Welcome to Evanston Space, an intimate live music hall connected to Union Pizzeria, located at 1245 Chicago Ave in Evanston, Illinois. With a flexible seating approach that can host approximately 240 seated (cabaret-style) and up to 330 standing, the venue tailors each show to fit the artist and performance. From legendary acts like The Lumineers and Alabama Shakes to notable artists such as Graham Parker, Nick Lowe, Dr. John, and Lucinda Williams, Evanston Space has a reputation for close-up, memorable performances without the fuss of a large arena. The space is currently expanding to an adjacent property (2024–2025) while continuing to operate as usual. Secure your seats for an upcoming show and enjoy a night of great live music in a welcoming, neighborhood setting.

We’ve got you covered with practical details—from seating configurations and on-site dining at Union Pizzeria to easy transit access, parking options, and nearby hotels for an overnight or quick stay before or after a show. Think of us as your go-to connection for finding tickets, planning your visit, and making the most of Evanston’s vibrant music scene.

Transit is straightforward: the CTA Purple Line stops at Dempster St (about half a block away), while Metra stops at Main St. or Davis St are roughly five blocks distant. Parking includes metered street parking on Dempster St and Chicago Ave, plus a small public garage directly across the street. Meters are often free after 9pm, which can make a late show a little easier on the wallet. For a convenient stay, explore nearby hotels like Graduate Evanston, Hilton Garden Inn Evanston, Hilton Orrington Evanston, Holiday Inn Chicago North Evanston, and Hyatt House Chicago/Evanston. After the show, you can unwind with a meal at Union Pizzeria, the on-site dining partner that complements the music with great food and a welcoming vibe.

Approximately 240 seated (cabaret-style) and up to 330 standing, with flexible layouts by show. No fixed universal seating chart—each performance can reimagine the space for the best acoustic and audience experience.
Metered street parking on Dempster St and Chicago Ave; a small public garage directly across the street. Meters often free after 9pm.
CTA Purple Line at Dempster St (0.5 blocks); Metra Main St. or Davis St. stops ~5 blocks away.
Graduate Evanston, Hilton Garden Inn Evanston, Hilton Orrington Evanston, Holiday Inn Chicago North Evanston, Hyatt House Chicago/Evanston.
Union Pizzeria (connected to Evanston Space) for pre- or post-show meals.
The Lumineers, Alabama Shakes, Graham Parker, Nick Lowe, Dr. John, Lucinda Williams have performed here.
The venue is expanding to adjacent property (2024–2025) and remains in operation.

Whether you’re searching for a particular performer or simply exploring Evanston’s intimate music scene, Evanston Space offers a straightforward ticket experience with a friendly, reliable touch. We’re here to help you secure your seats for an unforgettable night of live music.

Inside the venue

Evanston Space features a large lobby and bar, a patio, and modern, fully accessible bathrooms. The main music room at Evanston Space has a stage and a bar. [1]

Venue history

Evanston Space hosts an annual event called 'A Concert for Justice' in partnership with the James B. Moran Center for Youth Advocacy. The first 'A Concert for Justice' featured Mavis Staples and Nathan Graham. The second 'A Concert for Justice' featured Los Lobos and a local blues musician. [2]

References

Good to know

Seating, Parking & Venue Information

Address: 1245 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60202.
Venue type: intimate live music hall connected to Union Pizzeria.
Capacity and seating: approximately 240 seated (cabaret-style) and up to 330 standing; seating layouts are flexible by show.
Seating chart: shows use varied configurations (cabaret tables and general admission) rather than a fixed universal seating chart.
Transit: CTA Purple Line (Dempster St stop ~½ block away); Metra Main St. or Davis St. stops about 5 blocks away.
Parking: metered street parking on Dempster St and Chicago Ave; a small public garage directly across the street; meters often free after 9pm.
Nearby hotels: Graduate Evanston, Hilton Garden Inn Evanston, Hilton Orrington Evanston, Holiday Inn Chicago North Evanston, Hyatt House Chicago/Evanston.
Notable events hosted: acts such as The Lumineers, Alabama Shakes, Graham Parker, Nick Lowe, Dr. John, Lucinda Williams have performed at Evanston Space.
Status: expanding to adjacent property (2024–2025); venue remains in operation and has not been demolished or renamed.