About Bottom Lounge
Bottom Lounge is a multi-level music venue and restaurant in Chicago’s West Loop (Lower West Side). It occupies a converted warehouse at 1375 W. Lake St (www.chicagomag.com ), a move in 2008 after the original Lakeview location was seized for CTA construction (www.chicagomag.com ) (www.timeout.com ). The new build covers about 18,000 square feet (bottomlounge.com ) and was designed as a “bigger and more ambitious” version of the old club – featuring a full-service bar, restaurant, private event space and a 2,000-square-foot outdoor deck (www.chicagomag.com ). Owners Elmiger and Miskowicz originally opened the venue as “Lakeview Links” in 1991 (a sports bar) before rebranding to Bottom Lounge in the early 2000s and focusing on live music (www.timeout.com ). Since reopening in 2008, Bottom Lounge has become a cornerstone of Chicago’s live music scene, hosting local bands and touring artists (even, for example, future stars like Bruno Mars before they were famous (medium.com )). The space is notable for its industrial-chic vibe (exposed brick, high ceilings) and a lineup that blends rock, metal, punk, hip-hop, indie and experimental acts. Signature features include the stage-equipped “Volcano Room” upstairs with a full-service kitchen, a rooftop deck for warm-weather events, and a sports-friendly atmosphere (they even run a shuttle bus to Chicago Blackhawks games (bottomlounge.com )). All ages are welcome for shows (though minors must be accompanied and the restaurant/roof deck are 21+ only (bottomlounge.com )). Overall, Bottom Lounge’s blend of rugged warehouse architecture, concert-level production (see below), and full bar/restaurant makes it a one-of-a-kind music club in Chicago.
Events and Programming
Bottom Lounge’s calendar is packed year-round with live music shows – typically 3–4 nights a week, often on weekends as well as midweek. The venue books a wide range of performers: hard-rock, metal and punk bands; indie-rock and emo acts; alt-pop and hip-hop; plus occasional DJs, tribute bands and special-theme nights. Mostly the upstairs Volcanic Room/restaurant space is used for smaller local bands or dance parties, while the ground-floor main hall brings mid-sized national names. Recurring events have included themed nightclub nights and local band showcases. Notable past performers span many styles: for example, Chicago alt-rock veterans Urge Overkill played in 2008 (at $16–20 a ticket (www.chicagomag.com )), as did seminal grunge bands (Mudhoney at $18–20 (www.chicagomag.com )). More recent lineups have featured up-and-comers and niche touring acts, with typical advance ticket prices often in the $15–$30 range (depending on the artist and seating) (www.chicagomag.com ). Doors are usually scheduled 1–2 hours before showtime, and concerts often run past midnight. In between live shows the downstairs sports bar and upstairs restaurant host happy hours, game-day gatherings (especially Blackhawks hockey nights (bottomlounge.com )) and private events – Bottom Lounge can even be booked for weddings or corporate parties (they advertise full event production/on-site planning (bottomlounge.com ) (bottomlounge.com )).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Bottom Lounge events are sold through the venue’s box office and approved ticket outlets (links are listed on the official Bottom Lounge webpage). Popular shows often sell out in advance, so it’s best to buy early. The website updates event listings when on-sale dates are announced (often a few weeks before the concert). On show nights there is a door box office, but once an event is marked “sold out” there are no more tickets available from the venue (bottomlounge.com ). Fans are strongly advised to avoid unofficial resale sites or scalpers, as the venue has warned that counterfeit Bottom Lounge tickets are common and can’t be honored (bottomlounge.com ). Ticket prices vary by event size: for smaller touring acts, advance prices might be in the teens (e.g. ~$15–20) while bigger names or festival-style lineups can run $25–$35 or more. Weekend shows often have a higher cover than weeknights. There is typically a service fee added to online sales. If you’re unsure about an on-sale, consider signing up for the venue newsletter or following local promoters – they sometimes offer fan presales or notify when tickets drop. Finally, note that Bottom Lounge events have age rules: many shows are “All Ages” or “17+” (minors need an adult) while the rooftop deck and restaurant remain 21+ (bottomlounge.com ).
Seating and Layout
The main concert hall at Bottom Lounge is a wide-open, standing-room space facing a raised stage. There are no fixed rows; as with most clubs the best spots are near the front of the stage, though sound and visuals are good throughout the room. Bar-height tables line the back and sides for standing patrons, and two long bars run along the rear walls (www.tripadvisor.com ). The venue has an upper mezzanine level often used as a second stage or restaurant (the Tiki-themed “Volcano Room”). That upstairs space can be configured in multiple ways – it holds about 330 people standing or 210 seated (table service) (bottomlounge.com ) – and it connects to a roof deck. If you want a break from the mosh or crowds, the upstairs dining area offers table seating and a quieter vantage for smaller acts or DJ nights. Note that on concert nights the upstairs restaurant area (when open) requires a show ticket to enter. Sound is quite loud and bass-heavy in the main hall (the venue has a professional Nexo PA system (bottomlounge.com ) and dedicated audio engineer), so earplugs are recommended for sensitive listeners. Overall, there aren’t any “bad seats” – it’s an intimate club – but users note that the space feels “like a basic brick warehouse…hold maybe 500 people” (www.tripadvisor.com ), so head on up early if you want front-row placement. The VIP “booth” mentioned by the venue sits off to one side near the sound console and offers a raised view but during most shows all fans share the standing area.
Getting There and Parking
Bottom Lounge is at 1375 W Lake Street (Fulton Market area), easily accessible by both car and public transit (bottomlounge.com ). By CTA rail, the closest station is Chicago (Blue Line) at Clinton and Lake, about a 2-block walk (www.transitchicago.com ); the UIC–Halsted Blue Line stop (at Harrison & Halsted) is also nearby (about 0.5 miles east). For Green or Pink Line trains, take an inbound train to the Ashland station (Ashland Ave & Lake St) and walk two blocks west (the venue is just past Halsted) (chicagovenues.wordpress.com ). Several CTA bus routes stop within a short walk: the #8 Halsted bus goes right on Halsted at Lake, and the #20 Madison bus is one block north–south. A convenient tip is that the 300 block of West Lake (between Halsted and Racine) is a popular drop-off zone for rideshare and cabs. Street parking in this area is metered (meter fees apply evenings and weekends), and there are a few paid garages on nearby streets (parking rates in West Loop often run $15–$25 per night). For budget parking, some fans park at Park-&-Ride lots on the Blue Line (for example, Montrose station) and take the train in. Bicyclists will find Divvy bike-share stations near Ashland/Lake and Halsted/Lake. Keep in mind that concerts often end after midnight; the Blue Line and Halsted bus run 24/7 in Chicago, and cab/rideshare availability is generally good late at night.
Inside the Venue
Upon entry, expect basic concert security – tickets will be scanned and bags searched. Bottom Lounge does not have a mail-room–style bag check; small backpacks and purses are allowed but will be inspected at the door (drugs, weapons, outside food/drink are prohibited) (bottomlounge.com ). The venue has a coat check ($5 cash per item) but note they do not accept larger bags or purses for check (bottomlounge.com ), so bring only what you can carry. Coat check and restrooms are located on each floor. Bathrooms are plentiful (including ADA-accessible restrooms) (bottomlounge.com ) (bottomlounge.com ). The atmosphere is casual: patrons are typically dressed in standard concert attire, and the overall vibe is friendly and laid-back. Noise levels are high (the Bottom Lounge uses a full pro sound system with an Avid digital mixing console and Nexo speakers (bottomlounge.com ) (bottomlounge.com )), so as mentioned earplugs can be wise. The front-of-house control console is just above the crowd on a small platform, but it doesn’t block much view. Photography is restricted: smartphone pics for personal use are fine, but any professional camera or large lens requires a media pass (bottomlounge.com ). Inside you’ll find multiple full bars (located on each level) serving a wide selection of draft/local craft beers and cocktails mixed from a long bar behind the stage. A full kitchen in the front of the venue (and upstairs restaurant) serves bar-fare and sandwiches – popular items include tater-tots, sandwiches (cooper cheese-sauce subs, burgers, etc.), salads and soups, as noted by guests (www.tripadvisor.com ) (bottomlounge.com ). Gluten-free and vegan options are usually available on the menu. Classic arcade-style games and pinball machines line the upstairs lounge and main floor bar (bottomlounge.com ) (bottomlounge.com ), adding a fun retro element during intermissions. The venue is fully air-conditioned and has its own cloakroom tables/staff near the coat check if needed. Wi-Fi is generally not provided for the public (plan to have your phone data), but cell reception tends to be reliable at this locaion. Finally, Bottom Lounge is also a sports-viewing spot on game nights – TVs around the bar show major events, and they run a fan shuttle bus to the United Center for Blackhawks games (bottomlounge.com ). (Note: the upstairs restaurant and rooftop deck are restricted to 21+ even on show nights (bottomlounge.com ).)
Nearby Amenities
The surrounding Fulton Market/West Loop neighborhood is packed with restaurants, bars and hotels – perfect for pre- or post-show outings. Just a few blocks east on Randolph and Halsted you’ll find popular eateries like Little Goat Diner and Au Cheval (famous for burgers), as well as acclaimed spots like Girl & The Goat and Publican if you’re willing to travel about 0.5 miles east. Closer to Bottom Lounge, there are quick bites and bars on Halsted and Lake (for example, Urbanbelly and High Five Bar on Randolph/Halsted) as well as several brewpubs a mile north. After shows, late-night options include doughnut shops and some diners – note that food trucks sometimes park nearby on busy nights. Bars in the area include Fulton Brewery and local favorites in the 1–2 block radius. If you need a hotel, the West Loop has a number of options: for instance the Hampton Inn & Suites (near Halsted/Washington) or boutique hotels around Randolph. River North is immediately east and offers big hotels too (the Hyatt Centric River North, Hotel Felix, etc.). It’s wise to book accommodation well in advance if attending a major show. On busy concert nights, traffic can fill the streets by 7–8pm, so plan extra travel time. Also check the CTA or City websites for any street closures or special events (Chicago’s nightlife district can have festival street closures on occasion). In general, fans recommend arriving an hour early to allow time for parking, food, and a line at the door, especially for sold-out shows.
What Makes This Venue Special
Bottom Lounge stands out in Chicago for its unique mix of old-school grit and modern amenities. Architecturally, it’s a classic brick warehouse conversion – the building was once an auto garage – which gives the club a raw “punk rock” feel. Yet inside it houses top-tier production (digital mixers, line-array speakers and disco-quality lighting (bottomlounge.com ) (bottomlounge.com )) you’d expect at much bigger venues. It’s also one of the few large-capacity all-ages-friendly clubs in town, so it has become a rite of passage for young music fans. Culturally, Bottom Lounge helped revive Chicago’s indie/punk scene in the late 2000s alongside Reggie’s, and veteran promoters praise it as “the same way” – with great staff and management – that made other clubs famous (chicago.suntimes.com ). The upstairs “Volcano Room” is a quirky feature – a Tiki-themed lounge with dining and its own dance floor – which few rock clubs offer. Fans love the 2,000 sq ft rooftop deck for summer shows (www.chicagomag.com ), as well as the classic North Loop/West Loop vibe. The Bottom Lounge’s history of hosting breakthrough artists (locals and touring acts) adds to its mystique. Legendary Chicago shows have occurred here rather than at larger arenas, simply because the vibe really resonates with bands and audiences. Reviewers note that in a city of shiny high-rises and sprawling theaters, Bottom Lounge is “a little divey” by comparison, but that’s exactly why so many people love it (www.tripadvisor.com ) – it’s an unapologetically fun, no-frills club where both indie kids and rock veterans feel at home.
Visitor Tips and Information
Arrival and Tickets: Check the event listing in advance for age restrictions. If a show is marked “17+,” anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian (bottomlounge.com ). If a concert is sold out online, don’t assume there will be day-of tickets (they often sell out entirely). The venue strongly advises against buying third-party tickets – fakes are common and won’t be honored (bottomlounge.com ). Show doors typically open 1–2 hours before the posted start time. Lines can form early on the sidewalk, so arriving 30–45 minutes before doors is wise for popular shows. Have your ID and ticket (printed or mobile) ready. All shows held in the main hall are general admission (standing room), and usually packed, so plan accordingly.Inside Pages and Policies: Bottom Lounge has no specific dress code – casual concert attire is fine. No outside food or alcohol is allowed. There is a coat check ($5 cash per item) (bottomlounge.com ); note that they do not store purses or large bags there, so carry a small bag or none at all and expect security to inspect it on entry (bottomlounge.com ) (bottomlounge.com ). Photography: smart phones are okay (for personal snapshots), but full-size cameras need a media pass (bottomlounge.com ). Unless otherwise noted, smoking is not permitted indoors (Chicago law). It can get loud, so ear protection is a good idea. Restrooms are scattered around both floors and include ADA-accessible stalls (bottomlounge.com ) (bottomlounge.com ).Accessibility: Bottom Lounge is wheelchair-accessible. There is an elevator to the upstairs level and chairs and tables available for seated dining upstairs. The restaurant and bar areas have accessible restrooms (bottomlounge.com ) (bottomlounge.com ). If you need special accommodations, the staff are generally very helpful – just ask an usher or bartender.Food and Drink: The attached restaurant serves sandwiches (submarines with “Cooper Cheese” sauce, burgers, etc.), salads, soup and bar snacks (tater tots are a popular side) (bottomlounge.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). They have vegetarian and vegan options too. Drink prices can be slightly above standard bar rates (for example, reviewers note Chicago’s sweetened-soda tax added a bit to soft drink costs (www.tripadvisor.com )). Expect quick bar service but possibly a wait at peak times. There is a second bar upstairs as well as an outdoor bar on the roof deck when it’s open.Behavior and Manners: Unlike some older all-ages clubs, Bottom Lounge’s staff is known for being friendly and efficient (chicago.suntimes.com ) – but crowds can still be rowdy at rock shows. Be respectful in moshes or dances, and courteous in the bars. There are no re-entry passes: once you leave, you must have a ticket to get back in. Unlike some arenas, Bottom Lounge is somewhat intimate, so even mid-sized acts feel close-up – expect an enthusiastic neighborhood crowd.Weather & Attire: Everything is indoors, so weather affects only your travel. The rooftop deck is open to the sky, so coat up for cold nights if there’s an outdoor set. Otherwise normal indoor heating/AC is used. Wear comfortable shoes (there’s standing and dancing) and maybe layers as club venues can warm up under lights.Final Tip: Have fun and explore – Bottom Lounge is as much a bar scene as it is a concert hall. Many fans make a night of it by grabbing dinner early, enjoying a show, then hitting one of the nearby bars or even the comedy/magic clubs a few blocks away (remember, other venues like The Hideout or Empty Bottle are a short taxi ride). If you plan to stay late, note that the 24-hour Blue Line and certain buses (like the #8 Halsted) are reliable for late-night transit. Keep an eye on your belongings (concert crowds), and you’ll enjoy one of Chicago’s liveliest music venues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I purchase tickets for a Bottom Lounge show?
Tickets are sold via the official channels listed on Bottom Lounge’s website and affiliated box offices. There is occasionally a door box office if the show is not sold out. For best availability, buy in advance when ticket sales open. Avoid unverified resale tickets – the venue warns that counterfeit tickets are common and will not be honored (bottomlounge.com ).
What are typical ticket prices at Bottom Lounge?
Prices vary by show. Smaller or local acts often have cheaper tickets (e.g. advance tickets often in the mid-$teens), while bigger touring acts or holiday shows can run $25–$35. A 2008 article noted many shows at Bottom Lounge ran $16–$20 (www.chicagomag.com ). Expect door/advance surcharges on top of face value. Many younger fans report that weekday shows tend to be cheaper, with weekend bills commanding higher prices.
Can I buy tickets at the door if a show isn’t sold out?
If an event is not sold out online, tickets may still be available at the door until show time. The Bottom Lounge operates a box office on-site for night-of ticket sales. However, there is no guarantee of availability – popular shows often sell out weeks in advance and the venue stops selling entirely when that happens. Checking the venue’s schedule and buying early is recommended.
What should I do if an event is listed as “sold out”?
Once Bottom Lounge runs out of tickets, there is no waiting list. The venue explicitly advises against buying from scalpers or secondary sites, as many resold tickets are counterfeit (bottomlounge.com ). If you miss the initial on-sale, you may try checking social media for any official last-minute releases or consider another night’s show.
What is the address of Bottom Lounge and how can I get there by public transit?
Bottom Lounge is located at 1375 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60607 (just west of Halsted). The venue is easy to reach by train or bus. On the CTA, the closest stops are the Ashland station (Green/Pink Lines at Ashland & Lake) – a short walk east (chicagovenues.wordpress.com ) – and the Clinton station (Blue Line at Clinton & Lake) just a couple blocks northeast (www.transitchicago.com ). CTA buses #8 (Halsted), #20 (Madison) and #9 (Ashland) all stop one or two blocks from the club. For late-night travel, the Blue Line and the Halsted bus run 24/7.
Is there parking available near the venue?
There is no dedicated Bottom Lounge lot. Street parking is available on nearby side streets, timed by meters (pay attention to posted evening restrictions). Several privately-run parking garages are within a few blocks (prices often ~$15–$25 for an evening). Advanced reservation apps like SpotHero or ABM can find spaces nearby. If you prefer Park-&-Ride, the nearest CTA lot is at Montrose (Blue Line) – park there and take the train in. Many visitors find it easier to use rideshare/cabs (drop off on Halsted just south of Lake) due to limited parking.
What is the capacity and seating arrangement inside Bottom Lounge?
Bottom Lounge’s main hall holds roughly 500–700 people on its flat, open floor (chicago.suntimes.com ). There are no fixed seats – it’s general admission standing room in front of the stage with bar tables around the perimeter. Upstairs is a separate “Volcano Room” space (with dining tables and its own bar/second stage); it can fit ~330 standing (or ~210 if seated) (bottomlounge.com ). The venue’s production was built for these sizes, so everyone is fairly close to the action. In short, plan to stand on the floor for good views; the raised rear area and upstairs seating offer a different perspective but fewer sightlines to the main stage.
Is Bottom Lounge wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The venue has an elevator between floors and ADA-accessible restrooms. The main floor is flat and can accommodate wheelchairs, and the upstairs dining area (Volcano Room) is also reachable by elevator (bottomlounge.com ) (bottomlounge.com ). Staff are usually available to assist if needed. (Note that the rooftop deck is also accessible via the elevator.)
What is the venue’s bag and coat-check policy?
You may bring a small daypack or purse, but security will search it on entry. Large backpacks and exterior booze/food are not allowed (bottomlounge.com ). The Bottom Lounge provides a coat check for jackets and small items at $5 cash per item (bottomlounge.com ) – however the coat check does not accept larger bags or purses. In other words, check your coat but keep your bag on you during the show.
Are phones and cameras allowed inside?
Cell phones and point-and-shoot cameras are fine for personal use – many fans take photos. However, professional cameras (with detachable lens or large body) require a media pass and band permission (bottomlounge.com ). No flash photography or recording is permitted without permission. Feel free to use your phone to capture moments, but respect others’ viewing.
Does Bottom Lounge have food and drinks on site?
Yes. There are two full bars (one on each level) with beer, wine and cocktails. The in-house kitchen serves pub-style fare: sandwiches (subs and burgers), salads, soup and snacks (tater tots are often praised) (www.tripadvisor.com ) (bottomlounge.com ). Vegetarian/vegan options and gluten-free tweaks are usually available. Expect standard bar pricing. Note the restaurant area is only open during events (typically 5–10pm on show nights); outside that time, outside dining options are in the neighborhood.
Are there any age restrictions or dress codes?
There is no general dress code – patrons are usually casual. Each show listing will state an age restriction (for example, “17 & Over” or “All Ages”) and these are enforced at entry. The restaurant and rooftop deck are always 21+ regardless of the show (bottomlounge.com ). If underage, you should be ready to present ID and have a guardian if required. Leave the formalwear at home; most people wear jeans, band T-shirts, etc. Comfortable shoes are recommended for standing during the concert.
What COVID-19 policies does Bottom Lounge have?
Policies may change, so check the latest update. As of early 2023, Bottom Lounge does not require proof of vaccination or masks for entry; they follow Chicago’s guidelines (bottomlounge.com ). Still, it’s wise to maintain good hygiene in crowds. For the latest rules (especially around health advisories), consult the venue’s website or social media shortly before your visit.
Does Bottom Lounge offer shuttle service for sports games?
Yes. Bottom Lounge has historically run a shuttle bus for Chicago Blackhawks home games at the United Center. The club often markets itself as a pre-game gathering spot – you can watch games there and then take the venue’s bus to or from home games (bottomlounge.com ). Even if you’re not a hockey fan, this makes Bottom Lounge a convenient pit stop when heading to United Center events.
