Chicago’s Best Rooftop Bars & Restaurants Back Open in Time For Summer 2021

Posted by Leo Clark. on Sunday, May 9th, 2021 at 5:53pm.


The weather is getting warmer and that means it’s a great time of year to check out some of Chicago’s best rooftop bars and restaurants. Many of them are now open and welcoming customers.

Cindy’s

Some of the best roof bars sit on top of local hotels. Cindy’s is a rooftop restaurant and bar that tops the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel. It’s a good place to enjoy a cocktail while taking in views of the lake, Millennium Park and the city.

Boleo

Boleo sits high above the Kimpton Gray Hotel. The retractable glass roof is a nice touch when the weather is nice, plus the bar also features small tables and cozy couches.

The J. Parker

You’ll also find a retractable glass roof at The J. Parker. The rooftop bar is open year-round and serves up some great views of Lincoln Park and the city.

Rooftop at Nobu

High above a luxury West Loop hotel, the Rooftop at Nobu is a modern, yet intimate space with impressive skyline views. A full 11-stories above street-level, the rooftop is a good place to sample a few small snacks while sipping on a cocktail or even some sake.  

 
 
 
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The Up Room

The Up Room tops the Robey Hotel in Wicker Park. This North Side rooftop bar sits 13-stories above the street. The bar serves up local craft beer, whiskey and cocktails.

LH Rooftop

That’s only about half as tall as the LH Rooftop in Downtown Chicago. Located on the 22nd floor of London House Chicago, the rooftop bar is a good place to take in views high above Michigan Avenue and the Chicago River. You’ll need a reservation to secure a spot.

 
 
 
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Utopian Tailgate

Head to Old Town for the chance to visit Utopian Tailgate. This rooftop deck sits on top of Second City. A number of flatscreen TVs and bright colors mark the spot.

Kennedy Rooftop

High atop the Hyatt Place Chicago in Wicker Park, Kennedy Rooftop is the place to take in sweeping views of the city. If the name doesn’t clue you in, the drinks will. A number of them are named after former presidents.

 
 
 
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Reggies Rooftop Deck

Reggies Rooftop Deck in the South Loop offers cold beverages and typical pub food. The bar’s also lined with umbrellas and tables.

Raised

Finally, this last rooftop bar may only sit on the third floor of a hotel, but don’t let its location fool you. High above Wacker Drive, the bar offers some unique views overlooking the Chicago River and the city skyline.

 
 
 
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