Top 5 Picks for Small Music Venues in Chicago

Being centrally located in the country, the Chicago area has always attracted some of the most talented musicians in the industry. Even better, our city is filled with unique and intimate music venues to make taking in a live show more enjoyable.

Our Springs apartment community residents benefit from having convenient access to these best small live music venues in Chicago:

1. Lincoln Hall
2424 N Lincoln Ave
773.525.2501

Lincoln Hall is one of the most iconic music venues in Chicago and features a wide variety of performances from up-and-coming musicians to artists that are already wildly popular. This venue gives patrons the opportunity to take in a concert in a more intimate setting, but it’s also a local favorite due to the quality food and drink menu. Despite the smaller venue size, Lincoln Hall includes plenty of bars, meaning that you won't have to wait in line for a drink.

2. Schubas Tavern
3159 N Southport Ave
773.525.2508

This is the brother to the legendary Lincoln Hall and is about a third of its size (holding a max of 500 patrons). If indie music is your thing, you won't want to miss catching a show at this venue. The performances are mostly on the acoustic singer/songwriter end of the music spectrum, and you can find a lot of local Chicago groups with a national following performing here. On a budget? Grab a drink in the front bar area and avoid paying the cover.

3. Hideout
1354 W Wabansia
773.227.4433

Fancy a little country-rock? Hideout is your place, which offers a casual atmosphere and features favorite local acts like Robbie Fulks and Devil in a Woodpile. While this venue is a little out of the way and tough to get to if you rely on public transportation, it's worth jumping through some hoops. Don't miss the weekly Saturday night dance parties where the DJ takes over and plays everything from Prince to Devo.

4. Thalia Hall
1807 S Allport St
312.526.3851

Thalia Hall is a recently rehabbed  historic landmark concert hall in the Pilson neighborhood that is worth checking out. With a large balcony that wraps around the room and hanging opera boxes, taking in a show at Thalia Hall is an experience in itself. You can find music acts ranging from Americana to psychedelic garage here.

5. Constellation
3111 N Western Ave
312.555.5555

Need some sophistication in your life? Constellation features a variety of progressive jazz, contemporary classical, and improvised music. The venue features two separate stages and a bar that boasts reasonably priced beer and cocktails. Constellation provides you with a great opportunity to broaden your music horizon and appreciate some of the most talented music acts that Chicago has to offer.

Are we missing your favorite small live music venue in Chicagoland? If so, please leave your suggestions in our comments section below.