
Nightlife & Party Destinations in Chicago, Illinois, United States
1. Smartbar
A legendary Chicago nightclub known for its electronic music and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere, offering a unique blend of local and international DJs.
- Electronic Music Haven: Specializes in electronic music, attracting both locals and tourists.
- LGBTQ+ Friendly: A popular spot for the LGBTQ+ community and allies.
- International DJs: Frequently hosts renowned international DJs.
2. The Underground
An iconic dance club in Chicago's River North district, featuring live music and a large dance floor.
- Live Music Venue: Live bands play regularly, offering a unique concert-like experience.
- Spacious Dance Floor: A large dance floor for an energetic night out.
- Central Location: Conveniently located in River North, close to restaurants and other attractions.
3. Green Mill Cocktail Lounge
A historic jazz club known for its speakeasy-style atmosphere and live music performances.
- Historic Speakeasy-Style: Transport visitors back in time with its vintage decor.
- Live Music Performances: Offers live jazz music every night, showcasing local and international talent.
- Intimate Venue: A smaller, more intimate setting for an up-close and personal experience.
4. The Mid
An upscale rooftop lounge offering stunning views of the Chicago skyline and a dance floor for nightly parties.
- Rooftop Lounge: Enjoy breathtaking city views while sipping cocktails.
- Skyline Views: Boasts one of the best skyline views in Chicago.
- Dance Floor and Music: Features a dance floor for nightly parties with DJ-spun music.
5. Chicago Beer Garden
A spacious outdoor beer garden located in Lincoln Park, offering a lively atmosphere and German-inspired drinks.
- Spacious Outdoor Setting: Ample seating and a large space to accommodate groups.
- German-Inspired Drinks: Serves a variety of beer, wine, and cocktails inspired by German traditions.
- Seasonal Events: Hosts seasonal events, such as Oktoberfest celebrations.
6. The Signature Room at the 95th
A chic restaurant and lounge located on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Center, offering stunning city views and live jazz music.
- Stunning City Views: One of the best vantage points to view Chicago's skyline.
- Live Jazz Music: Features live jazz performances, adding an elegant touch to the experience.
- Fine Dining Experience: Offers a gourmet menu for diners seeking a high-end dining experience.
7. Jazz Showcase
A intimate jazz club in Chicago's South Loop neighborhood, showcasing both established and up-and-coming artists.
- Intimate Venue: Small and cozy setting for an intimate jazz experience.
- Showcasing Emerging Talent: Gives new artists a chance to perform alongside established ones.
- Historical Significance: One of the oldest jazz clubs in Chicago, with a rich musical history.
8. The Shrine
A popular dance club in the West Loop neighborhood, known for its high-energy parties and DJ-spun music.
- High Energy Parties: Famous for wild and energetic nightlife events.
- DJ-Spun Music: Features top DJs spinning a variety of music genres.
- Central Location: Located in the West Loop, close to restaurants and other attractions.
9. The Violet Hour
A cocktail bar in Wicker Park known for its craft cocktails and speakeasy-style atmosphere.
- Craft Cocktails: Offers a unique and extensive selection of handcrafted cocktails.
- Speakeasy-Style: A vintage decor that recreates the speakeasy era, adding an air of mystery and intrigue.
- Small and Intimate: A smaller venue that fosters a cozy, intimate setting.
10. Rosemary's
A trendy bar in Wicker Park offering a lively atmosphere and creative cocktails.
- Creative Cocktails: Offers unique, seasonal, and inventive cocktails.
- Trendy Atmosphere: A stylish bar that is a favorite among the hip, trend-conscious crowd.
- Lively and Social: A vibrant social scene, making it a great place to meet new people.
11. The Rookery
A classic tavern in Chicago's Loop neighborhood, offering a historic ambiance and live music.
- Historic Ambiance: Located in a beautiful, historic building dating back to the late 1800s.
- Live Music: Features live music performances, adding to the lively atmosphere.
- Central Location: Conveniently located in Chicago's Loop, close to other popular attractions.
12. The Drifter
A rooftop bar and lounge in the West Loop neighborhood, offering stunning city views and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Stunning City Views: Offers breathtaking views of Chicago's skyline.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: A more laid-back environment, perfect for casual drinks and conversation.
- Craft Cocktails: Serves craft cocktails, wine, and beer, along with small plates.
13. The Promontory
A live music venue and restaurant in Hyde Park, featuring a variety of music genres and Southern-inspired cuisine.
- Live Music Venue: Offers live music performances, showcasing local and national artists.
- Southern-Inspired Cuisine: Serves Southern comfort food, along with a variety of drinks.
- Community Focus: Hosts events and workshops that foster community engagement.
14. Berghoff Cafe & Restaurant
A historic restaurant in the Loop neighborhood, offering German cuisine and a cozy, old-world atmosphere.
- German Cuisine: Serves traditional German dishes, such as sausages, pretzels, and beer.
- Historic Atmosphere: Features a beautiful, old-world decor that harkens back to Chicago's early 20th century.
- Central Location: Located in Chicago's Loop, close to other popular attractions.
15. Slippery Slope
A neighborhood bar and music venue in Logan Square, known for its diverse lineup of live music and a lively atmosphere.
- Diverse Live Music: Offers a wide variety of genres, from punk to indie rock.
- Community Focus: A beloved local spot that supports emerging artists and fosters community engagement.
- Cozy Atmosphere: A warm, inviting environment with a welcoming staff and regular patrons.