The Green Mill, the oldest continuously running jazz club in the US and possibly the world, is a popular nightspot and a chance to see a living piece of Chicago history. There is live jazz here every night of the week, and poetry on Sundays. The crowd is mixed and there is a good selection at the bar. Just know that during some performances no talking above a whisper is allowed. The place has a great and colorful history. It got its start as The Green Mill Gardens in 1914 and was then leased to "Machine Gun" McGurn, a suspect in the St. Valentine's Day Massacre, during Prohibition and turned into a speakeasy.

There is still a trap door behind the bar that leads to a tunnel used to smuggle in alcohol. The Green Mill was exclusive and men had to wear a tuxedo to get in. It was a favorite hangout of many gangsters including Al Capone who had his own booth there. Charlie Chaplin was also a regular. Such acts as Billie Holiday, Al Jolson, and Benny Goodman were frequent. Cover may be charged on some nights. Hours are 11am-4am Sunday, noon-4am Monday through Friday, and noon-5am Saturday. Street parking is available.