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Vu Rooftop Bar Chicago

Photo credits: Vu Rooftop Bar Chicago

10+ Best Rooftops In Chicago (2024 Edition)

Make your Chicago nights better: Find the best rooftops for amazing views and cool vibes.

Written by Michael Ford

Updated on March 13, 2024

Ever dreamed of enjoying a drink way up high, with Chicago's sparkling skyline all around you? Welcome to our handpicked 2024 guide to the city's best rooftop spots.

Here, we take you through cool bars and elegant lounges that offer stunning views, delicious drinks, and great sounds. Whether it's for a romantic date or a fun night with friends, these places will wow you.

Get ready for amazing cocktails, tasty food, and the lively vibe of Chicago's finest rooftops. Each stop promises unforgettable moments and a touch of luxury.

Ready to see what Chicago's nightlife has to offer from the top? Let's dive in.

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Guide

How we choose the best rooftops in Chicago

Our team independently selects every rooftop bar on this list. A journalist familiar with Chicago, who has visited each bar, handles the writing. Our criteria focus on outstanding rooftop venues that offer a panoramic view and capture the essence of the city. Signature cocktails, prime location, and exceptional service are crucial. We also look for places with distinguished reputations. The list is updated monthly to include new openings and adjustments to the existing ones.

The best rooftops in Chicago

Chic rooftop bar at Offshore Chicago with elegant seating, modern decor, and stunning views of the city skyline through expansive windows.

Photo credits: Offshore

(4.5)

1. Offshore

What is it? Welcome to Offshore - the biggest rooftop bar in the world, right on Navy Pier. This cool spot isn't just about drinks. It's where the beautiful Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan come together.

Why we love it: Offshore is special not just because it's big. It's about the feel. Comfy lounges, modern fire pits, and a fresh vibe make it the place to be in the city. When the night comes alive with DJ beats and the city lights sparkle, you'll be swept away. Offshore blends great drinks, tasty bites, and amazing views for a top-notch experience.

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday

1000 E Grand Ave, 60611 Chicago

Warm evening light fills a stylish rooftop restaurant with a glass ceiling, glowing orange lamps, and a panoramic sunset view.

Photo credits: Cindy's

(4.4)

2. Cindy's

What is it? Cindy’s is a cool spot high up at 12 S Michigan Avenue. From this rooftop gem, see Chicago's skyline and beautiful Lake Michigan like never before. The place has a fancy look, fun music, and all kinds of people, making it both fancy and comfy.

Why we love it: Cindy’s stands out as what makes Chicago great. It's more than a rooftop bar; it’s where fun memories happen. Whether you're looking for a romantic spot or a fun place to hang out with friends, it has it all. Being up high not only gives amazing views but also takes you away to a world full of joy and surprises.

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday

12 S Michigan Ave, 60603 Chicago

"Elegant rooftop bar with a sleek, modern design featuring a curved bar lined with stools and shelves stocked with a variety of spirits."

Photo credits: VU Rooftop Bar

(4.3)

3. VU Rooftop Bar

What's up? Right above Chicago's busy streets, VU Rooftop Bar is your go-to spot for an unforgettable night. When night falls and the city lights up, this place becomes the heart of cool and excitement, offering views that will wow you.

Why we dig it: It's not just about the awesome city views. VU Rooftop Bar mixes it all perfectly - from live DJ tunes to a trendy, cozy spot made for all-night fun. This place is where everyone - locals, tourists, and cool city workers - come together under the sky. Whether you're into fancy drinks or just wanna dance, your search for the best night ever stops here.

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday

133 E Cermak Rd, 60616 Chicago

Chic rooftop venue at The Gwen with a cozy fire pit table, stylish seating, and towering skyscrapers surrounding the relaxing space.

Photo credits: Upstairs at The Gwen

(4.1)

4. Upstairs at The Gwen

What is it? Located on the 5th floor at 521 N Rush St, this rooftop spot offers amazing views of the Chicago skyline. It has a stylish look, with comfy seating and soft lights, making it perfect for a fun evening or partying with friends.

Why we love it: It's more than just the cool look that we love; a DJ plays lively music, keeping the atmosphere buzzing. It's a go-to spot in Chicago for meeting people - from city professionals and trendy young folks to fashionable locals. Whether you're dancing or mingling with the crowd, this rooftop spot pulls you in with its vibrant energy.

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday

521 N Rush St 5th Floor, 60611 Chicago

Chic rooftop bar with modern white furniture under a striking, golden geometric canopy, offering skyline views surrounded by glass architecture.

Photo credits: Z Bar

(4.1)

5. Z Bar

What it is: Z Bar sits on the rooftop at 108 E Superior St, right in the heart of Chicago. This spot is all about luxury with a view of the city that takes your breath away. As evening comes, it turns into a lively spot. Here, you can sip on special cocktails while feeling the city's vibrant energy below. It's pure city chic.

Why we love it: Z Bar is all about charm and fun, offering more than just great sights—it’s about unforgettable times. The atmosphere is buzzing, filled with great music and a mix of people all enjoying the Chicago vibe. It's perfect for those special moments that deserve to be celebrated, standing out as a gem in the city.

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday

108 E Superior St, 60611 Chicago

Chic rooftop lounge with modern furniture overlooking the Chicago river and surrounded by towering skyscrapers.

Photo credits: LH Rooftop

(4.1)

6. LH Rooftop

What is it? LH Rooftop is your secret spot in the sky, located on the 22nd floor at 85 E Wacker Dr in Chicago. It's a mix of modern style and amazing views, making for a great night out. Here, you can enjoy the city's vibes in a calm place, with great music to set the scene.

Why we love it: LH Rooftop isn't just a regular city bar; it's a luxury escape right in the heart of Chicago. With stunning views that grab your attention and a lively but peaceful feeling, it gives you an unforgettable experience. Each visit is a special memory, a way to enjoy the city's beauty, and a chance to celebrate the best of life.

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday

85 E Wacker Dr 22nd Floor, 60601 Chicago

Cozy, warmly lit rooftop dining area at Aba Chicago, featuring elegant wooden decor and a well-stocked bar.

Photo credits: Aba

(4.0)

7. Aba

What is it? Aba: A cool rooftop spot on Chicago's 3rd floor at 302 N Green St. Here, you get awesome views of the city, making every visit special.

Why we love it: Aba isn't just any rooftop. It's alive with music that makes you happy, right in the middle of the city's action. It's all about delicious Mediterranean food that's a treat for your taste buds. Perfect for a fun brunch with buddies or a romantic evening under the stars, Aba turns your time into magic. Feel the pulse of Chicago here, making each visit unforgettable.

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday

302 N Green St 3rd Floor, 60607 Chicago

Final word

Wrapping up our tour of Chicago's most luxurious rooftops, we've shown you the top spots for amazing views, great drinks, and pure luxury under the sky. Each place has its own vibe, top-notch food, and stunning views, making your nights in the Windy City unforgettable.

We've picked only the best rooftops in Chicago for you to enjoy in 2024. As you plan your fancy city adventure, let this guide take you to the peak of luxury and relaxation.

Don't stop here—dive deeper into cool city travel by checking out our full guides on unique hotels and special dining spots across Chicago. Take your travels to the next level with us, and make memories that will stay with you long after you've come down from those amazing rooftops.

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