Centerstage - Chicago's Original City Guide

photo: Courtesy of Nick Flandro

My brother and I are celebrating our 50th & 55th birthdays by going to Chicago (first-timers) to listen to the blues. What area of Chicago should we stay if we want to be close to most of the best blues clubs?

Thanks,
Scott

Happy Birthday, Scott (and Scott's brother)! We have to commend you on your choice of celebrations - a trip to Chicago will be far more rewarding (and cheaper) than that sports car your inner child has been eying. So, down to business.

If you stay somewhere in the South Loop area (the Hilton on S. Michigan, perhaps, or the Blackstone Hotel), you'll have nearby access to some good clubs - Buddy Guy's Legends, Jazz Showcase (mostly jazz, but occasional blues) and Blue Chicago (a bit further north), for example. Plus, you won't have too long of a drive down to South Side clubs like Artis's Lounge and Lee's Unleaded Blues, both of which are recommended for authentic blues.

Another option would be to stay somewhere in Lincoln Park (the Inn at Lincoln Park, the Days Inn, or smaller, bungalow-style residences like the China Doll Guest House) so you'd be near Kingston Mines and B.L.U.E.S., though these are fairly easily accessible via public transportation from downtown. You'd get there even quicker in a flashy new sports car.

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