Jay Pritzker Pavilion

The Best Spots To Listen To Live Music Outside This Summer

"From June to September, The Jay Pritzker Pavilion in the Loop is one of the best places to listen to live music outside. Here, you can listen to a set from Wilco frontman Jeff Tweedy, return for some Tchaikovsky with The Grant Park Orchestra, and then come back on a weekend for Jazz Fest. Outside food and drink is allowed, which makes these concerts perfect for picnics. But if the mere thought of formulating a plan dries out your tongue, you can just grab a beer and bratwurst from one of the surrounding concession stands. Click here for the Millennium Park event calendar." - john ringor

On the Grid : Jay Pritzker Pavillion

"One of the crown jewels of Chicago architecture, this Frank Gehry designed bandshell in the middle of Millennium Park is easily one of the most beautiful public spaces in the country. It looks like a mountain of curved stainless steel panels stretching into the skyline with crisscrossing arches enclosing the field. It is a great spot to catch a free concert in the summer or just eat lunch in the park with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra as the soundtrack." - IA Collaborative

Jay Pritzker Pavilion - Review - Chicago - The Infatuation

"Jay Pritzker Pavillion, Loop. One of the crown jewels of Chicago architecture, this Frank Gehry designed bandshell in the middle of Millennium Park is easily one of the most beautiful public spaces in the country. It looks like a mountain of curved stainless steel panels stretching into the skyline with crisscrossing arches enclosing the field. It is a great spot to catch a free concert in the summer or just eat lunch in the park with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra as the soundtrack."

Chicago

Yosef Montgomery

Google

I finally was able to attend my first music in the park event and the event we attended was very memorable. Me, my girlfriend, and family recently came to see Common’s live performance with the Grant Park Orchestra. This was an experience of a life time. The place was packed with some of his biggest fans from Chicago. The conductor and the band out did themselves , and I can’t wait to come back for more events like movies in the park!

Aamir Pervez

Google

I visited Jay Pritzker Pavilion on Sunday Morning, it’s a nice place to visit and enjoy concerts. Sitting place is so nice at front they have sits and on back you can sit comfortably on grass. Atmosphere is great. Lot of people are enjoying sunlight and having fun. I would recommend must visit this place to see Beautiful Architecture and nice background skyscrapers 🏙️❤️

Judy Hall

Google

Starting with the Ushers… they were helpful and very polite! The seats are pretty good for stadium/bandstand seats… no real complaints! The acoustics are wonderful! You can bring food and something to drink in. I would suggest bringing your own because #1 the concession food is limited #2 As always, is expensive…but I did not know this beforehand so I did partake in eating and drinking from the concession. There is a very large grass area for you to bring your blanket or bag chairs and maybe a little foldout table to enjoy the venue as well. I would advise getting there early though to stake out your space because it gets really crowded depending on the event. Parking in the Millennium Garage will let you right within a few steps to the venue. As far as weather is concerned, unless it’s dangerous weather, the events will go on as planned, and there is no shelter so you need to be prepared with a poncho or umbrella. I definitely give the Pritzker Pavilion Millennium Park a high recommendation. Disclaimer: I know this heading shows Petrillo Music Shell…but I was actually across the street at the Pritzker Pavilion.

Leonard

Google

Perfect spot for the orchestra and sophisticated outdoor entertainment. Beautiful. The sound resonates. And spots to sit in the stand or patio. Really nice. Just wish there were monitors is the only thing.

Ethan F

Google

Great amd iconic site in the Millenium Park district of Downtown Chicago. They have programs that you can see online and check out some amazing concerts. Some are free. Lots of seating including grass seating. I've seen a few performances here and the acoustics are good for an outdoor venue. If you're in the area, make it a stop on your itinerary.

Viki Gossen

Google

The music is spread to this large area just right to hear well from any part of the lawn. Lots of people and no problems.

Nim Ja

Google

Great spot where you cannsee music for free on the grass or treat yourself and pay for a seat. I love places where music is accessible for all!! Yay Chicago !! I came here for a cello concert

mike jones

Google

Great place for concerts they had movies in the summer fun for the whole family so you can bring picnic baskets folding tables and chairs sit in the lawn they have food drink bathrooms clean and safe employees walking around and it's all free

Peter W.

Yelp

This is the place to see a concert. You're very welcome here if you flash your insurance card. Apparently, if you stayed at the Hilton, and there are several around this location, you are persona-non-grata. Segway tours are Segway tours, and if you're Married With Children, you'll probably get cancelled in ignominy. Oy ve. People sometimes complain about corporate sponsorship. All of a sudden, New Comiskey Park is Guaranteed Rate Field. And maybe Wrigley has always been corporate-sponsored, right? *wink* The hi's and lo's of outrageous fortune. The egress of tens of thousands past the local restroom, trying to decide whether it's better to hold it or get to thee to a restaurant. This high-life location is where it's at. Watch your wallets.

Sanjay G.

Yelp

The pavilion was named for Jay Pritzker, Hyatt Hotel chain founder and of course establisher of the Pritzker Prize for Architecture. Chicago can be considered both a city of architecture and the execution of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park can prove it. Canadian-American architect Frank Gehry stated that he would "like to design the relationship between the audience and the stage, and in so doing, he would answer the question of how to create an outdoor space "where the people who are far away from the orchestra feel like they are included in the performance. Placement of speakers might make you wonder- The twenty-two steel arches of the trellis, some of which span more than 400 feet, allow the speakers to be placed above the audience without blocking sight lines The pavilion is an open stage that seats upwards of 11,000 people in a mixture of fixed seats and the lawn and accommodates a full orchestra on stage. It includes 4000 fixed seats near the stage and can accommodate an additional 7000 people on the Great Lawn. Seating and lawn areas are built on top of a large underground carpark which remains very well concealed from pedestrians at ground level.

Monic L.

Yelp

This was my first time at the Jay Pritzer Pavilion and I had a great time. The place starts 11,000 people. 4000 in seats and the other there is lawn space. It is beautifully designed. I attended the Broadway In Chicago Free summer concert and for this event they had four entry points. They secure the perimeter so they can control who is coming in for an event. The line to get in was long but moved quickly to get through security. I was able to find a seat near the stage. The open air concept is so nice. You can enjoy from a seat or bring a blanket and lawn chair and have a picnic on the lawn area. They allow you to bring your own food and drinks in. The acoustics are great. And doesn't matter where you sit you'll be able to hear. The stage is pretty big and they utilize the space well. If I can make it to another concert out this way, I would do it again.

Yosef M.

Yelp

I finally was able to attend my first music in the park event and the event we attended was very memorable. Me, my girlfriend, and family recently came to see Common's live performance with the Grant Park Orchestra. This was an experience of a life time. The place was packed with some of his biggest fans from Chicago. The conductor and the band out did themselves , and I can't wait to come back for more events like movies in the park!

Monica N.

Yelp

Keep an eye out for events happening here! The events are always a lot of fun and there's so much space in this area. The pavilion itself has seating but you can also sit on the huge lawn. The seating is all first come first serve. My favorite events are the free movies in the park over the summer and the free concerts. During these events, there is a separate entrance that's closer to the Michigan and Randolph side. The reason for this is because you do have to walk through metal detectors.

Aesha E.

Yelp

Pritzker Pavillion is the "new" bandshell (as opposed to the Petrillo bandshell) downtown, located in Millennium Park. It is a Gehry masterpiece. There are many events held here, but my favorite of all of them is the Grant Park Music Festival. The Grant Park Symphony Orchestra is amongst the best in the country, and the GPMF events are free. Bring your picnic (they have contests!) and sit on the lawn whilst listening to the orchestra under the Chicago skyline. It's one of the most magical things to see the sun setting whilst taking in the music. In addition to the GPMF, there are concerts (a free concert series happens in summer; seeing Aimee Mann is one of my favorite Chicago memories), game shows (WWDTM has hosted a free summer show here), festival events, yoga, and so on. You know I'm going to throw some Chicago history and/or trivia at you! Way back in the early 20th century, A. Montgomery Ward (yes, he started the department store) led the charge to enshrine in ordinance a limit on the height of buildings and ensuring the lakefront was open. Pritzker runs afoul of this law. As such, it's classified as a work of art as opposed to a building to ensure that in construction it could resolve the legal issues surrounding it. The pavilion holds over 10,000 people, which is unbelievable to me but then I have no sense of measurement. Besides the lawn seats there are some permanent seats in the pavilion. And Millennium Park in general is one of the most accessible places in the city (it's won awards for accessibility), and that includes the Pritzker Pavilion, so folks using wheelchairs would generally be a be able to enjoy the park and the pavilion as well.

Fran C.

Yelp

While I was visiting the Millennium park to look at da "Bean", I came across a structure that peeked my interest so I had to go and check it out. I originally was not aware of this place, but it kind of reminded me of the "Waikiki Shell" we have back home (I'm from Hawaii), where it looked like it was an open air amphitheater that is used for concerts, & other functions. Upon walking around area to take a few pictures, I saw a sign that said that this amphitheater was called the - "Jay Pritzker Pavilion". Cool! Now I know what it is, and I decided to look up this pavilion on Google to edjumacate a Bruddah! For more information about the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, check out this interesting link about the pavilion - https://millenniumparkfoundation.org/art-architecture/pritzker-pavilion/ Upon looking at the activities that will be happening at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, I found out that Robert Plant (I am a big fan of Robert Plant of Led Zeppelin) & Alison Krauss will be performing there on June 7, 2022. Darn! I wished I was in Chicago again to see this event!!!! Anyways, during Covid-19 times, this amphitheater is the perfect venue should folks want to gather to enjoy an event, as it's open air so if there are larger crowds, it should be much safer to gather. Hopefully, one day I'll head back to Chicago to enjoy an event here at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.

Ernie H.

Yelp

How can you not give this 5 stars. I'm under the stars, in this case low flying clouds, listening to shows tune by the full grand park orchestra - oh did I mention there are cirque performances at the same time!! The acoustics is great for outdoors - barring the occasional ambulances in the background. Admission folks is how much folk's? Oh yeah it's complimentary! So check the Website out - pick a performance and show up - it's summer in Chicago!

Steve A.

Yelp

A good place for fun and cheap concerts. It usually has free events. Jay Pritzker Pavilion is one of the important structures in Millennium Park. It functions as a park well even without anything happening. The Pavilion has lots of green space. It often has free concerts by successful acts. Of course many of these are by classical and musical you may not know of. The seating isn't the best but has it been mentioned it's free, as in who cares it's free so no need to pay for this. Even if you aren't here for music there's plenty to enjoy. Mainly the beautiful architecture of the place to hang out. Good place to spend an afternoon. It even seems nice when there aren't any concerts. There's a big ass lawn to stretch out on and play around with someone or yourself.

Ariel M.

Yelp

Huge pavilion, attached to the BP pedestrian bridge which is a lovely walk. A great place to stop for some free shows on some weeknights in the summer and regardless it is still an interesting sight to see the architecture of it

Jacqueline B.

Yelp

We came here for the Blues Fest. The music was awesome, but it's best to keep in mind that this is not 'pc' music. Blues are not all whining and crying, it's also very sexy, sexist, and suggestive! One artist brings women dancers on for visual effect, but careful, the women can dish out their own brand of justice too. Bring a jacket to this fest, or dress in layers, as June can be warm during the day but freezing when the sun goes down! Also it's best to bring your own food. The Park lines were long, unorganized and the food was overpriced.

Orest S.

Yelp

This is a great venue to enjoy a summer concert. You can find a lot of sits or sit on the lawn. Stage stage is futuristic and great looking, sound and kites are professional.

Paul W.

Yelp

Wow, what a special gem this venue is! After coming to Millennium Park specifically to see The Bean (Cloud Gate) sculpture, and wanting to check out the Buckingham Fountain in adjacent Grant Park, we decided to simply wander around and explore the area. At one point to get back near The Bean, we had to cross through the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. We saw a symphony orchestra set up on the stage and tuning their instruments, and we started asking around to find out more about it. As it turns out, this concert venue offers free concerts and performances like the one on this night to the public quite often. On the Saturday night we were here they had an orchestra and violin concerto performance at 7:30. Seats at the very front were paid seating by reservation only, while seats further back were free and open to anyone. Lots of people also had blankets, chairs, strollers and coolers set up on the expansive lawn further back from the stage. The sound and lighting systems are good and the stage area is built almost like an amphitheater stage to project sound out to the audience area, so even people back on the lawn could see and hear clearly. As mentioned, admission was free, and they had concessions set up where we grabbed a few glasses of wine and some popcorn to enjoy during the concert. We only stayed until intermission as we were getting hungry and wanted to find a place for dinner, but I certainly hope the citizens of Chicago realize what a unique and special gift they have here..The opportunity to listen to world class music, for free, in such a beautiful and amazing setting, designed by Frank Gehry!

Boon C.

Yelp

This pavilion provide many memories to the city. It host many concerts and shows. During the summer, there are many free concert series. We were having a chance to enjoy the Thomas Wilkins orchestra conductor music. The orchestra play many John Williams music including Star War, raider of the lost art, harry porter music and more. This pavilion not just making music, during the day time, they are people gathering there for exercise. It was good for group exercise. Many have brought the pad there for the morning routine.

Shannah H.

Yelp

Beautiful Frank Gehry designed amphitheater/pavilion. I can't even imagine how nice it must be on a star-filled night, watching a performance. Really I sat here for nearly 15 minutes just admiring the design and soaking up the atmosphere. Just. Beautiful.

Sarah S.

Yelp

Tons of events happen here and best of all they happen here for free! Movies, concerts, shows - whatever suits your fancy. I saw an outdoor movie here and was pleased with the experience. Admittedly the screen isn't huge so you're best off sitting in the actual seats or up close if you're on the grass. Be sure to bring a blanket so you can comfortable hang out on the lawn while attending your event. Though the visual isn't amazing, the sound is. I was impressed with their cool architectural layout of bars above the whole lawn. Then I realized they aren't all for cosmetic reasons but the speakers are set up on the bars so sound can pump through the whole outdoor area. No sound issues at all! You can BYOB and BYOFood, as well. The evening I went though they had food trucks onsite for food purchasing, as well. Bathrooms are not nearly as bad as I would have expected for an outdoor venue. They are underneath the Pavillion and fairly clean. Surprisingly, no lines either. Security walks the area making sure all is going nice and calmly. They also ensure no one has tall objects up that could potentially obstruct your view. I enjoyed attending my movie in the park at Jay Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park and wouldn't hesitate going again. I would like some better signage within Millennium though so guests could easily find the pavilion. Other than that, great outdoor venue for events!

Stefanie C.

Yelp

I wish I could have seen a show here! Well to be fair, I visited during Labor Day weekend when the huge Jazz Festival happened, but my boyfriend and I had other plans. If anything, walk by the Pavilion and marvel at its stunning architecture. If you do come here for an event, I love that there are benches surrounding the Pavilion, though most seating is on the lawn. I'm not a local but I heard they have free concerts and movies here. What a treasure to have in this city!

Curt C.

Yelp

This is the most scenic concert spot possible! This amphitheater is in the middle of Millennium Park in downtown Chicago. I came here for a Classical music concert- where they opened up the pavilion for free, and cranked out the tunes under the stars in the Windy City! This place is under the skyline all around you- a stunning place to take in the music. There was plenty of seating when I went, and they didn't seem to mind that we brought in beverages. They had metal detectors set up at the entrances, but if you don't bring in cans, no problem. The place was designed by Frank Ghery, who has done some simply fantastic concert venues, but this one is the best in my opinion! The acoustics here were interesting- being an outdoor amphiteather, a gust of wind would come up and obscure the ability to hear at times, but they still did a great job of playing. The music lineup was great too! The amphitheater was handicapped accessible and had large, unclean restrooms. I think Jay Pritzker is/was the Governor of Illinois.

Anamaria H.

Yelp

Jay Pritzker Pavilion is my favorite in-your-face secret spot in Chicago. Because the secret isn't the space, the secret is what Chicago does with the space. And I use the term "secret" loosely because everything is posted online but so many people don't know! Every summer, Jay Pritzker Pavilion becomes my go-to place because there's something happening here practically every night of the week! And most are free! Summer concerts on Mondays, movies on Tuesday, classical music concerts on Wednesday's, Friday's, and Saturdays, and summer workouts from 7am to 10am every Saturday! I love going to Grant Park Music Festival concerts on Wednesday nights. I just grab a friend, grab some picnic food, and lay out a blanket to enjoy the night. I enjoy the movies on Tuesdays because I can catch some cool films. My favorite thing to do is the summer workouts on Saturday mornings! Pilates, Yoga, Strength Training, and Zumba! My friend and I always try to do 2 of them. And yes Pilates starts at 7am but it's definitely worth the early alarm. I just love what the city does with the space. Free programming that's always incredible. One of my favorite memories was when they did Purple Rain and the lawn was crowded with people from all walks of life and we all sang along under the starts. I've heard this pavilion called the town square of Chicago and I truly believe it is.

Diana P.

Yelp

Unbelievable outdoor concert space. Super modern, clean, outstanding acoustics even far back on lawn area. Perfect views of the city. Tip-expect long lines at security when entering. Then again, long lines at beverage stands. No alcohol allowed inside.

Judith M.

Yelp

I attended a concert on August 10, 2019; this was my first visit to the Grant Park Symphony at Jay Pritzker Pavilion in downtown Chicago. A very beautifully designed venue and the acoustics are splendid. The underground section features ample bathrooms, an easy entrance and exit for the artists and I would imagine the space serves as shelter if there is a heavy rain or storm warnings are issued. If available I would love to take a docent-led tour of the facility! Suggestions: If you are in the ticketed section of the Pavilion, bring a pillow as the seats are made of durable hard plastic. Note to tall people: the space between the rows is somewhat narrow. Get an aisle seat if you need leg space. The Pavilion is accessible to all. There are ramps in and out of the Pavilion. If you are attending a Grant Park Symphony concert buy a ticket. The sight lines from the seating area to the stage are decent ones. Bring a jacket - once the sun went down it got quite cool. Don't eat in the park as the food available for purchase while it is for a good cause it is overpriced. I am told that there is a Mariano's grocery store across the street from the Pavilion near the bus drop-off area. Check it out. Allow enough time for a security check when entering the park. No joke; the security staff takes their job very seriously. Some of the ushers in the ticketed seat area were very laid back and were not really assisting concertgoers, or so it seemed last night. This was not a sold-out concert, so perhaps the staff was taking it easy as I am sure at the bigger events it can get quite hectic. An exception to this is the security staff within the Pavilion who take their job quite seriously. One of their staff did not recommend dining at the Park due to pricing, and their candor was appreciated. A beautiful evening; I will return.

Kyle H.

Yelp

Going to have to knock the Pritzker Pavilion down a notch for shows that you actually want to see the action on stage from the lawn. Previously I've been enamored with the lawn and didn't mind not being able to see the orchestra sawing away during one of many fine Grant Park Music Festival concerts. The sound is excellent from the lawn seating, but you can't see a thing unless you're one of the first two rows of "blankets". Still last night, Ray LaMontagne and David Gray's music and voices could be heard crystal clearly from the lawn. A few things could be improved for paid concerts though. Seeing bottles upon bottles of wine being confiscated and tossed at the entrance just seems ridiculous. Sure, the production company wants the beer vendors to make money, but carry-in restrictions should be eased up for paid concerts as they are for the free ones. Add some blue porta potties around the back perimeter. The bathroom lines (esp. for women) were incredibly long. And finally, not to mess with Gehry's architecture, but since they failed to get the sight lines correct for 90% of the lawn, two video screens flanking the stage are sorely needed. Still a big fan of Pritzker, but room for improvement!

Vineet S.

Yelp

An absolute awesome place to enjoy all the nice events all along the summers sponsored by the City of Chicago. Have attended some really nice events such as Ballet shows, Bhangra performance, Musicians from Nigeria and so many more. There are ample seating available for the visitors to enjoy the live performances. The event calendar is planned in such a way that they have artists from different countries and regions all across the world. Thanks to Mayor and the City for organising all those nice events every year.

Janos J.

Yelp

If I were a Chicagoan I would be here very often. I love the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Who does not love free concerts? One day I am here relaxing on the grass with the family and they have a classical orchestra playing music and the next morning some yoga instructor is teaching free yoga classes in to about 125-150 people. How cool is that? Very. Besides, the Pavilion itself is a standing work of art, the place is beautiful. The architecture design is that of Deconstructivism, which comes from the 1980's. It was designed by Frank Gehry and opened in 2004 and it seats a total of 11,000 people. The way this place was built was that it would provide optimal acoustics, the sound can easily reflect towards the audience. If you are visiting Chicago, I definitely recommend checking this place out. [Review #316] (Seventieth Sixth Review of 2015)

Ron M.

Yelp

We were just randomly walking around the park and just happened upon this awesome looking space! I knew as soon as I saw it that it looked like something that Frank Gehry designed! It is so distinct looking and blends well with the surrounding area. I would love to attend a show in this space!

Shelby Z.

Yelp

The Jay Pritzker Pavilion is a fabulous little space that holds a plethora of events, right by Millennium Park. I have really only spent a short amount of time here, but it is a really nice area and I'd love to see what else goes on here! During my most recent visit here during the summer, they had a movie playing while everyone was camping out with chairs and blankets, hanging out and watching the film. There were all kinds of vendors giving out free stuff.....Talenti, the ice cream company, was giving out FULL TUBS of ice cream...for free....I was baffled. And after a long day of walking throughout downtown, sitting down in the grass, watching this movie and indulging in some ice cream made for the perfect day. Tourists and locals alike can enjoy this pavilion, and it seems like they have enough events for everyone's interests. 5 stars in my book easily!

Jenni T.

Yelp

The Jay Pritzker Pavilion is a large space in the middle of Millennium Park which has free concerts, movies, etc. during the nice weather months. So really only a few. When we passed by in the middle of the day on a Sunday there was a lady singing Whitney Houston's "Bodyguard" song and not doing a bad job with it. The stage itself is large, but located quite a ways away from most of the seats. Luckily they have a really cool video screen right above it which makes you feel like you are in the front row. The front half of the pavilion is concrete and covered in metal chairs and the back half of the pavilion is a large grass area where you can bring your own blankets and chairs to sit in. There is also a walkway circling the whole thing that you can observe from and grass area on the outside which works as well. Everything is free. Well, the entertainment is free, the beer and the food around the pavilion unfortunately are not. There are a few stands that all pretty much sell the same thing and they weren't crowded at all when we walked by, but then again, no one was really watching the performance either.

Neal U.

Yelp

Absolutely disgusting. I have attended events there over a couple years and the condition is always the same. The men's room is disgusting. Hand washing sinks do not work. No water, no soap. Out of 6 or 7 hand dryers only one works. No toilet paper. Floors soaked in urine. Toilet stalls the same. Smells foul. I have never seen a janitor in there. Drinking fountains around the corner do not work. Chicago is so broke they can't even maintain men's rooms. This is the impression being left on the tourists, never mind us locals who are used to suffering Chicago government. Way, way back when there was a rich old guy who was a major shareholder in the company I worked for. The first thing he did when he visited a place was check the men's room. He said that was a clear indication of the quality of the organization and its management. Still holds true.

Kelly N.

Yelp

There is nothing better to do during the summer than catch a free concert at Jay Pritzker. Millennium Park is one of my favorite places to wander around when it is warmer and the free summer concerts are an added bonus. You can sit in the lawn area or there is usually an abundance of seating closer to the stage. BYOB, snacks etc.

Chris S.

Yelp

Stopped by for free Opera preview concert l. Gratuluję clean space. Can bring blankets or chairs to camp out. Outside picnic type food is allowed and there are nearby beer stands if you run out. Great addition to the city.

Diane M.

Yelp

Summertime in Chi is amazing, and the concerts and movies held at the pavillion are the perfect way to spend a summer evening. This was my first real summer in Chicago, and I took advantage of all the free events as much as I could. From weeknight movies to weekend yoga and pilates, this venue is versatile and easily accessible. Not to mention, the space is gorgeous with a backdrop of the city's finest buildings. Saw Andrew Bird here last week and can't wait to enjoy more live music here!

Marissa V.

Yelp

Cool venue. I went there to check out a free concert they had. Outdoors with plenty of seating. Had pop up concession stands everywhere. Plenty of people around too. It was a nice way to spend an afternoon outside in the city enjoying some live music.

Carol K.

Yelp

Impossible for me to believe that I have not been here before to see an actual concert! Well, I finally had my chance on what had to be one of the most perfect nights in a Chicago summer- low humidity, cool breezes and clear skies. I was lucky enough to have row 10 pavilion seats in my pocket so know that this review is based on that, so I can only hope the experience is just as good back on the lawn. The Pritzker has always challenged my sense of what is beautiful as it looks like an exploding Coke can at the end of Millennium Park. But once you are seated within the space, and hear the sound- you know that it is built perfectly for what it needs to do. The seats are actually spacious with enough leg room for those of us with long legs who usually have to get up to let people pass by. The concessions? They have that down to a small science too. Pay at the front end of the table and show your receipt to pick up your drinks at the other end of the table. Be flexible as they tend to run out of things (on the night I was there- it was beer only as the wine had run out earlier in the evening) The stars twinkle above, the music plays and in that moment, you revel in the majesty that is Chicago in the Summertime. I don't know how many times we talked about how much we loved the city but everywhere we looked, something more beautiful caught our eye. If there was any downside (thus the missing star) it was with the restroom situation. The lines were unbelievable and if we hadn't slipped into the unmarked door to the right of the "janitor's closet" (ladies- know that it's the handicapped bathroom) as we waited in a line that wound itself all the way back to the seating area, we would have missed most of the concert. Even the men's room line was long. There has to be a better plan! So go enjoy a perfect night out in Chicago. But limit your liquid intake. Or you just might find yourself listening to your concert in a line that certainly covers most of Millennium Park.

Megan B.

Yelp

Pritzker Pavilion is so many things in the summer. It is... the ideal place to listen to a free evening concert, surrounded by symphonic music, the city skyline, and nighttime stars. a relaxing spot to have a picnic while watching children gleefully dance and play. a unique work of architecture to interact with in downtown Chicago.

Chris H.

Yelp

There I was, tired of walking from the Navy Pier to the Millenium Park, neck craned to get a better grasp of where I was, looking for the Bean when I heard... Hhhmm.. Orchestra! Following my ears, I saw people looking from the sides towards what turned to be the stage for the pavilion. It took me while to even appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of the structure itself since I was focused on the music. This is an open air arena. Perfect for summer nights where you can enjoy music with friends under a blanket of blue clouds or starry skies with a glass of wine or just soda water. The architecture reminds of me Los Angeles' Disney Concert Hall. Same concept. Very modern, sleek, classy. Just another reason to fall in love with the city of Chicago.

Eve H.

Yelp

I have had the opportunity to go to the Jay Pritzker Pavillion in Millennium Park to see several different performances and all of them have been superb. My advice to you is to arrive early and attend as often you can. Unless tickets were given to you for the performances, concert goers have to wait in a line until the gates are opened and the first people in line are admitted into the pavilion and select the better seats. Many of these people who enter save multiple seats for their friends. The performances are very well publicized and the line undulates through the park like a snake. The Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park has won the National Medal of Art for designer Frank Gehry. Instead of the band shell Gehry has created brushed steel trellises , which supports a brushed steel overhanging connected with criss-crossed rods. The side trellises support huge speakers that frame the stage. The pavilion accommodates 4000 people with fixed seat, in addition there is seating for though people who prefer to picnic on the lawn for 7000 people. There is a fantastic state of the art sound system that equalizes the sound supported in the pavilion seats and on the lawn seats, that enhances sound throughout the area. Whatever the choice of seating, it is wonderful to listen to the music with the Chicago skyline under the beautiful summer evening sky.

Mahsa T.

Yelp

Free concerts in the park at Millennium Park have been a great form of entertainment for me this summer. Dare I say, I like it better than Ravinia because it's free, you can walk there, and there are no mosquitos in the city. Beautiful music under the stars on a hot summer night--it doesn't get any better than this. Great to go with a group of friends or on a date. Pavilion seating is first come, first served. Music is still impeccable from the lawn. It can get crowded so do try to get there earlier to snag a nice spot on the lawn. Concerts are usually on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday nights. Schedule can be found at: http://www.millenniumpark.org/parkevents/default.aspx Bring a blanket, some snacks, and a bottle of wine or two. Park security is cracking down on drunk and disorderly conduct though, so they come around after the concert is over to make sure you don't open any new bottles of alcohol, you're allowed to finish what you already have open.

Mikey J.

Yelp

Pritzker Pavilion is AWESOME. Went on a lovely evening date here last week. Sitting on the grass with a little picnic setup, listening to a concert, under a beautiful summer sky, with an engaging date... doesn't get much better than this. One of my favorite parts about Pritzker Pavilion is that though it is totally outdoors, the metal arches over the lawn create a sheltered sort of feeling. The buildings around the pavilion frame the sky above very nicely too.

Max T.

Yelp

Chicago put this here. For me...and you. Take advantage man. Take advantage. Well I'm sure my tax paying dollars put this here as well. Not complaining though cause I take advantage. Aside from it being just really nice to look at with its modern appeal there is always something damn near free to attend during the summer. For instance, Tuesday night is movies in the park and Thursday night is a jazz series. Best of all, you can bring in your cooler and dinner from outside the park. There are still beer tents and whatnot but I'm not Wall Street, I'm more Fullerton Ave. Bring a blanket to throw down cause there will be geese shit and only white people let their children run barefoot and play through that. It's a great time though. Take in the city from the park, hit up the bean, and especially wait for nightfall and take in all of the lights. Take advantage man. Take advantage. Really need to take in a concert here though.

Brandon B.

Yelp

Now officially my front yard! (I live across the street). I can't think of too many other public spaces in the US that have such an amazing character, interfacing the rows of classic Chicago architecture with the modern sheen of contemporary sculpture and modernism. The Grant Park Orchestra's summer season is twice as diverse and interesting as the CSO or Ravinia, making those long trips north to Ravinia to sit on the lawn with no distinctive views and poor speakers with traditional music unnecessary. Also may other public concerts with pop and world music this summer, making it almost a concert every night. Last year was overcrowded but this year the crowds have backed off, making it the perfect experience to lay on the grass in the middle of an urban center and enjoy the sensuality of the surroundings and the music. And forget that underneath is a garage and train tracks.

Kim N.

Yelp

Im a huge fan of Frank Gehry's work. The music hall in LA, the Guggenhiem Museumin Bilbao...he makes the fish scale thematic with polished metal so elegant and alien at the same time. The pavilion is smaller than the works Im used to and maybe a bit less imaginative also. However, it's still a Gehry and a beautiful yet functional music venue it is.

Ben A.

Yelp

Visited for a performance during World Music Festival. Sat on lawn area, great views, and acoustics. We brought some beers and wine. We saw others with a full picnic setup. All around fantastic experience!

Emily R.

Yelp

Unfortunately, I have to dock the pavilion one star for the security rules and regulations they instituted for events this year, rules that are completely unnecessary and a huge buzzkill. They now search bags when you enter the pavilion. If a show starts to get crowded they close off all the entry points except the one near the Bean. The bag search is cursory and pointless, but you're not allowed to bring your own alcohol anymore, so it's best to leave the alcohol at home so you're not forced to throw away. Security guards also act like the dance police (is this Footloose now?) and yell at you if you dance in the aisles or open areas near the stage. (Where else are we supposed to dance??). At last week's reggae show security put up barriers to block off some of the aisles in the seated portion of the venue, which was counterproductive to ensuring safe flow of audience traffic and access to the bathrooms. I really hope the pavilion will rethink these measures and go back to just trusting the audience. David Chavez remains an amazing programmer/curator of talent.

Marjorie F.

Yelp

I don't know why it took me this long to go to a concert here (especially since I've been living in this 'hood since March), but I finally checked it out last night. A friend and I caught the last concert of the summer - Bajofondo Tango Club - which was part of the International Music Program "Music Without Borders 2008" (six FREE international music concerts). From my amateur perspective, the sound was terrific. We started out by the lawn and worked our way to the seats a few sections away from the stage. By the end of the evening, the performers had the audience energized and invited everyone to come up to the front and dance. Needless to say, I grabbed my friend and dragged him to the stage to join in the fun. It felt like a party broke out in the middle of the city!!! It reminded me of why I love this town so much... There is no place like Sweet Home Chicago!!! Next year I won't wait so long to head over to the Pritzker Pavillion to enjoy the musical offerings! Definitely check it out when you get a chance...

Shradha A.

Yelp

To be very honest, I've never attended an event here with a paid ticket, but the views from the street-level balcony are pretty good to be honest! Most events here are free anyways.. I went to see the Joffrey Ballet performance here and quite enjoyed the views and the cool stage design.

Taufiq H.

Yelp

I love the free concerts on Saturday evenings in the summer Bring your own food and drink

Daniel H.

Yelp

There was a jazz festival going on when I came here. There weren't too many people there from what I saw because everybody was checking out Cloud Gate. I thought this venue was great for the acoustics; in addition, the architect of the outside area was very cool. Great photo ops for that! The music I did hear from this place was good and if I had a chance to go to a concert, then I would want to hear how this place looks with full sound and a full audience. It did rain when I came here so the lawn was muddy and nobody was on it. Anyways, great venue for concerts and I recommend checking this place out.

Shambavi K.

Yelp

When I think of summer in Chicago (during winter), I mostly remember the picnics we had for the Concert in the Park events.... Oh I will miss summer (*sigh*....)

Candace W.

Yelp

This place is great for certain events. However, anytime there is a popular event, it fills up quickly and becomes a madhouse. Case in point, Disney in the Park this past Monday was a disaster. By 5:30, the lawn was full and they closed the gates. People were everywhere trying to find a place to sit. The problem is that once you're outside of the lawns you can't hear or see the screen. Why not have events that are known to draw a large crowd in grant park where more screens and speakers can be set up. The other problem was people who had seats and left to go get food were not let back in. My friend had to literally bring her two family members their chairs and purses to the gate because security would not let them re-enter. Completely ridiculous!

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