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Chicago, IL

North America

United States

# The Hideout – Iconic Chicago Bar and Music Venue
The Hideout, located at 1354 W Wabansia Ave, Chicago, IL, is a beloved bar and music venue that has been a cornerstone of the Chicago music scene since the 1930s. Nestled in a century-old house, this intimate venue offers a unique atmosphere reminiscent of a cozy basement gathering. Known for its diverse lineup of local and touring musicians, The Hideout has garnered a reputation for its affordable drinks, including a wide selection of Chicago beers. Patrons rave about the intimate setting and the vibrant community that thrives within its walls, making it a must-visit for music lovers and locals alike.

## History
### The story of The Hideout
The Hideout was founded in the 1930s with a vision to create a space where musicians could perform and connect with audiences in a relaxed environment. Over the decades, it has transformed from a simple bar into a cultural hub that nurtures artistic expression and community engagement. Its storied past is filled with anecdotes of musicians who launched their careers on its small stage, contributing to its legendary status in Chicago's rich musical landscape.

### Milestones and growth
- **1930s**: The Hideout opens its doors, quickly becoming a local favorite.
- **1980s**: The venue gains recognition as a launching pad for emerging artists.
- **2000s**: The Hideout undergoes renovations to enhance the music experience while maintaining its original charm.
- **2020**: The venue successfully navigates the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, continuing to host live music events.

### Cultural and local influence
The Hideout has played a significant role in shaping Chicago's cultural identity. It has hosted countless performances that span various genres, from indie rock to jazz, fostering a sense of community among artists and audiences. The venue's commitment to supporting local talent has made it a vital part of the city's music ecosystem, where many musicians return to perform as they gain recognition.

### Continuing the tradition
Today, The Hideout continues to honor its founding vision by providing a platform for both established and up-and-coming artists. Regular events, including live music performances and community discussions, ensure that the spirit of creativity and collaboration remains alive. The venue's dedication to maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for all patrons reinforces its status as a cherished local institution.

## Community
### Community involvement
The Hideout is deeply embedded in the Chicago community, often serving as a gathering place for locals to connect over music and shared interests. The venue hosts various events that encourage community participation, from open mic nights to political discussions, fostering a sense of belonging among attendees. This involvement has helped The Hideout cultivate a loyal following that extends beyond just music lovers.

### Community notion about the place
Locals regard The Hideout as more than just a bar; it is seen as a cultural landmark that embodies the spirit of Chicago's music scene. Many patrons appreciate the venue's intimate setting, which allows for a personal connection between performers and the audience. The Hideout's reputation for hosting unique events and supporting local artists has solidified its status as a beloved community hub.

### Events and gatherings
The Hideout regularly hosts a variety of events that cater to diverse interests. From live music performances featuring local bands to community discussions on pressing social issues, the venue is a dynamic space for engagement. Special events, such as themed nights and fundraisers, further enhance its role as a community gathering place, drawing in crowds eager to participate in the vibrant atmosphere.

## Offerings
### What The Hideout offers
The Hideout is primarily known for its live music performances, but it also offers a cozy bar experience with a selection of drinks that cater to various tastes. The venue's layout features a bar area in front and a performance space in the back, creating a unique atmosphere for patrons to enjoy both drinks and music. This dual offering makes it an ideal spot for a night out in Chicago.

### Dining and food experience
While The Hideout is primarily a bar, it does not have a full dining menu. However, patrons can enjoy snacks and light fare while sipping on their drinks. The focus remains on the music and the overall experience, allowing guests to enjoy a laid-back atmosphere without the distractions of a full-service restaurant.

### Events and packages
The Hideout frequently hosts a range of events, including live music shows, open mic nights, and special themed gatherings. These events often feature local artists and provide an opportunity for patrons to discover new music in an intimate setting. The venue also offers packages for private events, making it a versatile space for celebrations and gatherings.

### Facilities and features
- Intimate performance space
- Full-service bar with a selection of local beers
- Regularly scheduled live music events
- Open mic nights and community discussions
- Accessible street parking

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of The Hideout highlight its unique charm and vibrant atmosphere, with many patrons praising the intimate setting and the quality of live music. The venue's affordability and selection of local beers are also frequently mentioned as significant draws. However, some reviews note that the small size can lead to limited seating, and the acoustics may vary depending on the performance.

### Compliments and strengths
Patrons often compliment The Hideout for its friendly staff and welcoming vibe. The venue's commitment to supporting local musicians is also a significant strength, as many artists have found a home here to showcase their talents. The affordability of drinks and the unique ambiance contribute to a positive overall experience for visitors.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
While many reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some guests have reported less favorable experiences, particularly regarding staff interactions. A few patrons have noted instances of rudeness from door staff, which contrasts sharply with the generally friendly atmosphere of the venue. Additionally, the small size of the space can make it challenging for some attendees to find seating during busy events.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, The Hideout is celebrated for its rich history, vibrant community involvement, and dedication to live music. While there are occasional criticisms regarding staff interactions and seating availability, the venue's strengths far outweigh its drawbacks. It remains a cherished spot for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic Chicago music experience.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
The Hideout is situated in the Lincoln Yards neighborhood of Chicago, a developing area known for its artistic vibe and growing community. The venue's address, 1354 W Wabansia Ave, places it within easy reach of various cultural attractions and local eateries. Visitors can explore the surrounding neighborhood, which offers a mix of industrial charm and emerging artistic spaces, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the local culture.

## FAQs
**What type of music is played at The Hideout** The venue features a variety of genres, including indie rock, jazz, and more.
**Is there parking available at The Hideout** Yes, there is ample street parking available for guests.
**Are there food options at The Hideout** While there is no full dining menu, snacks and light fare are available.
**Can I host a private event at The Hideout** Yes, The Hideout offers packages for private events and gatherings.
**Is The Hideout accessible by public transport** The venue is not close to CTA lines, so a car is recommended.

## Visit The Hideout Today
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Hideout, where music and community come together in a historic setting. With a rich history of supporting local artists, this iconic Chicago bar offers an intimate space to enjoy live performances and connect with fellow music lovers. Whether you're a local or just visiting, The Hideout promises a memorable experience filled with great music and friendly faces.

7783b47f-280d-4841-9c8a-9629691868ae

The Hideout is an iconic Chicago bar that opened in the 30s . Located in a 100 year old house,you feel you are in your grandparents basement . Many musicians started their careers here and is well known within the Chicago music scene. The venue is small with limited seating . Drinks are reasonably priced with a huge selection of Chicago beers..PBR,Old Style and Hamms just to name a few. My nephew flew in from Charlotte to play the night I went. A small intimate gathering of friends and family enjoying the music of Low Groves. Absolutely fantastic! Plenty of street parking available. For a true music experience ,you have to visit Tte Hideout and experience the vibe and the music.

8c3196f8-201d-4f30-be05-d9e40fb2bffa

The concept of the Hideout is pretty simple - a bar in front and a small venue in the back. This was the first time we'd been there, and went to see a band a family member is in. The bar is good. It's dark and they have lots of different beers on special. Not being a beer drinker, I had a bourbon. The price was pretty good. Their selection isn't huge, but it isn't a very large bar either. The venue is small and lined with curtains for sound baffling. There is a stage at the end of the room, about eight tables - four on each wall. The rest is open space to stand and watch the acts. Being small, the acoustics could be a little better. Of course, the bands are loud and mixing the sound in a small space is difficult. I think the sound person did a great job to compensate, though. It was fun and I'm sure we'll be back to see more live music.

fdecd887-873b-4671-a035-bec93da682c3

As much as I love attending music performances at The Hideout, it's events like this evening's that really grabs me. Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky is being interviewed by Politico's Shia Kapos about the results of the Presidential election. The discussion and Q&A are really helping me process the results. Thank you Hideout!

253ea905-5877-44a0-bb96-e0f124095e16

A local with lots of character. The venue for performances is divided from the bar! The venue is decorated with many fish mounted on the walls. The bartenders were quick and were able keep up with the demand, and prices were very reasonable. My son....Low Groves performed here and it was a great venue ( on Spotify ) . The sound was excellent and the venue was perfect for his Chicago debut, he is based in Charlotte. They have many shows and performances scheduled in the upcoming months! A great venue!

d326c9f4-44c2-4322-b922-ec122b7cf7e4

This would be your local music joint. But it's hidden in an industrial park. On the other hand parking is plentiful and the drinks are not that expensive. The space is on the small side so come early if you want seats. Acoustics are pretty good the bands not bad SamaSama project- it's cabaret week in Chicago- life is good

2125dfd5-33ae-4ab6-b324-e64f19c21730

Always a great time, cool bands, this is a well deserved update. This place is an institution, glad it weathered COVID and is back!

aa9db291-49d4-490a-8df8-1739db60442e

A cool little concert venue in one of Chicago's newest neighborhoods, Lincoln Yards. This place is divey in all the right ways, and I can think of nowhere better to grab a drink and watch a shocking amount of 60-something white women rocking out to jazz/hip-hop fusion. This was an utterly confusing experience, and I don't know if it's the norm here, but I really, really hope it is. Drinks were all around $5-10, but there is a $10 minimum for card, so either bring cash, get on the same tab, or don't be such a light weight and buy two drinks. Also def use the bathroom that's inside the concert area; when you walk in, it's dark, but there is an automatic light above the raised toilet that turns on as you get close. Needless to say, I felt like royalty, and you could too. There's lounge(ish) area close to the bar where you can chill with your friends if you're not feeling the music. It's not close to any of the CTA lines, so it could be tough to get to if you don't have a car, but if you do have one, there is tons if free parking outside. Overall, I loved this as a concert venue, and I think once the neighborhood develops a little more, this will be a really cool hangout spot for locals

f6ffa1e4-2349-442e-a9fe-bc67324d6700

The door staff is beyond rude. I was meeting a friend then and when I walked in there was no one up front. I started walking toward the bar and this guy physically gets in my space telling me to get back and asks where my mask is. I was thrown off because of his extreme reaction. I said, I don't have a problem wearing a mask. Then he says, where is your ticket? I said, a ticket? He then backs up and says sarcastically with his hands pointing toward the back area and then around the air, "This... is a MuSIc Veenuuueeee." He was clearly being so rude. The person behind me seeing everything going on says, the masks are by the door. At that time, my friend came over and then he started being nice to her. I had one drink and left. I'm not going to stay at a place and spend money so the staff can be rude at a rundown smelly bar.

bcc6d789-8e89-480d-8de6-feb9346b066c

Great venue for seeing music entertainment. Ambiance is right out of a movie scene. You'll feel like you're in your favorite bar, listening to a favorite band. Unfortunately for those who can't stand for long periods of time, it's basically standing room only. There are a few tables with stools. The staff is sooooo friendly. Great drinks. We had a blast being there. We saw the Brother Brothers and their opening girl duo. My only complaint was the sound mixing could have been better, although ok. We will be back.

88b966e2-0ad3-4087-9b54-c0edb33dbf91

Best venue ever. Great ownership. Always the place to be. Love the bar, staff and vibe. Love the Hideout!!

Discover The Hideout in Chicago, IL—an iconic restaurant blending vibrant atmosphere with unforgettable flavors. Book your culinary adventure today.

The Hideout Chicago IL - Iconic Restaurant & Vibrant Atmosphere

Chicago

The Hideout

Illinois

Discover The Hideout in Chicago, IL. Enjoy live music, vibrant nightlife, and unforgettable events at this iconic venue. Book your visit today!

Experience The Hideout in Chicago - Unique Music & Nightlife Venue

Learn about The Hideout in Chicago, IL. A legendary venue for live music, cultural events, and vibrant nightlife. Explore what makes it special!

About The Hideout, Chicago - Iconic Music & Nightlife Spot

Opening hours for The Hideout, Chicago. Find opening hours for The Hideout, 1354 W Wabansia Ave, Chicago, IL on our website.

The Hideout Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at The Hideout

Macho Taco

Subway

Uni Sushi