The Vic Theatre
The Vic Theatre
3.5
Monday
12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Friday
12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Full view
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The area
Address
Neighborhood: North Side
How to get there
- Belmont • 1 min walk
- Wellington • 5 min walk
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
3.5
67 reviews
Excellent
18
Very good
27
Average
11
Poor
4
Terrible
7
wildlifeship
Chicago, IL739 contributions
Jul 2022
Had a great night. Good vibe standing or sitting in seat upstairs. Friendly staff short lines at upstairs bar was nice. Saw The Airborne Toxic Event.
Written 14 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kelsey B
Chicago, IL8 contributions
Nov 2019
Never again will I buy a ticket for this venue. Be warned, check the fine print about bags or they’ll be extremely rude about not letting you in. Paid for a ticket only to be told I’d absolutely not be let in because subjectively my bag was too bag. After telling them I had no other options as I live 45 minutes from the venue, I was basically told that wasn’t my problem. Do not buy tickets for this venue.
Written 8 November 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Stormy999
1 contribution
Sep 2019
I came to Chicago from Detroit to see a show at the Vic Theater and had a fabulous time! I had an issue when I ordered my tickets and called the theater from home. "Skid" answered my phone call and was soooo helpful! Thanks again, Skid!!! I loved everything about the theater and the Adam Ant show was incredible! The theater is beautiful and is an excellent place to see great entertainment up close!!
Written 12 September 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Nicole K
Chicago, IL1 contribution
May 2019 • Couples
I am so sad that I have to write this review. As others have said, the security and front of house staff really do not understand customer service or safety. As someone who once worked venues, I understand the importance of following procedure and protocol to ensure everyone's. safety. But there is a fine line between following clear written policy and really destroying someone's experience. My boyfriend who is always hesitant to go to shows with me went above and beyond to purchase us Monster Ballads Experience tickets to my one of my favorite bands. I was so excited for this event. We got to The Vic early to check in. We got a special (large) packet of swag. After waiting an extra 30 mins for entrance they told us and another couple that our purses were too big for entry. Thos is the standard Madewell Medium Transport Tote. They produced a strange wooden box and even though my bag squished easily to fit in it I was denied entry. No bag check, no empathy. No time to return home and come back. Just yelling at us about a website policy. One that only states no large bags. No dimensions are listed. These are folks who make TSA look nice. I always brag on the beautiful venues and great customer service that Chicago has to offer. The Vic has proven me wrong. I'm sorry to say, I will not be back and I really hope you'll think twice before spending your hard earned dollars here.
Written 22 May 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
SusiWitt
Grayslake, IL48 contributions
May 2019 • Couples
The theater is old school cozy, which I love. My big issue is the way we were treated by security staff members. I am all for security, being treated rudely is not acceptable. They purposely split our group up, stopping the line just short of one of our group members, who had no ticket since they were on my phone. There were only four of us. Just exercising a tiny bit of power. Then the ticket collector acted annoyed that we had to wait for our one more person. Made a big deal about my purse not fitting in, even though it did if I closed it all up. If it’s raining, don’t bring an umbrella. They will tell you to leave them outside, no coat check either. We got to the event early to get first row balcony. Then were told we had to move because they were recording the event. We obliged, only to be shuffled from one security person to another. No one knew what was going on. Finally we were given seats, only to be told 10 minutes before the event that we couldn’t sit there either! Argued with us when we tried to explain that we were escorted to these seats. People were now sitting in our original seats and all that were left were seats WAY in back. Now we are 50 year old adults, not youngsters, so I was truly offended in the demeanor we were treated. Finally, they let us sit where they put us and did enjoy the show. Management really needs to address professional development.
Written 19 May 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
BTS & TXT STAN
5 contributions
May 2019 • Friends
I went and saw the Tomorrow by Together showcase. Before the tickets went on sale for the May 12th event (Tickets went on sale April 8th, I think) I called asking information for the event. They didn't know the expected duration, but the show was about a month away at that time. I asked about the camera policy. The regular camera policy is vague and they claimed would allow point and shoot cameras. So a week later around the teens of April I called again hoping to get more information to see if it is possible to bring my Fujifilm instant camera. They didn't know, so that was great. Called again a week before to ask if there was more information, they confirmed that what the person before said. When calling I stated the show that I wanted to see. On the website with the description of the show, the rules contradict what standard Vic regulations are. Still, I thought that it would be alright if I could bring a camera along with an instant. I waited in line before the show started and the k-pop community is so nice to offer gifts. The neighborhood was pleasant looking and not the "scary" Chicago that people think of. They opened the doors and ran their hands through my bag and within 4 minutes of opening the doors I was inside. While in line for getting my bags checked they said I couldn't bring my camera. I WAS SHOOK! I called multiple times asking for information, and now my ride has to come back because the staff decided to not care about customers even though I said the show I was going to. They afterward said that it has always been their policy of having no cameras, During the show, I saw so many dang phones recording, so I'm kinda "mad". Won't go back unless TXT returns, but they probably won't pick this place again. The music was loud ( good tho) it was loud enough to hear over the fan's screams. The bars were a little sticky that was in the balcony area. Should have turned the performer's mics up when they spoke.
Just expected more for the price.
Just expected more for the price.
Written 17 May 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Calish
Chicago, IL565 contributions
May 2019 • Solo
I didn’t have any issue with the theater, I think it’s very convenience and cozy, perfect if you want to see your favorite artist close by without paying high price to be on front row. Since the theater isn’t that big from any angle you can see good the stage, I was on the mezzanine section in seat 401 and I loved my view to the stage of the concert I attended. Only I think they should improve maybe was the women’s bathroom because before getting to the concert the line to got into the bathroom was so long that they have girls had to use boys bathroom. Other than this great place and perfect location.
Written 15 May 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dawn D
64 contributions
Apr 2018
Ihave been going to shows at the Vic since I was a teenager. I love the atmosphere and and old theater ambience. I also like the size. Sound is not always great but that might be just the band sometimes. Looking forward to taking my daughter here some day.
Written 27 January 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Nonesuch123
Chicago, IL11 contributions
Dec 2018 • Couples
The first time we went wasn't too bad. The balcony seating was no less comfortable than a number of theaters. Not great, not horrible. The line was long as security was... well, we had to leave our umbrellas outside. They don't have a coat check?
Well this last time was really unacceptable. Security split men and women into separate lines. Everyone was patted down. The guards treated us like criminals. Purses over a certain size were not allowed. WTF! Was the woman ahead of me supposed to leave her purse outside like we had to do with our umbrellas?
This time, we had seats on the main floor. Folding chairs had NO padding and were jammed so tightly together that men with broad shoulders had to lean forward, squish the person beside them or both. A couple in the row ahead of us was so uncomfortable, they left after about 40 minutes.
They had a great act that night, but it was hard to enjoy it. We won't be back. I don't need to pay good money to be disrespected.
Well this last time was really unacceptable. Security split men and women into separate lines. Everyone was patted down. The guards treated us like criminals. Purses over a certain size were not allowed. WTF! Was the woman ahead of me supposed to leave her purse outside like we had to do with our umbrellas?
This time, we had seats on the main floor. Folding chairs had NO padding and were jammed so tightly together that men with broad shoulders had to lean forward, squish the person beside them or both. A couple in the row ahead of us was so uncomfortable, they left after about 40 minutes.
They had a great act that night, but it was hard to enjoy it. We won't be back. I don't need to pay good money to be disrespected.
Written 13 December 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
billharrison56
Chicago, IL15 contributions
Nov 2018 • Couples
I attended two events recently at the Vic. The good news: The venue is has charm and intimacy, as it's a venerable Chicago institution. The sound quality for both spoken word and music performances was very good. The bad news: Their security protocols and people are arbitrary and rude. The first event took place on a rainy day when many people were carrying umbrellas (like you do). Security confiscated them and would not offer any assurance that they'd still be there after the event. WTF? Second event: Once again, security folks were rude, especially to the women. My wife overheard one of them tell another patron that they couldn't enter the venue because their handbag was too large, even after they thoroughly searched it. I don't recall there being any indication when I purchased tickets that umbrellas or large purses were disallowed. Then there were the awful, squeezed together folding chairs (for which we paid the same price as the regular, decent chairs) which were extremely uncomfortable and way too small. I doubt I'll ever go to another event at The Vic, which is too bad, since they have some interesting acts. But the rudeness and poor communication as well as the folding chairs suck and are totally unnecessary.
Written 9 December 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
melissa s
Chicago, IL
Is there any seating/chairs in the accessibility area or is it exclusively for wheelchairs?
Thank you!
Katie
Chicago, IL
How much cheaper is it to buy tickets in person? Online I’m seeing a $3 service fee and a $10 order fee. Which one of these is waived by purchasing tickets at the box office?
czoogie
Algonquin, IL
There are several different prices for a concert, range from $35-$93 what is the difference if it’s all general admission?
Mark37Chicago
River Forest, IL93 contributions
I doubt they are all general admission. Last time I was there, the main floor was standing only, and there was a balcony with seats and some old fashioned box seats with chairs on the side. My memory is that I didn’t pay any extra for the balcony, but that the box seats cost extra.
rhythmicassault
Chicago, IL
My dad is a disabled veteran. He is not wheelchair bound but uses a cane and cannot stand for long periods of time. There is a show he wants to go to, but he’s not sure if it’s worth it to buy tickets. Is there anywhere for him to sit and enjoy a show?
Mark37Chicago
River Forest, IL93 contributions
Also, this is Wrigleyville - parking is notoriously difficult. There is a red line stop nearly in sight of the Vic - maybe a block? Uber would be a good choice.
lbookie
Saint Louis, MO58 contributions
Can anyone tell me where the stage door at the Vic is located? Looking to catch an autograph after a show. Thanks!
reneeluckenbach
Columbus, OH
I am concerned. First time visit to Vic Theater this coming Jan 31 for Adam ant show. I need wheelchair accessible area but on Yelp I have read there is a designated area for this BUT when you have those standing in front of you in wheelchair you cannot see anything but folks rear ends. Has the Vic taken this into consideration?...where is this area for wheelchair bound visitors supposed to sit to watch the show?...floor or balcony?..tell me where please.
redtif666
Chicago, IL6 contributions
Vic has 2 small platforms on each side of hall for wheelchair seating. Platform is raised, so view should not be obstructed. Same holds true for their Riviera venue. Call to reserve spot
Jamie G
Crown Point, IN
We are going to see JJ Greyband Mofro 11/19/16. Will the seating section upstairs be open for sure? I heard it's only open for certain shows...
paintgirlchgo
Chicago, IL353 contributions
Probably best to call The Vic direct and ask. I've never been there when the upstairs was closed -- but better safe than sorry.
Jim W
Leduc County,Alberta1 contribution
I worked in the Hall in about 1986 and did a lot of work there, in order to do the Show. The show was the 25th Anniversary TV Special for HBO. It aired on HBO in the US and on the CBC Network in Canada. I can remember that we had to hang trusses, basically re-wire the stage electrics, bring in truck loads of lights from Pete's Lighting. Lot of work but it was a good show. Always wondered what had happened to the Hall but I see it is still on the go. Hope to get down there this summer, who is your stage manager now? I would really like to have a short tour of the facility if that is possible?
Does this venue have wifi? I have a friend who isn't able to attend and was wondering so that I could video chat her while I attend, so she can see bits and bobs of the show. If you reply, thank you so much :-)
diderot61
Sao Paulo, SP166 contributions
I don't t think so. Usually the wifi available at the venue is just for the band and crew as I'd seen in other venues.
On the other hand you could disturb people close to you with the light of your cell phone,
THE VIC THEATRE (Chicago) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about The Vic Theatre
- The Vic Theatre is open:
- Mon - Fri 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
- Sat - Sat 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Hotels near The Vic Theatre:
- (0.10 km) City Suites Hotel Chicago
- (0.14 km) Old Chicago Inn featuring Room 13
- (0.94 km) Hotel Zachary, Chicago, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
- (0.86 km) Best Western Plus Hawthorne Terrace Hotel
- (1.26 km) Chicago Guest House
- Restaurants near The Vic Theatre:
- (0.04 km) Chicago Bagel Authority
- (0.06 km) Blaze Pizza
- (0.13 km) Giordano's
- (0.18 km) Ann Sathers Restaurant
- (0.07 km) Cheesie's Pub & Grub - Lakeview
- Attractions near The Vic Theatre:
- (0.08 km) Berlin
- (0.16 km) Around the World Tobacco
- (0.07 km) Big City Tap
- (0.25 km) Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding
- (0.15 km) Groovin High