Kingston Mines
Blues club · Wrightwood Neighbors ·
Two stages offer live blues music and barbecue until late
Two stages offer live blues music and barbecue until late
"BL.U.E.S. is as authentic as Chicago Blues music gets. You can catch a live show at this cozy, intimate venue every night of the week. They host both obscure acts and legends like Vance "Guitar" Kelly, but focus primarily on local talent. This dark, moody venue is dimly lit by strands of Christmas lights, revealing walls that are covered in the history of Blues and Chicago icons. Small tables bring you up close and personal with others patrons, one of whom might be a Blues artist having a drink on their day off. B.L.U.E.S is overflowing with old-school Chicago charm, and the friendly and attentive staff makes sure to keep your drinks full while you enjoy the show." - Stephen Merlo
"Like The Green Mill, Kingston Mines has live music seven nights a week. But in this case, it’s the blues, which you no longer have since you stopped waking up hungover before work every day. But as it gets later, this place can definitely end up feeling like a party, especially since it’s open until 3:30am. Side note: staying out that late before going to the office will probably still make you feel like trash, drinking or not." - adrian kane
"Since 1968, Lincoln Park’s Kingston Mines has been the go-to place for live blues and dancing your ass off until 5am. The space is constantly packed, full of everyone from couples who met here 30 years ago to DePaul students letting loose after finals. There’s a cover charge at the door, but if you come within three days of your actual birthday, you can get in for free." - john ringor
"Lincoln Park’s Kingston Mines has been around since 1968, and is still the best place for live blues in Chicago. The sprawling venue is open until 5am, and has two stages and a sea of tables. Plus bar food like chicken wings and BBQ. There’s a cover charge at the door, but they offer all sorts of education, military, and birthday discounts. The space is constantly full of people dancing, from couples who met here 30 years ago to college students trying to put off reviewing their lecture notes for as long as possible." - john ringor, nick allen
"The Blues Brothers took place in Chicago for a reason, and it’s because the blues culture of this city is alive and well. Just head to a place like Kingston Mines, where you can catch a live show Thursday through Saturday starting in the evening until they close at 4:00am (5:00am on Saturday). The longtime bar has been in a few different spots over the years, but it’s current Lincoln Park location has been the same for over 30 years." - josh barnett, sam faye, john ringor
