Chicago is well-known as the spiritual home of the blues, but it's buzzing nightlife makes it a mecca for fans of jazz, rock and dance music, too. The legendary House of Blues plays host to major rock and funk acts seven days a week, while the Cotton Club offers a more traditional line-up of top-notch jazz musicians for discerning fans.
Should you pay a visit to Buddy Guy's Legends, don't be surprised if a major star leaps onto the stage for an impromptu jamming session. The venue is something of a magnet for A-list performers who are passing through the city, and not a few of them decide to join Buddy for a couple of numbers. Blue Chicago is also worth a look-in, with a roll-call of the city's hottest talents strutting their stuff seven days a week.
Fans of dance music will be well-aware that Illinois' biggest city was the birthplace of "house". Back in the Eighties, Chicago spawned a new generation of DJs who would change the sound of nightclubs all over the world. Homegrown talents like Jeff Mills and Frankie Knuckles are still selling out venues all over the planet, but nothing beats the atmosphere when they play to their home crowd.
The city also has plenty for those in search of more classical entertainment. The Lookingglass Theatre Company, which was co-founded by Friends star David Schwimmer, has a particularly strong reputation, while the Joffrey Ballet and Chicago Symphony Orchestra are among America's finest.
And if your idea of a good night out is to spend the evening in fits of laughter, just make your way down to The Second City Comedy Club. Having launched the careers of such luminaries as James Belushi, Mike Myers and Bill Murray, the renowned venue is guaranteed to get you giggling.Back Next page »
