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    Auditorium Theatre

    4.0 (215 reviews)
    Open 12:00 pm - 5:00 PM

    Services - Auditorium Theatre

    Venue rental

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    Tara P.

    This place is absolutely stunning! They just don't make things the way they used to and that really shines here! The crown molding, carvings, golds and velvets shine through. Every seat has a good view!

    My program.
    Lisa P.

    Had not been inside this theater since graduating in 2010. It's a beautiful, classic and aged architectural structure. In 1975 it became a historical landmark. Imagine my excitement when finding out that Mean Girls was going to be performing at this locale. The performance was amazing! The lights, sounds, dancing and theatrics were all well worth seeing.

    karina k.

    Nice and classy theater! Gender neutral bathrooms, clean, no musty old carpet smell, modern enough but classy. Interior design and lights are very nice. Acoustics work well. Nice staff and security. You have to go through metal detectors, they look through all bags, you can't bring even a tiny Swiss Army knife so keep anything sharp at home. They will confiscate any sharp metal objects and keep it safe until the end of the show and they will return it. Oh and the seats aren't vinyl as I would like bc it's easy to clean but they are cloth and comfortable and plush.

    Inside
    Julie E.

    Very beautiful theater in the heart of Chicago. We went to see Broadway show of Elf the musical while on a work trip. Recommend you arrive at least 30 minutes before your show starts. It was a slow line to get inside. It's nice. They have security, but it does make it very tedious to get in the front door. Inside is very ordinate and lots of details from mosaics in the floor to artwork on the walls and ceilings. Elf certainly made us laugh. Nobody beats Will as Buddy the Elf though!

    Angela M.

    Very outdated. Remodeling should be in its future--from the worn carpeting to the vintage seating and such a small stage area. Tiny pieces of foam were falling from the ceiling during the stage performance. I attended The Hip Hop Orchestra w/ Thee Phantom & The Illharmonic Orchestra and D-Composed Chicago. I did not particularly enjoy the performances by Thee Phantom. It seemed to interrupt the flow of hearing the orchestra. That's what I was there to hear. It was not what I expected at all.

    View from Second Flr Aisle 28
    Joneice B.

    First experience in this theater was to see Beetlejuice the musical. Overall was impressed with the beauty of the theater however I did not like the process of getting into the theater. The entrance is long and off a very busy street and the way it was set up like you had to kind of walk into the street to get to the entrance so that was kind of a mess. The show was fantastic and I was very impressed with the talent and would recommend this musical for all ages. At this theater we actually set in a box. That was my first time sitting in a box (only 4 seats) and I really enjoyed it. Definitely worth upgrading to have that more personal feeling. Our seats were very comfy and there were no heads blocking our view. I would say the only annoying thing is the other 2 before in the box kept standing up during the performance. These seats were so comfy and spacious that they could stretched their legs sitting down....like seriously calm down. Another issue with this theater was the confusing lines to purchase merchandise. We got in one line and they let a group go and then told us we weren't in line which was not true. So then we had to get back in line. Meanwhile several people cut the line as the attendants were not very attentive. But for really liking the show...I almost didn't purchase my ornament. All in all it was fun times. I would come back to this theater. My drink was strong but the price to value was less to be desired. Nearby parking and a Peet's coffee was a highlight. Try to get to this spot at least 20 to 30 minutes before as getting in is quite a process.

    Rex Orange County from row EE
    Tim C.

    Great venue for seeing any event. I don't think there is a bad seat in the place. Great acoustics for a concert. We heard the entrance into the building can take some time with the security in place. We arrived 45 minutes early and didn't have to wait in a line. We only sat prior to the concert, and then everyone stood. I didn't find the seats uncomfortable.

    Jane V.

    Did you know that this is a national historical landmark? It's a gorgeous theater with 3,901 seats total. Elegance and opulence abound. We recently went here to see the Chicago Philharmonic Orchestra preform with special guests, Tank and the Bangas. The acoustics are phenomenal, and even though we were sitting in one of the balconies, it sounded like we were sitting on the front row. The seats were nice, with plenty of leg room. Get there early so you can truly take in the beautiful architecture and decor of the theater.

    Nadine S.

    Went to see the sugar hill nutcracker. A real treat. The seats were at the gallery and it was a lovely experience.

    Karen N.

    This is a wonderful old theater. The architecture is amazing and so well maintained. All of the staff were very friendly, professional and guided many people to their seats. Many reviews mention uncomfortable seating, but out seats were located in the dress circle and were fine. The sound was excellent. There were no bathrooms on our floor, but the bathrooms on the floor above us were fine, but there were only two stalls in the woman's bathroom. We used spot hero and was able to park two blocks away for $8.00 for a Sunday evening event. The venue is historic and beautiful.

    Monic L.

    This was my first time at this theater, and although it is a beautiful and historic lesson learned do not get seats in the upper balcony. But I will say I guess you get what you paid for. The seats in the upper balcony are narrow and uncomfortable. During the performance of Beetlejuice, the lights in the upper balcony don't dim as much, so it was distracting. Another thing was when anyone got up the stairs made noises so that was another factor. They have an elevator that makes things accessible and made for getting out faster because walking up 6 flights of stairs, I was tired. They have a bar and snack on every floor, which is nice. The bathroom was big and clean. The history surrounding the building is amazing. I will come back if there is another show in town, but I will def get closer seats for better comfort.

    Otto V.

    We recently went to a concert here. The first in many years. The theater was designed by Adler and Sullivan and opened in 1889. It featured electricity and air conditioning which was rare at the time. With gorgeous 24 karat gold leafed ceiling arches, it is a sight to behold. At obesity time, it was the tallest building in Chicago. It is a National Historic Landmark, a building otitis built for operas, but with its stunning architecture and prefect acoustics, it is a theater that everyone should enjoy.

    Some seats are not good!

    Nice old auditorium but seats are small and some seats are not good... very hard to see the stage!

    Saw Stephen Colbert

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    This theater has wide comfortable seats with enough legroom! Best theater seats in Chicago!

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    Ask the Community - Auditorium Theatre

    Is the Auditorium Theatre still requiring masks since the mask mandates have been lifted?

    Yes- despite the mask requirement being lifted for over two months, they require masks AT ALL TIMES and the bars are shut down because "it's just not safe". Ridiculous.

    What is the attire for the Alvin Ailey dance performance at The Auditorium Theater?

    Hi Marvin H. We do not have a dress code, most of our patron attire ranges from business casual to cocktail attire. We look forward to welcoming you soon. Best,

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Review Highlights - Auditorium Theatre

    The Auditorium is a stunning Chicago landmark that showcases anything from the Joffrey Ballet to major jambands.

    Mentioned in 18 reviews

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    Blues Heaven Foundation

    Blues Heaven Foundation

    4.5
    (23 reviews)
    1.5 mi
    $

    The Blues Heaven Foundation is located in the building of the former Chess Records. It's on S…read more Michigan in Motor Row District - between 14th St. and the Stevenson Expressway, with the core from Cermak Road to 25th Street. My husband coordinated this visit for us. He emailed the non-profit and signed up for a group tour of the landmark on June 9th. Tours are only done by appointment. We were in the city during Chicago Blues Festival, so this was their very active time of the year. Our tour guide, the Executive Director of the BHF, was telling us how their was a private concert the night before. The tour is amazing, and starts on the ground level in their gallery (which has rotating works on display). Then you get to see Chess Records offices and also go upstairs to sit in the recording studio. From my gift shop, I bought a key chain and a tee-shirt for my husband. Proceeds go to the works of the Foundation, which include educational youth programs, assistance to musicians, and outreach to the community. Right next to the building is a small fenced off garden where concerts are held during the summer. Note: You can take still pictures but absolutely no video or audio recording. They are very strict about this and will remind you about it. No joke.

    1st time in Chicago and Chess Records was my 1st point of interest to visit. Now, it's the Blues…read moreHeaven Foundation run by Willie Dixon's family. Our tour was run by Jacqueline Dixon, who did a great job. She presented its history with numerous facts and with great respect! Hearing all of her stories about Willie and his musician friends was absolutely fascinating. This is a must see and do...set up an appointment, get there on time and get a great history lesson about Chicago blues.

    Photos
    Blues Heaven Foundation
    Blues Heaven Foundation
    Blues Heaven Foundation

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    Jazz Showcase

    Jazz Showcase

    4.4
    (236 reviews)
    0.3 mi
    $$

    everything heres amazing. drinks, music, people, bartender. great experience overall, itll be worth…read moreyour time and money.

    This place has a magical feel IF you're into jazz. If you aren't a jazz lover, you just may become…read moreone here. Well, I love jazz and it's a great place to be. I came here for the first time knowing my grandparents started coming here in the 50's for date night jazz. This place was founded in 1947 and you can see they've preserved this place to keep that same feel with all the greats from the past... Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie, George Benson, Lonnie Liston Smith, Hugh Masekela, Dexter Gordon, etc. (those are my favorites!). I saw the Kyle Swan Quartet. They were absolutely amazing. You see young and seasoned musicians that are so talented. I usually go to Birdland in NYC but this place, Jazz Showcase, is better to me because it feels more welcoming and like home here versus a production at a theater. We interact with the artists here-- well, they interact with us and make us feel like we are at home and like we are supposed to be there with them, not a performance transaction. $25+ for a show and booking online was a breeze. It's comfortable here, chairs are good and there's sofas in reserved areas but the whole seating area has a great view of the stage no matter where you're sitting. The staff seems gracious and kind of everyone who visits and genuinely wants you to have a great time. They see very selective in their talent that performs here... but why wouldn't they when they've been here for so long and had the best artists perform here?! I came the night that The only downside that may be for some people is they don't have food... only drinks. Me personally, I ate before and don't come for food, I come for the jazz... but they've got beer, cocktails, and other spirits. Macallan and Laphroaig for those who need a good whiskey. Come here if you're ready to relax and listen to great jazz with artists who know their craft. I'm coming back with friends... or even alone. Yeah, it's cool like that. ***Side note: the GPS may take you to the Main Street and you may not see the sign right away and actually have to turn the corner on Plymouth and walk down that side street to get to the end of the block (where the dead end/no outlet is).

    Photos
    Enjoying drinks while waiting for the performance
    Enjoying drinks while waiting for the performance
    Jazz Showcase
    Omar Sosa performing

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    Omar Sosa performing
    Bernice's Tavern

    Bernice's Tavern

    4.6
    (134 reviews)
    3.0 mi
    $

    Hidden Gem of a Dive Bar. If you're looking for an alternative to Maria's in Bridgeport, just to…read moremix it up, this place is perfect. Also a fantastic place to bar hop. Cash only. Mildly sticky floors (But in the good dive bar sort of way), overpopulated wall decorations, and friendly looking bar people who've been curating the classic rock playlist since before George Bush ran for president.

    Upon initial arrival, I'm not gonna lie - I was a little hesitant. Dive bars are my thing, but this…read moreone reminded me of one of those hillbilly country bars with sparse options in liquor and potentially boring vibes. One other bar patron was in. No music was playing. However...within five minutes, I could already tell I was going to like it here. Steve, who I later found out was the owner, was very hospitable & friendly, turning on music, catering to my silly request to see the stop light colors change, etc. Eventually, more people started arriving at the bar, including live music. Everything fell into place. It became a really great experience, where people were all friendly and welcoming. Bathroom was clean. Bar was clean. ATM works perfectly (it's a cash only bar). I love good bars and "good vibes" (and hate the phrase good vibes but whatever it works here ) and if the shoe fits, hey, enjoy it while you can! Oh and disclaimer - nothing wrong with a hillbilly bar, I tend to meet the best people at these hole in the wall establishments who've, ya know, actually lived their lives and have rich stories to share If I'm back in Chicago, this'll be a place I'll try to visit again. If you're local, better check it out. I'm an expert, trust me

    Photos
    Inside
    Inside
    Love the lighting
    Love the lighting
    Beer and pretzels

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    Beer and pretzels
    The Revival

    The Revival

    4.3
    (26 reviews)
    0.4 mi
    $$

    My husband and I watched an improv show last night. We bought the tickets day of, when we realized…read morewe had no plans for the evening. Buying tickets on their site is so easy! Also, don't forget to add a donation! We got to the theater about 25 minutes before show time, they have a big lobby area with seating as you wait. There's also a small bar, with assorted mixed drinks, beer, cider and wine. The staff there is so nice, they let me try something before I committed to it. The theatre itself is large with different types of seating. I prefer the high top tables in the back row. The show started a bit later than advertised but it was all good. The show was so funny! And of course in true improv style, they had the audience participation by asking for prompts and input. I would 100% go back!

    I'm not sure I can even type words without falling into what might be mistaken as hyperbole…read more I had the luck to stumble upon tickets for a one night only show of Dorff, Jagodowski, and Messing. That's Kevin Dorff (writer for Conan), TJ Jagodowski (umm legend for more than Sonic commercials), and Susan Messing (the spitfire that spits the hottest fire (and who I had the good fortune of studying under at the Annoyance)). The show was phenomenal. $20 for 45 minutes of pure, smart, incredible comedy. With the comedy 20 feet away! I saw in the back at a high top with a cider and a mocktail. Drink service comes through halfway through the show or you can order before obviously. A few snacks are available. This is such a cool venue that more people should be talking about.

    Photos
    The Revival
    The Revival
    The Revival

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    Auditorium Theatre - theater - Updated July 2026

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