Bar
The Green Mill
Nicholas “Nick” CarterSome booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
The Green Mill is an iconic jazz club that has been a cornerstone of Chicago's music scene since 1907. Located on North Broadway in the Uptown neighborhood, the venue retains its original Prohibition-era decor, red velvet booths, a long mahogany bar, and a vintage neon sign. The atmosphere is intimate and timeless, with live jazz, swing, and blues performances every night. The sound system is excellent, and the acoustics are perfect for appreciating the music. What makes The Green Mill distinctive is its rich history: it was a favorite haunt of Al Capone, who supposedly used a secret tunnel to escape raids. Today, it's a haven for jazz purists and casual listeners alike. The crowd is a mix of students, locals, and tourists, all drawn by the authentic, no-frills vibe. The bar serves classic cocktails like Old Fashioneds and Manhattans, plus a selection of beers and wines. The Green Mill is not just a bar; it's a living museum of Chicago's jazz heritage.
Don't miss
- Catch a live jazz performance, often multiple sets per night
- Order a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned at the historic bar
- Look for the 'Al Capone booth' and imagine the speakeasy days
- Admire the vintage decor, including the neon sign and tin ceiling
- Visit on a Sunday for the famous 'Uptown Poetry Slam'
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit The Green Mill
You can visit on your own (Cover charge varies by night and performer; typically $10–$20. No advance tickets, pay at the door (cash or card)). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inChicago Art Heist: Millennium Park Puzzle Adventure4★ · 10 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$7 per personSee dates →
Most bookedChicago Architecture River Cruise4.8★ · 16,571 travelers1-2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$39 per personSee dates →
Top ratedHistorical and Architectural Chicago Fireboat River & Lake Cruise4.9★ · 386 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$47 per personSee dates →Getting there
Know before you go
- Music starts around 8 PM; check the schedule online for specific acts.
- Bring cash for the cover charge and tips; there is an ATM inside.
- No talking during performances, the club enforces a strict 'listening room' policy.
- Seating is first-come, first-served; arrive early for the best tables.
A bit of history
Opened in 1907 as a bar, The Green Mill became a speakeasy during Prohibition and was allegedly owned by mobster Jack McGurn. It hosted legends like Al Capone and later became a hub for bebop and modern jazz in the 1940s–1960s. It has operated continuously as a jazz club ever since.
Common questions
Is The Green Mill 21+ only?
Yes, it is a bar, so only guests 21 and older are admitted.
Can I reserve a table?
No, seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations.
Is there food available?
The Green Mill does not serve food, but you can bring in snacks or eat at nearby restaurants before or after.
What kind of music is played?
Primarily jazz, but also swing, blues, and occasionally poetry slams. Check the schedule for specific genres.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, but without flash, and be respectful of performers and other guests.
How long do sets last?
Sets are typically 45–60 minutes, with short breaks between.
More attractions in Chicago
