Chicago Rooftop Bars: The 30 Best Picks for 2026

Overview:Terrace 16 captures the spirit of Chicago’s glorious summer months year-round with genuine hospitality, warm design, a convivial bar, unmatched vistas and an ever-changing menu whose ingredients shine bright. Located on the 16th floor of Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago, the restaurant includes expansive outdoor seating on the idyllic terrace.

View:Breathtaking views of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Menu:The vibrant menu features new American flavors, an extensive craft cocktail program & thoughtful wine list enhance the experience of the downtown Chicago restaurant.

Price:Cocktails: $20-26

Why visit:For an elevated Chicago rooftop experience where where luxury meets celebration, from morning to late evening.

Our insider tip

• Weekends means generous brunch hours.

Overview:Soaring above the heart of Chicago, on the 27th floor of Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago, The Riu Rooftop is quite a new addition to the city's rooftop scene, inviting to an elevated setting where the vibrant meets the upscale.

View:Here you are surrounded with spectacular panoramic views of the Chicago skyline, and while the sweeping vistas are highly impressive, the highlight when it comes to views and photo-ops is the iconic glass balcony.

Menu:The rooftop menu features an appealing blend of American and Latin flavors with global flair, paired with a well-curated cocktail list, fresh mocktails, fine spirits, a wide array of beers and wines from all over the world.

Price:Cocktails: $18

Why visit:To enjoy pretty much all you need from a great rooftop experience: panoramic views, photo-ops out of the ordinary, a contemporary vibe, and a great selection of drinks and food.

Our insider tip

• The seasonal rooftop is in full swing from April to November.
• Reserve your spot in advance to secure the best seats.

Overview:Found on Chicago’s famous Restaurant Row, right in the heart of West Loop, the rooftop at the elegant Nobu Hotel Chicago is just as stunning as the hotel itself. Mixing stylish indoor lounge and airy outdoor terrace, here you find a sophisticated and upscale atmosphere and setting.

View:The rooftop comes surrounded with some of the best Chicago skyline views you can find.

Menu:Sip on signature cocktails with Asian influences and savour exquisite hot and cold plates crafted by renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa, featuring premium sushi and inventive small bites.

Price:Cocktails: $20-22

Why visit:For an elevated evening of sushi, cocktails, and unbeatable skyline views in one of Chicago’s most vibrant districts.

Our insider tip

• Walk-ins are welcome but reservations are strongly recommended.

Overview:Set 6 floors up at The Peninsula Chicago, above Michigan Avenue, Z Bar is an upscale, refined and internationally inspired rooftop bar.

View:Amazing views over the central parts of Chicago.

Menu:Out on the comfy and luxurious outdoor terrace you can indulge in both globally inspired cocktails and exotic bites.

Price:Cocktails: $24

Why visit:With a sophisticated yet lively and upbeat lounge atmosphere, Z Bar offers an elegant Chicago rooftop experince out of the ordinary.

Our insider tip

• Book a spot for the 'Wanderlust Cocktail Class' to learn professional mixology secrets each month.

Overview:LH Rooftop is a fantastic tri-level rooftop bar, located right by the Michigan Avenue bridge, on top of LondonHouse Chicago. The tri-level setting features an indoor lounge, called LH on 21, while the main terrace is called LH on 22.

View:The terrace offers an absolutely superb view among the city's skyscrapers and out towards Lake Michigan and the Chicago River.

Menu:A fine selection of LH signature and classic cocktails, a large array of crafted beer and wine, as well as an all-day food menu.

Price:Cocktails: $20

Why visit:For sips and views in a vibrant and fun atmosphere, with a trendy crowd gathering for Afternoon Tea, brunch, after work cocktails and weekend festivities.

Our insider tip

• Visit LH on 21 during colder months, and bring you drinks upstairs to enjoy the view.

Overview:Pandan invites to a lush and intimate rooftop bar and lounge setting, perched 18 floors up at the fantastic Viceroy Chicago. While the year-round indoor lounge is stylish enough, the true gem is the seasonal outdoor terrace.

View:Next to the glittering rooftop pool, here you can enjoy amazing views over the Gold Coast skyline and Lake Michigan.

Menu:The rooftop menu features a vast array of creative and beautiful cocktails sparkling with flavors, paired with Southeast Asian-inspired bites perfect to share.

Price:Cocktails: $20

Why visit:For a rare blend of tropical intimacy and world-class skyline views.

Our insider tip

• Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended during busy evenings and for groups.

Overview:Located on the 8th floor of 640 N Lasalle Drive in River North, bar avec is a lush and urban Chicago rooftop, inspired by the casual seaside diners in coastal Spanish & Portuguese towns dotting the Iberian Peninsula.

View:Instead of Mediterranean views, here you get sweeping panoramics of Chicago’s magnificent skyline.

Menu:Flavors of Spain and Portugal, featuring seasonal vegetables and seafood-forward shared plates, as well as refreshing and crafted cocktails, and a crisp selection of wines.

Price:Cocktails: $16

Why visit:During summer for anything from quick drinks and bites, day drinking and brunch with friends, or a full dinner under the stars.

Our insider tip

• During the colder months you can visit sister venue avec River North below.

Overview:The beautiful Cindy's Rooftop is set on top of the Chicago Athletic Association hotel, and comes with both an airy and spacious glass atrium indoor lounge, as well as an open-air rooftop terrace.

View:Here you can watch the famous Cloud Gate (The Bean) from above, as well as enjoy panoramics over the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan.

Menu:Savour creative twists on American comfort food, seasonal small plates, and expertly crafted cocktails, with a standout weekend brunch menu.

Price:Cocktails: $18-20

Why visit:With generous opening hours an so much to offer, it is pretty much always a good idea to visit Cindy's Rooftop Chicago.

Our insider tip

• Make reservations if you want to be sure to get a table.

Overview:Found high above the Chicago Loop, more precisely on the 24th floor of the Hyatt Centric, AIRE Rooftop Bar is a summer hot-spot to mix vibes, views, drinks and bites.

View:The open-air terrace comes surrounded with an amazing view over downtown Chicago, in all directions.

Menu:The Midwestern-inspired menu features an expansive list of craft cocktails, select wines, and elevated bar bites, ideal for sharing or pairing with your drink of choice.

Price:Cocktails: $15

Why visit:For vibrant after work drinks, or to get comfy by one of the fire-pits after sunset.

Our insider tip

• The summer months also includes happening events.

Overview:The 101 Rooftop is a vibrant urban oasis soaring above Chicago’s River North and Magnificent Mile. The al fresco top floor terrace is a summer hot-spot, where guests can unwind with lounge seating, fire pits, and a covered bar, all while mingling with a blend of locals and visitors alike.

View:Panoramic cityscape views, including Michigan Avenue, Lake Michigan, and the downtown skyline.

Menu:Savour Mediterranean-inspired small plates, inventive signature cocktails, refreshing spritzes, and a curated wine and craft beer list.

Price:Cocktails: $16-18

Why visit:For summer afternoons and evening celebrations high above the heart of Chicago.

Our insider tip

• Don't miss the weekend rooftop brunch.

Overview:Found on top of the urban Hoxton in the Fulton Market District, Cabra Chicago is a spirited rooftop dining & drinking destination, inspired by the vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine.

View:Surrounded with panoramic views of the Chicago skyline, the rooftop holds a bright and airy year-round interior restaurant, complemented with an outdoor patio, perfect for the warmer days.

Menu:Indulge in crave-worthy shareable plates that are bold in flavor and bright in taste, alongside an equally expressive cocktail menu & wine list.

Price:Cocktails: $17-19

Why visit:For a taste of South America with unbeatable Chicago skyline views.

Our insider tip

• Guests staying at The Hoxton can swim with a view in the rooftop pool.
• Don’t miss the weekend brunch.

Overview:Elevated at the modern Pendry Chicago, Château Carbide is a quite new addition to the Chicago rooftop scene, set 24 floors above the heart of the city. This Cote D’Azur-inspired rooftop comes with a beautiful and sun-drenched alfresco garden.

View:The lush setting opens up to majestic views over the city skyline.

Menu:Enjoy crafted signature cocktails, rosé, botanic brews, the special picnic basket menu, champagne, sushi and much more.

Price:Cocktails: $20

Why visit:For a taste of French Riviera glamour and breathtaking skyline views.

Our insider tip

• Don’t miss the picnic basket experience, perfect for sharing and Instagram-worthy moments.

Overview:Perched atop Hotel Lincoln in Old Town Triangle, The J. Parker is a chic rooftop oasis offering a seamless blend of indoor comfort and outdoor splendour.

View:Enjoy sweeping vistas of the Chicago skyline, Lake Michigan, and the lush Lincoln Park directly below.

Menu:The menu features an all-day selection of elevated bar bites, a rotating list of craft beers, curated wines, and inventive signature cocktails inspired by exotic destinations.

Price:Cocktails: $16-18

Why visit:A perfect choice both for elevated pre-dinner cocktails or catching up with some friends.

Our insider tip

• Happy hour Monday through Thursday from 4pm to 6pm.
• Every weekend means bottomless rooftop brunch.

Overview:Tetto Chicago brings an upbeat, sophisticated twist to the West Loop rooftop scene with its Italian-inspired setting. This colorful al fresco oasis creates a seamless environment for sun-soaked afternoons and lively evenings.

View:While by no means sky-high, the terrace still comes surrounded with some really impressive skyline vistas.

Menu:Expect a menu of classic Italian dishes from Trattoria RNB, paired with refreshing spritzes, shareable cocktails, craft brews, and a small sample of wines.

Price:Cocktails: $15

Why visit:For a taste of Italian summer and stellar skyline views without leaving Chicago.

Our insider tip

• No reservations, the rooftop is walk-ins only.
• Access the rooftop is via the elevator at 406 N Sangamon only.

Overview:Located in the heart of Chicago, Upstairs at the Gwen comes with both an indoor lounge and a stylish, open-air terrace. Luxurious and trendy in decoration, this is a great spot for stylish and sunny cocktails during summer, but also available during the colder months, when the terrace turns into a winter wonderland.

View:Set five floors up, you do not get the most panoramic views, but rather cool ones over the majestic buildings surrounding the terrace.

Menu:The menu features inventive, seasonal cocktails, a curated wine list, craft beers on draft, and an array of upscale, shareable small plates.

Price:Cocktails: $20-22

Why visit:Open from early morning to late at night, this is a great spot for everything from breakfast and lunch, to relaxing and sunny afternoon cocktails, stylish pre- or post dinner drinks, and weekend Tipsy Tea.

Our insider tip

• Try their signature curling experience in winter.

Overview:ROOF On theWit delivers a lively blend of upscale cocktail lounge and vibrant nightclub, soaring 27 floors above the heart of Chicago. With a retractable roof and multi-sensory experiences, it seamlessly transitions from relaxed sunset dinners to pulsating DJ-driven parties.

View:Magical views of all the skyscrapers and the Chicago skyline.

Menu:Fine sushi, wood-fired pizzas and prime cuts of meat, complemented by seasonal and classic cocktails, as well as bottle service.

Price:Cocktails: $19-21

Why visit:Early night for a chic lounge atmosphere, later for an unforgettable night out with world-class DJs and show-stopping views.

Our insider tip

• There's a rooftop brunch every Saturday and select-Sundays.
• Check the event calendar for special DJ nights and themed parties, as weekends fill up fast.

Overview:Perched on top of the Second City Comedy Club in Old Town, Utopian Tailgate really puts a playful & colorful spin on the Chicago rooftop scene. Dubbed a playground for grownups, the 10,000sqft indoor / outdoor venue comes with everything from swings and bungalows to eye-catching picnic tables.

View:Surrounded with fantastic views over the Chicago skyline.

Menu:Expect a playful take on elevated pub grub, paired with inventive cocktails and an impressive selection of draft beers.

Price:Cocktails: $12-16

Why visit:Grab your friends and head on up for some truly sky-high summer fun.

Our insider tip

• Try to snag a swing seat for the best Instagram moments.

Overview:Set atop the Godfrey Hotel, I|O Godfrey Rooftop Lounge offers a modern, expansive space with a lively yet sophisticated ambience. Its retractable roof and seasonal igloos make it a premier destination in any weather, blending comfort with stylish design.

View:Beautiful views of the southern Chicago skyline.

Menu:The menu features contemporary American fare with globally inspired twists, complemented by creative signature cocktails and a robust wine list.

Price:Cocktails: $18-20

Why visit:With so much to offer, it is hard to pin point a best time to visit the I|O Godfrey, but a rooftop weekend brunch is always something extra.

Our insider tip

• Book an igloo in winter for a heated, private rooftop experience with city views.
• Happy hour Monday to Thursday 2pm-5pm, and Friday 12pm-3pm.

Overview:The 13,000-square-foot VU Rooftop Bar offers an impressive Chicago rooftop setting. Floating 22 floors above the bustling McCormick Place, the venue comes with a stylish indoor lounge, two rooftop terraces and three bars.

View:Enjoy sweeping, unobstructed vistas over the Chicago skyline and shimmering Lake Michigan.

Menu:Expect a locally inspired beverage menu and inventive dishes by Chef Nolan Narut, from elevated American classics to creative rooftop brunch fare.

Price:Cocktails: $17-28

Why visit:For relaxing lounge vibes and happy hour sips on weekdays, or later at night and weekends for a more vibrant atmosphere.

Our insider tip

• The rooftop features local live musicians and DJs on a rolling basis.

Overview:Found in the hip, trendy and unique Wicker Park, northwest of downtown Chicago, the Kennedy Rooftop aims to highlight the culture and ambience of its neighborhood. Set on top of Hyatt Place, the rooftop bar is modern and trendy in decoration, mixing indoor lounge and heated outdoor terrace.

View:Fantastic panoramic vistas over the entire Chicago skyline.

Menu:The menu features inventive shareable plates, hearty solo dishes, and a standout cocktail list including signature and Presidential-inspired drinks.

Price:Cocktails: $14-17

Why visit:For unrivalled skyline vistas paired with a trendy local vibe.

Our insider tip

• Daily happy hour from 4pm to 6pm.
• The cloder months means Igloo Season on the terrace.

Overview:The chic and picturesque NoMI at Park Hyatt Chicago includes a restaurant, a lounge and a garden. NoMI’s vibrant open-air terrace, known as NoMI Garden, offers guests relaxed sophistication and a respite from the bustling city.

View:From NoMI Garden you get cool views amidst all the skyscrapers, while the indoor dining space NoMI Kitchen offers views of Lake Michigan and Water Tower.

Menu:Expect an artisanal cocktail programme alongside a refined menu featuring contemporary American cuisine rooted in French techniques and fresh sushi, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients.

Price:Cocktails: $22-24

Why visit:This is the destination for an in-the-know mix of young creatives and professionals, as well as discerning world travelers, looking to connect and take in the surroundings of downtown Chicago.

Our insider tip

• Check out the weekend brunch, named one of the best Chicago brunches at several occasions.

Overview:Found at Loews Chicago Hotel, the stylish Streeterville Social offers all the summer vibes and city views you need for a hot and elevated downtown experience. Impressive in both setting and size, this is one of the largest al fresco terraces in Chicago.

View:Majestic views over the downtown skyscrapers.

Menu:Expect a creative rooftop menu featuring gourmet American classics and inventive cocktails, as well as a nice selection of beer and wine, ideal for summer socialising.

Price:Cocktails: $16-20

Why visit:Anytime during summer for daytime dazing, after-work affairs, happier happy hours, late-night lounging, weekend brunch, and al fresco dining.

Our insider tip

• Check their events calendar for themed nights and special rooftop pop-ups.

Overview:Found in Chicago’s River North, Joy District is a multi-level & multi-space venue inviting you to drink, eat and enjoy. With a modern sports parlor on the first floor and a dance party hotspot on the second, the top floor Roof is the place to go for alfresco vibes.

View:Up top you can enjoy impeccable views of Chicago's cityscape.

Menu:Sip signature cocktails and frosé and enjoy creative American bites, with shareable plates and crowd-pleasers perfect for group outings.

Price:Cocktails: $16-18

Why visit:Joy District is the ultimate spot to experience Chicago nightlife from above.

Overview:On the 3rd floor of the Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel you find Raised Bar, an urban rooftop bar equipped with an outdoor/indoor bar, private outdoor areas and a stylish open roof deck.

View:Not the highest rooftop in Chicago, but one with really cool close up views of downtown and Chicago River.

Menu:The menu features elevated takes on classic American bar food, alongside an extensive selection of local beers, curated wines, and creative craft cocktails.

Price:Cocktails: $20

Why visit:Perfect for people watching, river views and fine sips.

Our insider tip

• Happy hour available Tuesday-Friday from 4pm - 6pm.

Overview:The Robey Hotel, set in a 203-feet tall Art Deco building in Wicker Park, offers a dual and diverse rooftop setting. Here you find the 6th floor poolside rooftop bar Solana, open during the warmer months, and the more elevated 13th floor The Up Room, a sleek rooftop cocktail bar, open nightly year-round.

View:Enjoy lovely 180° views of the Chicago skyline poolisde, and panoramic vistas up top, from both the terrace and through floor-to-ceiling windows.

Menu:The Solana menu includes plenty of refreshing sips, from frozen cocktails and spritzers to buckets of beers, as well as light finger food, while The Up Room serves crafted and creative signature cocktails, selected wines and bubbles, prime spirits and a few snacks.

Price:Cocktails: $17

Why visit:The Robey’s unique dual rooftop concept delivers one of the most versatile skyline experiences in Chicago, from summer poolside sips to exclusive evening drinks.

Our insider tip

• Swims in the rooftop pool is reserved for hotel guests.

Overview:This lovely and cozy rooftop restaurant is really a hidden oasis located in the heart of West Town, featuring an intimate indoor event space year round, and during the warmer monts also a lush and rustic public patio.

View:Homestead call themselves 'a literal farm-to-table restaurant', and this goes hand in hand with the rooftop patio not offering any dazzling skyline views, but instead over the 3,000 square foot organic rooftop garden.

Menu:Savour elegant, contemporary American cuisine crafted from ultra-fresh, homegrown ingredients, paired with inventive cocktails.

Price:Cocktails: $15

Why visit:For a romantic dinner, enjoying the intimate atmosphere and great service.

Our insider tip

• With the rooftop having seating for about 85 guests, reservations are highly recommended.

Overview:Located at Lincoln Square, on top of Gene's Sausage Shop & Delicatessen, this is a low-key European-style rooftop beer and wine garden, dressed with flowers, herbs and community benches.

View:Nice views over the neighborhood rooftops.

Menu:Feast on grilled sausages straight from Gene’s renowned deli, and other German-influenced dishes, paired with a rotating selection of international beers on tap and wines by the glass.

Why visit:A perfect destination for a sunny day, enjoying some beers and sausages in the very friendly, open picnic style atmosphere.

Overview:Branded as 'the world's largest rooftop bar' by Guinness World Records, Offshore is an all-seasons / all-weather venue, thanks to a 36,000 sq. ft glassed indoor lounge (with a fully retractable roof), leading out to a 20,000 sq. ft terrace, with two private lawns, seven fire pits and even an entertainment & gaming area.

View:All surrounded with panoramic views over Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.

Menu:Savour inventive small plates of seasonal American cuisine paired with creative and updated classic cocktails, curated wines and local craft beers.

Price:Cocktails: $18-19

Why visit:For a sunny lunch, brunch or drinks while exploring the area around Navy Pier, or more sophisticated dinner and cocktails with a view at night.

Our insider tip

• A great destination for the whole family during daytime.
• Outdoor seating is first come, first serve.

Overview:Open, airy and lush both inside and out, the Lonesome Rose rooftop terrace might not be the highest or most panoramic in town, but with a charming and relaxing Californian atmosphere, it is well worth a sunny visit anyway.

View:Overlooking the surrounding buildings.

Menu:The menu features flavourful Mexican favourites, paired with a stellar line-up of craft cocktails and classic Margaritas served by the glass or pitcher, a large array of beers on tap, and plenty of tequila and mezcal.

Price:Cocktails: $12-16

Why visit:For a taste of Mexico under the Chicago sunshine.

Our insider tip

• Visit for brunch on weekends to try the breakfast tacos.
• Order a pitcher of house Margarita to share for the best value and ultimate rooftop vibe.

Overview:Soho House Chicago is a fantastic and exclusive hotel, located in an old warehouse building in the West Loop. It also holds and equally fantastic and exclusive Chicago rooftop bar, only available to members and residents of the hotel.

View:Amazing views of the Chicago skyline.

Menu:The menu features fresh, wood-fired pizzas and expertly crafted cocktails, complemented by a curated selection of wines and small plates.

Why visit:For a taste of exclusive Chicago luxury and one of the city’s best rooftop pool.

Overview:Perched on top of the Ivy Hotel in Streeterville, the Sky Terrace is somewhat of a hidden downtown gem. Sixteen floors above the buzz, this is an elevated rooftop oasis, that currently operates as a rooftop event venue space, not a restaurant or bar open to the public.

View:Enjoy fantastic views over the Chicago skyline.

Menu:A customized catering menu that covers everything from hors d'oeuvres and craft cocktails to plated dishes and more.

Why visit:A prime spot for special events, like bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthdays or business outings.