Super cute venue. Very small and intimate. A lot of interesting decorations and antique light fixtures. Bars on the upstairs and down stairs. Staff are nice and friendly. Good views from either up stairs or down stairs. read more

Subterranean - Music Venues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Fun! We were early, got seats in balcony. Sound was good. Just a good joint. You are up close anywhere in this place.

My friend and I saw a friend's LA-based band here and it was a great night. It is a cozy venue and drinks were reasonably priced for the area. I was drinking Pacifico, which they had on tap. The service was great too and the staff was friendly and great to chat with too. One note is it is very loud in here, so if you care about your hearing bring earplugs!! read more

Subterranean - Music Venues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Very weird little place, you definitely expect it to be busier and I came here on a Saturday night at 8pm. I had a beer and a bourbon, it was good, they had a good selection of bourbons and beers. The staff were nice but they were not quick. read more

SubT (as I like to call it) gets four stars for the following: 1. I have fn memories of going there for live performances and dancing, having a blast. 2. My child, The Queen, has discovered this place on her own and is a regular there. 3. After a number of years absence from the venue, I came back and re-discovered I still could have a good time there, but this time with my family. Many moons have passed since I was last at SubT. I was very pleased that The Queen had discovered it and was actively attending shows there and having a good time. On the night they were going to be doing a 70s Disco DJ set, she got tickets for me and The Doctor to go with her. Walking into the door and going up the stair, my muscle memory kicked in and I went straight up to the third floor to the opposite side to get a table and a good spot near the rail to look over. It was like a homecoming. We had so much fun dancing and grooving to the tunes and watching those bad music videos. I tell everyone that all musicians need to bow in homage to Michael Jackson and Thriller as it raised the bar as to what video should be. Part of the fun was watching people on the second floor dance while watching the videos on the screen. Man it just took me back to Club COD, 950, Tuts, etc. For the Disco night, there was a pretty good mix of age groups and I was happy to see people embracing the vibe and dressing for it. I even got to step with a lovely Asian gentlemen whose wife could not keep up with him. GF was tired and just wanted to sit and drink her wine. And of course I danced and sang with The Doctor, Queen and some wonderful women standing next to us. The Doctor even saw some folks he works with on the other side of te balcony. What I will say about SubT, it is old, it is not up to ADA standards, there is not much in the way of seating and there are no bubbles. The building is so old that there is no elevator and no way to accommodate anyone on crutches or a wheelchair. I am guessing they would have to gut that whole place out to make it ADA ready. I would really like to have seen some splits of something sparkling, but had to settle for a white wine. Because we are tippers, we got excellent service at the bar. The Queen says she always gets great service when she is there as she is our child and likes to tip as well. But if you are looking to have a good time, connection with people who want to groove like you do, then this is your place. Not sure if there is a live event I would want to see, but if there is another DJ set with dancing, I will be back, read more

See all

Dark, intimate venue with 2 floors that has a older speak-easy-almost charm - I went to a Saturday "Riot! at the Disco: Emo and Pop Punk all night" DJ event and the place was packed and so vibrant - couldn't help getting caught up in everyone's excitement! Staff was really great and very efficient - security was ever present and vigilant just in case, which is great when a lot of drunk people are moshing at each other all night! The drinks are affordable - cans, bottles, drafts what have you - and I can attest that the Long Island I had might've been the strongest and best value I've had in Chicago (without tasting like it - man that bartender hooked me up)! It was super crowded when we went (honestly probably past fire code) but thank goodness for 2nd floor near the railing - I think it was less loud and honestly better to hear up there without the sweaty standing-room only moshing (personally - it was fun to watch but I was glad I wasn't in it). It was a blast! Coat check was full - Be prepared to carry / keep your winter gear on you and also dress lightly - the place was overly warm due to all the people and dancing. I also highly recommend bringing concert-level ear protection - this place is small and gets LOUD! Overall, fun and unique venue. read more

Subterranean - Emo and Pop Punk Party! - Music Venues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Came here for a show for the daft disco. For one the place is called subterranean but we go upstairs for the show n then there is another upstairs too so lol idk just found it interesting given the name. Anyways it's a cool place a bit small but good vibes. Ppl aren't shoving ppl left n right and overall seems like a good crowd of mixed ages. Would come back again for another show given how chill the place is. Wish daft disco played more daft punk songs but yeah first time checking it out. read more

I surprisingly really enjoyed this venue. It's on the smaller side so it's more intimate. I found street parking about a block away which wasn't too bad. The security at the door checked ids and let us know there was a bar on each floor (3 levels) and the bathrooms were on the 3rd. I will say if you have to use the bathroom gonearly as there are only 2 and the line could get long. I stayed on the 2nd floor where the Broadway Rave was going on. You could see it from the 3rd. You stand along the railing and look down. The bartenders were friendly and they kept the line moving. Prices are for what you expect in Chicago. read more

Subterranean - Music Venues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Super fun venue and very down to Earth. A great way to check out bands at an affordable price, with different vantage points. They had a variety of drinks as well. Can't wait to see another show next time we're visiting Chicago. read more

The booking staff is IMPOSSIBLE to contact. They had my band booked for this month. (July 2025) We tried contacting them multiple times to explain we would not be there. The group using our logo, music, everything has been served a letter of infringement. Over two months in advance we left messages. Emails, voicemails, tried contacting them through other staff. Our band could not possibly have agreed to a show being we live 2000 miles away, and our bass player died. Who does the booking here? Who promotes these shows? How can you possibly say we are to be there when we never agreed? I even sent you the registration for our copyright. If they will ignore copyrights, and disregard calls from us...just imagine how your band will be treated. Especially when you as a group pay your dues and work your ass off like we did. I can only imagine what kind of crew you have doing your business. What a joke! read more

This has quite possibly become my favorite music venue in Chicago. It's got this whole art deco vibe, making it a fun mix of classy and funky; there's a balcony circling above the whole first floor so that even in a large crowd you still feel close to the artists; and this place always seems to have the coolest lineups. We went for Priya Ragu, who might actually be god, so you should def check her music out or else: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6iZTyHbQWGzpiWoyI0zz9F?si=RHLPy7fsQBS5tHM2QOru_g. They have tons of beers, a few ciders, but not a ton to make cocktails with. Prices are also pretty comparable to most places in the city; it's going to be around $7 for a drink. Subterranean is also super loud because of the wood paneling, so if you are the type of person who cares about your hearing, this is the kind of place looking like an old person and bringing earplugs night be worth it read more

See all

i love this place !! it's so cute and the themed events are usually so fun, however i went to the tame impala event and the dj was really bad. he kept leaving and he played about 5 tame impala songs :( i was even talking to other attendees and they were also complaining. I'd go again just not with that DJ. read more

I came here for a concert by Mackenzie, pop artist. I enjoyed the experience but found the venue a bit crowded. Parking with spot hero is a little tricky to find, so I recommend the street parking. It's usually available not too far away. read more

security guards are drunk on the job (I could smell the alcohol on his breath as he was screaming in face) and arbitrarily kick people out. I was kicked out for smoking a cigarette outside but they will not tell you that there is no ins and outs. Should have seen the warning signs when they accused me of having fake ID because I am a leap day baby. I am 22 years old, and if it was a fake ID why would I choose leap day out of all days. They already got your money so they don't care if you have a good experience or not. Punk bands built this place and gave it its reputation and yet security and ownership are total authoritarians. No one should perform here read more

I went to Subterranean for their Taylor Swift night in April 2022. Overall, it was a really fun experience in a cool venue. The pros: great venue, fun event, not too crowded even though the event was sold out, free photo background with ring light, fun themed drinks The cons: getting in the door was a nightmare--it's very unclear which lines are for people who have tickets vs need tickets. The bathroom is tiny and pretty dingy. read more

I've been to this venue before and didn't have this issue. But recently went for a concert and the bouncer said EVERYONE has to show a physical government ID to get in. People in our party weren't 21 so they didn't bring their ID with them since there's no way they'd be drinking. Picture of an ID won't do, and no they won't just mark their hands to signify no selling alcohol to them. We travelled 3 hours one way for a concert here and there were no exceptions. They said to get out of their line if we "didn't want to follow the rules." Dumb rules, not even the United Center or Soldier Field require everyone to have ID. Made me never want to go to this venue again. read more

Came here for some music with school of rock. It is a total hole in the wall type of place. Ordered some draft beer and it did not taste good. Fine place to watch the kids rock out. Not much seating so be prepared to stand and hold your coat. I recommend leaving coat in the car. Bathrooms were pretty dark. read more

I expected more out of Subterranean, I really did. But it was a disappointing venue in a couple aspects. First off, the name is a wild misnomer... The first thing you do after your ID is checked is climb a flight of stairs to "Subterranean". I understand they derived the name from the fact that you can stand on the "balcony" and it seems like you're looking down on the performance but it's a big stretch. Now, I will hand it to them that it is divey enough to feel like an "underground" club but still. Second off, when I did stand up on the balcony area the acoustics are terrible. It is nearly unwatchable from up there so I'd suggest sticking to the main floor if you can. However, and this is my third point, the main floor BLASTS lights right into your eyes the entire time. I'm really not sure what the point is but there are big LED lights behind the band and they are pointed out directly at the crowd. I had to stare at the floor for most of the show because I was getting a headache while fearing blindness. And finally, the sound guy was amateur hour. Once when just arriving on stage, and twice during the performance, the lead singer had to stop and check that his guitar was on. Think about that... before the show starts is fine but he literally had to stop two songs because of sound issues unable to be ignored. I will be avoiding Subterranean at all costs in the future as it is the biggest disappointment venue I've ever visited. read more

Subterranean - These lights are the sound/light guys attempt to blind the crowd during the performance. Not sure what purpose they serve besides that. - Music Venues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Man this place reminds of that time in my life when I could go out for a few days straight, get a couple hours of sleep, then be back up early the next day and feel fine! With that, SubT still looks like it did back then and it might be time for a makeover. Don't get me wrong, I love the whole "underground" feel of this place and would love for them to preserve it. Like I said, its in need of a makeover. When I was here last week, not sure if the air was circulating correctly but I was about to pass out as it was 60 degrees outside and felt like 80 inside. The fans finally came on after the 3rd set but at that time, the band I came to see already performed and I was ready to go! The bathrooms smelled not so fresh and could have used a little bit of a scrub down. On the upside, drinks on tap where cheap and the sound system sounded alright! read more

Subterranean - Ludlow - Music Venues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Several events happening that night as it was the weekend before Halloween. Our event was drowned out by the concert happening downstairs. Also, crowded enough that fire code was a concern. read more

Great ambience. We had a sold out show here last month and the people here are special. Can't wait to be back chicago. read more

Subterranean - a crowd of people at a concert - Music Venues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This might be one of the most "challenging" clubs I've been to. The layout makes it impossible to see the band on the first floor if you're short, and trying to get to the bathrooms on the second floor through the crowd is like being in a mixed martial arts competition. The sound on the second floor is bad, but at least I finally found a spot there where I could watch the band on a TV screen. The back stage "room" is tiny and forces the bands to have to fight the crowd to go to the bathrooms. The staff were nice, but I wouldn't recommend it if I were in a touring band (or wanting to watch the band without fighting your way to the front). read more

Really just not the best setup for a concert venue. There's a main floor that's super tiny and then an upstairs balcony section that wraps around the bottom floor. It's fine if you can get a spot right along the railing, but if not then you're gonna have a really hard time seeing the stage. There's only two bathrooms upstairs that are single stalls, so the lines get really long. I wouldn't want to see another show here unless I had to. read more

Great place to bring my teen for all ages concerts. She and her friend had a blast and I found a place to sit with another mom.

The people were kind and the artists on stage were lit. Some things I didn't enjoy about it was that it was standing room only. No chairs and the only rails to hold on to were to the stairwell. I don't recommend wearing heels, whatsoever. read more

If you go to Subterranean for a show that ends up being sold out it's not worth it unless you don't mind standing in the same spot for hours. I went to see Superdrag 7/25/2024 and I haven't caught a glimpse of the band. If you are a person willing to work your way through a jam packed crowd then you're fine but personally I'd like to get a drink and go to the bathroom once or twice during a show. That's absolutely not possible here. They should only allow 3/4ths of the people they currently have in the venue. If there's a fire, I'm dead. read more

Went here and had a blast , so much so that I woke up in their basement at 8 in the morning still there, no security came to see if I was down there, no nothing, I wasn't the driver or even driving so why was I locked downstairs I have no idea, I'm still waiting to hear back from management read more

Came for a concert, super cool venue and super affordable drinks! One star off because we watched the show from the balcony and the sound wasn't great, otherwise we had a great time! read more

Cool place! Came here for an event called The Demon Dimension:. Year of the Demon. https://www.facebook.com/events/2393092264248102/?ti=cl The show was amazing, and the venue here at Subterranean was perfect for it. I'd say there was maybe 100 / 150 people there, just guessing, and there was just enough space for everyone. It wasn't too crowded that you couldn't move, and it definitely wasn't empty.... There seems to be 3 floors, but the show was on the 2nd and 3rd floor. Looked like a bar on the 1st floor / ground floor, but I don't think the show had that space. The 2nd floor or main floor was quite big.... plenty of room to dance or get drinks and stand around. The 3rd floor / top floor is interesting and much less space. The center of the floor is open overlooking the dance floor area on the main floor. The restrooms are all on the top floor, so really if you go up there it would be to stand around the railing overlooking the stage and dance floor. Great venue for under 200 people! read more

Subterranean - Stage and dance floor - Music Venues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

A great place to get nose broke ( my daughter ) or your ankle broken (her boyfriends) and somebody else got beaten pretty good all by the same guy in the mosh pit......no police were called on Sunday night read more

I absolutely love this venue. The location is in the heart of wicker park. Couldn't get any better. Oh, other than the awesome underground artist that perform here! Yes, it's very small but there's an upstairs and a downstairs where you stand. Wear comfortable shoes. Make sure you get in line early if you want to be close to the stage, which is actually pretty easy. However, people get VERY pushy-literally and figuratively-when attempting to move around. Myself included. Okay but seriously try and know your boundaries and personal space and just use manners. If someone will not let you through they are the d***, not you! Anyways, there's a bar downstairs in the back on the main floor. Great music and great venue. There's nothing I love more! read more

Went for Dance Yourself Clean. Bouncers tried to say that my friend didn't have a ticket. When showed the ticket they said it was "an attitude problem." No conversation was had. They refused to refund. The staff working the door is the most unprofessional group i have ever seen. Get better bouncers? Please. read more

Phenomenal venue in Wicker. Came here this past Tuesday and saw my favorite band from Los Angeles called Silent Planet (Super amazing band check them out!) and it's not the fanciest venue you'll ever go to. However what I love about SubT is that it has a sense of intimacy. With no barricades that separate you from the artist/band you truly get a raw experience between the artist and the audience member. This was a metal show, so of course moshing and being pushed around is expected, but there's an upstairs balcony available if you don't want to get caught in the craziness and want to simply enjoy the performance from a safe distance. Everyone has their personal preference, but the low run dirty venue atmosphere is home for me. read more

Subterranean - Garrett Russell, front man of LA metalcore band Silent Planet. - Music Venues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I had a great time here. One of my son's bands, a folk rock band called Eitarnora (https://www.facebook.com/Eitarnora?fref=ts) played a short gig here at Subterranian. The venue is up in Wicker Park and is really nice. It's been around for a long time - three floors - first floor is bar and small stage. Second floor is larger space with another bar. Third floor is open space with balconies that look down on the second floor stage. They have an amply stocked bar (which was good). We were "on the list" so we got there a little before the doors open and were let in. We got to hear Eitenora practice some before the gig actually started and had a few drinks. The acoustics were very good. They have a very large professional mixer there who works with the bands and does a great job with sound. The guy attending the bar was a musician himself, who loved to talk about his work. I had a great time talking with him. The five stars is not only because they were smart enough to let my son play there. It is a great venue is a really good location. Everything just seemed right. read more

Subterranean - Music Venues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Subterranean discriminates against the disabled. They do not meet the accessibility requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. I was denied entry to Subterranean because of my mobility device, told "standing room only". I offered to disassemble my device and transport it (and myself) up and down the stairs (no elevator or ramp is available). I was still turned away with nothing but an offer for a refund. The staff at Subterranean never tried to help me. They only told me what they could not and would not do. Subterranean's CHOICE is unethical, unfair and against the law. Until Subterranean decides to provide full and equal enjoyment of the "goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations" offered by a place of public accommodation" as required by law, I hope that everybody will hold them accountable for their unacceptable DISCRIMINATION!!! read more

I was here on October 30th, 2022 to see the Red Pears. I was so excited to go see them with my friends. However, the staff was extremely unprofessional and rude. I asked my underaged sister to hold my drink (alcohol) because I had to put something away in my bag. She gave it back to me. About 3 minutes later, one of the staff flashes his flashlight DIRECTLY in her eyes and kicked her out and repeatedly said "I saw you drink, you're out" She was NOT holding ANY alcoholic beverage. They literally had the audacity to push her out just like that. These staff definitely need a new prescription and be a bit more respectful. To the guy who flashed his little flashlight to my sister: I get that maybe you were having a bad day, but don't take it on someone else and make their day bad. Also maybe when you get a day off, I suggest going to an eye doctor. There's one right around the block from The Subterranean, hopefully you don't miss it. read more

Subterranean is a cool music venue in Chicago right at the intersection of North & Damen & Milwaukee. They get some solid local indie bands playing here, plus they normally have a reggae DJ on Thursday nights. Definitely worth checking out their concert calendar. read more

Subterranean - Chicago band Homesafe plays live at Subterranean - Music Venues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Ooh, ooh, baby- I like your style! There's a healthy amount of beer and libations, a fabu view of lots of sexies, and fun at 3 different altitudes. I heard a rumor from a friend that she walked into people doing blow off the back of the toilet here, but thankfully, I saw none of that biz-nast. Just fun, fun, fun all around. There were great bands on both floors... but I think the 2nd floor is for the younger and rowdier crowd. The first floor is dark and sexy and has some great crescent booths to kick back in. *side note, on the first floor you get to drink out of glass wear, the second floor you get a plastic party cup... don't try to go upstairs with your glass... they will find you! I would defo go back if any bands I liked had a show there. read more

Sub-T has been an iconic Wicker Park Staple for several years. I used to come here for the old 606 Hip hop days. I wouldn't say the I am completely in love with the place but I would say I am a fan. My Hubs joined a Beat Battle here (and won, yay!). It is a very intimate place with community booth like seating with movable stool box chairs. I enjoy the venue because it is a no-frills place. Drink and musics. There is a full bar available with moderately priced drinks. The staff is friendly. I wish the speaker systems were better but its fine for now I suppose. This place has street parking and easily accessible by public transport if you are planning on having more than a few. read more

It's crazy, that a place like was so cool, promoted them and everything and to be told that you can't come back in , while my friend was speaking up for me and the staff, long story short, I get invited into whatever room that's unbeknownst to me, o don't wake up until the next morning, in THERE establishment, talking about poor security, someone that's overly intoxicated , at least you make sure that they leave with the friends that brought, them in , but was told he's not here, so how do you explain me leaving at 8am, oh so your cameras don't work, another security breach , should this place even be open, I've worked in security, as a door man, it's your responsibility to make sure that everyone is out of the business and safe as they leave, even if they are drunk you call them a Uber for them to make sure they at least get to they destination ‍ just thought I found a cool spot to chill and spend so good money , it's all good though read more