Accessibility
At Symphony Center, we strive to create a concert environment that is welcoming to all. If you are unable to find the information you need here, please contact us before your visit. You can reach us by calling 312-294-3000 emailing Patron Services or chatting with us online.
Please note that the information here is specific to Symphony Center. We invite you to contact us for additional details regarding off-site events hosted by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association.
Seating Options
There are various accessible seating options located throughout Symphony Center for patrons with mobility considerations, including seats that can be removed for wheelchairs, companion seating and seats with swing-arms. Please inquire about accessible seating when calling Patron Services at 312-294-3000 or visiting the Box Office.
Parking
Parking for Symphony Center patrons, including plentiful reserved spaces for patrons with mobility considerations, is available at the Grant Park South Garage. All floors of the garage have escalators that bring patrons up to the Michigan Avenue sidewalk in front of Symphony Center. There is also an elevator located adjacent to the Art Institute garden at the northeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Jackson Boulevard. Patrons who use the elevator will need to cross Michigan Avenue to access Symphony Center.
Public Transportation
Nearby CTA train stations with elevators are the Washington/Wabash station (Brown, Green, Orange and Pink lines), located three blocks north of Symphony Center, and the Jackson station (Red and Blue lines), located about 2 blocks west of Symphony Center.
Automated Doors
Automated-entry doors are available at the 220 S. Michigan entrance. The automated doors are the southernmost glass doors of the main entrance. Elevators are available to the upper floors of the venue. Please inquire with an usher upon arrival to determine the best way to access your ticketed floor.
Restrooms
All public restrooms are accessible to patrons with mobility considerations. Additionally, a gender-neutral/single-occupancy restroom is located on the Flynn Gallery level, near the coatroom in the 6th floor lobby of Orchestra Hall. Please see an usher to locate the nearest accessible restroom.
Assisted Listening Devices
Williams Sound assisted-listening devices are available for performances in Orchestra Hall and select events in the Grainger Ballroom. The devices are portable FM receivers that offer a standard audio port (3.5mm) for over-the-ear headset or earbuds. Patrons may connect their own headsets/earbuds to the receivers or use one of a limited number of headsets available on loan from Symphony Center. Individual neckloop couplers also can be connected to the receivers for patrons with cochlear implants/telecoil-capable hearing aids. This equipment is available on a first-come, first-served basis from the House Manager. The use of these devices is complimentary; a photo identification is requested to hold while the devices are on loan.
Large-Print Programs
Large print programs are available for most Chicago Symphony Orchestra concerts, as well as Civic Orchestra of Chicago concerts. The nearest Usher can assist in retrieving a large print program.
Service Animals
Service animals are welcome to accompany patrons to all events at Symphony Center. If questions arise regarding service animals at specific seat locations within the concert hall, please inquire at the time of ticket purchase.
Sensory-Friendly Locations
There are several spaces located throughout Symphony Center that offer less active environments for patrons with sight and sound sensitivities. Grainger Ballroom, on the Box Level, is a large enclosed room with subdued lighting. A TV monitor and seating are typically available to allow patrons to view and hear the presentation on the stage. Additionally, the lower-level lobby, as well as the upper-level arcade spaces, offer quieter environments. Ushers can help direct you to these locations.
Ushering Services
At Symphony Center, our Front of House team is always close by and happy to assist you with directions, seating and other requests.