Chicago Nightlife: While best known for its museums and beautiful buildings, Chicago is also renowned for its vibrant nightlife. Nightlife options include numerous pubs, clubs, comedy shows, beer gardens, and live music. There are beer schools in the city, as well as jazz clubs with fantastic after parties. From dusk till dawn, we have the perfect guide to the best bars and clubs in Chicago for partying and having fun.
Nightlife Chicago
Chicago is the largest city in Illinois and the third most populous in the United States . Located on the western shore of Lake Michigan, the city has benefited from its cultural and economic success in attracting visitors.
Tourists flock to Chicago for its renowned art scene and rich cultural scene. While Chicago has no shortage of noisy nightclubs or crowded pubs on weekends, its nightlife has expanded beyond these traditional forms.
Chicago's nightlife is as diverse as its residents , with venues offering everything from cabaret shows and arcade games to burlesque, live jazz, blues, hip-hop, and rock 'n' roll.
Famous nightclubs , chill lounges, theaters, and more make up Chicago's diverse nightlife . Find a pub with a picturesque rooftop, an LGBT event, a crowded dance club, a Prohibition-era atmosphere, or a relaxing lounge and enjoy a delicious drink or local craft beer. Live music, comedy and burlesque shows, celebrity and student folk art performances, and much more can be found throughout the city.
Unlike the themed club scenes we've seen popping up in London and New York, Chicago's nightlife seems to be the result of a random assortment of disparate elements rather than a grand design. A Chicago nightclub with jungle decor would play contemporary jazz, perform cabaret, and offer modern twists on older drinks, unlike a jungle-themed club, which might feature wilder tunes, exotic dancers in caveman costumes, tropical cocktails, and servers in animal prints.
Theaters in Chicago
Chicago is home to some of the finest restaurants in the United States, a vibrant and diverse theater and comedy culture, and a rich heritage of jazz and blues music . The city is home to nearly two hundred theaters offering breathtaking performances, over one hundred and fifty venues offering guided tours, and a thriving visual arts culture. When it comes to live theater, Chicago has it all, from Broadway debuts to unique, cutting-edge works. Plus, if you've never been to Chicago, the annual Chicago Theatre Week is the perfect time to do so.
The Chicago Theatre has been an institution since 1921, while the history of the Auditorium Theatre goes back even further, having been located in the same building on Congress Parkway since 1899. The Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place is new by comparison, having opened its doors in 1976. It is a perfect venue for theatrical performances, as is the Apollo Theatre in Lincoln Park, which opened in 1978.
Live music in Chicago
Music is also a staple in Chicago after dark at the various live concert venues scattered throughout the city. Live performances in Chicago are also distinguished by their eclectic mix of independent musical influences. The city is a mecca for artists and musicians of all genres, so you can experience incredible performances every night. You can hear the best of R&B, rock, electronic, hip hop, and other contemporary music styles right here.
Chicago's most popular music venues include The Metro , an 1,100-seat venue for new and emerging bands, and The Aragon Ballroom in Uptown on the Far North Side, which has a long history and has hosted legendary artists such as Nirvana and Green Day.
For visitors who prefer a slightly more cerebral type of music, the Chicago Symphony Center on South Michigan Avenue is a safe haven. This downtown concert hall has been home to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra since its construction in 1904. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is one of the most prestigious orchestras in the world.
Blues is also very popular in Chicago: it began to gain traction in the 1930s when musicians, fleeing the harsh economic conditions of the Deep South, began moving north. They created a scene that still resonates in the metropolis today. Perhaps the most famous blues club in Chicago is Buddy Guy's Legends , where this brilliant guitarist still holds his own and provides a stage for other artists to perform successfully, located just behind Grant Park. It's always a great choice for a night out and is open every day (the food is also excellent). Kingston Mines is another Chicago blues institution.
Jazz still has a lot to offer in a city that loves imaginative rhythms and quirky tempos. Green Mill claims to be the oldest jazz club in Chicago and the United States , keeping the musical style of the 1920s and 1930s alive in the Uptown area.
However, live performances in Chicago's venues go beyond just music. The city's club scene is vibrant, with dance performances and poetry readings, cabaret, and dance shows. If you want to get involved in the entertainment, there are bars that host karaoke and open-mix nights.
Clubs and discos in Chicago
The Underground (56 W Illinois St, Chicago)
Open Thursday and Friday from 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM, Saturday from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
The Underground, a nightclub near River North with something of a bar and a military-themed entrance, takes its exclusive atmosphere very seriously. Those comfortable in a "see and be seen" atmosphere will feel right at home here. After entering through what looks like the entrance to a nuclear bomb bunker, patrons can enjoy bottle service and celebrity spotting until the early hours of the morning. You can dance the night away to the sounds of local DJs and well-known national artists. This popular Chicago nightclub primarily plays electronic and dance/pop music.
Tao Chicago (632 N Dearborn St, Chicago)
Open Sunday and Tuesday through Thursday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Friday from 5:00 PM to 4:00 AM, and Saturday from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
This stunning two-story nightclub is one of Chicago's most exclusive nightclubs . Once you step through the 100-year-old Chinese doorway, you'll find a 7,000-square-foot dance club in the basement.
The club is decorated with beautiful Asian artwork and furnishings. The movable wall of our nightclub transforms its two smaller rooms into one spacious space. There are private booths, a full bar, and a lounge area all within the same space. The second area features a DJ booth and dance floor, dominated by a giant Japanese bell. Inside, there's a giant Hush painting and a disco ball. Just above the dance floor, dazzling mirrored chandeliers with a Lotus design hang. A true Chicago nightlife .
Untitled Supper Club (111 W Kinzie St, Chicago)
Open Tuesday 5:00 PM - 1:00 AM, Wednesday 5:00 PM - 12:00 AM, Thursday and Friday 5:00 PM - 2:00 AM, and Saturday 5:00 PM - 3:00 AM.
The Untitled Supper Club is an elegant venue serving fine dining and live entertainment in a Prohibition-era setting. Get into the spirit of music and entertainment by sampling some of America's signature supper club fare or the nation's largest selection of handpicked American whiskeys.
Absinthe Minded, hosted by Untitled, offers atmospheric concerts, custom drinks, and tableside absinthe fountains, making it one of the few places in Chicago to do so. The city's best nightlife includes acrobatic and diverse shows, tribute bands, diner cuisine, and the largest selection of carefully selected American whiskeys in the country.
The Whistler (2421 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago)
Open Wednesday and Thursday from 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM, Friday from 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM, and Saturday from 6:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
The Whistler, a club near Logan Square, has you covered no matter what night of the week you decide to visit. The music ranges from rock to jazz, techno to country, and there may even be DJ sets or film screenings. In addition to serving drinks, this Chicago pub and club also showcases local artwork in its window display. For singles, don't miss the singles night that takes place here every other Friday. Overall, expect to have a good time dancing and drinking here.
The Giant Penny Whistle (1854 S Blue Island Ave, Chicago)
Open daily from 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM.
It can be disco, house, R&B, salsa, cumbia, or hip-hop as easily as it could be cowboy tonk and Western standards. Behind the unassuming exterior is a large bar and music venue that serves as both a bar and a late-night hangout (complete with drink specials like the “Freakin' Puerto Rican” and “Sonic Doom”) for dancing and listening to music.
When the music is this diverse, the crowd is sure to change every time. Dogs are welcome at the bar until 10:00 a.m., and if all that dancing and socializing has worked up an appetite, Coyotes on 18th Street is a good choice for a late-night meal.
Flash Dance Club (2247 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago)
Open Friday 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM, Saturday 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
If you like nightlife and dancing, check out this new Chicago club. Pop art, bright lights, and several bars decorated with broken mirrors transport patrons back to the disco era. Take a seat on the large red couch. At Banana Lounge, relax late into the night to watch Chicago musicians perform in the Flashback Room. Friday and Saturday nights are the only hours the club is open.
SmartBar Chicago (3730 N Clark St, Chicago)
Open Sunday and Friday from 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM, Saturday from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
Smartbar is one of Chicago's liveliest clubs for wild dance nights. This is an underground club where famous DJs play a good variety of dance music. The venue has a Funktion One sound system, and the music quality is incredible. Located just below the Metro Cabaret, this is a true Chicago nightlife hotspot . The huge dance floor and mix of local and international DJs will leave you wanting more. Put on your dancing shoes and come here to dance until you drop.
Beauty Bar Chicago (1444 W Chicago Ave, Chicago)
Open Thursday and Friday from 7:00 PM to 2:00 AM, Saturday from 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM, and Sunday from 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM.
A martini, a manicure, and a dance party all sound like wonderful ideas when you visit this beauty bar on Chicago's West Side, which also doubles as a booze salon. The salon's brightly colored walls and eye-catching decor are straight out of the 1960s.
No appointments are necessary for late-night manicure and martini mixology services. Sip a Deep Condition or Blowout, two salon-themed cocktails, and then party the night away with live DJ sets or wild themed evenings.
The hip hop at the bar is a perfect blend of modern and classic sounds. Due to a first-come, first-served policy, reservations are not required. Among single men, Beauty Bar is known for its exciting nightlife and is always well-attended by beautiful Chicago women. In addition to its original Manhattan location, Beauty Bar also has outposts in Denver, San Francisco, and Las Vegas .
Electric Hotel (222 W Ontario St, Chicago)
Open Wednesday and Friday 10pm-4am, Saturday 10pm-5am.
The Electric Hotel in River North was formerly a warehouse for an electrical supply company, but today it draws energy from its dance floor and Chicago's best parties .
The 1930s power and manufacturing factory is now a chic nightclub with exposed brick walls, vaulted doors, and wooden floors. Electric Hotel may look like a 1970s throwback, but don't be fooled; it has all the amenities of a contemporary nightclub, including an excellent sound system, stunning lighting, VIP seating, and bottle service.
Sound-Bar (226 W Ontario St, Chicago)
Open Sunday and Friday from 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM, Saturday from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
This club, which opened in 2004 and is decorated in a sleek, contemporary, multi-level European style, has been a mainstay of the River North nightlife scene thanks to its regular programming of cutting-edge house and techno DJs. This club consistently hosts a great scene on its numerous dance floors thanks to its talented roster of regular DJs, seven strategically placed bars throughout the venue, and high-quality sound equipment.
Disco (111 W Hubbard St, Chicago)
Open Thursday and Friday from 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM, Saturday from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
Located above Celeste in River North, this Chicago nightclub is unabashed in its desire to evoke the '70s and '80s with its giant mirror balls and neon-lit dance floor. The playlists are intentionally '70s-inspired, featuring disco (of course), funk, soul, and house tracks from that era.
Join us on Friday and Saturday nights for champagne and partying at this photogenic Chicago nightclub. There's a nod to the discos of New York and Paris in the 1970s, and those vibes can be felt throughout the club. While reservations aren't required, it's best to check availability well in advance if you're planning a special occasion here.
PRYSM Nightclub (1543 N Kingsbury St, Chicago)
Open Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM, Saturday from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
Located in Lincoln Park, Prysm is a modern Chicago nightclub with two floors for dancing and drinking. Famous DJs like Steve Angello and Afrojack play here, while smaller events often feature local DJs.
There are three bars, plenty of tables for bottle service indulgences, and a VIP suite you can book if you're feeling extra rich. On Saturday nights, the place is packed with people on the fantastic dance floor and plenty of seating at the many available tables.
Spy Bar (646 N Franklin St, Chicago)
Open Friday and Saturday from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
Another River North gem, Spy Bar is one of Chicago's most popular nightclubs and was named one of Rolling Stone's Top 10 Dance Clubs in the US . The world's best DJs perform here, and you can get up and mingle with them.
Founded in 1995, this River North club has a capacity of 300 and promotes its "global vibe" by hosting underground techno and electro acts from around the world. Due to its limited space, this is one of the most exclusive dance floors in the neighborhood; therefore, you should arrive early (or reserve a table in advance) to guarantee entry.
Fame Nightclub (157 W Ontario St, Chicago)
Open Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
Located in a two-story building in River North, Fame serves as both an elegant supper club and a lively nightclub. For dinner, diners can enjoy refined American cuisine served under crystal chandeliers. Appetizers like smoked stuffed mejool dates and grilled octopus, and entrees like tomahawk ribs and cacio e pepe are just a few examples.
The fun begins upstairs, where DJs (sometimes joined by soloists or trumpet players) set the mood. But there's a logical reason why Fame Night Club is only open on weekends. This club is like a well-kept secret, only those in the know can find it. If you want to truly experience Chicago nightlife , you should definitely get in on the action and dance. Don't miss it.
Debonair Social Club (1575 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago)
Open Thursday and Friday from 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM, Saturday from 9:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
This two-story club is a relic of Wicker Park's heyday as Chicago's late-night party hub, before the arrival of corporate restaurants and shoe stores. The Debonair Social Club is now one of the few places on this section of Milwaukee Avenue to get bottle service and dance the night away. Weekends are the best time, as there are parties on both levels (the basement and the upper level) with separate DJs.
Tunnel (151 W Kinzie St, Chicago)
Open Sunday, Thursday, and Friday from 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM, Saturday from 9:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
Tunnel is a long, thin nightclub that takes its design cues from London's underground tunnel system, originally built to serve as a safe haven for the British royal family and a tool for espionage. Just know that this River North club isn't exactly known for its Anglo-American decor. Those willing to shell out for VIP tables and bottle service will have no problem finding a seat, as booths line one side, the bar occupies the other wall, and couches fill the central area of the room. To create a vibrant ambience, rows of suspended LED lights are synchronized with the person spinning on stage.
LITE Chicago (215 W Ontario St, Chicago)
Open Sunday, Monday, Thursday, and Friday from 10:00 PM to 2:00 AM, Saturday from 10:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
Located in the River North area, LITE Chicago is a huge venue with dim lights, confetti cannons, and bottles of alcohol with sparklers. Make a reservation and prepare to dance the night away with lots of interesting people to talk to.
The spacious room can accommodate parties of up to four thousand people, making it perfect for wedding receptions, cocktail parties, and other large celebrations. On Nostalgic Tuesdays, popular songs from the '90s and 2000s are played, transporting you back in time.
Joy District (112 W Hubbard St, Chicago)
Open Monday through Friday from 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM, Saturday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 AM, Sunday from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
A nightclub, restaurant, and outdoor patio—Joy District has it all. The second-floor nightclub is where the hip kids go to party, with top DJs spinning tunes from Chicago's hottest artists and a well-stocked bar with VIP bottle service.
This Chicago club occasionally hosts a famous artist. Ludacris, Demi Lovato, and Louis the Child are just a few of the artists who have performed here. The rooftop bar is a great place to relax with a drink and take in the Chicago sights at night.
Stereo Nightclub (5616 W Diversey Ave, Chicago)
Open Friday 9:00 PM - 2:00 AM, Saturday 8:00 PM - 3:00 AM, Sunday 8:00 PM - 2:00 AM.
This Chicago nightclub will amaze you with its stunning architecture. The combination of cool blue and warm pink lighting is aesthetically pleasing and easy on the eyes. The smoky atmosphere and dramatic lighting give the place an aura of mystery.
Stereo Nightclub has an eclectic music selection, including '90s disco, rock, pop, and more. The Lounge Room has a relaxing atmosphere and is ideal if you're looking for some peace and quiet to chat.
Primary NightClub (5616 W Diversey Ave, Chicago)
Open Friday and Saturday from 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM.
Primary Nightclub is a Chicago nightclub located under the W. Division Street subway station. The VOID sound system is widely regarded as the best in Chicago nightclubs.
This nightclub often features top-notch DJs from around the world. Electro Dance Music (EDM), Dubstep, Hip Hop, Disco, House, Latin, and other dance music genres are the club's main musical offerings.
The Mine Music Hall (1431 W Lake St, Chicago)
Open Friday 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM, Saturday 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
Located in a converted warehouse, this 10,000-square-foot club features three separate bars and two music rooms. A wide variety of music, from top Billboard records to Latin, hip hop, dembow, and funk, plays in each room. On Ultra Saturdays, for example, the playlist features reggaeton, club hits, and Latin music.
LiqrBox (873 N Orleans St, Chicago)
Open Sunday, Thursday, and Friday from 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM, Saturday from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
There's a unique bar in Chicago called LiqrBox, located on Orleans St. Neon lights, eye-catching street art, and cozy seating ensure a positive vibe. Our club features multiple bars, a coat check, a dance floor, a fantastic DJ booth, state-of-the-art sound and lighting, and much more.
Latin Bliss (5515 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago)
Open Friday 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM, Saturday 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
Latin Bliss nightclub on Lincoln Avenue in Chicago is a classy venue. In accordance with the club's dress code, jeans, sneakers, jogging pants, and other casual/athletic attire are not permitted. Dress to impress and bring your best dress shoes. The tropical decor, including plush sofas, colorful lighting, natural stone, and a sleek bar, lends the venue a relaxing atmosphere.
VLive Chicago (2501 S Kedzie Ave, Chicago)
Open Tuesday 5:00 PM - 1:00 AM, Friday 5:00 PM - 4:00 AM, Saturday 5:00 PM - 5:00 AM, Sunday 5:00 PM - 3:00 AM.
Located in the Markham neighborhood, VLive has quickly become one of the hottest nightlife hotspots in Chicago . When you walk in, you'll notice your steps lit up in a rainbow of hues. Additionally, the dance floor is a kaleidoscope of colors, and guests are bathed in dazzling yellow light. Multiple large flat-screen TVs, coupled with high-quality music, offer an unforgettable audiovisual experience.
Miki’s Park (109 W Hubbard St, Chicago)
Open Sunday through Friday from 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM, Saturday from 4:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
Miki's Tiger Bar hosts K-pop nights, Korean bar competitions, and live DJs. While Miki's isn't really a nightclub, it's well-known among Chicagoans interested in Asian culture as a hidden gem. Come any day of the week for live music at the bar, or stay on Friday nights for K-pop and a live DJ.
Hideout (1354 W Wabansia Ave, Chicago)
Open Monday through Friday from 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM, Saturday from 6:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
In our opinion, Hideout is the best live house night in Chicago . Hideout always has an amazing lineup of local and regional acts, ranging from jazz bands to punk rock. Plus, this club is full of interesting people who, coincidentally, all know great places to hang out and chill.
Bounce Sporting Club (324 W Chicago Ave, Chicago)
Open Wednesdays 8:00 PM - 2:00 AM, Thursdays and Fridays 5:00 PM - 2:00 AM, Saturdays 3:00 PM - 3:00 AM, and Sundays 3:00 PM - 2:00 AM.
Bounce is multipurpose and serves as more than just a sports bar. It's a popular Chicago nightlife destination for both residents and visitors looking to sample a wide variety of high-quality alcoholic beverages. This nightclub is undoubtedly the best place to spend the night listening to live music, dancing to DJs, and watching top sports on TV.
Empty Bottle (1035 N Western Ave, Chicago)
Open daily from 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM.
This is a great place to see up-and-coming bands, and the crowd is always lively and fun to watch. If you want to be comfortable while dancing, you might want to leave your coat at home.
Berlin Nightclub (954 W Belmont Ave, Chicago)
Open Monday 10:00 PM - 2:00 AM, Wednesday - Friday 10:00 PM - 4:00 AM, and Saturday 11:00 PM - 5:00 AM.
Berlin is a gay and lesbian club in Chicago that plays a variety of '80s hits, disco, and new wave. Located just east of North Sheffield Avenue, the club is on Belmont Avenue. In addition to a diverse dance music selection, the venue regularly hosts themed nights and live entertainment. Beer, wine, and potent mixed drinks are all available at the bar. One of the best places to let loose and dance in Chicago, with a diverse and enthusiastic crowd. All sexual orientations are welcome at the club.
Chicago Bars and Pubs
Chicagoans enjoy locally produced alcoholic beverages like microbrews, specialty cocktails, pitchers of margaritas, and wines straight from the vineyard. This city is a drinker's dream, with venues ranging from historic watering holes and hidden speakeasies to elegant rooftop lounges and Chicago bars open until 4 a.m.
Below, we've compiled a list of some of the best bars in Chicago .
Celeste (111 W Hubbard St, Chicago)
Open Wednesdays 7:00 PM–2:00 AM, Thursdays and Fridays 7:00 PM–4:00 AM, and Saturdays 7:00 PM–5:00 AM.
Step into paradise and transport yourself to Celeste, a tropical rainforest where music, dreams, and a strange experience come together. Visit the basement bar for some late-night entertainment or dine in the Art Deco-inspired upstairs for a relaxing evening with friends. Great music, delicious food, and positive energy are constants at Celeste, and that's what makes it so special.
Blind Barber (948 W Fulton Market, Chicago)
Open Sunday through Tuesday 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., Friday 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 a.m.
Blind Barber may look like any other inconspicuous barbershop on the street, but behind its modest facade lies one of Chicago's most famous nightclubs , a not-so-secret speakeasy.
You can get your haircut there during the day or come back later to eat, drink, and listen to music from local DJs, just like at the store's other locations in New York, Los Angeles , and Philadelphia. The dim lighting creates an atmosphere of chic sophistication, and the dance floor is spacious enough to accommodate a modest party. Unless you enjoy waiting in line, reservations are highly recommended.
Green Mill Cocktail Lounge (4802 N Broadway, Chicago)
Open daily from 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM.
Every evening, the Green Mill welcomes visitors and jazz enthusiasts seeking an atmosphere reminiscent of Clark Monroe's Uptown House in 1940s Harlem. The Green Mill, once frequented by Al Capone, Charlie Chaplin, and Gloria Swanson, has a charm missing from contemporary nightclubs and the feel of an early 20th-century speakeasy that served during Prohibition.
Jazz, big band, blues, and swing performances, as well as the long-running and renowned Uptown Poetry Slam, fill the weekly live music schedule. Drinks are cheap, but if you want a table, it's best to arrive well before the bands start. You might hear classic jazz, modern jazz, bebop, and improvised jazz from both local artists and well-known names during these jam sessions. Anyone looking for a casual yet elegant place to enjoy live jazz in Chicago should check out Green Mill.
The J. Parker (1816 N Clark St, Chicago)
Open Tuesday through Thursday from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, Friday from 3:00 PM to 1:00 AM, Saturday from 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM, and Sunday from 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
This 13th-floor, floating rooftop bar is open year-round and offers a seasonally changing menu of creative cocktails, as well as a selection of local beers, ciders, wines, and spirits. Gaze at the stars, cozy up by the glass-enclosed open fires, and soak in unobstructed views of Chicago in every direction.
Replay Lincoln Park (2833 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago)
Open Monday through Thursday from 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM, Friday from 3:00 PM to 2:00 AM, Saturday from 12:00 PM to 3:00 AM, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM.
Replay Lincoln Park is a popular retro arcade bar in Chicago that caters to the half of the population who don't like wearing stilettos, smelling of perfume, dancing on crowded dance floors, or taking endless selfies. Join the trivia nights and enjoy a good craft beer. The bar offers over sixty free classic arcade games like pinball, air hockey, and pool. The place to go if you're looking for a relaxing night out in Chicago.
Lottie’s Pub (1925 W Cortland St, Chicago)
Open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Most newcomers to Chicago have a soft spot for Monks or Lottie's. Being featured on the TV show Chicago Fire is a big deal for the local community. Sure, it's busier with tourists now than it was in the 1920s, but the place has retained its same charming atmosphere.
The Violet Hour (1520 N Damen Ave, Chicago)
Open Tuesday through Sunday from 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM.
The Violet Hour, located on Damen Avenue in downtown Wicker Park, is often ranked as one of Chicago's best bars . It's a trendy hangout frequented by both locals and travelers. Stop by for one of their inventive drinks.
Stop by the bar Monday through Thursday for absinthe happy hour and enjoy free absinthe samples and specials. However, it's fair to say that The Violet Hour is among the most elegant and respected cocktail lounges in Chicago . Your Chicago nightlife tour would be incomplete without a stop at this incredible venue .
Sportsman’s Club (948 N Western Ave, Chicago)
Open Sunday through Friday from 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM, Saturday from 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM.
A quirky, taxidermy-filled decor, a spacious back terrace, superb cocktails, and, as the name suggests, a sporty vibe draw people from beyond the Humboldt Park neighborhood to this Chicago pub. Its reputation for serving tasty drinks at reasonable prices has made it a neighborhood favorite.
In the summer, the bartender staff encourages some of Chicago's best chefs to host barbecues on the patio, and for just $20, you can enjoy a delicious meal and a refreshing drink. Three or four different cocktails are available each evening, including the house specialty, the Sportsman's Cocktail, currently made with amaro, black cherry, and absinthe. The exact ingredients may vary, but you can count on the drink to be very fragrant and bitter. There are many other cocktails, but they are all different takes on classics.
Matchbox (770 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago)
Open Tuesday through Sunday from 3:00 PM to 2:00 AM, Monday from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
A trendy corner bar on Milwaukee Avenue, Matchbox is housed in a historic building and is known for its exceptional cocktail menu and cozy confines. The bar is cramped, but the terrace effectively doubles the restaurant's capacity, making it the perfect spot to enjoy one of its signature margaritas, made with freshly squeezed lemon and lime juice, premium spirits, powdered sugar, and a heavy hand. The house-infused vodkas and food from the adjacent dining car are the hits of the entire train.
Sleeping Village (3734 W Belmont Ave, Chicago)
Open Sunday through Wednesday from 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM, Friday and Saturday from 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM.
This pub and concert venue located on Belmont Avenue offers a wide variety of beers, stouts, barleys, and fruit beers from around the world for visitors to try, providing a true test of their taste senses.
The Sleeping Village has much more to offer than a huge selection of beers and comfortable accommodations. Because at the back of the building is a concert hall that can accommodate 300 people. This combination greatly enhances the customers' enjoyment of freshly brewed beers and background music.
Sleeping Village (1746 W Chicago Ave, Chicago)
Open Sunday through Thursday from 12:00 PM to 9:30 PM, Friday and Saturday from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM.
This brewery is the place to go if you want to try something truly special. Located in The Hub, a renovated movie theater, this brewery produces excellent botanical beers. The first of its kind in Chicago, this brewery uses foraged ingredients to create bold and innovative beers.
Monk’s Pub (205 W Lake St, Chicago)
Open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Don't miss Monk's Pub if you want to experience some of Chicago's authentic nightlife. The owner had a wonderful experience staying in a monastery, hence the name. Afterward, he decided to name any future business he opened Monk's.
This bar has a warm, European atmosphere. A variety of antiques and antiquarian books adorn the walls and bookcases. A wide selection of foreign craft beers is now available at the bar. Step into this fantastic Chicago bar and prepare to be enchanted.
