About Logan Square Auditorium
The Logan Square Auditorium (LSA) is a historic ballroom-style event venue in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood, built around 1915 (logansquareauditorium.com ). Housed in a grand three-story building (designed by architects Worthmann & Steinbach), it retains vintage charm with its high ceilings, arched windows and ornate details – even a landmark terra cotta eagle on the facade linking it to the Illinois Centennial Monument (www.maitriwoman.com ) (www.maitriwoman.com ). The main hall spans roughly 3,000 square feet and can accommodate a large crowd – roughly 500 people seated or up to about 700 standing (directory.bizbash.com ) (rallyvite.com ). Despite its age, the space has been updated with modern creature comforts, including a state-of-the-art sound system and a full-service bar (logansquareauditorium.com ). This mix of historic character and modern amenities makes LSA unique; it serves as a cornerstone venue for Logan Square’s arts scene while also remaining a popular spot for weddings and community events.
Events and Programming
LSA hosts a wide variety of events. On weekends you’ll find live music ranging from indie-rock to world and electronic music. Notable past shows include national and international acts – for example, an indie group billed as “Steely Dane” performed there in February 2024 (www.concertarchives.org ), and the Peruvian band Novalima headlined on Indigenous Peoples’ Day 2023 (www.concertarchives.org ). K-pop bands like Pixy have appeared as well, reflecting Logan Square’s diverse cultural crowd. The venue also regularly hosts Chicago-area favorites: indie bands, tribute acts, and even wrestlers. For example, AAW Pro Wrestling held its “Art of War” show here (with tickets $25–$30) (logansquareauditorium.com ), and promoters like Freelance Wrestling stage frequent matches. In addition to concerts and sports, LSA is a popular banquet hall – it’s equipped to host weddings, fundraisers, corporate parties, and holiday events. Recurring events have included monthly “Logan Square House Party” dance nights, the annual Wintercamp music festival, and various cultural celebrations. Because it appeals to both concert crowds and private event planners, the programming is very eclectic: from DJ dance parties and Latin dance nights to folk concerts and comedy shows.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for most LSA events are sold online through the venue’s website or the event promoter – often via ticketing services (e.g. Ticketbud) – and sometimes at the door if not sold out. Popular shows often sell out in advance, so it’s wise to buy tickets as soon as they go on sale (promoter pages and social media will announce dates). There is no traditional on-site box office; instead, tickets labeled “will-call” can usually be picked up at the door on the day of the show. Pricing varies widely by event: local DJ nights or amateur shows may be as low as $5–$10, while bigger bands and special events can range $20–$50 or more. For example, a touring indie band (Kings Kaleidoscope) charged $25–$60 per ticket (logansquareauditorium.com ). Wrestling and festival events often use tiered pricing (general admission vs. reserved tables) as well. If tickets remain, a limited number may be available at the door – typically at a slightly higher price – but there are no guarantees, so buying in advance is the best strategy. Special VIP or meet-and-greet tickets are rare but may be offered for certain concerts.
Seating and Layout
The main event space is one large open room (no fixed balcony) with a stage at one end. For concerts and dance parties the floor is generally unseated, with standing-room “general admission” near the stage. Some events roll in folding chairs toward the back of the room or along sidewalls, and certain shows set up tables or tiered seating in front. In a few shows (like wrestling or boxing), ringside tables are sold at premium rates. For example, a recent AAW wrestling card offered front-row tables ($30 each) versus second-row ($25) versus GA standing ($20) (logansquareauditorium.com ). Acoustically, the high-ceilinged hall is quite lively; sound can be powerful up front but tends to blend together in the rear. Attendees note that getting right up near the stage gives the best sight-lines. Be aware that the floor can get crowded, and there are no balconies or side platforms – everyone stands at essentially the same flat level. If you want to avoid being jammed at the front, picking a spot along one of the side walls or toward the middle-back works better. In general, the entire audience area has relatively good sight lines unless the crowd is very dense.
Getting There and Parking
Logan Square Auditorium is located at 2539 N Kedzie Boulevard (near the Logan Square monument park) (directory.bizbash.com ). It sits in the heart of Logan Square’s commercial district just a block east of Milwaukee Ave. The venue is well served by public transit: the CTA “L” Blue Line (Logan Square station at Milwaukee & Logan) is about a 5-minute walk north (go east on Logan Blvd, then south on Kedzie). The CTA Pink Line also stops at Kedzie & Milwaukee (two blocks away). Several bus routes run nearby (Chicago’s #56 Milwaukee and #50 Kedzie stop within a few blocks). Divvy bike stations are within walking distance along Milwaukee and Kedzie for cyclists. If driving, there is no dedicated parking lot attached to LSA. Street parking is available on nearby residential streets (metered during workday hours, often free nights/weekends). Reviewers note that on event nights there is “accessible street parking nearby” thanks to the wide boulevards (rallyvite.com ). A few public parking options sit just a short walk away – for example, the Park District lot at Western Avenue (Cortland/Kedzie) or the Regal Cinema garage at North & Western (roughly 0.5 mile east on North Ave). These lots are paid on event nights. Because parking can fill up quickly, many concertgoers prefer public transit or rideshare drop-offs. Rideshare/Uber/Lyft can drop off right on Kedzie by the door; do note that late-night pickup can be slower, as some attendees comment that it can be a “pain to get a ride” after a weekend show (forum.chorus.fm ).
Inside the Venue
Upon entry you’ll pass through security and ticket scanning at the front doors. The interior is a single large hall finished in polished hardwood floors and painted plaster walls, with a high decorative ceiling and stage lighting rigs hanging from above. A long bar runs along one side of the hall, serving beer, wine and mixed drinks to guests (remember to bring cash – some events have cash-only bars). Most nights the main space is dimly lit apart from stage lights; during a few events (like community gatherings) the house lights may be on. There is no in-house kitchen, so food is generally not sold inside (you’ll need to eat before or after at nearby restaurants). Restrooms are located through a doorway near the bar: there are a few single-stall men’s and women’s restrooms. They are small and occasionally crowded during rushes. The venue does allow outside food and non-alcoholic drinks (e.g. bottled water) to be brought in if needed, since there’s no cafeteria or concession stand. A coat check is usually not available, so plan to carry small bags if possible. Mobile phone service is typically available for texting and calls, but there is no public Wi-Fi – so download any tickets or tickets apps beforehand. The house sound and lighting are controlled from a booth at the back of the room; expect a live sound mix that fills the room. One reviewer mentioned the LSA can get quite warm on sold-out nights (historic buildings often lack strong A/C), so dress comfortably. Accessibility-wise, note that the main hall is up one flight of stairs from the street level entrance, which can be a challenge for guests who need elevators. (There is an accessible restroom stall on the ground floor, but access to the third-floor auditorium depends on the event staff.) In general, arriving at least 30–45 minutes before showtime is wise: this allows time for parking or transit, security checks, and finding a good spot inside before the crowd fills in.
Nearby Amenities
Logan Square Auditorium is flanked by some of the neighborhood’s best eateries and nightlife. In fact, at street level right beneath the venue you’ll find Lula Cafe and Billy Sunday (www.maitriwoman.com ). Lula Cafe (just steps from LSA) is a famous farm-to-table restaurant known for its brunch and vegetarian-friendly menu; Billy Sunday is a craft cocktail and wine lounge with a hip atmosphere. Both are ideal for pre-show meals. A few blocks away on Milwaukee Avenue are more casual options like Big Star Taco & Tequila or Pop’s for grab-and-go dinners. The area has many bars and pubs – for example The Owl’s Nest Tavern (craft beer) and Logan Arcade (games + bar) – if you want drinks before or after the event. Coffee shops, bakeries and pizza spots (e.g. Dinkel’s Donuts, Hamburger Mary’s, Spring Hill Brewery) are all nearby too. If you need a late-night snack after a show, many restaurants in Logan stay open or deliver until midnight. For lodging, there are no major hotels on the immediate block, but downtown Chicago is only a short drive/ride away. Guests often stay in nearby Wicker Park or West Town hotels, or in the Loop, then take CTA to Logan. If you plan to make a night of it, consider arriving early to enjoy dinner in Logan Square and maybe a stroll around the square itself (the Illinois Centennial fountain and park are right across Kedzie Blvd). Public transit runs late – the CTA Blue Line operates 24/7 – so late-night rides home are available even after a late concert.
What Makes This Venue Special
Logan Square Auditorium offers a blend of historic ambiance and local charm you won’t find in many other Chicago venues. Its century-old architecture and vintage decor (high-arched windows, ornate plasterwork and the iconic eagle relief) give events a timeless feel (www.maitriwoman.com ) (www.maitriwoman.com ). Yet it functions as a fully modern performance space with professional sound and lighting. The location atop a busy restaurant row makes going to a show here a unique all-in-one outing: you arrive amid Logan Square’s lively culture and can dine steps away before or after. Artists and fans often praise the intimate, high-energy atmosphere – bands appreciate how close they are to the crowd, and audiences enjoy the warm “living room” vibe even on big nights. Logan Square Auditorium has become a community hub, hosting benefit concerts, cultural festivals, dance events and even the occasional lecture or comedy show. Its versatility is key: one night it might feel like a rock club with fog machines and a packed dance floor; the next night a graceful wedding hall with banquet tables. Long-time Chicago concertgoers note that while the acoustics can be a bit “muddy” in the very back due to the open space, the sound upfront is punchy and satisfying. In other words, LSA’s old-school charm and central Logan Square location give it a personality that both visitors and locals love – it feels like a hidden gem in Chicago’s concert circuit, and a beloved gathering place for the Logan community.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: As an historic building, LSA has limited wheelchair access. The main event floor is up one flight of stairs from street level, so guests with mobility issues should contact the venue ahead of time about accommodations. (An accessible restroom is available on the first floor.) For most visitors, take the Logan Square CTA Blue Line exit and walk east on Logan Blvd then south on Kedzie – the walk is less than 0.3 miles. (www.maitriwoman.com ) Blue Line trains run throughout the night, making late returns possible. Bus #56 (Milwaukee) also stops at Kedzie every few blocks.
What to Bring/Not Bring: You can bring a small bag or backpack, but large duffels will slow you down. Standard concert items like a phone camera, earplugs (if you’re sensitive to loud music), a photo ID and cash are advised. The bar is usually cash-only, and many reviewers have noted this, so having cash for drinks helps. Outside food and non-alcoholic drinks (water bottles, etc.) are permitted since there’s no in-house food service. Smoking is not allowed inside (by City law), but guests often step outside for cigarettes during intermissions. Photography with phones is fine, but professional cameras or tripods often require permission from the promoter. There is no coat check, so dress appropriately for Chicago weather or carry a small garment bag.
Age Restrictions: Admission policy depends on the event. Since LSA has a liquor license, many concerts and dance nights are 21+. However, some shows (especially family events, comedy or certain rock shows) may allow all ages; this should be clearly stated on the ticket or event listing. If you plan to attend under 21, double-check the event’s age rules. At any event serving alcohol, staff will check ID at the bar.
Arrival Time: Doors typically open 30–60 minutes before the posted showtime. Arriving early means you can avoid lines, pick a front-row spot, or find a nearby parking spot. For sold-out shows, even early arriving guests sometimes queue on Kedzie Blvd. You may also want to plan time for dinner at Lula or Billy Sunday right before the event.
Technology & Phones: There is no public Wi-Fi, so ensure you have any digital tickets downloaded to your phone in advance. Cell phone service works reasonably well inside the hall, though if you need to step outside for a signal you may hear the music from the street. Many performers allow casual phone photography (no flash), but do check if recording or flash photography is prohibited on a given night.
Local Tips: If you have extra time, explore Logan Square’s dining scene – a visit here can easily include a pre-show meal or post-show dessert. The neighborhood is generally safe and walkable, but as with any late-night event, stay aware of your surroundings. After the show, CTA and rideshare are your best bets for getting home; remember that Logan Square trains run all night on the Blue Line. And finally, consider checking out other Logan venues while you’re here – for example, the Congress Theater (Milwaukee Ave.) and the Logan Theater (down the block) are historic neighbors in the area’s entertainment hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Logan Square Auditorium located?
It’s at 2539 N Kedzie Blvd in Chicago (60647), right in the Logan Square neighborhood. This places it just east of Milwaukee Avenue, near the Logan Square Monument. Public transit (CTA Blue Line “Logan Square” or Pink Line “Kedzie”) and buses easily reach it (directory.bizbash.com ).
What is the capacity of Logan Square Auditorium?
The venue can hold about 700 people standing or roughly 500 seated . The entire space is often booked for concerts or large gatherings, so you can think of it as a ~700-capacity concert hall (directory.bizbash.com ) (rallyvite.com ).
What types of events happen at Logan Square Auditorium?
LSA hosts pretty much everything from music concerts (rock, indie, world, K-pop, etc.) to dance nights, comedy shows and even pro wrestling. It’s also a popular wedding and event banquet hall. For example, a Steely Dan tribute band played in early 2024 and the Peruvian band Novalima performed in 2023 (www.concertarchives.org ). One night might be an indie rock gig, the next a DJ house party or a winter music festival.
How much do tickets cost?
Ticket prices vary by event. Small local gigs and house parties often ran $10–$15, while bigger touring acts were $25–$50 or more. For example, one indie rock show was $25-$60 (logansquareauditorium.com ). Headliners and special events can be higher. Always check the specific event listing for on-sale dates and pricing tiers; advanced purchase often saves money over the door price.
Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets are typically sold through the venue’s website or the event promoter’s site. Buy online (often via Ticketbud/Eventbrite) before the show, since popular events may sell out. If a show isn’t sold out, you can sometimes purchase at the door on the night of the event — but not all promoters offer door sales. There is no permanent box office on-site; if you see “will-call” on your ticket, plan to pick it up at the door when you arrive.
What is the venue layout and best place to stand?
The auditorium is one big open floor with a stage at one end. Most shows are standing-room general admission. The front center (near the stage) is where the action is but also usually the most crowded. If you prefer more space, the back or side walls are less cramped. There are no balconies, though some shows provide folding chairs or tables at the rear. For events with reserved seating (like fights), tiered pricing might apply (e.g. ringside tables vs. GA (logansquareauditorium.com )). Generally, arriving early helps you claim a good spot.
What are the seating options?
LSA doesn’t have fixed seats. For concerts and dance events it’s mostly open floor. Some promoters will set up folding chairs near the back for those who want to sit. Certain events (weddings, corporate seminars) will arrange banquet setup with tables and chairs. And for a few shows (like wrestling or boxing) you may buy reserved ringside tables at premium price (for example, $30 for first-row tables vs. $20 for general admission (logansquareauditorium.com )). Check the event listing: it will specify if seating is available or if it’s standing-only.
Is there parking at Logan Square Auditorium?
There is no private lot for the venue. Parking is mostly on surrounding city streets (residential side streets and the avenues around the square). Note the parking signs, since meters are enforced on weekdays. Many concertgoers use street parking; Logan Square’s wide boulevards mean there are often spots nearby (rallyvite.com ). For sold-out events or if street parking is full, the city’s parking garage on Western Ave (just east on North Ave) and the Park District lots (one near Lamborn Park/Western) are alternatives (paid). Tips: Arrive early to snag curb spots, or take public transit and avoid the hassle.
What public transit runs near Logan Square Auditorium?
The CTA Blue Line (Logan Square station) and the Pink Line (Kedzie station) both serve the area. From either station, it’s only a few blocks to the venue (Logan Square station is at Milwaukee & Logan Blvd; Kedzie station is at Milwaukee & Kedzie, which is two blocks north). Bus route 56 (Milwaukee) goes along Kedzie near the venue, and 50 (Kedzie) runs north-south a couple blocks away. These lines run late-night and are usually the easiest way to get to or from shows without parking.
Are there dress codes or policies I should know about?
LSA has a casual vibe – most people dress comfortably (jeans, T-shirts, etc.) for shows. There’s no formal dress code, but some performers might request nicer attire (for example at certain theater or dance events). Security will not allow weapons, illegal substances or large bags. Cameras are generally okay (most guests take photos), but professional cameras/video equipment often need prior approval. Smoking is prohibited indoors (no vaping inside either). One tip: bring a valid ID if you plan to drink, as the bartenders will card anyone who looks under 30 at the full liquor bar.
Does Logan Square Auditorium serve food?
No, there is no kitchen or food concessions inside. A bar serves alcohol and some snack items (like chips or popcorn), but no full meals. For dining, plan to eat before you arrive – the neighborhood has many popular restaurants just steps away (www.maitriwoman.com ). After the show you can grab late-night eats around the square. If you bring bottled water or small snacks, that’s usually allowed at the door.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
The historic stairway entrance can be difficult for wheelchairs. There is one wheelchair-accessible stall in the ground-level restrooms, but accessing the main third-floor hall requires navigating stairs (unless a special lift is arranged). If you need accommodations, contact the venue in advance. Otherwise, most guests enter through the front steps and proceed upstairs.
What is the age policy at Logan Square Auditorium?
It varies by event. Many concerts and dance parties are 21+ due to the bar, but some shows (comedy, family events, certain indie concerts) are all-ages. Always check the ticket or event announcement: it will say if the show is “21+” or “All Ages”. Even if a show is all-ages, anyone who appears under 30 will be ID-checked for alcohol.
Can I bring a camera or record video at shows?
Phone and point-and-shoot photography for personal use is generally allowed, but record or professional equipment usually requires permission from the promoter. In short, feel free to take casual photos, but respect any performer or staff requests about flash or video recording. It’s wise to assume flash photography (especially at concerts) is not allowed, unless the event announcement explicitly says photo-friendly.
