Summer in Chicago is truly one of a kind. With warm summer sunshine and breezy gusts from the lakefront, the city skyline creates the perfect backdrop for a perfect summer day. Looking to sip on an ice-cold beverage and catch up with your crew? Visit one or even a few of SpotHero’s favorite rooftop spots and make the most of those long summer days!
LH Rooftop Bar
Hours: daily 11 a.m. – Midnight
Address: 85 E. Wacker Dr.
Located on top of the historic LondonHouse hotel, LH rooftop bar can be quite a scene on a nice day. LH has an extensive menu of food and drinks, but the real draw is the spectacular view of the Chicago River and Wacker Drive. Be sure to wear sunscreen, it can get toasty on a sunny day!
Gene’s Rooftop Bar
Hours: Friday-Saturday 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Address: 4750 N. Lincoln Ave.
Fans of beer and bratwurst should look no further than this Lincoln Square staple. Located atop Gene’s Sausage Shop, guests can enjoy a selection of food and drinks, including freshly grilled sausages. Be aware that Gene’s Rooftop Bar is cash only, but don’t worry! There is an ATM on-site if you’re down to your last dollars and absolutely need another round.
The J. Parker
Hours: Open Monday – Thursday 5-11 p.m., Friday-Saturday 1 p.m -2 a.m., Sunday 1-11 p.m.
Address: 1816 N. Clark St.
The J. Parker sits atop the Hotel Lincoln, right on the edge of Lincoln Park. Visitors to the J. Parker can enjoy an array of specialty cocktails, and a spectacular view of downtown and Lake Michigan. This prime location makes it a popular spot in the evenings to view the skyline in lights, so be sure to make arrangements for a spot in advance!
Cerise
Hours: Monday-Wednesday 4-10:30 p.m., Thursday-Friday 4 p.m.-1:30 a.m., Saturday 12 p.m.-1:30 a.m., Sunday 12-10:30 p.m.
Address: 203 N. Wabash Ave
Located in the Loop on top of the Virgin Hotel, this rooftop bar has beautiful views, and has become a popular spot for dancing! Guests can enjoy drinks and full food service as they take in the sights and check out the in-house DJs on weekends.
Honorable Mention: The Signature Room Lounge
Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday 3 p.m. – 12 a.m., Friday and Saturday 3 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Address: 875 N. Michigan Ave
While this lounge is not technically a rooftop, it is on the topmost floor of the historic 875 N. Michigan building—formerly the John Hancock Center. Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of downtown Chicago and beyond; on a clear day guests have been known to see all the way to Indiana.
Cheers!