Buddy Guy's Legends
1 / 5

Buddy Guy's Legends

4.6
·491k reviews·,

A legendary Chicago blues club since 1989, offering iconic live music, Cajun fare, and a historic atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Buddy Guy's Legends

Buddy Guy's Legends

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A legendary Chicago blues club since 1989, offering iconic live music, Cajun fare, and a historic atmosphere.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Everything was spectacular! Thoroughly enjoyed the venue and its intimacy and atmosphere."

TIP

Arrive early for seating

Secure a good table for evening shows by arriving early; shows typically start at 8 pm.

Free daytime shows

Enjoy free acoustic blues or jazz shows during lunchtime before the main evening performances.

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Quick Facts

Closed·Opens Thursday 5PM

Cuisine

Blues Club, American, Cajun

Price

Mid-range

Phone

(312) 427-1190

Address

700 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60605, USA

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Legendary Live Blues Performances

Legendary Live Blues Performances

Experience world-class blues music performed by both up-and-coming talents and legendary artists.

Top 8 best blues clubs in Chicago, and out … the favorites are here but a couple picks might surprise youBest Chicago Live Music VenuesChicago Live Jazz Bands Clubs: 10Best Blues Music Reviews
Authentic Cajun-Inspired Cuisine

Authentic Cajun-Inspired Cuisine

Savor delicious New Orleans-inspired dishes like rich gumbo and hearty po'boys.

The 22 Best Chicago Loop Bars for Happy Hour DrinksBirthday Dinner in Chicago | Best Restaurants in 2025
Historic Blues Atmosphere

Historic Blues Atmosphere

Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere filled with music memorabilia.

Best nightlife in Chicago | Telegraph Travel
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Arrive early for seating

Secure a good table for evening shows by arriving early; shows typically start at 8 pm.

Free daytime shows

Enjoy free acoustic blues or jazz shows during lunchtime before the main evening performances.

Authentic Chicago Experience

Offers a non-touristy, authentic local experience for those seeking genuine Chicago fun.

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Tips

from all over the internet

Arrive early for seating

Secure a good table for evening shows by arriving early; shows typically start at 8 pm.

Free daytime shows

Enjoy free acoustic blues or jazz shows during lunchtime before the main evening performances.

Authentic Chicago Experience

Offers a non-touristy, authentic local experience for those seeking genuine Chicago fun.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Diners rave about the spectacular live blues music and the intimate, energetic atmosphere. The Cajun-inspired food and drinks are also frequently praised, as is the welcoming and helpful staff. While the music and ambiance are consistent highlights, some guests note that table service can be slow, and ordering food might be less straightforward than drinks.

"Came from across the pond to enjoy the blues. Food was good, music even better. Unexpectedly Buddy treated us to a few songs. I feel lucky to have been there. A solid 10/10

NB. Security went the extra mile to keep the peace without enforcing. Nice to see civilized understanding people working a club. 07"

Jaap Strijbis

"Everything was spectacular! Thoroughly enjoyed the venue and its intimacy and atmosphere. The food and drinks were amazing as well. Not to mention a staff that was very welcoming and helpful."

Grant Hughes

"There are very few places that can rival a live Blues performance at Buddy Guy’s Legends. It has a great live music atmosphere and has seating and dining options available, if you want them. Our server took great care of us, but it is much easier to order drinks than food."

Dave Boyer

What People Like

Incredible live blues music
Vibrant and intimate atmosphere
Welcoming and helpful staff

What People Dislike

Occasional slow table service

Frequently Asked Questions

While evening shows may have an entrance fee ($15+), it's advisable to check the club's website for specific show details and ticketing information.

61 Essential Things to Do in Chicago (By a Local)

The restaurant serves delicious Cajun-inspired food, including Louisiana gumbo, po'boys, and signature burgers.

Birthday Dinner in Chicago | Best Restaurants in 2025

Buddy Guy occasionally performs at his club, especially in January. Check the club's lineup for his appearances.

Top 8 best blues clubs in Chicago, and out … the favorites are here but a couple picks might surprise youThe 22 Best Chicago Loop Bars for Happy Hour Drinks

Yes, there are often free acoustic blues or jazz shows during lunchtime and before the main evening performances.

20 free things to do in Chicago

All ages are welcome for the free daytime shows, but evening performances are typically for ages 21 and over.

20 free things to do in Chicago

The atmosphere is historic and vibrant, filled with blues memorabilia, creating an authentic music experience.

Best nightlife in Chicago | Telegraph Travel

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Lonely Planet

20 free things to do in Chicago

Chicago’s musical claim to fame is the electric blues — and Buddy Guy’s is the place to hear a fret-bending set for nothing. While evening shows cost $15 to $25, musicians often play free acoustic blues or jazz at the restaurant/club during lunch and before the main performance starts at 8pm. Planning tip: All ages are welcome for these free shows, but it's strictly over-21 only for the main performances in the evening.

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Chicago has deep ties to blues music, and one of the best places to hear live blues is at the club owned by the local, Grammy-winning blues legend Buddy Guy. Your head will nod along to the fantastic bands and performers, and it’s fun to peruse the jazz memorabilia hanging on the walls. Go early to snag a table.

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Owned by one of the city's few remaining musical legends, this club mixes up live blues music with a menu of classic Cajun fare. There are performances most nights, spanning a variety of genres, so there's always a new act to discover.

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Perfect for music lovers, Buddy Guy’s is famous for its blues performances and great Cajun-derived fare, making it a great night out for a Chicago birthday dinner of any size (including an upstairs private room for larger groups). This classic blues club was founded a few doors down from its current locale in 1989 by the blues legend Buddy Guy, who still makes occasional appearances. Take in a world-class blues performance while sampling a huge bar and menu selection including classics like Louisiana gumbo, po’boys and a selection of signature burgers.

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Chicago Tribune

Top 8 best blues clubs in Chicago, and out … the favorites are here but a couple picks might surprise you

Buddy Guy’s Legends (700 S. Wabash Ave.): Tourists love electric guitars and long jams, and Legends, near the L tracks in the South Loop, has been serving it to them since 1989. The owner has been the most legendary (heh) bluesman in Chicago since the days of Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf, and has used his show business connections to draw rock stars from The Rolling Stones to Eric Clapton. Today’s headliners are local talents like guitarists Toronzo Cannon, Wayne Baker Brooks and veteran Jimmy Burns, who oversees a Wednesday night jam.

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TripSavvy

Best Chicago Live Music Venues

Dubbed "the greatest living guitarist" by Eric Clapton, Chicago legend Buddy Guy opened his eponymous downtown live music venue in 1989. Throughout the years, the club has hosted a who's who in show biz: Willie Dixon, Koko Taylor, Otis Rush, Albert Collins, B.B. King, Johnny Winter, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Bo Diddley, Eric Clapton, The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, ZZ Top, Gregg Allman, Slash, John Mayer, Sheila E.

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BLUES AND JAZZ CLUBS OF DECADES PAST- By Bill Dahl

With B.L.U.E.S., the Mines, Buddy Guy’s Legends, Rosa’s, and Blue Chicago still presenting blues nightly and the historic Green Mill, Andy’s, the Jazz Showcase, and several more clubs similarly devoted to jazz also keeping the torch burning brightly, Chicago’s live music scene continues to thrive. Still, its many defunct music joints from decades past continue to echo distantly through the nighttime air.

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Chicago Live Jazz Bands Clubs: 10Best Blues Music Reviews

If this club worked for Bowie and Clapton, it'll do you just fine. Buddy Guy, a hero to Clapton, plays at his club in January but don't let that stop you from enjoying local and national musicians performing seven nights a week. Don't be shy because of the club's exterior - it's polished inside and more than a few bros and tourists fill the seats along with lifelong lovers of the blues.

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61 Essential Things to Do in Chicago (By a Local)

Step into the heart of Chicago blues at this legendary venue. 📍 Google Maps | Phone: (312) 427-1190 | Buddy Guy’s Legends Website | Hours: 5 pm – 12 am Wed-Thu, & Sun, 5 pm – 12:30 am Fri, 5 pm -1:30 am Sat, Closed Mon, Tue | Entrance: $15+ each show may vary. If you’re a fan of classic American blues, then visiting Buddy Guy’s famous Legends Blues Club is a must.

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1-day Chicago Itinerary

Buddy Guy's Legends is the home of the blues, made famous around the world by its namesake Grammy-award winning guitarist Buddy Guy. There's live music every night of the week, with free acoustic shows during the lunch and dinner hour as well. Established in 1947, Jazz Showcase has hosted the greatest names in the business and has a seat waiting for you too.

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Founded by blues legend Buddy Guy, this club is a living museum of the blues genre, offering live music every night. The venue has a casual atmosphere filled with memorabilia. If you buy tickets early enough, you can actually catch Buddy Guy himself on stage—Buddy performs around 16 shows per year throughout the month of January.

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UrbanMatter

6 Best Cajun Restaurants in Chicago to Order Your Mardi Gras Meal

At Buddy Guy’s legends in the South Loop, a new live act is featured each night, so you can enjoy real Blues music Wednesday through Sunday. Not only does Buddy Guy’s showcase the best that Chicago Blues music has to offer, but their expansive Cajun menu is made up of classics like gumbo, jambalaya, and po-boy sandwiches.

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The Perfect Itinerary for 3 Days in Chicago

See a show at Buddy Guy’s Legends Blues music is one of the few great American art forms. Buddy Guy is the master of Chicago blues. And Chicago is maybe the only city left in the country where you can see an incredible blues band any night of the week in a small club at a reasonable price.

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In a town known for its blues, Buddy Guy's Legends is the premier spot. The man on the marquee needs no introduction and the amazing musicians that perform here live up to the same high standard. Buddy Guy's is an attraction for local blues lovers and tourists.

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· Buddy Guy’s Legends: With a name like that, people know what to expect, and this club delivers. Catch Buddy Guy or any of the local, national, and international artists that appear nightly.

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