In a city like Chicago, it’s not enough to know the best bars for happy hour or the best date-night spots for dinner. For memorable experiences that will leave a lasting impression, you have to stay up later than dinner time. We’re talking about somewhat-secret Chicago speakeasies and unique late-night destinations where you can enjoy a bite as well as your favorite craft cocktail. It’s a world that’s constantly evolving, with new under-the-radar spots popping up every season. But as a starting point, here are our picks if you’re looking for a fresh late-night experience or Chicago speakeasy.
Chicago Speakeasies & Snacks
The Office: This tiny speakeasy is hidden below the lauded cocktail bar the Aviary in the West Loop. If you feel intimidated by the intimate setting and don’t know where to start, leave it to the experienced bartenders. The “Office Hour” experience is a guided tasting that includes two bespoke cocktails and snack pairings.
955 W Fulton Market
The Drifter: A delightfully lit space nestled beneath the unassuming exterior of The Green Door Tavern, The Drifter offers a rotating list of more than 100 cocktails, each described on a tarot card. Which ones will be available on the night you visit? You’ll have to wait and see which cards the staff selects from the tarot deck to find out.
676-8 N Orleans St.
Golden Teardrops: The restaurant on ground level—Lonesome Rose—is bright and airy, but downstairs in the basement, Golden Teardrops channels dark, cozy vibes. The bar hosts karaoke on the third Thursday of every month.
2101 N California Ave.
Nine Bar: Look for Nine Bar behind the Chinatown restaurant Moon Palace Express. The menu features specialty cocktails, beer, sake, and snacks including dumplings, spring rolls, and cold sesame noodles. Even though speakeasies are traditionally a late-night affair, Nine Bar offers a daily Fortune Hour from 5–6pm, with discounts on select classic cocktails, beer, and snacks.
216 W Cermak Rd.
Blind Barber: Yes, it’s a barber shop—by day. At night, slip behind the unmarked door to find comfy leather sofas and some of the best cocktails in the city. Snacks, shots, wine, canned beers and seltzers are also available, as is top-shelf liquor by the bottle.
948 W Fulton Market
Unique Nighttime Experiences
While the word “nightlife” usually conjures up visions of sprawling clubs with pounding house music, or maybe one of the chic and intimate speakeasies like those above, there are other ways to enjoy a unique spin on late night in Chicago. Here are just a few of the more unusual ways you can extend your good times into the night.
Adler Planetarium After Dark: Visit at night on Wednesdays till 10 pm, or inquire about the Planetarium’s occasional After Dark evenings featuring special exhibits.
Lincoln Park Zoo Adults Night Out Events: You may think of a trip to the zoo as a kid-friendly activity (which it is!), but at the Lincoln Park Zoo, you can also enjoy the animals with a drink in your hand at one of the regular Adults Night Out events. August 21 will see an Adults Night Out Block Party for those over 21 take over the zoo, while September 19 is’80s vs. ’90s Night at the Zoo Hosted by River North Fests, featuring karaoke and live DJs.
Argyle Night Market: This annual event features food from local Uptown restaurants as well as live musical performances on Thursday evenings each summer through August 28. Part market, part street festival, it’s a great way to enjoy Asian street food and mingle with locals and visitors alike.
Lucky Strike: Bowling and other games with lounge vibes? It’s a great way to spend the night, and Lucky Strike, in downtown Chicago, is open until 12am most nights and 1am on Friday and Saturday nights. There is also a Night Strike special on bowling after 7pm.
Your Late-Night Crash Pad
If you’re up late enjoying the best Chicago has to offer, you may want to stay the night in the city. Arlo Chicago is conveniently located in the heart of downtown, and the hotel’s stylish rooms feature just what you need to rest and rejuvenate after a night of revelry. You can also swing by the hotel’s signature gastropub-style restaurant, About Last Knife, for regular weekday events like Wednesday Bingo and Friday night DJ sets. Whatever time you call it a night, Arlo Chicago is the ideal crash pad for all your city adventures.
