The Best Show Theatres in Chicago
Chicago is famous for its theaters and shows, and the city's theater district has dozens of theaters for touring shows and performances. Most theaters offer tickets at a discount for students, and there are also a number of free performances to watch throughout the summer months. From Broadway shows to locally produced features, visitors and locals alike enjoy the musicals, dramas, dancing, and more.
The Chicago Theatre
This famous theatre resides in the heart of Chicago. Visitors will be greeted at the entry with the large and frequently photographed "Chicago" sign out front, and then mesmerized by the gorgeous and historic interior with murals on the ceilings and sculptures throughout. The venue puts on a large number of shows from concerts to theatre productions and plays and musicals throughout the year. If you're in town, grab a ticket to any event and you won't be dissapointed.
175 N State Street, Loop, Chicago, Illinois
The Chicago Cultural Center
Located in Millennium Park, the Chicago Cultural Center opened in 1897 to house the first Chicago Public Library and to serve as the headquarters for the Grand Army of the Republic. Today it is a free cultural center that hosts a number of free concerts, art exhibits and other activities that are open to the public.
78 E Washington St, Millennium Park, Chicago, IL, 60602
Symphony Center
This music complex is home to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Chicago Symphony Chorus, the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, and the Institute for Learning, Access, and Training.
220 South Michigan Avenue, Loop, Chicago, Illinois, 60604
Merle Reskin Theatre
The Merle Reskin Theatre is located in the Loop community area. It is pat of Depaul University and hosts a number of family-friendly events.
62-66 East Balbo Avenue, Printer's Row, Chicago, Illinois, 60605
McCormick Place
McCormick Place is the largest convention center in North America and it includes four buildings and an indoor arena.
2301 South Lake Shore Drive, Burnham Park, Chicago, Illinois, 60616
James C. Petrillo Music Shell
This outdoor amphitheater is in Grant Park and hosts many large music festivals including Lollapalooza, the Chicago Jazz Festival, the Chicago Blues Festival, and more.
251 South Columbus Drive, Loop, Chicago, Illinois, 60601
Civic Opera House
The Civic Opera House is the second largest opera auditorium in the North America. It is the permanent home of the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
20 North Upper Wacker Drive, Loop, Chicago, Illinois, 60606
Cadillac Palace Theatre
Cadillac Palace Theatre is managed by Broadway in Chicago, and hosts a number of hit shows throughout the year.
151 West Randolph Street, Loop, Chicago, Illinois, 60696
Bank of America Theater
This theater is found in the Loop area of downtown Chicago and is managed by Broadway In Chicago. It seats about 1800 and shows regular Broadway performances.
16-22 West Monroe Street, Loop, Chicago, Illinois, 60603
Auditorium Theatre
This theatre is managed by an independent non-profit and it regularly hosts performances by the Joffrey Ballet, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the Civic Opera. It is one of the oldest surviving concert halls in Chicago's downtown area, dating back to 1889.
430 South Michigan Avenue, Printer's Row, Chicago, Illinois, 60605
How much does it cost?
Prices for activities, things to do, and tours range from $12 to $24. The average cost for a tour or tickets is $18. A few of the best options are below.
Where to Stay in Chicago