The Chicago nightlife scene has something for everyone. Period! But you have to know where to go, and I am making it easy with this guide to the best neighborhoods for a good time in the city. These 5 Chicago neighborhoods offer the best in nightlife and have plenty of options for you to choose from to keep the party going from dusk till dawn.
From rooftop bars to neighborhood pubs, this is the ultimate guide to nightlife and entertainment, by neighborhood in Chicago.
Neighborhoods for Nightlife in Chicago
1. Wrigleyville
On or off-season, the neighborhood that the Cubs call home is always ready for a celebration. Wrigleyville is the heart of the hometown pride and vibrant nightlife. The neighborhood is perfect for celebrations of all sizes and is home to plenty of thematic bar crawls. Whether you’re in the mood for casual dining at a rooftop lounge or catching up on the latest sports highlights at a dive bar, Wrigleyville has something for everyone. Popular neighborhood spots: HVAC Pub, Duece’s & The Diamond Club, Old Crow Smokehouse, Lost Never Found, The Metro.
2. River North
River North is a downtown Chicago neighborhood filled with an incredible nightlife. Known for its bustling steakhouse and high-end restaurant scene, River North is the perfect place to go out before and after a stellar meal. You can find a hotbed of clubs and bars along Hubbard, Ontario, Kinzie, or State Street. Whether you are looking for a hidden lounge with bespoke drinks or a section in the hottest nightclub, River North gives you plenty of options to choose from. Popular neighborhood spots: Underground, The Drifter, Howl at the Moon, Tao, and Untitled Supper Club.
3. Boystown
Boystown(on the map also known as Northalsted) is a popular destination for nightlife in Chicago. The neighborhood is inclusive to LGBTQ+ communities and is the oldest officially recognized gay neighborhood in the United States. From drag show brunches to late 2 a.m. clubs, this popular neighborhood offers a diverse nightlife scene with inclusive spaces for all.Popular neighborhood spots: Sidetrack, Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club, Hydrate, Lark, D.S. Tequila, and Wake’N Bakery.
4. West Loop
The West Loop neighborhood in Chicago has become a popular destination for nightlife in recent years. Known for its trendy restaurants, bars, and clubs, the area attracts both locals and tourists looking for a night out. Randolph Street and Fulton Market are both well-known for their numerous bars and Michelin-star restaurants, which offer a wide variety of cuisine and cocktails. The neighborhood is home to popular venues, including the United Center. In addition to swanky lounges and chill bars, the West Loop also has several breweries and distilleries, which offer tours and tastings. Overall, the West Loop is a great choice for anyone looking to experience Chicago’s vibrant nightlife scene. Popular neighborhood spots: Lazy Bird, Moneygun, Tribe Supper Club, and Federales.
5. Logan Square
Logan Square is a hip and diverse neighborhood in Chicago that offers cool things to do and eclectic activities to keep you entertained from day to night. The area has numerous bars, restaurants, and music venues that cater to a wide range of tastes and interests. For those looking for a more low-key night out, Logan Square also has several cozy and intimate lounges and breweries. Overall, Logan Square is a great choice for anyone looking for a lively and diverse nightlife experience in Chicago. Popular neighborhood spots: The Owl, The Black Lion, The Whistler, and Emporium Logan Square
