Experimental in Chicago on a budget

Basement-style club nights and DJ sets that push late into the morning. Eclectic bills: techno, experimental, live bands and themed parties. Student-friendly vibes, packed dancefloor most weekends. Pop-up events, burlesque and community moments like a free tree giveaway. Come for the music, stay for the surprise lineups.

Small, noisy spot in Chicago for indie and folk acts. Expect album parties, DIY bills with local bands and touring names. Intimate acoustic sets and experimental audiovisual nights. Lineups change fast, always something offbeat and live. Come for music, stay for the community vibe.

Small, sweaty club in Chicago that programs rock bands, touring indie acts and late-night DJ sets. Expect loud shows, afterparties and themed brunch events. Lineups go from fuzzy guitar bands to dance-heavy DJ nights.

Underground room in the Epiphany Center where DJs and live bands meet dancers. Lots of Golden Hour DJ sets, vinyl nights, and themed parties. Expect dance floors, late sets and a mix of house, disco, jazz and blues. Friendly, sweaty vibe and community-minded nights.