Biograph Theater
2433 N Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL, 60614
One of the early American movie houses, Chicago’s storied Biograph Theater opened its doors in 1914 and is now home to the Victory Gardens Theater. The historic landmark is best known for its association with the city’s gangster lore: It was the place where notorious bank robber John Dillinger was shot and killed by the FBI in 1934. As a result, it’s a staple of Windy City ghost and gangster tours.
The basics
This official Chicago Landmark was rebranded as the Victory Gardens Theater and is now home to a diverse selection of live theater featuring up-and-coming local playwrights. Many Chicago ghost and gangster tours also stop by the storied marquee to hear the gruesome retelling of Dillinger's death. As local legend goes, Dillinger's ghost has become a permanent resident in and around the historic venue.
Things to know before you go
- The interior of the theater is only open to theater patrons with tickets.
- Victory Gardens Theater is a pioneer in accessible theater, with many performances featuring ASL interpretation, audio descriptions, open captioning, and touch tours.
- The theater has two different performance spaces on the first and second floors.
- Cameras and recording devices are not allowed during any performances.
- Enjoy a preshow dinner at nearby Lincoln Park restaurants such as Chez Moi and Sapori Trattoria.
How to get there
The Biograph Theater is located at 2433 N. Lincoln Ave. near Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood. The area is serviced by several city bus routes, and the theater provides valet service one hour before curtain time. Parking garages can be found nearby, while themed tours that stop at the theater offer transportation.
When to get there
The exterior of the theater can be viewed any time. Opt for a nighttime ghost or gangster tour for a spooky atmosphere. Check the Victory Gardens Theater website for upcoming showtimes.
Chicago’s gangster history
In the 1920s Prohibition era, Chicago was a hotbed of organized crime activity and the home base of notorious mobsters like Al Capone and John Dillinger. Today, visitors who are enthralled by the Windy City’s violent past can visit locations with real-life mafia ties, including former speakeasies, historic hotels, and the site of gruesome events like the 1929 St. Valentine’s Day Massacre.
Ways to explore
Located in the heart of the popular Lincoln Park neighborhood, Chicago’s Biograph Theater is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a designated Chicago Landmark. Today, the Biograph Theater’s resident Victory Gardens Theater hosts performances, and the building is a staple of many Chicago sightseeing tours.
Tickets to the theater’s productions can be purchased online. Owing to its association with John Dillinger, the theater features on Chicago crime and mob-themed tours, as well as ghost tours—bring your camera to see if you can capture any spectral action while you’re there.
Accessibility
Owing to its heritage architecture, the Biograph Theater is only partially accessible to disabled visitors.
Age limits
None; some performances—and ghost- or gangster-themed tours—may be best-suited to older children and adults.
What to pack
Camera, tickets, weather gear, ghost-hunting equipment
What to wear
The Victory Gardens Theater has no stated dress code. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate layers if visiting as part of a tour.
Not allowed
Recording performances, disruptive behavior
Amenities
Bar, restrooms
Address
The Biograph Theater is located in Chicago’s North Side Lincoln Park neighborhood. The area is very well-served by public transportation, or you can also get there by car, taxi or rideshare service. Alternatively, book a tour that includes transport.
Driving
The Biograph Theater is located on North Lincoln Avenue in Lincoln Park, one of the city’s major thoroughfares. If you plan to drive, head to Lincoln Common garage on North Lincoln Avenue, which offers discounted parking rates for theater patrons.
Public transportation
Take the Brown, Purple, or Red Lines of the Chicago L to Fullerton station, located just around the corner. Multiple bus routes also serve the area.
Best times to visit
Research showtimes in advance if you want to see a performance at the theater. Many gangster and ghost tours visit in the evening to make the most of the spooky atmosphere.
Best days to visit
Showtimes vary; consult the theater’s calendar for what’s on. Expect the wider Lincoln Park area to be most lively on weekends.
Best months to visit
Aim for the spring or autumn shoulder seasons if you’re visiting the theater on a walking tour, when the weather is more pleasant for outdoor explorations.
Special events
The resident Victory Gardens Theater hosts an evolving theatrical program; consult its website to see what’s on during your visit.
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