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Guide to the Loop

Scenic views at bars

A drink tastes better when you have a vantage point that lets you see the city from above.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
University Club of Chicago image 1
University Club of Chicago image 2
University Club of Chicago image 3
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Building showcases early 20th century architecture with historic character and beautiful views. Atmosphere blends classy, elegant charm with modern exclusivity, creating a harmonious and inviting setting. Amenities include squash courts, gym, library, and bar, supporting both relaxation and active pursuits.

Stunning views of Chicago's skyline and Lake Michigan dominate the scene. Indoor/outdoor dining overlooks Michigan Avenue, adding to the breathtaking experience with a gorgeous building backdrop.

Offers a very nice bar with a great view and a bar area connected to a game room. Amenities include first-class bars alongside restaurants and other facilities.

People are saying

"The views of Lake Michigan from the club are great."

"The scenic views of Lake Michigan are beautiful from here."

"The bar's historic character combines with modern ambience."

Good to know

1

The club hosts various events, including weddings and corporate gatherings.

2

Expect high costs for events, with weddings starting around $50,000.

3

Reservations are recommended for dining, especially during peak hours.

02
Seville Chicago image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers stunning city views and a relaxed atmosphere with friendly staff. The space features beautiful ambiance suitable for quiet meals or lively happy hours. Cocktails and small plates complement the setting, creating a charming dining experience.

Spectacular rooftop views offer a beautiful panorama of the city. Large windows and a top deck provide consistently great cityscapes that enhance the atmosphere.

Showplace bar features wall tiles and hanging lights that create a strong visual appeal. It offers great views at night and allows dining without a reservation.

People are saying

"You'll love the inventive cocktails, many are sweet."

"The rooftop views here are absolutely gorgeous."

"The drinks here are solid, and the food menu is varied."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3:30 to 5:30pm on weekdays.

2

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks.

3

The restaurant is located on the 16th floor of the Hilton hotel.

03
Brews & Bites Riverwalk image 1

Outdoor seating offers beautiful river views and a scenic urban backdrop with architecture and bridges. The atmosphere stays chill and cozy, with a relaxed weekend vibe that suits larger groups and casual gatherings.

Outdoor seating offers beautiful river views with sights of architecture, bridges, and boats. The setting feels cozy and provides a perfect view of the river walk and skyline.

A self-service bar offers a large variety of drinks and food with a friendly barkeep. Located next to the riverwalk, it has a poolside lounge vibe but requires walking about 40 meters between the bar and food pickup.

People are saying

"I loved the gorgeous view of the river."

"I loved the gorgeous river views from the outdoor seating."

"The open bar here was a hit at our event."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features a special menu with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The venue is seasonal and only operates for a limited time each year.

3

Outdoor seating is plentiful, providing great views of the river.

04
Chรขteau Carbide image 1

Rooftop bar offers gorgeous sunset views and a cozy holiday atmosphere with blankets, heaters, and fire pits. The space features comfortable couches and a notable absinthe selection. Music varies from jazz to violin performances, creating a relaxed but sometimes uneven vibe.

Rooftop seating offers awesome views of downtown from the 24th floor. The outside patio provides a gorgeous sunset backdrop and a laid back atmosphere for meetings or drinks.

Rooftop bar offers cozy couches, art deco vibes, and awesome downtown views. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, creating a laid back atmosphere with lights, heaters, and blankets.

People are saying

"The city views from up here are really great."

"The scenic views here are absolutely gorgeous and made the visit worthwhile."

"The bar staff's service was attentive and professional."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for booking a hut with a fireplace.

2

A $300 food and beverage minimum applies for booking a chateau.

3

The menu is limited, with no vegetarian options except olives and popcorn.

05
Swissotel Chicago image 1

Rooms offer panoramic views of the lake, river, and cityscape, creating a striking backdrop. The atmosphere feels upscale and spacious, with a large gym featuring impressive equipment and scenic views. Efficient escalators connect floors smoothly, supporting a steady flow of guests.

Rooms on the 31st floor offer breathtaking lake views. Upgrades and perks like early checkout and welcome drinks come with membership benefits.

Staff remain friendly and polite, with attentive service from key team members. The bar offers a great atmosphere and serves dishes like Tuscan grilled octopus.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were lovely and accommodating."

"The city and lake views from the rooms are fantastic."

"The hotel bar had very limited drink choices."

Good to know

1

Expect hidden fees like a $25 resort fee not disclosed at booking.

2

Parking costs $87 per night, which is considered high.

3

The hotel bar closes at 10:30 PM on weekends.

06
Millennium Hall Restaurant image 1

Architecture features Frank Gehry's dancing metal design with indoor and outdoor seating offering views of the ice rink and cityscape. Atmosphere ranges from festive and chill to lively with large projection TVs showing sports. Popular for group outings and casual dining with a bar-focused vibe.

Seating offers a gorgeous view of the skating rink. The view from the restaurant overlooks the ice rink clearly and adds to the dining experience.

A large bar with a huge projector TV creates a lively spot for watching games. Bartenders like Ivan, Omar, Lilly, and Jesus deliver well mixed drinks and warm hospitality with attentive service.

People are saying

"Chef David's pizza making class was so fun and awesome."

"The bar staff are attentive, kind, and provide well-mixed drinks."

"The scenic views of the ice rink were amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for pizza-making courses and private events.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Karaoke night starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

07
LH Rooftop image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop bar offers unparalleled city views including river and Gothic architecture. Atmosphere is lively with loud music, making conversation difficult. Outdoor space features igloos and fire pits, with indoor area hosting a live DJ to maintain energy.

Offers stunning river views and unparalleled rooftop sights of the city, including the river, bridges, and Gothic architecture. The view stands out as truly unique and beautiful among rooftop spots.

Busy bar with friendly bartenders creates a welcoming atmosphere. The rooftop setting offers a great environment and views while staff remain accommodating and kind even during peak times.

People are saying

"The rooftop city views are stunning and beautiful."

"The city views from the rooftop are stunning."

"The rooftop bar has stunning city views."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table at LH Rooftop due to limited space.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Bring your ID as it is required for entry; no photos accepted.

08
Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park image 1

Hotel offers amazing city views and a quiet workspace with beautiful decor. Gold Lounge provides a relaxing retreat with light food and drinks. Efficient elevators and a well-equipped 24-hour gym support convenience and fitness needs.

Rooms offer beautiful views, especially from the 31st floor. Sunrise scenes stand out, and the Gold Lounge provides impeccable views alongside its food.

Service at the bars stands out with perfect cocktail service and friendly staff. Abraham at the Toro bar and the manager Candice provide helpful, attentive support including drink credits and floor changes.

People are saying

"The city views from the room are amazing."

"The city views from the room are amazing."

"The bartender at the bar was so nice and helpful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the holiday bar during the festival.

2

Parking can be confusing; plan to arrive early to find the garage.

3

Expect extra charges for amenities, even if not used.

09
The Walnut Room image 1
American restaurant

Dining room showcases historic decor and a stunning Christmas tree that creates a magical atmosphere. Fairy princesses visit tables, adding a whimsical touch to the experience. Space feels spacious and elegant with white tablecloths and a sense of Chicago history.

Seating by the window offers a perfect view of the Muddy Waters mural. Windows also showcase interesting views and a holiday tree decorated in Marshall Fieldโ€™s colors.

Seats at the bar are available even after the wait list closes, with staff helping guests get in before 6:30 pm. The bar offers great service and features Holiday Drinks to enjoy while waiting or sitting at the bar.

People are saying

"The holiday atmosphere and the Great Tree are just stunningly gorgeous."

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The bar staff here is amazing and always keeps your glasses full."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for holiday dining at least two months in advance.

2

The Walnut Room hosts a popular drag brunch every Sunday at 11 AM.

3

Parking costs $28 for three hours, so plan accordingly.

10
Grant Park Bistro image 1

Outdoor seating offers great views of the park and a bright, clean decor fills the space with natural light. The atmosphere ranges from chill and vibrant to very loud and crowded during events. Bottomless mimosas and well-crafted cocktails add to the lively brunch vibe.

A beautiful patio offers great views of Grant Park with umbrellas for shade. The spot combines a vibrant downtown vibe with scenic park sights and good music.

The bar features a beautiful mural behind it and serves notable espresso martinis. Space at the bar is limited, and seating for groups is not clearly directed.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and excellent."

"You'll love the great views of the park from the patio."

"The bar staff are friendly, attentive, and make great drinks."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with affordable drink specials.

2

There is a one and a half hour limit for bottomless mimosas during brunch.

3

A 20% service charge is added for tables of more than four people.

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