A Guide To Sunday Nightlife In Chicago

Known for its vibrant bar and club scenes, Chicago offers plenty of exciting nightlife options seven days a week. But what is there to do for fun in the Windy City once the weekend winds down on Sunday night?

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: While Sunday nights are more low-key, Chicago still has great nightlife choices like comedy shows, jazz clubs, late-night dining, karaoke bars, and lounges.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the array of Sunday nightlife available in Chicago, including specific venues for live music, comedy, dancing, drinks, and late-night bites.

Live Music and Concerts

When it comes to Sunday nightlife in Chicago, live music and concerts are a popular choice for locals and tourists alike. The city is known for its vibrant music scene, with a wide variety of genres and venues to choose from.

Whether you’re a fan of jazz, blues, or indie rock, there’s something for everyone.

Jazz and Blues Clubs

Chicago has a rich history of jazz and blues, and there are several clubs in the city that showcase these genres on Sunday nights. One popular spot is the legendary Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, located in the Uptown neighborhood.

This historic venue has been around since 1907 and has hosted famous musicians such as Al Capone and Charlie Chaplin. Sunday nights at the Green Mill feature live jazz performances that transport you back to the golden age of Chicago jazz.

If you’re looking for a more intimate setting, check out the Jazz Showcase in the South Loop. This iconic club has been a staple of the Chicago jazz scene since 1947 and continues to attract top jazz musicians from around the world.

Sunday nights often feature local jazz artists, giving you a chance to discover new talent while enjoying a cozy atmosphere.

Small Music Venues

For those who prefer a more laid-back and intimate concert experience, Chicago offers a variety of small music venues that host Sunday night performances. One such venue is Schubas Tavern in the Lakeview neighborhood.

This cozy bar and music venue has a reputation for hosting up-and-coming indie bands and singer-songwriters. With its intimate setting and great acoustics, Schubas is the perfect place to discover new music on a Sunday night.

Another popular option is the Empty Bottle in the Ukrainian Village. This dive bar turned music venue is known for its eclectic lineup, featuring everything from punk rock to experimental electronic music.

Sunday nights at the Empty Bottle often feature local bands and underground acts, giving you a taste of Chicago’s vibrant music scene.

Late-Night Shows

If you’re a night owl and prefer to keep the party going into the early hours of Monday morning, Chicago has plenty of late-night shows to choose from on Sunday nights. One notable venue is Kingston Mines, a legendary blues club in Lincoln Park.

Known for its energetic atmosphere and talented musicians, Kingston Mines is the place to go if you want to dance the night away to some soulful blues music.

For a more alternative late-night experience, head to Beauty Bar in the West Town neighborhood. This trendy bar not only offers great cocktails and a retro vibe but also hosts late-night DJ sets on Sundays. Get your groove on and dance to the latest hits until the early hours of the morning.

Comedy Shows

Chicago is known for its vibrant comedy scene, and Sunday nights offer a plethora of laughter-inducing options for those looking to unwind and have a great time. Whether you’re a fan of stand-up comedy or prefer the spontaneous nature of improv, there are plenty of venues in the city that cater to your comedic preferences.

Stand-up Comedy Clubs

For fans of stand-up comedy, Sunday nights in Chicago offer a variety of clubs that showcase both local talent and nationally recognized comedians. One popular spot is The Comedy Bar, located in the heart of downtown Chicago.

With its intimate setting and lineup of top-notch performers, The Comedy Bar guarantees a night filled with laughter and entertainment. Another notable stand-up club is Zanies Comedy Club, which has been a staple of Chicago’s comedy scene for over four decades.

Known for hosting some of the biggest names in comedy, Zanies is a must-visit venue for comedy enthusiasts.

If you enjoy a more casual and laid-back atmosphere, The Laugh Factory is the place to be. Located in the trendy Lakeview neighborhood, this comedy club offers a diverse lineup of comedians, ranging from emerging talents to seasoned veterans.

With its energetic vibe and affordable ticket prices, The Laugh Factory is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Improv Comedy Venues

If you prefer the unpredictability and spontaneity of improv comedy, Chicago has several venues that are sure to tickle your funny bone. One of the most iconic improv theaters in the city is The Second City.

With its rich history and reputation for nurturing comedic talent, The Second City has produced some of the biggest names in the industry, including Tina Fey, Steve Carell, and Stephen Colbert. Sunday nights at The Second City feature performances by their renowned ensemble cast, guaranteeing a night of laughter and unforgettable moments.

Another improv hotspot is iO Chicago. Located in the vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood, iO Chicago offers a unique and immersive comedy experience. With its talented ensemble of performers and a variety of shows to choose from, iO Chicago is a great place to spend your Sunday night.

Whether you’re in the mood for short-form improv games or long-form improvised storytelling, iO Chicago has something for everyone.

Bars and Lounges

When it comes to Sunday nightlife in Chicago, the city offers a vibrant and diverse bar scene. Whether you’re in the mood for a glass of wine, a craft cocktail, watching a game, or just enjoying a laid-back atmosphere, Chicago has something for everyone.

Here are some of the top bars and lounges to check out on a Sunday night:

Wine Bars

For wine lovers, Chicago boasts an array of charming wine bars where you can unwind and savor a glass of your favorite vintage. One popular spot is Vintage Wine Bar located in the heart of the city. With a cozy ambiance and an extensive wine list, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a glass of wine with friends.

Another fantastic option is Rootstock Wine & Beer Bar in Humboldt Park. They offer an impressive selection of organic and biodynamic wines, along with a knowledgeable staff to guide you through the options.

Cocktail Lounges

If you’re in the mood for handcrafted cocktails and a sophisticated atmosphere, Chicago has plenty of options to choose from. The Aviary is a renowned cocktail lounge that offers innovative and creative drinks crafted by expert mixologists.

Located in Fulton Market, this upscale establishment is known for its unique cocktail presentations and exceptional service. For a more intimate setting, The Violet Hour in Wicker Park is a speakeasy-style lounge that serves expertly crafted drinks in a cozy and dimly lit space.

Sports Bars

Sundays are synonymous with sports, and Chicago is a sports-loving city. Whether you’re a fan of baseball, basketball, or football, there are numerous sports bars where you can catch the game while enjoying some great food and drinks.

One popular sports bar in Chicago is The Scout Waterhouse + Kitchen in the South Loop. With multiple big screens, a wide selection of beers on tap, and a menu featuring classic bar fare, it’s the perfect spot to cheer on your favorite team.

Dive Bars

If you’re looking for a more laid-back and unpretentious atmosphere, Chicago has some fantastic dive bars to explore. Richard’s Bar in West Town is a local favorite known for its cheap drinks and friendly staff.

With its no-frills charm and a jukebox filled with a wide range of music, it’s a great place to relax and have a low-key Sunday night. Another dive bar worth checking out is The Rainbo Club in Ukrainian Village.

This iconic neighborhood spot has been around for decades and is beloved for its eclectic décor, live music, and affordable drinks.

Remember, Chicago’s bar scene is constantly evolving, so don’t be afraid to explore beyond these suggestions and discover your new favorite spot. Cheers to a great Sunday night out in the Windy City!

Dancing and Nightclubs

When it comes to Sunday nightlife in Chicago, there are plenty of options for those who love to dance and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere. From Latin dance clubs to EDM and house music venues, and even jazz and blues dance nights, the city has something for everyone.

Latin Dance Clubs

Chicago is home to a thriving Latin dance scene, and Sunday nights are no exception. Whether you’re a seasoned salsa dancer or just looking to learn some new moves, Latin dance clubs in the city offer a lively and energetic atmosphere.

One popular spot is Estrella Negra, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Logan Square. With its vibrant décor, live music, and expert instructors, Estrella Negra is the perfect place to dance the night away.

EDM and House Music

For those who prefer electronic dance music (EDM) and house beats, Chicago has a number of clubs that cater to this genre. On Sunday nights, you can find some of the best DJs and producers spinning tunes that will get you moving. One notable venue is Spybar, located in the River North neighborhood.

With its state-of-the-art sound system and intimate setting, Spybar offers an unforgettable experience for EDM enthusiasts.

Jazz and Blues Dance Nights

Chicago has a rich history of jazz and blues music, and on Sunday nights, you can immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of these genres. Several clubs in the city offer live jazz and blues performances, where you can enjoy both the music and the opportunity to dance.

Andy’s Jazz Club, located in the heart of downtown Chicago, is a popular destination for jazz lovers. With its relaxed atmosphere and talented musicians, Andy’s Jazz Club provides the perfect setting for a night of swinging and swaying.

Whether you’re into Latin dance, EDM, or jazz and blues, Chicago’s Sunday nightlife scene has a little something for everyone. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to groove the night away!

Late-Night Dining and Desserts

When it comes to Sunday night in Chicago, the city truly comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. Whether you’re looking for a place to grab a late-night meal or satisfy your sweet tooth, Chicago has plenty of options to choose from.

Here’s a guide to some of the best late-night dining and dessert spots in the city.

24-Hour Diners

For those craving a hearty meal at any hour of the night, Chicago is home to several 24-hour diners that cater to late-night crowds. One popular option is The Golden Apple, located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood.

This iconic diner has been serving up classic American comfort food since 1962 and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Another great choice is The Palace Grill in the West Loop, known for its delicious breakfast options and friendly service.

Late-Night Pizza

Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, and luckily, there are several spots that stay open late to satisfy your pizza cravings. One must-visit place is Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, a Chicago institution known for its buttery crust and gooey cheese.

With multiple locations throughout the city, you can easily find a slice of their famous deep-dish pizza no matter where you are. Another popular option is Gino’s East, which has been serving up their signature deep-dish pizza since 1966.

Dessert Spots

If you have a sweet tooth, Chicago has no shortage of dessert spots to satisfy your cravings. One standout option is Mindy’s Hot Chocolate in the Wicker Park neighborhood. This dessert bar offers a wide array of desserts, but their hot chocolate is the star of the show.

From classic flavors like milk chocolate to unique combinations like Mexican hot chocolate with cinnamon and chili, Mindy’s Hot Chocolate offers something for everyone. Another popular spot is Black Dog Gelato in Ukrainian Village, known for their artisanal gelato flavors like goat cheese cashew caramel and sesame fig chocolate chip.

Whether you’re in the mood for a late-night meal or a sweet treat, Chicago has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself out and about on a Sunday night, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the city’s lively late-night dining and dessert scene.

Conclusion

While Sunday nights are more low-key than Friday and Saturday, Chicago still offers great nightlife options like comedy, live music, dancing, and late night bites. By doing your research, you can find venues that are open late and cater to a Sunday night crowd.

So next time you’re looking for something fun to do on a Sunday evening in Chicago, consider catching a comedy show, going bar hopping, or dancing the night away. Just because it’s Sunday doesn’t mean the party has to stop in this amazing city.