Skip to content
visitorfun
BusinessesGrow
Theatre & EventsIconicDate NightHistory Buff

The Chicago Theatre

175 N State St · Chicago, IL

Why you should go…

Its six-story red marquee is the most photographed sign in the city, and the French Baroque interior is every bit as dazzling. Catch a big-name comedy or concert under the seven-story dome, or take a daytime marquee tour to walk the stage where legends have signed the walls. A true Loop landmark since 1921.

  • #historic theater
  • #live shows
  • #the loop
  • #landmark

Good to know

General theatre & events guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Curtain time is firm

    Latecomers are commonly held at the back until a scene break, so build in a buffer.

  • Study the seating chart

    Price and sightline vary a lot within the same house. A few rows back can be the better seat.

  • Rush and lottery seats exist

    Many venues release same-day tickets at a discount if you are flexible about where you sit.

  • Arrive with time to spare

    Parking, bag check, and finding your row all take longer than you think on a full house.

What's around here?

The closest stops to The Chicago Theatre, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Chicago Riverwalk

    Free

    A 1.25-mile waterfront promenade of patios, wine bars, and skyline views along the Chicago River.

    Steps awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Tours
    Iconic

    Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise

    $50+

    Expert docents narrate the skyline's greatest hits on the beloved river cruise aboard First Lady.

    0.2 mi awaySwitch it up: Tours

  • Tours
    Iconic

    Chicago's First Lady

    $50+

    Ninety minute Chicago River cruise narrated by Chicago Architecture Center docents past the city's landmark buildings.

    0.2 mi awaySwitch it up: Tours

  • Tours
    Local Gem

    Wendella Sightseeing Boats

    $25–$50

    Family-run since 1935, classic river and lakefront cruises from the Michigan Avenue dock.

    0.3 mi awaySwitch it up: Tours

  • Theatre & Events
    Iconic

    Broadway In Chicago

    $50+

    Presenter of national Broadway touring productions across five historic theatres in Chicago's Loop.

    0.3 mi awayMore like this

  • Theatre & Events
    Iconic

    The Second City

    $25–$50

    The legendary Old Town comedy theater that launched Bill Murray, Tina Fey, and Stephen Colbert. Sketch and improv nightly.

    1.8 mi awayMore like this