When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Concord Music Hall
Why Concord Music Hall is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Concord Music Hall, located at 2047 North Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago's vibrant Wicker Park neighborhood, is an upscale and contemporary concert venue renowned for its eclectic musical offerings and intimate atmosphere. Opened in 2013, it features a spacious main room with four full bars, state-of-the-art sound and lighting, and an expansive 25’ x 43’ stage, making it a superb place for live performances of all genres. The venue's unique layout includes two balcony suites with bars overlooking the main hall, enhancing the viewing and social experience for guests. With a capacity ranging from 700 to 1,500, Concord Music Hall strikes a perfect balance between energetic large-show vibes and a cozy, up-close feel conducive to sharing memorable moments with friends. Beyond concerts, Concord is also ideal for various events including corporate gatherings, social and fundraising events, weddings, and seated dinners, capable of hosting up to 1,250 guests for receptions and 225 for dinners. Its location near public transit and ample free parking further ease accessibility for groups meeting up. From rock and punk to electronic, hip-hop, jazz, and more, the venue hosts a wide spectrum of musical acts, ensuring there is always something exciting and fresh for visitors to enjoy together.
Here's what people think of Concord Music Hall
As of recent, Concord Music Hall holds a 4.2-star rating based on 2699 reviews.
The overall user reviews of Concord Music Hall reflect a generally positive experience, with an aggregate rating of 4.2 out of 5 from over 2,600 reviews. Many attendees appreciate the venue's intimate yet lively ambiance, stating it allows them to feel close to the stage even in larger shows. Positive comments frequently highlight the excellent sound quality, the friendly and efficient staff, and the reasonable drink prices. The presence of multiple bars and balcony suites also draws praise for enhancing the concert-going experience. The venue's eclectic line-up spanning diverse music genres is another feature highly regarded by patrons, making each visit potentially unique and engaging. However, some negative reviews focus on aspects such as strict and sometimes unfriendly staff policies, especially concerning re-entry rules, which some found inconvenient or discourteous. A small set of users mentioned cleanliness issues and a youthful crowd that influences the overall vibe, sometimes in ways they did not enjoy. Despite these criticisms, most attendees conclude that the venue remains a top choice for those looking to enjoy live music in a comfortable and well-equipped setting. Overall, Concord Music Hall is favored for its range of acts and event versatility, though prospective visitors should be aware of and prepared for certain venue regulations and atmosphere nuances.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Liam Amiri
Concord is one of those OG Chicago music venus. I have seen so many great DJs play at this venue. Amazing venue.
Jessica Cholewa
Everything was great except the bathrooms - half the stalls are dark with no lights and visibility! There's also a strong chemical-like stench coming from the bathroom that you can smell leaking onto the stage floor where we all stood.
P. Moore
Got a chance to see my favorite group L.O.X. perform at the Concord and it was a dope concert. The venue is not big but not small either with a balcony area that wasn't too bad for viewing either. It's a bar in the middle of the venue and another one on the side as well. But overall not a bad spot at all 8.9.
Reva Minkoff
I really love this venue. So many great sight lines, good sound, non sketchy bathrooms and conveniently located bars. Am making it a point to try to go to more shows here!
Bill Decker
First time at the Concord last night. Went with our daughter to see Will Wood and the Tapeworms. Arrived early and parked in the lot next to the venue easily. Unfortunately it was boiling hot standing in line, but nice and cool inside. The staff was awesome and friendly. So, the show was great and the crowd was amped up. The band clearly had a good night and fed off the energy in the room. I caught the stage crew and staff watching the crowd from backstage and they were smiling from ear to ear. Let's just say that this 65 year old had a great time although standing the entire time was a bit painful. There was no doubt that the audience loved the band. Very good time.
How to reach Concord Music Hall
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Why Concord Music Hall may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Concord Music Hall with your friends?
Gathering at Concord Music Hall is an exceptional choice for rallying with friends because it combines rich history, versatile space, and an electric atmosphere that brings people together like no other venue. Originally opened in 1915 as the Grand Opera House, Concord Music Hall has a deep-rooted legacy of hosting legendary performers like Louis Armstrong, Aretha Franklin, and The Beatles. This history imbues the venue with a cultural significance that you can feel when you step inside. Beyond its past, Concord Music Hall offers a modern, stylish environment with a capacity of nearly 1,500 people, making it large enough for big groups yet intimate enough to foster a shared experience. The venue’s state-of-the-art sound and lighting system enhances every performance, creating unforgettable memories with your friends. Whether you come for a rock concert, a hip-hop show, or an electronic music party, Concord Music Hall’s atmosphere is vibrant, energetic, and welcoming. The presence of multiple bars and luxury balcony suites also makes socializing easy and comfortable. It’s a place where friends can bond over music, dance, and laughter in a dynamic urban setting tailored to group enjoyment.
What kind of activities can you experience at Concord Music Hall?
Concord Music Hall isn’t just a concert venue; it’s a hub for diverse musical and social experiences that cater to all tastes. The primary activity is attending live shows spanning genres from rock, hip-hop, and EDM to Latin, jazz, and indie music. The venue prides itself on its eclectic lineup, featuring everything from up-and-coming artists to legendary acts, ensuring every visit offers something new and exciting. Aside from concerts, the venue hosts DJ sets in its balcony suites, giving groups a semi-private space with their own bar and music control. This makes it ideal for intimate celebrations or just a different kind of night out with friends. Concord Music Hall also enables private event hosting, so groups can rent it out for special occasions like birthdays, reunions, or company meetups where live music and professional sound and lighting enhance the experience. The multiple full-service bars allow people to refresh and mingle throughout the night, contributing to the social vibe that’s key to a successful group outing. With a variety of events and customizable options, Concord Music Hall is a versatile space perfect for any group looking to connect through live entertainment.
Why is Concord Music Hall perfect for group meetups?
Concord Music Hall is tailored to meet the needs of groups large and small, making it an ideal location for meetups and social gatherings. Its spacious main hall can comfortably hold up to 1,490 attendees, allowing friends to join together without feeling cramped, yet the design still maintains a sense of intimacy. The venue’s layout includes luxurious balcony suites that offer exclusive spaces, perfect for groups wanting a bit of privacy while still enjoying the live music and the crowd’s energy. Each suite comes equipped with its own bar and DJ booth, which encourages participation and personalization of the experience. The availability of four full-service bars within the venue means guests can easily grab drinks without long waits or missing any part of the show, supporting seamless socializing and group cohesion. Additionally, the sound and lighting systems are top-notch, creating an immersive atmosphere that’s enhanced when shared with friends. Concord Music Hall also lies in a vibrant neighborhood of Chicago, with easy transportation and plenty of dining options nearby, allowing groups to extend their meetup beyond the music hall to a full night out. The venue’s flexibility in hosting different genres and private events makes it a one-stop destination for memorable group experiences.
What makes the historical and cultural significance of Concord Music Hall unique?
Concord Music Hall stands out as a historic beacon in Chicago’s music scene, symbolizing over a century of cultural evolution and artistic excellence. Its origins date back to 1915 when it opened as the Grand Opera House, hosting some of the most influential figures in American and global music history, including jazz icons Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, and Duke Ellington. During the 1940s, Concord was a vital stop on the Chitlin’ Circuit, a network of venues where African American musicians could safely perform during segregation, welcoming legends like B.B. King, Aretha Franklin, and James Brown. This rich heritage makes Concord a place not only for entertainment but also for celebrating musical breakthroughs and social progress. In the 1960s, it became a magnet for rock and roll acts such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Led Zeppelin, cementing its status as a premier venue for groundbreaking performances. After a period of closure in the late 1970s, it was revitalized in the early 2000s, blending its historic charm with modern amenities. This legacy adds a layer of depth to any visit, infusing each event with a connection to decades of legendary cultural moments, inspiring both new fans and longtime music lovers alike.
How does the venue’s design enhance your experience at Concord Music Hall?
The design of Concord Music Hall perfectly balances historic charm with contemporary sophistication, creating an environment that elevates every visit. At its core is a spacious main hall featuring a significant stage measuring 25 feet by 43 feet, ideal for accommodating a range of performances from intimate singer-songwriter sets to full-scale concerts with large bands and elaborate production. The venue’s interior showcases a modern, elegant aesthetic with clear sightlines and excellent acoustics, ensuring every attendee, whether on the floor or balconies, receives an immersive audio-visual experience. There are two luxurious balcony suites, each with private bars and DJ booths, adding a premium aspect that groups especially appreciate for special nights out. Multiple full bars—four in total—are strategically placed to reduce wait times and keep the crowd energized. Lighting is state-of-the-art, capable of creating atmosphere shifts that match the mood and genre of the performers, enhancing the emotional and sensory engagement. This thoughtful combination of space, sound, and amenities makes the venue not just a place to watch music, but a dynamic arena to live it, especially when surrounded by friends.
What variety of music and events can you expect at Concord Music Hall?
Concord Music Hall has built a reputation as one of Chicago’s most eclectic music venues, consistently offering a wide array of genres and events that appeal to diverse musical tastes. From alternative rock and hip-hop to electronic dance music, Latin, metal, folk, and more, the venue’s calendar is packed with concerts that reflect today’s vibrant music scene. This broad programming approach means groups with varying interests can find shows that excite everyone, fostering a shared appreciation for live music or dance. The venue hosts both established artists and rising stars, giving visitors an opportunity to discover new sounds alongside familiar favorites. Additionally, the space supports specialized events, such as comedy nights and themed parties, making it a popular choice beyond just music concerts. With frequent shows and new announcements regularly listed, Concord Music Hall remains a dynamic destination for people looking to enjoy cutting-edge performances and unforgettable nightlife with friends. Its ability to pivot between genres and event types illustrates why it’s a reliable venue choice for meetups looking for energy and diversity in entertainment.
How can Concord Music Hall accommodate private events and parties?
Concord Music Hall offers a well-equipped setting for private events and parties that seek the excitement of live music within a customizable space. Groups interested in hosting celebrations such as birthdays, reunions, or corporate gatherings can rent the venue or specific areas like the balcony suites, which provide exclusivity paired with full amenities including private bars and DJ booths. The venue’s professional sound and lighting systems ensure that every event is elevated with high-quality production, whether a live band is performing or a DJ is spinning tracks. The capacity to hold nearly 1,500 guests allows for both intimate and large-scale gatherings, making it flexible for various event sizes. Experienced venue staff supports event planning and execution, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience. This capacity to blend private use with the excitement of a premier music venue makes Concord Music Hall a top choice for groups seeking a unique way to celebrate, mingle, and enjoy a party atmosphere infused with world-class entertainment capabilities.
What nearby amenities and transportation options make Concord Music Hall convenient?
Located at 2047 North Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago, Concord Music Hall benefits from its position in a lively and accessible neighborhood. The area surrounding the venue features numerous dining options, from casual eateries perfect for pre-show dinners to upscale restaurants for those wanting a more formal meal. Nearby bars and coffee shops extend the possibilities for socializing before or after events. The venue is accessible by various public transportation routes, including buses and the CTA train system, making it convenient for groups traveling from different parts of the city without the hassle of parking. For those driving, nearby parking facilities and street parking options are available, though taking public transit is often recommended due to event crowding. This ease of access and the surrounding amenities enhance the overall meetup experience, enabling guests to plan a full night out centered on the show at Concord Music Hall but extending to dining and social activities in the neighborhood, supporting both convenience and enjoyment.
What do other visitors say about their experience at Concord Music Hall?
With a rating of 4.2 out of 5 from over 2,600 reviews, Concord Music Hall enjoys a strong reputation among visitors who attest to its vibrant atmosphere and well-run events. Many reviewers highlight the excellent sound quality and the energy of live performances as key reasons they return with friends. The spaciousness of the venue is often praised, as it accommodates large groups without feeling overcrowded. Guests appreciate the multiple bars and the convenience this provides during busy shows, alongside the professionalism and friendliness of venue staff. While some note occasional challenges like crowded entrances or ticketing delays during peak times, these are generally outweighed by the overall positive experience. The variety of music genres and the regular scheduling of high-profile acts also contribute to its popularity and the sense that it is a top Chicago destination for group entertainment. These reviews reflect an enthusiastic customer base eager to recommend Concord Music Hall as a premier venue for social and musical engagement.