Chicago Weekend Nights: Live Bands and Basement Dancing

4.3 (74)

Mon – Fri, Sun, 17:00 – 02:00 (+1); Sat, 14:00 – 03:00 (+1)

1009 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60607, USA

Broken Hearts brings Texas roadside tavern character to the West Loop. The bar serves cheap Hamm's and Lone Star. Local country acts play occasionally. Pool is free Sunday through Wednesday. The cover is 5 USD on Fridays and Saturdays after 9 PM. On Saturdays, the bar stays open until 3 AM.

4.6 (205)

Mon – Thu, Sun, 18:00 – 23:00; Fri – Sat, 18:00 – 02:00 (+1)

2500 W Chicago Ave, lower level

Dorothy pairs red wood paneling with plush velvet couches in a West Town basement. The lounge hosts drag, burlesque, karaoke and pop music dance parties for lesbian, sapphic and queer crowds. Friday and Saturday hours run from 6 PM to 2 AM. A 10 USD cover is typical for late-night weekend dance events between 8:30 PM and midnight. Entry is 21+.

4.7 (1,625)

Mon – Wed, 17:00 – 02:00 (+1); Thu, Sun, 17:00 – 01:00 (+1); Fri, 16:00 – 02:00 (+1); Sat, 17:00 – 03:00 (+1)

1035 N. Western Ave.

Empty Bottle hosts emerging alternative bands and experimental acts in Ukrainian Village. Its unchanged 1993 space has exposed brick, a stamped tin ceiling and a bar at the back of the stage floor. A raised upper floor accommodates packed crowds. Weekend admission ranges from 15 to 20 USD. Saturday hours run from 5 PM to 3 AM.

4.0 (615)

Wed – Sat, 11:00 – 21:00; Sun, 11:00 – 16:00

2033 West North Avenue

Chop Shop combines dinner and live music in a century-old former auto body shop in Wicker Park. The eatery pairs meat-oriented American fare with a sustainable butcher counter. Upstairs, the intimate concert venue offers clear stage views from both the floor and mezzanine. Dining extends indoors and outdoors.