Chicago is the third-largest city in the United States, and a cultural titan of the American Midwest. The Windy City is world-famous for its diverse cultural scene, sports teams the Chicago Bulls, Bears and Blackhawks - as well as, of course, its amazing pizza. There's no shortage of entertainment either - Chicago is home to some of the finest theatres in the country. We took a closer look at some of them, and have chosen our top five theatres to visit when in Chi-Town.
The Auditorium Theatre
The Auditorium offers a very varied entertainment programme including concerts, ballet performances, and musicals. Located on the city's famous Congress Parkway, the Auditorium Theatre was first opened in 1889. During its lifetime the theatre has hosted numerous world-class acts including Jimi Hendrix, The Who, Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, Aretha Franklin, and Bette Midler. Its grand interior and advanced technology make it the perfect venue for an amazing evening out.
The Chicago Theatre
When the Chicago Theatre first opened in October 1921, people called it "the Wonder Theatre of the World". Located on North State Street in Chicago's Loop area, you can enjoy many diverse forms of entertainment here; from stage plays and magic shows to comedy acts and music concerts. You'll immediately recognise the building from its huge name-emblazoned marquee.
The Rosemont Theatre
If you're looking for Broadway shows and amazing musicals, then you should head to the Rosemont Theatre. Opened just 20 years ago, it's still hosted some of the world's top singers and groups such as Scorpions, Bryan Adams, and Britney Spears, as well as comedians like Jon Stewart and Jerry Seinfeld. Conveniently located just a few minutes from O'Hare Airport, the Rosemont is also only a short drive from the city centre and has enough room for up to 4,400 people.
The Apollo Theatre
For a slightly more intimate experience, you should head to the Apollo Theatre on 2540 North Lincoln Avenue in Lincoln Park. It was built in 1978 and has since put on some of the most popular touring Broadway musicals in the city, as well as a string of theatrical comedy hits and work with the city's famous Steppenwolf Theatre Company, which nurtured Hollywood talents such as John Malkovich and Gary Sinise.
The Arie Crown Theatre
If you're looking for musical entertainment, then the Arie Crown Theatre is the place for you. With a capacity above 4,000, the theatre is a beautiful piece of interior architecture. The theatre is found on Lake Shore Drive and it first opened in 1960. Music fans can enjoy a varied programme here including musicals, operas, and concerts; while stand-up fans are also in for a treat thanks to its regular line-up of touring talent. Some of the top acts that have performed here already include Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, and David Copperfield.
When visiting Chicago, let the windy city blow you away with its fantastic cultural and entertainment scene. It's easy enough to get around Chicago by car to take in some of the city's spectacular sights.