Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Chicago

Performing arts

You want to enjoy the performing arts without the pre-show anxiety of finding a place to leave your car.

Based on 764 Opinions
+761
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Court Theatre image 1
Court Theatre image 2
Court Theatre image 3
View all
Performing arts theater

Small intimate theater offers no bad seat with excellent stage views and top-notch acoustics. Atmosphere feels contemporary and engaging, hosting thoughtfully produced and authentic work that resonates with the community.

Free parking and ample parking spots make access easy. Street parking is also pretty easy in an area that usually has limited options.

Small and intimate, the theater offers excellent views from every seat and allows guests to bring beverages inside. Productions cover challenging and absorbing material with immersive sets and consistently strong performances.

People are saying

"The performing arts space is small and intimate, with no bad seats."

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

"I found the parking available here easy and free."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available at the theater for all visitors.

2

Post-show discussions with the author and director are available for attendees.

3

Tickets can be purchased easily at the box office.

02
Apollo Theater Chicago image 1
Performing arts theater

Small, intimate theater with comfortable seating and great sightlines from every seat. Lighting and acoustics create a close, personal experience with performers. Atmosphere feels warm and family-like, enhancing the enjoyment of engaging, often simple productions.

Free parking exists for ticket holders. Street parking in the surrounding area is easy and plentiful.

Small and intimate theater with comfortable seating and no bad seats. Shows like musicals and choir performances fit well in its churchy, family atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a small, intimate venue with comfortable seating."

"The choir of men show was entertaining and encouraged sing-alongs."

"It's a small, intimate theater for performing arts."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available for ticket holders.

2

Every seat in the theater offers a great view.

3

The bar serves drinks quickly and at reasonable prices.

03
Mercury Theater Chicago image 1
Performing arts theater

Small, intimate theater with perfect sight lines and comfortable seats creates a cozy atmosphere. Shows feature top-notch performances with great acoustics and affordable ticket prices. A bar area offers snacks and drinks, enhancing the overall experience.

Parking is generally easy to find with a lot across the street offering spots. Arriving early helps since parking near the venue itself is limited.

Great shows like Young Frankenstein and Jersey Boys run here with affordable ticket prices. The theater offers an intimate setting where every seat feels close to the stage.

People are saying

"It's a small, cozy theater that feels really intimate."

"The seats were really comfortable."

"The performing arts venue felt so intimate and cozy."

Good to know

1

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

2

Ticket prices are affordable, making it accessible for most visitors.

3

Balcony seats may have obstructed views, so choose carefully.

04
Chicago Shakespeare Theater image 1
Performing arts theater

Thrust stage and intimate seating create close views with no bad seats. Modern design includes features like water effects and excellent sight lines. Atmosphere feels comfortable and interactive, suitable for family and Shakespeare performances.

Parking is easy to find with clear directions and located close to the theater. Validation offers a discount, making parking reasonable and convenient for visitors.

Intimate theater space offers great seats with no bad views. Productions include Shakespeare plays and Disney musicals with engaging audience interaction.

People are saying

"The plays and musicals here are outstanding and creative."

"It's an intimate theater with great views and acoustics."

"Parking was easy to find and a breeze."

Good to know

1

Parking costs between $32 and $37 at the venue.

2

The theater is very handicap friendly with easy access.

3

Tickets are reasonably priced, making it accessible for many.

05
Black Ensemble Theater image 1
Performing arts theater

Small, intimate theater with a rounded design creates a cozy atmosphere where every seat offers a good view. Performances feel personal, enhanced by actors moving through aisles. On-site valet parking adds convenience to the experience.

Valet parking offers easy access and is priced around $13. A connected indoor parking garage sits right next to the building, with plenty of free parking within walking distance.

Shows feature musical tributes and original plays with strong performances. Seating offers no bad seat in the house and productions focus on clean, entertaining storytelling.

People are saying

"The plays here are always spectacular and awesome."

"You can find convenient valet parking right next door."

"It's a small, intimate theater where every seat feels great."

Good to know

1

Tickets are affordable, making it accessible for a wide audience.

2

Valet parking is available for $13, providing convenience for visitors.

3

Every seat in the theater offers a good view of the stage.

06
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.

A parking garage sits very close to the theater, making access easy and convenient. Buying parking ahead offers discounted rates and smooth entry with helpful staff support.

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 theater is beautiful, with intricate details inside."

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.

07
The Rhapsody Theater image 1
Theater production

Small venue with intimate cabaret seating and a beautiful, recently renovated space creates a marvelous and mysterious atmosphere. Shows feature engaging magic performances with excellent sightlines and sound, making it a cozy spot for close-up entertainment.

Free parking and valet parking options exist near the main entrance. Metered street parking is also available, plus a fenced area adds convenience.

Intimate setting with great sightlines, sound, and lighting makes it ideal for magic shows. The venue includes a beautiful theater, lobby, and bar, creating a complete performing arts experience.

People are saying

"I found the theater beautiful and nicely appointed."

"The magic shows here are so fun and made everyone laugh."

"I found that parking was available and free."

Good to know

1

Valet parking and metered street parking are available near the theater's entrance.

2

Drinks and appetizers are available during the show.

3

The show lasts about two hours, including 30 minutes of magic.

08
Irish American Heritage Center image 1

Huge building with castle-like architecture hosts multiple events across four floors including a pub with live Celtic music and a theater with excellent sound quality. Atmosphere feels cozy and laid back, with a lively bar scene reminiscent of an Irish pub. Spaces offer intimate settings for gatherings, blending cultural heritage with social energy.

Plenty of free parking exists on site with a large fenced paved lot south of the building. Easy access from the expressway and shuttle transportation options support convenient arrival and departure.

A well-maintained older theater features an expansive lower section and a smaller upper gallery. Various recital and theater spaces regularly host plays like 'Night in November' and '3 Little Pigs'.

People are saying

"The pub usually has live Celtic music on the weekend."

"I saw a great play in the lovely, well-maintained theater."

"There's plenty of parking available."

Good to know

1

Parking is free on-site, with a large paved lot available.

2

The center is open Thursday through Saturday only.

3

The venue is handicap accessible with ramps and an elevator.

09
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.

Plenty of free street parking surrounds the area, with a dedicated parking lot also available. Parking is easy to find and the entrance is accessible.

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 seats here are really comfortable."

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.

10
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.

Parking sits right next door with the exit less than 60 feet from the entrance. Plenty of options exist nearby, some with validation available.

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."

"Parking is available nearby and it's easy to find."

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.

11
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.

Discounted parking vouchers for $14 sit in the lobby. Parking stays conveniently located and easy to find with Spothero or nearby options.

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."

"Parking was pretty easy and conveniently located."

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

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.

12
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.

Nearby street parking is easy to find and there is also garage parking available. No free parking options exist, but the area is not crowded and parking access supports a quiet atmosphere.

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."

"Parking available here is easy and not crowded."

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.

13
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.

Lots of parking sits within walking distance, including a surface lot around the corner. Parking spots appear directly across the street from the doors, making access super convenient and easy to get to.

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."

"Parking was easy and available within walking distance."

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.

14
Chicago Symphony Orchestra image 1

Symphony Hall offers exceptional acoustics and an intimate setting with beautiful historic architecture. Performances feature world-class musicians delivering clear, balanced sound throughout the venue. The atmosphere is classy and professional, creating a refined experience for classical music lovers.

Parking options include the Millennium Park garage and Grant Park south underground lot. Buying parking online beforehand cuts costs but exiting the underground lot can take over an hour.

An old theater with great sound hosts musical performances like the Chicago Symphony Orchestra playing The Planets and soul-stirring operas. The venue offers easy access and memorable plays in unique spaces like the apple room.

People are saying

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

"The live music here is a truly unforgettable, visceral experience."

"Parking was easy to find and simple."

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.

15
Briar Street Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Intimate performing arts theater with cozy size and amazing acoustics creates a fun, energetic atmosphere. Seating offers comfortable views with no bad spots, supporting an interactive and lively experience. The venue balances a small, personal feel with enough space for strong crowd reactions.

Convenient parking sits right next to the theatre, making arrivals easier. Bus parking is available for groups, but arriving early helps secure a spot.

Small size creates an intimate atmosphere with clear sightlines from every seat. Friendly staff and a clean, organized space support a smooth experience.

People are saying

"I found the theater to be nice and intimate."

"This show is so fun and interactive, my kids loved it!"

"Parking is limited, so you'll want to arrive early."

Good to know

1

The Blue Man Group show lasts 90 minutes and is highly interactive.

2

Parking costs $17 and is available if you arrive early.

3

Entry is allowed 20 minutes before the show starts.

16
Harris Theater for Music and Dance image 1
Performing arts theater

Underground performing arts theater offers intimate vibe with great acoustics and excellent sight lines from every seat. The space feels cozy and inviting, tucked away from street noise for a focused experience. Modern design blends with comfortable seating and advanced audiovisual setup.

Easy access to Millennium Park Garage makes parking straightforward and affordable. The garage connects directly to the theater, with spots available on the north end for convenience.

A beautiful theater with great acoustics offers a wonderful atmosphere for music and dance performances. ADA seating is available throughout, and staff are kind and helpful.

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."

"Parking was surprisingly easy and affordable."

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.

17
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.

Plenty of parking exists with spots right in front of the door. Off-street parking with meters is available about a block away, making it easy to find a spot.

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

"I found parking in the area to be easy and ample."

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.

18
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.

Ample parking exists in a free lot with plenty of street parking nearby. The parking is easy to find and reasonably priced.

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."

"I found the parking easy to find and convenient."

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.

19
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.

Metered street parking sits right out front, with plenty of spots available. Parking stays free on Sundays, making it convenient for weekend visits.

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."

"There's tons of metered street parking right out front."

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.

20
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.

Ample parking exists on 18th Street with a pay-to-park app system within a short walk. Free parking often appears on the street parallel to the train tracks.

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."

"I found parking easily on the street."

"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.

21
Harold Washington Cultural Center image 1

Cultural center features a 1,000-seat auditorium and wheelchair accessibility within a building that shows signs of age. Atmosphere blends rich history with lively performances, including tap dancing and engaging plays. Visitors encounter a special vibe created by a diverse and enthusiastic crowd.

Off-street parking exists but is very limited and inconvenient. Walking on snow and ice may be necessary due to minimal parking near the building.

Informative plays about historical figures like A.G. Gaston feature prominently, especially during events like Black History Month. Performances consistently deliver phenomenal storytelling and engaging drama.

People are saying

"I looked forward to seeing another production."

"Parking available was minimal, so I had to walk on snow and ice."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited, making arrival stressful for guests.

2

The cultural center is wheelchair accessible for visitors.

3

The auditorium has a seating capacity of 1,000 seats.

22
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.

Street parking is easy to find near Park West. Parking in the area stays relatively convenient.

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."

"I found metered street parking available and it was convenient."

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.

23
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.

A parking garage next to the theater offers spots for around 19 dollars, cheaper than some nearby options charging 30. Street parking is often available, and after 10 pm, Metro parking is free.

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."

"Parking is available nearby for around $15, but check SpotHero."

"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.

24
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.

Street parking is easy to find around 8 pm. Parking is free but can be limited, so using ride share services like Uber or Lyft is common.

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."

"Street parking was easy and available."

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.

25
NEWCITY image 1
Shopping mall

Shopping mall offers quiet indoor spaces alongside a vibrant outdoor sitting area and rooftop soccer field. Atmosphere balances relaxing calm inside with lively entertainment like live music and bowling nearby. Layout challenges exist, but amenities cater to diverse interests and family activities.

Parking offers abundant spaces near the theater entrance with cheap validation dropping fees from $12 to $2. A spacious garage supports easy access without downtown traffic hassles.

Many theaters offer a nice atmosphere and good snacks. Parking and access to shops and theaters are easy.

People are saying

"This mall has dining, entertainment, and shopping options."

"I enjoyed my time at this great movie theater."

"The theater for performing arts here is really nice."

Good to know

1

Parking can be validated for a reduced rate.

2

There is free parking available at the location.

3

Parking can be expensive for longer stays without validation.

26
Block 37 image 1
Shopping mall

Vertical mall with an AMC movie theater at the top offers comfy seating and plenty of tables for relaxing. Atmosphere stays calm and quiet, making it easy to shop or enjoy a drink. Amenities include a climbing wall, simulated golf, and interactive games that add variety beyond typical shopping.

Parking offers easy access with a garage connected to transit and underground walkways. Validation is available but not always consistent, and fees support the mall's operations.

A clean theater offers a comfortable setting for performances like the Michael Jackson musical. Phone calls happen sometimes but are less common than in other theaters.

People are saying

"It's a fun walking game, great for seeing new places."

"I found the parking here to be great and easily accessible."

"I loved seeing the musical; it's my go-to for performing arts."

Good to know

1

Validated parking is available, making it easier to visit.

2

Restrooms close 15 minutes before the mall's closing time.

3

Block 37 connects to the blue and red subway lines for easy access.

27
Outset image 1
Live music venue

Intimate live music venue with top-notch acoustics and a modern design. Crowded indoor space contrasts with a large outdoor patio featuring bars and comfortable seating. Balcony offers a great view while the atmosphere stays vibey and energetic.

Free and easy street parking sits right outside, with a parking lot nearby that is simple to find. Plenty of spots remain even during later visits, making parking accessible and convenient.

Live musical concerts feature prominently with strong performances. Technical issues can occur, such as problems playing a musician's video.

People are saying

"I loved the awesome outdoor seating with a bar."

"Parking was super accessible and easy to find."

"I loved the concert; the quality was excellent."

Good to know

1

Entry is not permitted until after 10:45 pm for events starting at 10 pm.

2

Tickets must be purchased in advance via Ticketmaster; no door sales available.

3

Parking is available on the street, but can be difficult to find if arriving late.

28
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.

Parking offers super convenient access with options to book in advance and save money.

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."

"Parking available is super convenient and very close."

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.

Discover more

Chicago, Illinois

Area guide
Loading Map...