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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Illinois

Fun activity bars

Made for those who find sitting still at a bar tedious and need an interactive element to keep their hands and minds occupied.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Home Away From Home image 1
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Sports bar with MLB-themed seating and multiple TVs creates a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere that balances energy with comfort. Live music, DJs, and fun games add to the lively yet laid-back vibe. Reasonable prices and dog-friendly policy make it a relaxed spot to catch a game or hang out.

A busy spot with a strong MLB theme that goes beyond just the Cubs. Staff like Mel make sure everyone is taken care of, creating a friendly vibe that feels like a second living room.

Games and music create a fun atmosphere here. Staff join in by taking fun pictures, and the bar adds a festive vibe to the experience.

People are saying

"This bar felt like my second living room in Chicago."

"The staff here makes sure the live sports you want are on."

"Mel the bartender was that girl, providing exceptional service."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult or inconvenient in the area.

2

The bar is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

Prices for drinks are reasonable compared to other places nearby.

02
Randall’s Pub image 1
Sports bar

Classic neighborhood bar with pool tables, shuffleboard, and TouchTunes creates a lively yet low-key atmosphere. Clean, spacious interior features original local art and cozy seating areas. Mix of people enjoy a welcoming, friendly vibe suited for relaxing or watching sports.

Bartenders serve a variety of drinks, beers, and cocktails with skill and friendliness. The bar offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with a shuffleboard table for added fun.

Offers more than just drinks with a lively atmosphere and engaging events. Provides a consistently fun experience beyond typical bar visits.

People are saying

"This bar has such a welcoming and lively vibe."

"This local spot has a beautiful vibe and feels like home."

"I found the fun activities here to be an experience beyond just getting a drink."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every last Friday of the month at 9pm.

2

Tuesday night Drag Bingo starts at 7pm.

3

On certain Saturday nights, the DJ spins vinyl records.

03
Samm's Last Chance Saloon image 1

Bar offers live music, pool tables, and multiple TVs with NFL ticket for sports viewing. Atmosphere stays chill and friendly, with a mix of regulars and occasional entertainment like karaoke. Indoor and outdoor seating includes a large patio, creating a homey, fun vibe.

Offers a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar and a full taco and nacho bar with multiple meat and topping options. Features a full bar plus many non-alcoholic drinks and serves food that resets standards for bar fare.

Live music, pool tables, and football games on Sunday Ticket create a laid back and fun atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is awesome and delicious."

"The bar staff here is super friendly and genuinely awesome."

"The bar food here is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Thursday night starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

The bar serves food made from scratch with a straightforward menu.

3

Sunday Ticket is available, allowing guests to watch every NFL game.

04
Ma O'Brien's Irish Pub image 1

Cozy Irish pub with warm, welcoming atmosphere and authentic decor creates a homey vibe. Lively energy peaks during games, making it a community gathering spot. Outdoor patio offers a relaxed space to enjoy drinks and meet people.

Warm, welcoming atmosphere captures the spirit of a classic neighborhood pub with friendly service and attentive bar staff. Offers great drinks including a delicious pint of Guinness and reasonable prices, making it a solid spot for drinks or watching European games.

Hosts Karaoke and Wine night events regularly. Staff are fun and attentive, adding to the lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"This pub feels like home, warm and welcoming."

"This bar feels like home with its warm, welcoming atmosphere."

"They host many fun events like Karaoke and Wine night."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every other Friday on the 1st and 3rd of each month.

2

Margarita Monday features $5 spicy and regular margaritas.

3

Trivia night occurs weekly, allowing participation for all guests.

05
The Brig image 1

Classic neighborhood tavern with a Cheers-like vibe and dog-friendly atmosphere. Features include pool table, jukebox, karaoke, and games alongside a small fenced outdoor space. Crowd mainly consists of young adults enjoying eclectic music and craft beers from a nearby brewery.

A dog-friendly bar with a fun ambience and a welcoming staff creates a lively neighborhood spot. The bar shows a personal touch through thoughtful decoration and a vibe that feels like a fresh reinvention.

Saturday karaoke nights offer a lively atmosphere and draw a crowd looking for fun. The neighborhood bar has a friendly vibe that keeps people coming back for more.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is so friendly and welcoming."

"You have to try Jen's Bloody Marys during Sunday Bloody Sunday."

"The karaoke nights here are the most fun in the city."

Good to know

1

Karaoke nights are held every Saturday, attracting a lively crowd.

2

Trivia night takes place every Wednesday at 7pm with prizes for winners.

3

Bingo nights are hosted every Thursday at 8pm, offering fun prizes.

06
The Quarry Thornton image 1

Quaint bar with nostalgic decor and an outdoor patio creates a welcoming atmosphere. Live music and a 1920s-style speakeasy in the basement add unique entertainment and event spaces. The vibe is warm and lively, attracting music lovers and those seeking a comfortable, engaging setting.

An awesome bar with a great vibe and amazing bartenders who provide excellent service.

An inviting, high energy atmosphere with live music creates fun vibes. The spot suits celebrations and nights out with fun entertainment and a unique, classy feel.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The bar staff here is so friendly and welcoming."

"The live music here brings everyone together for fun activities."

Good to know

1

Bingo night happens every Wednesday, attracting a lively crowd.

2

Karaoke contests take place every Thursday with a two-drink minimum.

3

Open mic night is hosted every Thursday, showcasing local talent.

07
Electric Shuffle Chicago image 1

Shuffleboard with high-tech tracking and immersive visuals defines the space, blending classic gameplay with modern tech. Vibrant social energy fills the stylish, throwback-decorated bar, enhanced by live DJ music and a fun, competitive vibe. Cocktails and food complement the atmosphere, making it lively yet not overcrowded.

Shuffleboard with high-tech tracking adds a fun twist to the bar experience. The bar area stays exceptionally clean, and staff like Tiffany deliver amazing customer service.

Several fast-paced shuffleboard formats keep the games lively and engaging. Smooth tech enhances the experience, making it a unique social spot for fun outings with friends or coworkers.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here were excellent."

"It's great fun for a date or with friends."

"The bar staff here is so friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is from 3 pm to 5 pm Monday to Friday, offering $5 beer, wine, seltzers, and all fries.

2

During Happy Hour, margaritas, ranch water, espresso martinis, and house pizza are $10.

3

The all-inclusive brunch costs $50 per person for 90 minutes of shuffleboard, a bottle of bubbly, and food.

08
Green Light Korean Pub & Karaoke rooms image 1

Private karaoke rooms offer spacious, intimate settings for groups up to eight, with aesthetic decor enhancing the experience. The atmosphere stays welcoming and fun, supported by a wide soju selection and authentic Korean food. Multiple levels and steps require attention while moving around.

Private karaoke rooms offer a great vibe and amazing service. The bar serves delicious drinks alongside top-tier Korean pub food.

Karaoke rooms offer a very fun group activity with private space for singing. Renting a room for a couple of hours creates a lively and enjoyable atmosphere for parties.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the garlic chicken wings."

"The Karaoke staff, like Oui and Liz, were super friendly and helpful."

"The staff here made my fun activities feel so welcoming and accommodating."

Good to know

1

Karaoke rooms can be rented for a few hours; book in advance.

2

The karaoke selection is extensive and connected through YouTube.

3

Food and drinks are available, with a good variety of Korean options.

09
Avondale Bowl image 1

Eight retro bowling lanes with manual scoring create a classic atmosphere that feels intimate and lively without crowding. A vintage-style bar complements the space with strong, well-crafted cocktails and a cool vibe. The setting balances old school charm with a fun, low-key energy.

A diverse beer selection and a great spirit selection stand out at the bar. Staff are accommodating and attentive, creating a friendly vibe without feeling crowded.

Manual scoring keeps players engaged and adds a hands-on element to the fun. Hosting parties or a night out here offers a lively atmosphere where guests enjoy themselves easily.

People are saying

"The bar has great vibes and friendly service."

"The staff here makes planning fun activities a breeze."

"It's a super cool retro bowling alley with awesome vibes."

Good to know

1

Avondale Bowl is for 21+ only, so plan accordingly.

2

Reservations are recommended as the venue fills up quickly.

3

You can bring your own food or order delivery to Avondale Bowl.

10
Grand Cru Chicago image 1

Large, inviting space offers a laid-back atmosphere with a diverse global wine selection. Regulars and newcomers mingle in a cozy, unpretentious setting that feels like a community hangout. Unique, niche wines from less common regions create an exploratory tasting experience.

A wine bar and bottle shop with a relaxed community vibe where regulars chat and newcomers drop in. The lounge feels fun and unpretentious, offering a casual spot to enjoy drinks.

Wine tastings focus on themed regions like Willamette Valley, Sicily, and Bordeaux, combining education with fun. The lounge offers a sexy, unpretentious vibe that suits events like birthday parties and food pairings.

People are saying

"Matt curated a personal wine flight with unique, niche selections."

"The owner curated great wine selections and offered tailored tastings."

"The owner, Matt, is super knowledgeable about the wine bar selections."

Good to know

1

Comedy Cru events happen regularly, offering a fun night out with laughter.

2

Wine tastings feature themes like Willamette Valley and Bordeaux, providing educational experiences.

3

Happy hour tastings are available, showcasing a solid selection of wines.

11
The Irish Rebel Pub image 1

Bar offers authentic decor and multiple large decks including a front porch beer garden with a fireplace. Atmosphere stays laid back and lively with live bands, pool tables, dart boards, and gambling machines. Crowd enjoys affordable drinks and a modern setup with several big TVs showing music and sports.

Service at the bar is fast and attentive with bartenders providing excellent care. The spot features a modern vibe with a beautiful front deck and fireplace, plus multiple large TVs for entertainment.

Karaoke sessions on Wednesdays and Saturdays bring a fun, laid back atmosphere. Staff join in the fun by dancing and being silly, creating a lively vibe for a fun night out with friends.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so friendly and make you feel welcome."

"I loved the karaoke nights; they were so much fun."

"The pub atmosphere here is great, with live bands and awesome decks."

Good to know

1

Drink prices are very affordable at the bar.

2

The bar does not serve food, but outside food is welcome.

3

Karaoke sessions happen on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

12
Lemon image 1

Bar combines live music with an upscale cocktail lounge vibe in a cozy, low-light setting. Space includes multiple seating areas and a patio, creating a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Music volume balances well for both listening and conversation.

Cocktail offerings stand out with high quality and unique flavors. The bar balances an elevated yet unpretentious vibe, making it a notable spot in the neighborhood.

Varied live music sets a lively tone while fun cocktails add to the upbeat vibe. Great spot for hanging out with friends or a date night.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are thoughtful, creative, and perfectly balanced."

"The cocktails were incredible and very well made."

"The staff here is so friendly, it makes for a really nice environment."

Good to know

1

Live music performances occur from Thursday to Saturday, featuring various bands.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with $5 shots and beers.

3

Bingo night is hosted every Wednesday at 8pm with a small entry fee.

13
James Joyce Irish Pub image 1

Quaint Irish pub with a cozy atmosphere and friendly regulars who enjoy deep conversations and lively gossip. The bar features perfectly poured Guinness and a strong selection of Irish whiskeys, creating an authentic Irish experience away from Ireland.

Feels like a cozy pub in Ireland with a quaint atmosphere and great Guinness pour. Offers a solid selection of Irish whiskeys and friendly bar service.

Authentic Irish vibe creates a lively atmosphere. The pub fits well into a train pub crawl for a fun stop.

People are saying

"This Irish bar feels just like being in Ireland."

"It's a true Irish pub with a cozy atmosphere."

"I had so much fun at this authentic Irish pub."

Good to know

1

The pub hosts events like '1/2 way to St Patrick’s Day'.

2

The bar gets packed frequently, especially on weekends.

3

The pub does not have a kitchen but allows takeout from nearby restaurants.

14
The Tin Lizzie image 1

Bar features turtle races and Michigan-themed decorations that create a lively and fun atmosphere. Music from a DJ and themed events like karaoke add to the energetic vibe. It draws crowds especially during football games, offering a unique experience with fresh drinks and engaging entertainment.

Offers an awesome bar with a great spot up at the bar and friendly bartenders like Erin. Combines excellent atmosphere, food, and service for a solid Lions bar experience.

Turtle races bring a hilarious and fun vibe, especially on Fridays. Trivia nights and game days feature engaging hosts who make the atmosphere lively and memorable.

People are saying

"The staff here are so friendly and make watching live sports a blast."

"You'll have a fun time cheering on your favorite Ninja Turtle at the turtle races."

"The bar staff here are so invested in making your visit great."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Karaoke takes place on Wednesdays starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

3

Arriving early is advisable because it gets super crowded later.

15
Landmark Pub image 1

Old school bar with a modern vibe offers live music most weekends and outdoor seating in a large parking lot. Easy-going atmosphere welcomes a mix of bikers, rock stars, and divas, creating a neighborhood spot full of characters and fun. Free darts and pool add to the casual, friendly energy.

A neighborhood bar with friendly bartenders and a family-owned vibe offers excellent service and good prices. Live music plays most weekends, creating a welcoming spot full of characters and fun.

A neighborhood bar full of characters and shenanigans offers a lively atmosphere. Fun music plays most nights, keeping the energy up with something always going on.

People are saying

"This neighborhood bar feels like home with its friendly people and amazing staff."

"You'll have a great time with the live music here."

"I love the live music here; it's a great fun activity."

Good to know

1

Landmark Pub is a cash-only bar.

2

Live music happens on Saturdays, weather permitting.

3

The pub hosts various special events throughout the year.

16
Golden Years image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with a retro/vinyl records theme and 70’s music creates a nostalgic energy. Atmosphere stays cozy and intimate while maintaining a lively but chill vibe. Unique cocktails like highballs and tiki drinks complement satisfying food options such as burgers and onion rings.

Cozy atmosphere with unique cocktails and attentive staff create a welcoming vibe. The bar offers solid food standbys alongside a great drink selection.

Pop-up events and parties create a lively atmosphere. The cocktail menu offers fun and tasty drinks, and ordering shots comes with polaroid pictures for extra amusement.

People are saying

"Their cocktails are unique, creative, and perfectly executed."

"The bartenders here are super friendly and quick with the wit."

"The cocktail menu here is really creative and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers classic cocktails and a $10 burger with fries.

2

Parking is free and readily available on Sundays.

3

The venue has plenty of seating for both small and large groups.

17
Kahala Koa Tiki Bar image 1

Tiki bar features classic tropical decor with traditional lighting and themed mugs for drinks. Atmosphere feels like a vacation to the tropics, lively and fun with detailed island theming. Drinks include large group cocktails served in unique cups, enhancing the festive vibe.

A true tiki bar with fantastic decor and a big selection of tiki drinks. Cocktails come with helpful descriptions of alcohol strength, and the food is different from typical bar fare and amazingly good.

Kahala Koa Tiki Bar offers a fun and different vibe with drinks and appetizers. It suits date nights and girls nights well.

People are saying

"The pizza crust here is extra crispy with a slight char."

"The drink menu here is huge with so many tasty options."

"It's a super fun place for drinks and appetizers."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking can be tight, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

An 18% gratuity is added for parties of 4 or more.

18
No school Tomorrow image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with a 90s nostalgia and science-themed decor creates a quirky, school cafeteria atmosphere. Loud music and a rowdy crowd shift the vibe from relaxed to club-like on weekend nights. Generous pours, innovative cocktails, and playful details like menus in binders and free goldfish snacks make the experience distinctive.

Innovative cocktails focus on new textures and flavors with fun presentations. The bar blends 90's nostalgia with creative drink making, offering a unique and fascinating experience.

People are saying

"These cocktails are like a fun, creative culinary adventure."

"The bar's unique, complex cocktails are expertly crafted and visually stunning."

"I learned so much about cocktail making from Tao's passion."

Good to know

1

Expect to spend $15-20 per cocktail, or $10 during their all-day Sunday happy hour.

2

There is an all-day happy hour on Sunday with discounted drinks.

3

The bar is within walking distance to the train station for easy access.

19
Miller's Tap & Liquor Store image 1

Classic dive bar with old school charm and a nostalgic atmosphere featuring a jukebox and eclectic TV programming. Offers a darts area for casual games and sells to-go packaged goods including six-packs and spirits. The vibe is fun and laid-back with reasonably priced drinks and a friendly, hip crowd.

Classic dive bar vibe with an eclectic mix of TV programming including sports and black-and-white movies from the 1960s. Offers a fun atmosphere and a solid selection of drinks.

Darts offer a classic game that fits the old school charm and fun vibes of the bar.

People are saying

"It's a fun dive bar with great bartenders."

"You can play darts and grab some good drinks here."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Thursday night starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

Drinks are reasonably priced, making it budget-friendly for visitors.

3

The bar offers to-go packaged goods for those looking to take drinks home.

20
Goat Village image 1

Bar combines live local rock music, slot machines, and a cozy yet spacious layout with neighborhood pub vibes. Atmosphere stays lively but not overwhelming, welcoming groups for casual hangouts or events. Regulars enjoy reasonably priced drinks and entertainment like trivia and bingo nights.

A local bar with great vibes and an excellent location keeps people coming back. Staff work well to keep the atmosphere lively and guests impressed.

Wednesday karaoke brings an energetic vibe with lots of fun. Weekly bingo and trivia events keep things engaging and lively. The spot also offers great food and drinks that add to the good times.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are amazing and make you feel so important."

"The live music here is amazing and adds the perfect touch."

"The bartenders here are amazing and make it a fun activity."

Good to know

1

Bingo games are held on Mondays and Thursdays, starting at 7pm.

2

Karaoke night is every Wednesday at 9pm with a lively atmosphere.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm, Monday through Thursday, with discounted drinks.

21
Electric Funeral image 1

Bar combines speakeasy style with a macabre metal theme and horror decor. Atmosphere is dark and electrifying, with loud music and warm neighborhood energy. Large patio offers outdoor space for smoking and socializing.

A clean, dark, pseudo-evil dive bar with a great neighborhood vibe run by the same folks behind a local coffee spot. It draws a friendly crowd and fits well in a rapidly growing area.

Classic dive bar vibe creates a quirky, fun atmosphere. Specialty drinks come in tiki glasses adding to the playful feel.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is so friendly and wonderful."

"The artisan cocktails here are delicious and interesting."

"I found the vibe here to be a mix of spooky and dark whimsy."

Good to know

1

Electric Funeral hosts themed pop-up nights regularly.

2

Beer and shot specials are available, typically for $7.

3

The bar does not serve food, so plan accordingly.

22
Little Jimmy’s Bar image 1

Bar offers eclectic drinks and a welcoming crowd that sparks great conversations. Games like pool, darts, and slots keep the energy lively without overwhelming the cozy, comfortable atmosphere. Signature cocktails such as smoked old fashioneds stand out among well-priced options.

A fun atmosphere with awesome vibes sets the tone here. Drinks come at fair prices and the amazing cocktails stand out alongside great bar food.

Fun vibes come from little games that keep things lively and help pass the time. The spot offers a fun atmosphere with solid drinks and plenty of activities to enjoy.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so friendly and make you feel right at home."

"I found the loaded mashed potato egg rolls amazing."

"The bartenders here are so friendly and make amazing drinks."

Good to know

1

Karaoke is available for those who want to sing on weekends.

2

The bar allows customers to bring their own food from nearby restaurants.

3

Drinks can be enjoyed outside on the patio.

23
Bubby & Sissy's image 1
Night club

Night club offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with a diverse crowd embracing all orientations. Entertainment features top-notch performances by kings and queens alongside a great patio and outdoor space for socializing. The venue maintains a laid-back vibe with a friendly pool table area and inclusive energy throughout.

Friendly staff create a welcoming vibe at the bar. Service includes unique touches like pickle shots that stand out.

Cozy setting hosts drag shows that bring a lot of energy and fun. Great spot to hang out with friends and celebrate with lively performances.

People are saying

"This bar is a welcoming and safe place for everyone."

"I felt so welcome at the Drag Shows with all the diverse people."

"It's a fun place to hang out with friends."

Good to know

1

The venue is cash only, so bring cash or use nearby ATMs.

2

Drag shows happen every Friday and Saturday night, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Karaoke nights are hosted weekly, offering a fun way to participate.

24
Bratski's image 1

Bar filled with big-screen TVs and Blackhawks memorabilia creates a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Crowd mixes die-hard fans and casual visitors, united by sports enthusiasm. Slot machines and an outdoor pool table add interactive gaming to the experience.

Vibrant decor with Blackhawks memorabilia and big-screen TVs create a lively atmosphere. The bar serves a solid selection of beers on tap and offers great drinks alongside exciting games, making it a fun spot for fans.

A vibrant atmosphere creates a lively spot to try your luck. An array of slot machines lines the back wall, adding a fun, interactive element between periods.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are awesome and know the game."

"The bar staff, especially Margaret, is friendly and keeps your drinks full."

"It's the perfect spot for fun activities, especially watching the Blackhawks."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended for large groups during game days.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during NFL and NHL games.

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