One of the greatest things about Chicago is the nightlife~ Chicago is full of great clubs, bars, and after hour eating establishments. Now that the weather is getting warmer, it’s time to switch from indoor bars to exciting outdoor rooftop bars! Rooftop bars in Chicago are great places to visit for many reasons; not only will you get to grab a drink in a cool establishment, but you can also grab a view of the Chicago skyline! Check out the list below and be sure to stop by one of these great locations.
The J. Parker
1816 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
Source: The J. Parker
We put The J. Parker first on our list for a reason. Most of the popular rooftop bars are located in The Loop or River North, and we totally get it. They’re awesome. If however you’re looking for something a little different head north to Lincoln Park and to the 14th floor of the Lincoln Hotel and you’ll find yourself the beneficiary of panoramic views of Lincoln Park, the shores of Lake Michigan and a spectacular view of the Chicago skyline looking south.
My wife and I lived in Lincoln Park for a couple of years and grabbing a drink here in the summer never got old. Head to the Green City Farmers Market on Saturday morning and then cross the street to grab a cocktail and soak in the views. Now that’s a great start to the day!
Cindy’s Rooftop Restaurant
12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
Source: Cindy’s Rooftop Bar
When people think rooftop bars in Chicago, they think of Cindy’s. Not only will this bar give you great views of Lake Michigan and Millennium Park, but you also get a five-star dining experience.
Cindy’s is open until 1am on weekdays, and 2am on weekends, making a great late night spot too for a nightcap drink or even a midnight meal. This bars rooftop is covered, so you can enjoy Cindy’s year round, even in the bitterly cold Chicago winters!
AIRE
100 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603
Source: Hyatt Centric
AIRE is the hidden gem of rooftop bars. You will pay a bit of money to dine here, but remember, it’s about the atmosphere! There are very few rooftop bars in Chicago that offer the high end atmosphere that AIRE does. Make sure to plan your time here on a clear night, there is no awning covering the lounge area. If it’s a rainy or windy night, reschedule for another time. It will be worth it!
Drumbar
201 E Delaware Pl, Chicago, IL 60611
Source: Drumbar
Forbes magazine named Drumbar the best rooftop bar in Chicago, and they did so for a good reason. Drumbar was also named the “Best Whiskey Bar” by GQ Magazine. They have an incredible indoor lounge, as well as an outdoor terrace with downtown and speakeasy-style decor. Located at the top of the Raffaello hotel, this rooftop bar is a must-see for locals and tourists alike. With all cocktails being $16, you know exactly what you are going to pay. No hidden fees or upsells. Spots fill up fast, so be sure to fill out a reservation!
Raised
1 West Upper Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60601
Source: Raised Bar
Not only is Raised a great place to grab drinks, but they have an incredible menu. All of their menu items are made using ingredients sourced from within 200 miles of the restaurant. Sometimes, you want to grab a meal while you are at a bar, and this is the place to do it. The cool thing about this bar is that there are no reservations, making it a great choice for you and your friends when you just randomly decide that you want to attend a rooftop bar.
No matter which rooftop bar in Chicago you want to attend, going to either one of these locations means you will have a great night filled with memories!
