Chicago's C-View is a warm weather hotspot.
No one understands the brutality of winter quite like Chicagoans, which is why they are so quick to flock outdoors once the weather warms up. They’ve also been known to indulge in alcoholic beverages from time to time. With those powers combined, MyCityWay has our picks of the best rooftop bars in Chicago.
C-View: This rooftop bar is so good it’s busy in the winter, but it explodes in popularity in the summer. While it’s smaller than most of its counterparts, C-View has a great staff and no cover charge, but we particularly love how there’s no bottle service. That’s right – you won’t be denied a table for being smart enough not to get bottle service. 166 East Superior Street
Chicago's Citizen is a neighborhood bar with great views.
Citizen Bar: For a more neighborhood bar vibe, Citizen is the best. The crowd is definitively yuppie, and it’s got a killer lunch scene for those who like to day drink. Our favorite part is the daily specials that include food ($8 pizzas, $6.50 burgers) and drinks ($4 pints, $5 Grey Goose cocktails), but the view isn’t too shabby either. 364 West Erie Street
Sidetrack: A brilliant Boys Town bar even without the rooftop, Sidetrack is a guaranteed good time. Show tunes play on the television, and despite being massive, the space is almost always filled. There are never any specials, so don’t expect a deal, but you can count on it being clean and casual with amazing live entertainment. 3349 North Halsted Street
Chicago's theWit Hotel has one of the best rooftops in the country.
theWit Hotel: Great view, beautiful space, and classy clientele. What’s not to love? In fact, this might be one of the best rooftop bars in the country (USA Today thinks so). The tabletop fireplaces are especially charming. Warning: There’s a cover charge on Friday and Saturday nights, so plan accordingly. 201 North State Street
Zed451: Unlike some of its counterparts, this steakhouse has delicious dishes to nosh on while you get cozy on its rooftop. The food is a standout, but the bartenders are no slouches. They churn out well crafted cocktails at lightening speed, and the wine list is also impressive. Tip: Order the Kumquat Mule with Belvedere, muddled kumquats, fresh lemon and orange juices mixed with an agave-ginger infusion. 739 North Clark Street
Do you have a favorite rooftop bar in Chicago? Tell us in the comments.
About the author
Craig Nelson is Community Manager & Editor for MyCityWay. He lives in Manhattan and loves all things urban. Travel, ping pong, film, cooking, and cocktails are also high on his list of fun things to do.
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