighborhood vibe hosts packed performances with excellent programming. Seating is good everywhere in this smaller, well-maintained venue.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful old theater for performing arts."

"Parking is plentiful and easy to find, often free."

"The bathrooms here are very accessible."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for free on the street near the venue.

2

The theater has a capacity of approximately 950 people.

3

Expect some seats to have obstructed views due to temporary installations.

14
The Second City image 1
Comedy club

Small, intimate comedy venue with spot-on lighting and sound creates a lively, fun atmosphere full of laughs. Audience sits close together at small tables, enhancing the connection to top-notch improv performers. Onsite bar and table service add convenience to the engaging experience.

Bathrooms stay very clean and well maintained. They offer a nice space, though attempts to perform in them don't go well.

An improv mecca with nearly a dozen theaters hosts improv musicals featuring jokes, songs, and moving performances. One show includes an actor playing both father and son, adding a serious moment amid the humor.

People are saying

"The improv here is so funny, it feels scripted."

"The performing arts here had me belly laughing most of the time."

"I found the Bathroom absolutely hilarious and full of energy."

Good to know

1

The line to get in starts approximately 45 minutes before the show.

2

The Second City does not require a two-drink minimum.

3

The entrance for the main stage is on North.

15
Reggies Chicago image 1
Bar & grill

Multilevel bar and grill with live bands and a rooftop deck featuring a basketball hoop creates a punk rock vibe. Atmosphere is lively and energetic, often very loud with dark, moody lighting. Seating includes comfy balcony spots and ample bars throughout the venue.

Live shows feature bands on stage with a strong presence. The venue supports a vibrant performing arts scene that encourages artists to return and perform again.

People are saying

"The bar food, especially the pulled pork, is some of the best I've had."

"I found the pulled pork and mac n cheese to be some of the best I've had."

"I loved the atmosphere and friendly people at the performing arts venue."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; consider using public transport or rideshares.

2

The venue hosts live music events almost every weekend.

3

Food service ends at 10pm, so plan accordingly.

16
Uppie Yuppy image 1
Indoor playground

Indoor playground offers spacious, clean areas with three bounce houses, a theater room, and a toddler ball pit. Bright colors and lively noise create a stimulating, fun atmosphere suited for children aged 1 to 5. Layout includes thoughtful seating and nursing spaces, making supervision easy and comfortable.

Clean bathrooms include a nursing area and soft benches for parents. Wet floors appear only during very wet conditions.

Mini houses spark deep imaginative play for kids. A small, packed play area keeps kids close, and a movie theater setup offers a quiet spot to decompress.

People are saying

"The staff here is incredibly friendly and helpful."

"They have a hidden movie theater showing popular films."

"The kids had a blast and didn't want to leave."

Good to know

1

The summer camp program starts on June 10, so sign up early.

2

Birthday party packages cost $12.50 per child with advance booking.

3

Uppie Yuppy is best suited for children aged 1 to 6 years.

17
Metro image 1
Live music venue

Small, intimate live music venue with great acoustics and clear sightlines from every seat. The space features an ornate interior and a balcony that enhances the experience. It hosts a lively crowd enjoying punk, pop punk, and alternative bands with a well-functioning sound system.

Bathrooms show clear improvement with cleanliness standing out compared to past visits. They avoid the usual horror show reputation common in busy bars.

Shows cover multiple musical genres with a focus on metal bands and techno music upstairs. The venue offers a classic theater vibe and good views from anywhere in the theater.

People are saying

"It's a small and intimate venue for shows."

"The bathrooms here are cleaner than they used to be."

"I found the venue great for smaller shows across multiple musical genres."

Good to know

1

Metro is a cash-only venue, so bring cash for drinks and entry.

2

There are no ADA accommodations, making it difficult for those with disabilities.

3

The venue often oversells tickets, leading to overcrowding during events.

18
Ramova Theatre image 1
Live music venue

Historic theater space combines intimate atmosphere with top-notch acoustics and stylish, hip design. The venue offers an attached bar and grill with standout cocktails and comfort food, creating a lively yet cozy setting for live music events.

Bathrooms feature gender-neutral access and stay well lit and fully stocked. Cleanliness is consistent and water is free, with easy navigation to and from the bar and other areas.

Stunning art deco architecture sets a classic tone for every show. The theater offers amazing sound quality and every seat provides a great view of the stage.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are so friendly and attentive."

"The staff at this performing arts venue were so friendly and respectful."

"The bathrooms here are clean and well-stocked."

Good to know

1

The Ramova Theatre is wheelchair accessible.

2

Ticket prices are reasonable.

3

Parking is a few blocks away, which can be inconvenient.

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