These Chicago rooftop bars are open right now so if you’re just as bummed about Lolla being canceled as we are, here are some spots to offset the sorrow. As Illinois continues monitoring Phase 3 progression, other bars and restaurants will most likely move to open, so keep an eye out here for updates!
These Chicago Streets Are Closing to Make Room for Outdoor Dining
Trying to maximize your outdoor adventuring time? Check out which Chicago streets are being closed down to make room for outdoor dining.
Discover Which Chicago Streets Are Closed
Offshore
1000 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Taking the cake as the world’s largest rooftop bar, Offshore brings back its sprawling space and sprawling cocktail list. While this bar updates its menu seasonally, fear not! The signature lychee-style cocktail still sits on the menu and, if you’re feeling peckish, their food menu has expanded to include salmon poke bowls, heirloom tomato, and avocado salads, and so many more refreshing options. Currently, Offshore is taking reservations up to parties of six, so grab the crew!
LondonHouse
85 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601
LondonHouse is back for almost half a day of stellar rooftop galavanting. Open from 11 am to midnight, swing by for a midday sip or an evening excursion. Keep it classy with a signature cocktail like the LondonHouse Old Fashioned featuring Bulleit Bourbon. Reservations are limited to two hours and parties of six, but that should be plenty of time to bask in the rooftop splendor!
Upstairs at the Gwen
521 N Rush St 5th Flr, Chicago, IL 60611
Okay, so we fibbed (just a little) when we said that you could hit up all these Chicago rooftop bars right this very minute. Upstairs at the Gwen technically doesn’t open until tomorrow, but good things come to those who wait, you know? And we know that you’ll love their new shaded ‘Calypso’ experiences which include umbrella-covered seating for those blistering Chicago days (and nights). Also, they have bottomless-mimosas. (Do you forgive us now?)
FountainHead
1970 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
If you want to maintain the scorch both inside and out, rejoice! FountainHead, one of Chicago’s premier whiskey bars, is back with their selection of over 1000 (yes, three zeros) whiskeys. Is that a little too intense? Not a problem. FountainHead also boasts over 500 beer selections. With a range that extensive, there’s something for everyone.
Whiskey Business
1367 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Whiskey Business mixes its 100+ whiskey selection with ’80s and ’90s nostalgia. Reserve your spot on the rooftop and enjoy a wide selection of food options (including brunch). If you’re trying to kick the evening up a notch, reserve the Beach House Evening Wave package. Beach houses include your choice of bottle, a bucket of a dozen tallboys or white claws, and a platter of fresh fruit to refresh yourself with. What’s not to love?
Apogee
2 W Erie St, Chicago, IL 60654
Apogee, the world, is defined by the point in an object’s orbit where it is furthest from the earth. Apogee, the rooftop bar on the 26th floor of the Eurostars Magnificent Mile Hotel, boasts mind-blowing cocktails poured in hand-blown glassware that are sure to make you feel like you’re transcending. Reservations cap at nine guests, but at least here that means you can get the whole squad back together.
Cabana Club
2018 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Sitting atop the 6th floor of The Robey, Cabana Club offers a gorgeous 180-degree view of our beloved city. Great fresh drinks line their menu with even tastier frozen options (anyone else craving a piña colada after the year we’ve had?). No word on if the pool up there is open, but here’s to hoping!
The Up Room
2018 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
If the Cabana Club hits the marks but not the heights, just head up some floors to The Up Room, The Robey’s 13-floor-high rooftop lounge. Out on the terrace, you can find views of both the city and The Robey’s famed heavens-bound spire. If you’re daring enough to venture this high, are you brave enough to try their Surprisingly Good cocktail? What’s the surprise you ask? Malört, of course.
Gibson’s Italia
233 N Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606
You don’t have to be eating steak to frequent one of Chicago’s best rooftop bars, Gibson’s Italia, although who could you blame you for snagging some gelato? Instead, throw on some of your dressier attire, order some fine wine, relax on the rooftop terrace, and live your best Gatsby life. You deserve it.
Tó Hayáti
1558 N. Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Tó Hayáti, Taxim’s rooftop terrace, is open to transport you away to Greece. Greek wines, spirits, and drinks inspired by Greece’s history await you atop this cozy nook. We know you’re visiting this neighborhood treasure for its drinks, but the food here is absolutely not to be overlooked. Grab a small plate of tzatziki and pita or go for the gold with a delicious gyro; pair it with a lager or a wine and you’re living the good life.
At UrbanMatter, U Matter. And we think this matters.
Tell us what you think matters in your neighborhood and what we should write about next in the comments below!
Featured Image Credit: The Robey Chicago Facebook