What's the surrounding area like?

The venue is in Near North Side which is one of the areas of Downtown Chicago. So you'll be in walking distance of plenty of places to eat, drink and sing them blues.

Where are the best places to eat near House of Blues Chicago?

Purple Pig

Adventurous cooking blends the flavors of Italy, Greece and Spain at this elegant restaurant. Sample the salted beets with whipped goat's cheese or roasted bone marrow with a herb salad. It's a popular place, especially on weekends, so be prepared for a little queuing.

Farmhouse

Exposed bricks and small wooden tables give this tavern a rustic feel. The food helps, too. An emphasis is put on local seasonal produce to create dishes like cannelloni with herbed ricotta or the beer-battered Wisconsin cheese curds.                         

Lou Malnati's

It might be kinda rude to visit Chicago without trying its signature deep dish pizza, right? Get polite at Lou Malnati's where the menu is laden with flavorsome choices including gluten-free and crustless pizzas.

Sable

How about somewhere more upmarket? This place lights its 40-foot bar with lanterns, while the bartenders shake up a heady mix of cocktails like the tequila-kicked Voodoo Envy. The menu is rich in class, as well. Dig into the Wagyu beef sliders with aged cheddar and a fried quail egg, or the Slagel Farms fried chicken plate with lavender honey. Tempting right?

Where are the best places to drink nearby?

Blue Chicago

Live blues can be pretty addictive. So mull over a trip to Blue Chicago. The small venue makes for an electric atmosphere, where past performers have included legends like Koko Taylor, Bonnie Lee, Karen Carroll and the late Willie Kent. Tickets aren't sold in advance so it's a case of turning up on the night.

The Terrace at Trump

In the mood for a splurge? Flex the plastic at this stylish roof terrace where you can sip a cocktail while taking in the views of Chicago.

Timothy O'Toole's Pub

Okay so this pub is a 15-minute walk away. But it might be just what you need. TVs glow in the background while punters run their eyes across a huge menu of drinks: craft beers, grapefruit shandy and Almanac sour pumpkin, to name a few. Care for some bubbly? There's also champagne, dessert and speciality cocktails.

Blue Frog's Local 22

Think beers and burgers with this one. In fact, Blue Frog boasts Chicago's best burger and beer but we'll let you be the judge of that. The outdoor patio attracts the crowds who sip on great IPAs and lagers all night long. Well, until 3am on Saturdays.

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What's the best way to get to House of Blues Chicago?

Take the CTA subway (Blue Line) to Clark/Lake station and walk the seven minutes to the venue. Or catch the bus: the 22, 24, 29, 36 and 62 all service the area.

What can people expect in terms of food and drink?

The venue's Crossroads restaurant overlooks the stage, so you can combine two of the best things in life: music and food. Dishes include Southern specialities like the shrimp and grits, and St Louis ribs. There's also a market fish of the day, burgers packed with Angus beef and veggies, plus street tacos and salads.

Is there any parking at House of Blues Chicago?

No, sadly not. You might want to use a company like Greenway Self Park to buy your space beforehand.

What time do doors normally open?

90 minutes before the gig starts, but check your tickets to make sure you don't miss anything.

Any other important information visitors should know?

If it's a taste of the VIP life you're after, take a look at the venue's Foundation Room for members. House of Blues Chicago also holds Gospel Brunch performances every Sunday which include a buffet of southern foods. You'll need to book tickets ($40) in advance.