Chicago is legendary for all sorts of things – high-rise skyscrapers, mythical deep dish pizza, a rich gangster history, but its vibrant nightlife is one thing you simply need to do. Whether you’re on the hunt for refreshing drinks, happening vibe, or breathtaking roof top views, these best bars in Chicago have it all. The following is a list of the best 10 bars in Chicago that you simply can’t miss!!
1. Three Dots & A Dash
Hidden in River North, this award-winning tiki bar imports Polynesian ambiance with a touch of 1920s Hollywood glamour. With its innovative large-format cocktails perfect for sharing with buddies, it is among the best bars in Chicago to spend an evening drinking exotic cocktails with the best music and vibe.
2. Scofflaw
Awarded as the best bar in Chicago in the early days just after launch, Scofflaw is a gin-centric cocktail bar in Logan Square. Its unique décor and expertly prepared gin cocktails make for an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere. If you’re looking for the best bars in Chicago for drinking traditional yet inventive cocktails, this spot is an excellent choice.
3. The Heavy Feather
The Heavy Feather in Logan Square serves up a chic 1970s-era with a contemporary twist. A fern bar with no menu items, this place specializes in finely crafted cocktails and its green retro decor, making it one of Chicago’s highest-rated cocktail bars.
4. Beatnik on the River
Look, if you’re into stuffing your face with great Mediterranean bites while sipping something strong, Beatnik on the River is your spot. The place drips with this over-the-top luxury vibe, you can chill on their river deck, soak up that killer view, and even feel fancy without acting like it. Honestly, it’s one of the best bars in Chicago that somehow nails being both luxe and laid-back.
5. Offshore Rooftop
Offshore is the world’s largest rooftop bar where you get these insane, wide-open views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. It’s tucked right at the south tip of Navy Pier, basically floating over the water. Perfect spot to sip on a fancy drink, pretend you’re in a music video, and catch the sun calling it quits for the day. If you’re looking for top-tier Chicago vibes, this is the place.
6. Parsons Chicken + Fish
This hip beer garden pub is among the best bars in Chicago. South-inspired Parsons boasts a big outdoor area with table games such as ping pong and a menu with fresh and fried items, offering a casual and lively atmosphere. It’s among the top bars in Chicago for nights out with friends and sunny afternoons.
7. Paradise Park
With its neon-lit caravan park atmosphere and huge outdoor seating area, Paradise Park is a relaxed, offbeat destination with a woodfire pizza oven and covered zones for rainy days. One of the city’s top bars for an easygoing, off-the-wall atmosphere.
8. Park + Field
Park + Field in Logan Square has got this retro sports club vibe going on inside that makes you wanna dust off your old bowling shoes and then you step outside and find there’s a beer garden with bocce courts and fire pits. It’s like a summer camp for grown-ups, except with way better beer.
9. District Brew Yards
For a unique beer hall experience, this West Loop tavern allows you to tap your own beer from among its frequently changing taps of local craft breweries. With plenty of seating and food stands, District Brew Yards is among the best bars in Chicago for casual craft beer fans.
10. Machine: Engineered Dining & Drink
In Wicker Park, this popular bar is best known for innovative cocktails, even those presented with unique presentation like hammer-bashing brulée cages. It has a flower cart to assist you in making your own arrangements while you drink, making it one of the most creative and highly-rated bars in Chicago. Chicago nightlife is lively & happening, where each & every person has his or her own go-to spot that they like whether it’s a swanky cocktail bar, vintage cafe, or a rooftop with skyline vistas, or beer garden for chilling.
Chicago’s best bars are not simply a place to be tipsy at – they’re creative hubs, delectable eateries, and hangout spots that are part of Chicago’s rich nightlife. By exploring these top 10 best bars in Chicago, you’ll find out why so many locals and visitors alike are proud of the city’s ever-evolving, world-class bar culture. So grab a cocktail, raise a glass, and have a great party with your loved ones at these absolute best bars in Chicago.