House of Blues

Chicago is known as the home of the blues, so it is fitting that one of the most popular venues for live music in the city is the House of Blues. However, this local outpost of the national chain isn’t just a venue for blue musicians (and in fact, if the best blues acts are what you want to see, there are better venues in the city), but rather a showcase for international musical acts of every genre. Opened in 1996, the concert house, which was modeled after an opera house in Prague, has hosted some of the world’s most renowned musicians, including the Who, Pearl Jam and Al Green.

On nights when there are no ticketed acts, the Back Porch Stage offers shows with a $10 cover, which is waived if you dine in the restaurant before the show. The restaurant also serves lunch Monday through Saturday, and every Sunday, the House of Blues hosts its World Famous Gospel Brunch at 10:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. The brunch is a great opportunity to be inspired by a rousing gospel music performance while enjoying a hearty buffet complete with seafood, waffle, omelet and carving stations.