10 Best Theaters in Chicago
Where to See a Show or a Play in Chicago?
Although the Windy City is known for baseball and pizza, the best theaters in Chicago are famous too and definitely worth adding to your itinerary. They range the full gamut from classic, elegant theaters with all the glitz and glamour, to more modern venues with innovative shows.
A lot of Chicago theaters are in The Loop, in the center of the city, but there are some excellent offerings across the river, too. You’ll find award-winning straight plays at the legendary Steppenwolf Theater, musical extravaganzas at the Cadillac Palace and hilarious comedy at The Second City. Don’t miss out on the drama.
1. The Second City
Chicago’s oldest improvisational theater troupe
Categoría: Familias, Parejas, Vida nocturna
Starting over 60 years ago with modest roots in children’s improvisation games, the Second City has now grown to become one of the country’s most prolific comedy institutions. The theater troupe’s satirical improvised plays around politics and social norms draw crowds from all over the world who are eager for more than a few laughs.
The Second City’s famous training program has acted as a launchpad for some of America’s biggest comedy and film names including Amy Poehler, Tim Meadows, and Jon Favreau. So, book a seat at their refined e.t.c Theater and see how many future stars you’ll spot on the stage delivering impromptu witty sketches.
Ubicación: 230 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
Horarios: Monday–Thursday from 10 am to 11 pm, Friday–Sunday from 10 am to midnight
Teléfono: +1 312-337-3992
The Second City
2. Steppenwolf Theatre
Premier ensemble theater with a talent for innovation
Categoría: Parejas, Vida nocturna, Grupos
A troupe with a passion for artist-driven theater, award-winning Steppenwolf Theatre is a non-profit organization that produces new plays, readings, and more. They have a strong community focus that strives for inclusion and diversity, and that’s reflected in their huge and multi-talented ensemble.
You have the choice of 3 fantastic performance spaces at Steppenwolf. The Downstairs Theater hosts new interpretations of both classic and contemporary plays, the 1700 Theater sees cabaret-style showcases in a multitude of genres, while the intimate Ensemble Theater embraces immersion with its in-the-round space. Steppenwolf’s repertoire is huge and ever-changing, but whichever show or event you attend, you can guarantee inspiring and empathetic pieces.
Ubicación: 1650 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
Teléfono: +1 312-335-1650
Steppenwolf Theatre
3. The Chicago Theatre
The “Wonder Theater of the World”
Categoría: Parejas, Vida nocturna, Historia
A historic national landmark, it’s impossible to miss the ornate triumphal arch façade and brightly lit vertical sign and marquee of the Chicago Theatre. Entertaining audiences for over 100 years, the iconic venue has moved away from its movie theater origins and now presents a myriad of performing arts, including plays, magic shows, comedy, and concerts.
The interior is equally as dazzling thanks to chandeliers dripping in crystals, plush velvet seats, and gilded murals. Before sitting down to watch the latest musical or the hottest pop star, we recommend taking a guided tour to learn the theater’s history and see its architecture in more detail. You might even get to glimpse the legendary Wurlitzer pipe organ.
Ubicación: 175 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601, USA
Teléfono: +1 312-462-6300
The Chicago Theatre
4. CIBC Theatre
The glamorous home of spectacular musicals
Categoría: Parejas, Vida nocturna
Managed by Broadway in Chicago, the CIBC Theatre aims to bring the best of Broadway to the stages of the Windy City. It’s renowned for attracting pre-Broadway shows before they hit New York City, the likes of which include The Addams Family and Kinky Boots, as well as beloved long-runners like Wicked and Hamilton.
Originally opened in 1906, the CIBC Theatre boasts all the twinkling lights and opulent décor we’ve come to associate with Broadway. Found on W Monroe Street with parking right next door, it’s the perfect choice for a date night on a bustling city break. To make it a night to remember, book the Suite Service complete with light snacks, full private bar, and first-class service.
Ubicación: 18 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603, USA
Teléfono: +1 312-977-1700
CIBC Theatre
5. The iO Theatre
The school of long-form improv that will make you cry with laughter
Categoría: Parejas, Vida nocturna, Económico
At the iO Theater, Chicago’s residents and its thousands of visitors can enjoy multiple hilarious shows 5 nights a week on 4 different stages. You could easily watch sketches, stand-up, improvisation, and more all in one night, and at low prices. Top tip: join them on Wednesday evenings for a free show, just remember to book your ticket in advance. It’s a brilliant way of immersing yourself in Chicago’s arts scene during your trip.
The iO Theater is the innovator of long-form improv, and each show is performed by its huge alumni of talented performers and special guests. If you want to try improvisational comedy, why not register for a class? Sessions include drop-ins, workshops, and even intensive courses.
Ubicación: 1501 N Kingsbury St, Chicago, IL 60642, USA
Horarios: Wednesday–Sunday from 6 pm to 2 am (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Teléfono: +1 312-300-3350
The iO Theatre
6. Black Ensemble Theatre
African-American musicals in Uptown Chicago
Categoría: Parejas, Vida nocturna, Gastronomía en
The Black Ensemble Theater company has grown from a small community program into a nationally recognized theater company since it was started in 1976. This African-American, musical-focused theater is dedicated to combatting racism, promoting diversity, and putting on a great musical.
Shows are on Fridays and weekends, and the theater is in Uptown, on the 22 and 78 bus routes, so it’s easy to get so. There’s a huge range of restaurants within 10-minutes’ walk of the theater, selling a wide variety of cuisine, so why not make a full evening out of it and have dinner and a show?
Ubicación: 4450 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640, USA
Teléfono: +1 773-769-4451
Black Ensemble Theatre
7. Goodman Theatre
Award-winning theater in the heart of Chicago’s Loop
Categoría: Familias, Parejas, Vida nocturna
The oldest not-for-profit theater in Chicago, Goodman Theatre is a Tony Award-winning venue that you should not miss if you’re a theater lover in the city. The 2 theaters within the complex put on a mix of classic and original high-quality productions that will transport you to different worlds. There are even child-focused shows, making this a good choice for family entertainment, depending on what’s on. Check out the calendar on the website to see what’s on while you’re in town.
Patrons get discounted parking at the Government Center and Theater District parking lots, so be sure to check that out if you’re driving. Otherwise, hop on a train or bus and you’ll be at the theater in no time.
Ubicación: 170 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60601, USA
Teléfono: +1 312-443-3800
Goodman Theatre
8. Auditorium Theatre
Spectacular 19th-century theater
Categoría: Historia, Foto, Vida nocturna
This grand, 19th-century theater will make your jaw drop when you step into the eponymous Auditorium Theatre. The magnificent building is on the National Register of Historic Places in Illinois and deservingly so. But don’t let the spectacular surroundings distract you from the show. The Auditorium hosts shows from rock concerts to philharmonic orchestras to comedy shows.
If you’re a lover of history as well as the performing arts, don’t miss the chance to take a backstage tour. Engaging guides show you around the historic building and you get to learn about the history of this fascinating building and uncover some of those theatrical secrets you never see from the audience.
Ubicación: 50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago, IL 60605, USA
Teléfono: +1 312-341-2300
Auditorium Theatre
9. Cadillac Palace Theatre
Palatial theater known for its excellent musical productions
Categoría: Foto, Vida nocturna, De lujo
The interior of The Cadillac Palace Theatre was modeled after the opulence of the Palace of Versailles, with, shining marble, golden ornamentation, and elaborate chandeliers galore. Step into these palatial surroundings and enjoy a truly elegant night out.
Shows include popular musicals, both classic and more modern, excellent theatrical productions, and spectacular concerts. It has a history of putting on pre-Broadway hits, so even a lesser-known show could very well be a star in the making. Tickets aren’t cheap, but if you’re looking for a sophisticated night on the town, Cadillac Palace Theatre is a great place to go. You can find parking in various garages in the vicinity but consider purchasing parking in advance to secure a spot.
Ubicación: 151 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601, USA
Teléfono: +1 312-977-1700
Cadillac Palace Theatre
10. Lookingglass Theater
Award-winning theater dedicated to cutting-edge performances
Categoría: Parejas, Vida nocturna, Exótico
You’ll find the Lookingglass Theatre on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, opposite the impressive Chicago Water Tower. In the years since the company’s founding in 1988 it’s put on over 70 world premieres and won the Tony Award for best regional theater. Shows here trend towards the more modern and innovative, so if you’re after a less traditional experience, this is the place to go.
If you’re heading here by car, discounted parking is available at 875 N Michigan, The Olympia Centre Self Park, and Water Tower Place on the day of performances, as long as you get your parking ticket validated. The theater is also on several bus routes if you’re taking public transport.
Ubicación: 821 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
Teléfono: +1 312-337-0665
Lookingglass Theater
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