31 Must-Visit Rooftop Bars Across Chicago
Why Chicago's Rooftop Scene Reigns Supreme
Rooftop bars Chicago offers some of the most spectacular liftd drinking experiences in the country. In the city that invented the skyscraper, nothing feels quite as resplendent as lounging atop one for a cocktail with a view.
Top Chicago Rooftop Bars by Category:
- Best Views: Cindy's Rooftop (Millennium Park), LH Rooftop (Chicago River), The Up Room (skyline panoramas)
- Year-Round Options: I|O Godfrey (retractable roof), Celeste (heated garden), ROOF on theWit (indoor spaces)
- Unique Experiences: Offshore (world's largest rooftop), Devereaux (rooftop pool), Gene's (German beer garden)
- Award Winners: ROOF on theWit (Top 3 worldwide by Travel+Leisure), Z Bar (upscale Peninsula location)
Chicago's rooftop bars range from casual neighborhood spots to internationally acclaimed destinations. Many feature retractable roofs or indoor spaces, making them accessible throughout the city's changing seasons. Whether seeking stunning lake views, architectural marvels along the Chicago River, or themed experiences, the city's liftd bar scene delivers unforgettable moments.
From the 27th floor of ROOF on theWit to the intimate 13th-floor charm of The Up Room, these venues showcase Chicago's magnificent skyline while serving everything from craft cocktails to weekend brunch. The diversity spans from Mediterranean cuisine at Aba to German-style offerings at Gene's Sausage Shop.
Top Rooftop Bars in Chicago for Unforgettable Views
When it comes to rooftop bars Chicago has to offer, the views are nothing short of spectacular. The city's skyline tells a story of architectural innovation and urban beauty, appreciated from high above with a crafted cocktail in hand. These liftd venues don't just serve drinks – they serve up breathtaking panoramas that showcase why Chicago's skyline is considered one of the world's most stunning.
Iconic Loop & River North Vistas
The beating heart of Chicago lies in the Loop and River North, where towering skyscrapers create dramatic backdrops and the Chicago River winds its way through the urban landscape like a liquid highway.
Cindy's Rooftop, perched atop a landmark building overlooking Millennium Park, offers sweeping views over the park, the Art Institute, and the endless expanse of Lake Michigan. This versatile spot welcomes everyone from families enjoying weekend brunch to couples sharing intimate evening cocktails. The outdoor fire pits make chilly nights cozy, extending the rooftop season well beyond summer's end.
For expansive river views, LH Rooftop delivers from its perch on the 22nd floor along the Chicago River. Architectural marvels unfold below like a living postcard, while Michigan Avenue buzzes with urban energy. The venue offers both open-air dining and an indoor option at LH on 21, ensuring comfort regardless of Chicago's famously unpredictable weather.
Terrace 16 sits on the 16th floor of a prominent high-rise along the river. Panoramic vistas stretch from the city's iconic landmarks to Lake Michigan's shimmering waters, creating an upscale atmosphere ideal for special celebrations.
Raised, An Urban Rooftop Bar offers a contemporary vibe on the third floor of a downtown high-rise. Rather than feeling removed from the city's energy, guests feel immersed in Chicago's pulse while enjoying creative, seasonal dishes made from local ingredients. The year-round fire pits ensure the urban oasis remains welcoming even during cooler months.
Chicago Rooftop Cocktail Bar | Raised An Urban Rooftop Bar
Lincoln Park & North Side Panoramas
Head north and find a different side of Chicago's rooftop scene, where leafy Lincoln Park meets the lakefront and neighborhood charm takes center stage alongside stunning city vistas.
The J. Parker, situated atop a historic building in Lincoln Park, offers mesmerizing views across the park's green spaces to the sparkling lake beyond. With 140 outdoor seats and 55 inside, this popular destination becomes particularly atmospheric during summer evenings. Special events like 'Cocktails & Canvas' and the 'Sunset Social Happy Hour' add creative flair, while the "Boozy Brunch" provides the perfect excuse for mimosa-filled mornings with epic views.
The Up Room is an intimate 13th-floor lounge that captures Chicago's authentic spirit with its unique edge and notable skyline views. It's one of the few North Side spots where the city's architectural grandeur can be fully appreciated while sipping expertly crafted cocktails.
Kennedy Rooftop spans an impressive 7,500 square feet, offering unobstructed views that stretch from the John Hancock building all the way to the Willis Tower. This expansive perspective showcases the full breadth of Chicago's architectural achievements, making it a favorite for those seeking comprehensive city panoramas.
The Bush Temple by FLATS® is positioned at the intersection of River North and the Gold Coast, providing residents with access to these rooftop experiences throughout the city.
More info about Gold Coast bars
Liftd Culinary Experiences: Dining and Unique Cocktails
Chicago's rooftop scene is also a culinary journey. Many of these liftd venues pair stunning scenery with exceptional food and drink menus, suitable for brunch, dinner, or a night of inventive cocktails. The city's chefs and mixologists are known for being as creative as its architects, crafting experiences that delight the palate as much as the eyes.
Rooftop Bars in Chicago for Brunch and Bites
When the weekend calls for a leisurely meal with a side of spectacular scenery, these rooftop bars answer. They offer delectable brunch options and small bites that perfectly complement the liftd ambiance.
Aba, located in Fulton Market, is known for its Mediterranean cuisine. Its popular rooftop is often busy with guests due to the delightful sights of the surrounding neighborhood it offers. It's a trendy spot that combines great food with a vibrant atmosphere.
bar avec, an open-air rooftop concept, is inspired by the leisurely style of dining and imbibing found at casual seaside diners in coastal Spanish & Portuguese towns. Located on the 8th floor of 640 N LaSalle Drive, it offers sweeping panoramic views of Chicago’s magnificent downtown skyline. The lively and comfortable setting is suitable for drinks, bites, brunch, or a full dinner.
Visit bar avec
NoMI Garden, on the seventh floor overlooking Michigan Avenue, offers serene views of the city. The menu transitions from daytime fare like salads to evening cocktails and seafood towers, making it a versatile spot for dining.
Cindy's Rooftop, as mentioned earlier, is an all-purpose spot for locals and visitors, offering not only lunch but also a brunch menu. The focus on local, wild, and seasonal produce, along with fresh seafood, ensures a delightful culinary experience. While it doesn't enforce a strict dress code, smart casual attire is encouraged, reflecting the liftd yet welcoming atmosphere.
Cindy's Rooftop dining
Where to Find Creative Cocktails with a View
For those who appreciate the art of mixology, Chicago's rooftop bars boast unique cocktail menus that are as impressive as their views. These spots specialize in inventive concoctions that lift the drinking experience.
Z Bar, located on the 6th floor above Michigan Avenue, is an upscale, refined, and internationally inspired rooftop bar with sweeping city views. It is known as a suitable spot for special occasions, with a focus on globally inspired drinks.
Book a table at Z Bar
ROOF on theWit, set 27 stories above it all, has earned international acclaim for its expressive design and entertainment, sweeping skyline views, and unique hand-crafted cocktails and cuisine. Led by Chef Steve Chiappetti, the menu celebrates fresh, bold flavors from ocean to farm, with every dish crafted with simplicity, quality, and share-ability in mind. The establishment was recognized as one of the Top 3 Rooftop Bars in the World by Travel+Leisure, promising an unforgettable, year-round rooftop experience with an energetic, global soundtrack curated by deejays.
Cerise, perched above a downtown hotel, offers distinctive views of the Loop. It's a spot to enjoy drinks while gazing out at the city, blending a hip atmosphere with a social crowd.
Devereaux, on the 18th floor of a Gold Coast high-rise, offers sweeping skyline views and a public poolside bar experience. This spot allows guests to enjoy unique cocktails in a sophisticated setting, often with the added luxury of a pool nearby.
Whether seeking a lively night out or a more intimate setting, Chicago's rooftop bars offer a cocktail experience for any preference. The city is also home to a variety of sports bars.
More info about sports bars
Year-Round Rooftops and Uniquely Themed Bars
Chicago's variable weather doesn't mean an end to enjoying the city's rooftop bars. Many establishments feature designs to ensure comfort in any forecast, allowing for year-round enjoyment of the rooftop bars Chicago is known for. Plus, some rooftops stand out with special themes and unique features that make a visit memorable.
All-Season Rooftop Havens
These rooftop bars are designed to handle whatever Chicago's skies throw at them. They use designs like retractable roofs and cozy fire pits to make sure guests can enjoy the stunning views all year long.
Take I|O Godfrey Rooftop Lounge, for example. It provides views of the southern Chicago skyline. It’s suitable for any time of day, whether for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or just some afternoon cocktails. A key feature is its retractable roof, which allows for an open-air experience in pleasant weather and a covered space when needed. In winter, the venue offers rooftop igloos for private parties, providing a unique way to stay warm.
Celeste, located on the fourth floor, features a Victorian-style garden setting with a retractable roof. This design creates a peaceful escape that can be enjoyed regardless of the weather.
Boleo has a lively vibe that evokes Buenos Aires. It also boasts a retractable roof, so the unique South American flavors and atmosphere can be enjoyed any time of year.
For a more lively scene, Joy District Roof is another option. It's on the 3rd floor and offers views of the tall buildings around it. Known for its party atmosphere and lively social scene, it offers bottle service and frozen margaritas. With indoor and outdoor options, the party keeps going, rain or shine.
Rooftops with Unique Features
Some of Chicago's rooftop bars go above and beyond the usual, adding special elements that make each visit truly unforgettable.
Devereaux, on the 18th floor of a Gold Coast high-rise, offers a unique feature: a public poolside bar. This allows non-hotel guests to enjoy drinks with skyline views in a luxurious setting.
For fun and games, Utopian Tailgate is an option. It boasts a large 10,000-square-foot rooftop deck, offering plenty of space for activities and games. It is suitable for a casual, upbeat outing with friends.
Then there is Offshore at Navy Pier, recognized as the world's largest rooftop bar. It spans an immense 36,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space. Its location right on the pier provides expansive views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline.
For a different experience, Gene's Sausage Shop & Delicatessen features a rooftop designed as a German-style beer garden. Guests can enjoy beer and grilled sausages in a welcoming atmosphere often compared to a backyard barbecue, standing in contrast to more formal rooftop venues.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rooftop Bars in Chicago
Navigating Chicago's vibrant liftd bar scene can sometimes raise a few questions. Here are answers to common inquiries for exploring the city's rooftop offerings.
What is the typical dress code for Chicago rooftop bars?
The dress code for Chicago's rooftop bars can vary significantly depending on the venue. For upscale locations, such as Z Bar, LH Rooftop, or ROOF on theWit, smart casual or business casual attire is generally recommended. This often means collared shirts and dress pants for men, and dresses, skirts, or pants for women. Some venues might even lean towards smart casual-neat, especially in the evenings.
However, more casual spots like Gene's Sausage Shop & Delicatessen or Utopian Tailgate will have a more relaxed attire policy. While some venues like Cindy's do not have a strict dress code, smart casual is still encouraged to fit the ambiance. Checking the specific venue's website before a visit is always a good practice to ensure you are dressed appropriately for the atmosphere they cultivate.
Which rooftops are suited for a lively atmosphere versus a special occasion?
Chicago's rooftop scene offers a spectrum of atmospheres, catering to different moods and events.
For a lively atmosphere or nightlife, consider venues such as:
- ROOF on theWit: Known for its energetic, global soundtrack curated by deejays, it’s a place to see and be seen, with a vibrant crowd.
- Joy District: Known for its party atmosphere and lively social scene, this rooftop offers bottle service and frozen margaritas, making it suitable for a high-energy night out.
- I|O Godfrey Rooftop Lounge: With its party vibe and occasional themed nights, it's a popular choice for those looking for a dynamic experience.
- Cerise at Virgin Hotels: This spot attracts a social crowd, making it suitable for a fun evening without being overly formal.
For a romantic evening or a special occasion, consider:
- Z Bar: An upscale, refined, and internationally inspired bar, it is a suitable spot for special occasions, with its sweeping city views and crafted cocktails.
- Cindy's Rooftop: With spectacular views over Millennium Park and Lake Michigan, it provides a scenic backdrop for anniversaries, celebrations, or a memorable romantic dinner.
- The Up Room: Its intimate size and notable skyline views create a sophisticated and memorable setting, suitable for a quiet, special moment.
- LH Rooftop: Offering stunning vistas of the Chicago River and architectural landmarks, its luxurious ambiance makes it a popular choice for celebrating milestones or enjoying a refined evening.
What defines the quintessential Chicago rooftop experience?
The quintessential Rooftop bars Chicago experience is a blend of several key elements that capture the essence of the city.
A key element is the iconic architecture views. Chicago is the birthplace of the skyscraper, and the city's rooftop bars capitalize on this heritage, offering wide-ranging perspectives of the city's diverse and stunning buildings, from historic landmarks to modern marvels. Whether it's the towering Willis Tower, the John Hancock Center, or the intricate details of the Loop's architecture, the views are always a central part of the allure.
Secondly, the presence of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River is another key element. Many of the top rooftops provide scenic vistas of the vast, sparkling lake or the winding river, adding a unique natural beauty to the urban landscape. Watching boats glide along the river or the sun set over the lake from an liftd perch is an experience unique to Chicago.
Thirdly, the experience is characterized by seasonal menus and innovative cocktail programs. The city's rooftop bars often feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients in their food and drinks, reflecting the culinary creativity of the city. From refreshing summer cocktails to cozy winter offerings around fire pits, the menus evolve with the seasons, ensuring there's always something new to find.
Finally, the ability to enjoy these spaces year-round, thanks to retractable roofs, heated outdoor areas, or luxurious indoor lounges, allows visitors and residents to enjoy Chicago's changing seasons without missing out on the views. It’s this combination of architecture, natural scenery, culinary offerings, and adaptability that defines the quintessential Chicago rooftop experience. More info about family-friendly sports bars
Conclusion
Chicago's diverse rooftop scene offers an liftd perspective on the city for any occasion. Whether seeking casual drinks with friends, celebratory dinners, or romantic evenings under the stars, these unique venues provide memorable experiences against the backdrop of notable skylines, glistening Lake Michigan, and the iconic Chicago River.
Each rooftop tells its own story, contributing to the vibrant mix of the city's social life. From the Mediterranean flavors at Aba to the globally inspired cocktails at Z Bar, from the party atmosphere at Joy District to the intimate charm of The Up Room, there is a variety of options for different moods and moments.
The beauty of Chicago's rooftop bars Chicago scene lies in its year-round accessibility. With retractable roofs, cozy fire pits, and creative indoor spaces, these liftd experiences don't have to end when temperatures drop. Whether enjoying summer sunsets or winter cocktails in heated igloos, the experience continues through every season.
For those seeking a sophisticated home base to explore these urban oases, The Bush Temple by FLATS® provides a convenient starting point. Situated at the intersection of River North and the Gold Coast, this luxury residence puts many of the city's rooftop experiences nearby. With facilities including rooftop lounges and modern amenities combined with historic charm, it offers a blend of comfort and accessibility for exploring Chicago's liftd bar scene.
