A great advantage of city life that many renters never take advantage of is having access to some of the best and most elaborate theaters around. These venues are rich sources of entertainment including plays, concerts and so much more.

Of course, a night spent at one of these landmarks is no typical movie night, but I found out after viewing “Disney’s The Lion King” that renting a seat in these landmarks for a night of top entertainment is worth every penny. Don’t believe me? Choose from this list of top Chicago Theaters and try out an event or two.

Bank of America Theater: Located on W. Monroe Street, this theater was built as the Majestic Theater in 1906 and served as the city’s tallest building. This theater has entertained millions throughout its history with such theater favorites as “Carousel”, “Guys and Dolls” and “Rent.” Upcoming productions include the holiday themed productions of “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” and “Handel’s Messiah Rocks”.

The Cadillac Palace Theater: Built in 1926, this theater is located on W. Randolph St. and boasts a colorful history of entertainment. Originally, it served as the flagship of the Orpheum Circuit; however, in the 1930s, it was converted into a movie theater to bring back the dwindling crowds. This famous theater has also served as a banquet hall and a rock venue throughout the decades but has been renovated back to its roots in theater. Productions currently playing and coming soon include “Disney’s The Lion King”, “WICKED” and “Les Miserables“.

The Chicago Theater: The Chicago Theater, appropriately nicknamed “the Wonder Theatre of the World,” was built in 1921. Located on N. State Street, this detailed theater was built to serve as a movie palace but has also served as a playhouse and performance venue for many famous names from Duke Ellington to Frank Sinatra to Prince. Upcoming events in the theater include concerts from Lifehouse, John Mellencamp and Lady Antebellum as well as other events and acts such as Video Games Live and Jerry Seinfeld.

The Ford Center for the Performing Arts Oriental Theater: Opened in 1926, this theater was one of the first film palaces to be designed using influences from the Far East. It’s W. Randolph Street location has since been transformed into a playhouse for musicals after a decade or so of neglect. Current and upcoming productions in this magnificent landmark include “Billy Elliott the Musical“, “Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles” and “HAIR“.

While a night out at the theater is no cheap evening, the splurge is definitely worth it (as long as you can still pay rent). Check out Broadway in Chicago for more events scheduled for these historic venues soon. Which theatrical productions would you love to see?