Concert Venues for Rent in Chicago, IL

In Chicago, prices of concert venues average $200 hire fee per hour. Rental costs vary depending on guest capacity, popularity, location, and amenities like sound systems or bar services. Additional charges may be applicable for bespoke catering, decor, and event planning. Packages with add-ons, such as DJs, photo booths, or other entertainment services, can also increase the overall cost. Check out the typical price ranges in Chicago, based on Tagvenue data:

• The Loop: Situated in downtown, The Loop is an excellent choice for high-profile concerts. Known for its iconic architecture and cultural significance, this area is easily reachable via multiple public transportation options, including the 'L' trains. Its central location is close to many of Chicago's major landmarks like Millennium Park and the Art Institute, making it an attractive spot for both local and visiting attendees.
• Wicker Park: For a more alternative or indie music scene, Wicker Park is the go-to area. This neighborhood is known for its artistic community, fascinating nightlife, and lively crowd. It offers a range of intimate spaces that are perfect for emerging artists or genres outside the mainstream. Wicker Park’s trendy atmosphere and abundance of nearby bars and restaurants make it a popular choice for a younger, energetic audience.
• Lincoln Park: Ideal for more upscale, medium-sized concerts, Lincoln Park is a neighborhood that combines a serene park setting with urban sophistication. Its proximity to Lake Michigan and the presence of numerous historic buildings provide a magnificent location for any concert! The area is also home to a variety of cultural institutions, adding to the prestige and appeal of hosting a concert here.

Booking a concert venue in Chicago typically requires planning several months in advance, ideally at least 6 months, especially if you're targeting popular areas like The Loop, Wicker Park, or Lincoln Park. The advance booking time is crucial to secure your preferred date and venue, as Chicago's music venues tend to be highly sought after.

The best season to rent a concert venue in Chicago often depends on the type of event and the venue itself. Summer is a popular time for concerts, especially for outdoor venues, due to the city's pleasant weather and the influx of tourists. However, this is also when the city hosts numerous festivals and events like Lollapalooza, the Chicago Jazz Festival, and various neighborhood street fests, which can impact venue availability and pricing.

Winter can be less competitive in terms of booking venues, but the cold weather might not be ideal for outdoor events. Spring and fall offer a balance with milder weather and fewer large-scale events, potentially providing more options for venue availability.

In a usual concert venue in Chicago, you can expect to find a range of equipment designed to support live music performances:

• Sound System: High-quality sound systems, including speakers, amplifiers, mixing desks, and often a PA system, ensuring clear and powerful audio output.
• Microphones and Stands: A variety of microphones suitable for vocals and different types of instruments, along with appropriate stands and accessories.
• Lighting Equipment: Stage lighting is crucial for setting the mood and highlighting performers. This often includes spotlights, LED lights, and sometimes programmable lighting for special effects.
• Stage Area: A well-defined stage area, often with varying levels, to accommodate different types of performances and provide visibility to the audience.
• Backline Equipment: This can include drum kits, guitar and bass amplifiers, and keyboards, depending on the venue and the type of concert being held.
• Audio-Visual Equipment: Some venues are equipped with projectors, screens, and monitors for video playback or additional visual elements to complement the performance.
• Mixing Console: For sound engineers to control and mix audio during the concert, which is essential for larger or more complex performances.
• Seating Arrangements: This can range from standing areas to fixed theater-style seating, depending on the venue's layout and the nature of the concert.

It's important to check with the specific venue in Chicago for the exact equipment available and whether there are additional fees for using certain pieces of equipment. You can contact the venue’s manager directly through Tagvenue, as offerings can vary depending on the venue's size and specialization.

• The Green

Starting at $60 per hour, The Green is the perfect event space to entertain a private audience.This venue is highly customizable for any size group, with food and beverage package selections available. Their team can work with your specific event needs. 

• Fulton Street Collective

At a $150 hire fee per hour, Fulton Street Collective is perfect for acoustic singers and small bands. The venue features naturally distressed, beautiful brick walls adorned with high-quality, ever-changing art from their artist collective. The dramatic 50-foot ceiling and 15-foot windows offer stunning views of Chicago, making it a creative and inspiring venue. The atmosphere at Fulton Street Collective is intimate and cozy, perfect for creating a close connection with your audience.

• 35th Street Studios

With a hire fee starting at $150 per hour, 35th Street Studios is perfect for small, intimate live events such as showcases and album releases. If you're looking for a live music sound stage, this studio has everything needed to provide an excellent live sound recording experience.