Chicago is the birthplace of house music, so it only makes sense that the city has some of the best house music venues in the country. Whether you’re a seasoned raver or just looking to explore, get ready to dance the night away to the infectious rhythms of house and techno at these six Chicago nightclubs.
Best Chicago Clubs for House and Techno Music
Podlasie
Podlasie pronounced “pohd-LA-shyeh” is a bar, lounge, and nightclub in Chicago’s Avondale neighborhood. Opening in 1986, it has provided locals and visitors alike with weekly DJs and events. It has been owned and operated by the same family with roots in the local Polish community.
The club room features house and techno DJs such as Miss Twink USA and Him Hun from Thursday through Saturday until 3 AM. Follow them on Instagram @podlasieclub to find out about their next event.
Courtesy of Aaron Rolle
Smartbar
SmartBar is a renowned nightclub that has become an integral part of Chicago’s music scene. As a hub for electronic music culture, SmartBar creates an inclusive and welcoming environment for music lovers and partygoers. The club attracts a diverse crowd, including devoted fans, industry professionals, and those seeking an unforgettable night out.
As a pioneer for house music, Smartbar is the ultimate hub for traditional and avant-garde house music in the city. Follow them on Instagram @smartbarchicago or check them out on Resident Advisor to check out their next event.
Courtesy of Smartbar
Spybar
Having been rated as one of the top ten dance clubs in the US by Rolling Stone, Spybar is always the place to be. Located in River North, just steps away from other historic nightclubs like Tao and Soundbar, it’s never a disappointing night out. Directly below street level, Spybar boasts a cozy 4,500 ft space featuring minimalist style decor featuring mod VIP tables if you want to feel luxurious.
Resident DJs Hiroko Yamamura, Intermodal, and Inphinity will whisk you away for a night you’ll never forget. Follow Spybar on Instagram or check out their website to find out about their next event.
Courtesy of Spybar
PRYSM
Come down to PRYSM near Chicago’s Goose Island neighborhood to hear some of the best beats on the weekends. Known as one of Chicago’s premier nightclubs and entertainment venues, PRYSM never disappoints. PRYSM hosts an impressive lineup of top-notch local and international DJs, catering to diverse musical tastes ranging from EDM and house to hip-hop and R&B.
The club’s unparalleled sound quality and dynamic performances create an electrifying atmosphere that keeps the dance floor packed throughout the night. Whether you’re a dedicated partygoer or new to Chicago, PRYSM is a great place to start and end the night. Check out their Instagram for upcoming events.
Courtesy of PRYSM
Le Nocturne
If you want a taste of what a real French nightclub is like, this is the place you need to go. Feel the pulses of fresh house music on the dancefloor as you dance the night away in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood.
Opening in 2019, Le Nocturne is relatively new to the Chicago house scene, but they’re already making waves. Le Nocturne is all about inclusivity and coming as you are, so hop on down to Le Nocturne for great house music and great people. Keep up with their website to find out about new events.
Courtesy of Le Nocturne
Soundbar
Soundbar is one of the many iconic clubs in Chicago’s River North district. Known for the hypnotic sounds of Techno, EDM, Hip-Hop, and house, there’s something for everyone at Soundbar. Showcasing 20,000 feet of space with a whopping 9 bars, and 4 lounges on two levels, this club is nothing short of amazing.
This Chicago-favorite showcases an impressive lineup of local and international DJs, known for their mastery of various music genres, including electronic dance music, house, techno, and hip-hop. The club’s energetic and diverse music offerings cater to a wide range of musical tastes, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every guest. Explore their new events on Instagram.
Courtesy of Soundbar
Chicago has one of the most vibrant club and music scenes in the entire country. Whether you’re a seasoned partygoer, or just visiting, these clubs provide an inclusive environment to listen to both local and internationally renowned DJs. Get ready to hit the dancefloor and lose yourself in the hypnotic beats of these iconic house and techno clubs.
