10 Best Bars for When You Turn 21 in ChicagoAudrey Snyderon August 10, 2020 at 9:23 pm

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There’s a lot of build-up to one’s 21st birthday, and a lot of pressure to celebrate in a way that is, in one way or another, memorable. Whether that means just having a couple of beers around the corner or partying hard until 4 a.m., you should celebrate this milestone in whatever way makes you happy. Check out the 10 best Chicago bars to find the right spot for your 21st birthday night.

Best Bars
Photo Credit: Beauty Bar Chicago Facebook Page

1444 W Chicago Ave, Chicago IL 60642

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With actual salon-style chairs and martini-and-manicure specials, Beauty Bar lives up to its name. Probably the best part of this night club, though, is its DJ’d theme nights that get everyone out on the dance floor; Emo vs Pop Punk, GRRRL Power, and The Grind R&B Dance Party have been regular favorites on the Beauty Bar calendar.

Best Bar
Photo Credit: Fountainhead Chicago Facebook Page

1970 W Montrose Ave, Chicago IL 60613

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A haven for the beer lovers, Fountainhead has a delightful roof deck garden and is always perfect for gathering your friends and going to town on some fries and brews.

Best Bars
Photo Credit: Emporium Arcade Bar Facebook Page

2363 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago IL 60647 | 1366 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago IL 60622 | 839 W Fulton Market, Chicago IL 60607

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Arcades: great. Bars: also great. Arcade bars: the greatest. Who doesn’t want to play air hockey in between birthday shots?

Best Bars
Photo Credit: Three Dots and a Dash Facebook Page

435 N Clark St, Chicago IL 60654

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For those who haven’t tired of more novel drinking experiences (I’m talking about the youths here), a tiki bar that also happens to be a speakeasy is probably the perfect combination. All the beverages are, of course, dangerously delicious, and you have to be in the know just to find the entrance to the bar.

Best Bars
Photo Credit: Rogers Park Social Facebook Page

6920 N Glenwood Ave, Chicago IL 60626

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This cozy spot very much has the feel of a friendly neighborhood bar and has a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails. It’s easy to post up here with your friends for a solid couple of hours and lose track of time over drinks.

Best Bars
Photo Credit: Reggies Yelp Page

2105 S State St, Chicago IL 60616

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Aside from being a well-loved music venue, Reggie’s also has a well-loved rooftop space. You can get appetizers, burgers, and other selections to go with any number of cocktails and great beers.

Best Bars
Photo Credit: Big Joe’s Yelp Page

1818 W Foster Ave, Chicago IL 60640

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Self-described as a ‘neighborhood bar,’ Big Joe’s should be on your 21st-birthday-itinerary if you prefer a laid-back atmosphere, big pitchers of beer to share, and, most importantly, if you’ve longed to see a bunch of turtles racing. Every Friday at 10 pm, anyone can look on in wonder and admiration as these noble reptiles compete for glory.

Best Bars
Photo Credit: Lonesome Rose Facebook Page

2101 N California Ave, Chicago IL 60647

If you’re looking for great Mexican-inspired food and delicious margaritas (and maybe less of the wild, into-the-wee-hours 21st birthday), this Logan Square spot may be the place for you. You can balance out your tequila shots and margaritas with fish tacos, street corn, and more.


Photo Credit: Sideouts Sports Tavern Facebook Page

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Best Bars
Photo Credit: Alice’s Lounge Facebook Page

3556 W Belmont Ave, Chicago IL 60618

This is, at first glance, just a no-frills dive bar with cheap drinks and a jukebox; at second glance, however, you might realize that Alice’s hosts wildly popular karaoke nights Wednesday through Saturday every week. Devoted regulars frequently appear at Alice’s karaoke and throw themselves into their performances with great gusto.

Best Bars
Photo Credit: Hopleaf Facebook Page

5148 N Clark St, Chicago IL 60640

If your greatest wish for your 21st birthday is a giant beer menu, amazing mac and cheese, and top-notch fries (among other tasty food items), Hopleaf should be your destination. This Andersonville pub is the perfect place to be getting together and drinking with your pals.

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Featured Image Credit: Three Dots and a Dash Facebook Page

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