Chicago, renowned for its deep-dish pizza and bustling city streets, is a prime vacation spot for fans of culture and live entertainment. Whether you’re into sports, music, or comedy, there are dozens of things to do and see. With more than 200 theaters showing classic Broadway hits and original theatre productions, Chicago is truly a performing arts capital. Learn more about four historic Chicago theaters that have stood the test of time and discover how to buy your event tickets easily and securely with TicketSmarter.
Auditorium Theatre Tickets: The Heart of Chicago’s Performing Arts
Auditorium Theatre tickets invite you to experience a venue that’s been the cornerstone of Chicago’s arts scene for more than 130 years. Designed by famed architects Dankmar Adler and Louis Sullivan, this theatre opened in December 1889, and quickly became one of the city’s most celebrated venues. The Auditorium Theatre was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1975, affirming its importance to Chicago’s cultural landscape.
This architectural icon is celebrated for its Romanesque facade and organic ornamental interior. Its foundation was ingeniously engineered to support the immense 110,000-ton weight on Chicago’s soft blue clay, making it the tallest and heaviest building in Chicago upon completion[1]. The theater boasts perfect acoustics, with architect Frank Lloyd Wright calling it “the greatest room for music and opera in the world — bar none”[2].
The theater seats 3,877 across an orchestra and three balconies and hosts more than 200 events annually, drawing a quarter of a million visitors. Former tenants include the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Grand Opera. Since 1998, it’s been the home of the world-renowned Joffrey Ballet.
- Notable productions: Miss Saigon, Les Misérables, The Color Purple, La Traviata
- Concerts by legends such as Jimi Hendrix, Elton John, and The Beach Boys
- Civic vision: The Auditorium Theatre was developed so all Chicagoans could access opera and the arts, solidifying the city’s status as a center of “democratic” cultural amenities[3].
Cadillac Palace Theatre: Classic Elegance Meets Broadway Excitement
Purchase genuine Cadillac Palace Theatre tickets and step into a Chicago institution with nearly a century of history. The Cadillac Palace Theatre, opened in 1926 as the New Palace Theatre, was designed by the Rapp Brothers, drawing inspiration from the Fontainebleau and the Palace of Versailles. Its ornate interior features decorative mirrors, violet and white marble, gold leafing, and intricate brass ornamentation. During World War II, brass elements were painted white to avoid being requisitioned—a clever act only discovered during later restoration[4].
The venue has evolved over decades—screening films, hosting pre-Broadway tours, and even serving as a rock venue as the Bismarck Theatre in the 1980s. Following a 1999 renovation, it’s once again a top-tier destination for Broadway showcases including The Color Purple, The Lion King, family hits like Shrek the Musical, and Aladdin – The Musical.
Classic and contemporary productions all season
Rich French-style decor and grand seating
Accessible seating—use TicketSmarter’s interactive maps
Chicago Theatre: A Beloved Windy City Icon
Chicago Theatre tickets grant you access to one of Chicago’s—and the Midwest’s—most recognizable venues, known for its illuminated seven-story ‘Chicago’ marquee. Since its 1921 opening, this Baroque movie palace has set the standard for extravagance in design and entertainment.
This forerunner among movie theaters was the first of 28 built by the Balaban and Katz company. Its lobby holds 800 guests, and its French Baroque murals echo throughout the venue. The theater’s marquee has appeared in countless films and TV shows; even the neon font was seen in the Academy Award-winning adaptation of Chicago. The Chicago Theatre is managed by Madison Square Garden Inc. (MSG Inc.) and features regular performances by everyone from Duke Ellington to Arcade Fire, Prince, Kelly Clarkson, and Diana Ross.
- Lavish design including a Wurlitzer pipe organ, and murals
- Seating capacity: 3,600; Spacious grand lobby
- VIP, mobile, accessible ticket options available
Nederlander Theatre: Broadway Magic in the Heart of Chicago
The James M. Nederlander Theatre, originally the Oriental Theatre, opened in 1926 as a movie palace and vaudeville venue. Built on the site of the former Iroquois Theatre, the building underwent a $13.5 million renovation before reopening as the Oriental-Ford Center for the Arts in 1998. It was renamed after Nederlander—founder of Broadway In Chicago—in 2019.
Nederlander Theatre has hosted acts including Frank Sinatra, Ragtime, Judy Garland, Pretty Woman – The Musical, and more. Today, it features hit touring Broadway productions like Wicked.
- Modern amenities after major renovation; seating capacity: 2,253
- Use TicketSmarter for interactive seat view comparisons and secure transactions
- Tickets often available for exclusive last-minute events
How to Buy Chicago Theatre Tickets with Confidence
Buy your tickets for any iconic Chicago event confidently with TicketSmarter. The official marketplace offers mobile ticketing, interactive seating charts, and secure checkout—guaranteeing authentic access even for sold-out shows.
- Compare seat sections and prices instantly to find cheap last-row or premium VIP suites.
- Accessible seating—reserve through interactive TicketSmarter maps.
- Buyer guarantees ensure your tickets are valid and transferable.
- Check out exclusive Chicago travel deals and the Chicago sports guide to round out your visit.
FAQ: Chicago Iconic Venue Event Tickets
Where is the best place to buy guaranteed tickets for sold-out Chicago theater events?
For sold-out theater performances at venues like The Chicago Theatre, TicketSmarter provides a secure and verified marketplace. Each purchase includes a guarantee that your tickets are authentic and grant you entry to the event.
How can I find cheap last-row or balcony seats for Chicago concerts?
TicketSmarter’s interactive seat maps allow you to compare various sections and price points at Chicago venues. Cheap last-row seats are often available and can be filtered on the platform to fit your budget.
Are accessible seating and VIP suites available at historic Chicago theaters?
Yes, all major Chicago venues offer accessible seating and, for special events, VIP suites or premium experiences. TicketSmarter provides clear seating charts, making it easy to reserve ADA seating or inquire about exclusive suite amenities.
Can I buy tickets for touring Broadway shows like “Les Misérables” or “Aladdin” in Chicago?
Absolutely. Visit TicketSmarter to purchase Les Misérables tickets or Aladdin – The Musical tickets when these celebrated productions are on stage at Chicago venues.
Do Chicago venues accept mobile tickets for entry?
Most venues—including the Auditorium Theatre and Chicago Theatre—now require mobile tickets for entry. Be sure to download your tickets from TicketSmarter to your device before arrival, and make sure your phone is charged.
How does TicketSmarter help buyers avoid ticket scams for iconic Chicago events?
TicketSmarter only lists tickets from vetted sellers and offers a 100% ticket guarantee for authenticity. Always buy from official sources like TicketSmarter to ensure safe, scam-free purchases for Chicago’s iconic venues.
References
Cadillac Palace Theatre | Wikipedia
Architecture | Auditorium Theatre
National Historic Landmark | The Auditorium Theatre
Auditorium Building of Roosevelt University | Chicago Architecture Center
Written by: TicketSmarter Editorial Team
Description: TicketSmarter is a leading, trusted source for Seattle concert tickets and iconic venue events, committed to customer security and up-to-date event info.
Updated date: September 8, 2025
