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New Yorkers 1st Choice
West Town's best

Fun bar activities

A bar that offers actual things to do, rather than just standing around waiting for a drink.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Grand Cru Chicago image 1
Grand Cru Chicago image 2
Grand Cru Chicago image 3
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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.

02
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.

03
Golden Years image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with a retro/vinyl records theme and 70โ€™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.

04
Clover Sports and Leisure image 1

Bar combines game day energy with interactive games like pool, darts, video golf, and pop-a-shot basketball. Loud atmosphere features a DJ booth that elevates karaoke to concert level. Space welcomes dog-friendly crowds and offers free popcorn with good game day specials.

A full bar with a great dart setup creates a lively atmosphere. Staff like Amna add to the experience at this Irish sports bar.

Game days bring a lively vibe with plenty of fun activities and a great bar setup. The spot works well for hanging out and enjoying a fun atmosphere.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is the best and so welcoming."

"It's a great spot for watching the game."

"It's a fun place to hang out, especially on game day."

Good to know

1

They hold raffles during game days for added fun.

2

Game day specials are available, enhancing the experience.

3

Clover Sports and Leisure is dog-friendly, so bring your pet.

05
Desert Hawk image 1

Desert-themed bar with an extensive tequila and mezcal selection offers an intimate, cozy atmosphere with outdoor patio seating and a pool table. Music features LCD Soundsystem and Talking Heads, creating a vibey, low-key backdrop. The crowd is eclectic and friendly, making it suitable for casual drinks or a relaxed night out.

This bar brings a culinary adventure to the scene with a vibe that feels fresh and lively. The atmosphere crafted by Brittany adds a memorable touch, making it stand out among others.

Karaoke Wednesdays bring a lively crowd and fun atmosphere. The spot blends cozy bar vibes with great food for a good time.

People are saying

"The smash jibaritos here are amazing and flavorful."

"The tacos here are unbelievably flavorful and delicious."

"The karaoke nights here are a blast with a really supportive crowd."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Wednesday with a fun crowd and great vibes.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with good drink deals.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended for karaoke nights.

06
Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club image 1

Indoor and rooftop spaces combine shuffleboard courts with food trucks and cabana-style seating. Music plays loudly throughout, creating a laid-back club vibe that suits groups hanging out or playing games. Bright decor and a rooftop view add to the unique atmosphere.

Upstairs offers a lovely view of Milwaukee and the CTA. The bar staff is great and helpful, even teaching games. Drinks are served with friendly service.

Playing shuffleboard offers a lot of fun, especially for first-timers. The spot has a great vibe and friendly staff who make the night enjoyable and lively.

People are saying

"It's a fun spot to hang out and play shuffleboard."

"The food trucks here are a fun way to spend an evening."

"The bar's environment is extremely fun and enjoyable."

Good to know

1

Shuffleboard costs $29 per lane on Sundays.

2

Reservations are recommended for busy times, especially for groups of four or more.

3

Happy hour runs all day on Sundays with great specials.

07
The California Clipper image 1

Vintage lounge with art deco decor and leather booths creates a timeless atmosphere. Live jazz and DJ sets energize the space, with a dance floor and two bars supporting a lively crowd. Ambiance shifts from chill cocktail vibes to a bustling dance scene as the night progresses.

An old school jazz bar with a great ambiance and good performances. The lounge features a wheelchair accessible space with a back room DJ setup playing house music and a small bar.

Evenings feature fun DJ sets and a retro styled environment that keeps the energy lively. Dancing and hanging out with friends add to the overall fun atmosphere.

People are saying

"The cocktails here taste like liquid history."

"This bar is a center for DJs and dance music."

"The live music here is amazing, especially the jazz artists."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Thursday with a two-drink minimum.

2

The venue hosts a $5 cover charge on weekends for DJ events.

3

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

08
Sushi by Scratch Restaurants: Chicago image 1

Hidden behind a secret coded door in a speakeasy setting, the space offers an intimate dining bar where guests interact closely with chefs. The atmosphere blends moody, cozy vibes with bursts of energetic engagement, creating a unique omakase experience. Seating is limited to small groups, enhancing the personal and exclusive feel.

A speakeasy entrance leads into a bar with a dining area where chefs interact directly during the meal. The setup feels like a sushi bar with a lively atmosphere and jokes, not a traditional omakase.

Engagement turns the meal into a fun, immersive journey with a secret coded door and back exit adding to the experience. Chefs create a great, intimate, and fun atmosphere throughout.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is a carefully crafted omakase journey."

"The chefs made the meal a fun, immersive journey with their stories."

"The bar is interactive, with chefs making the experience fun."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to access the restaurant, with a code sent after booking.

2

Expect to pay around $200 per person, including tips, for the omakase experience.

3

The restaurant has a speakeasy entrance through a black door with a numbered lock.

09
Elston Electric image 1
Video arcade

Multi-use space combines retro arcade games, pinball machines, and a sunken bar with loud music creating a laid-back yet energetic vibe. Variety of classic and unique games attract groups, families, and pinball lovers. Spacious layout includes outdoor seating and shops, making it a lively spot before or after shows.

A retro, throwback ambiance sets the tone with a sunken bar and very comfy seats. The bar offers unique drinks and a great view, making it a chill spot to relax between arcade games.

Unique arcade games and a curated prize collection create a lively spot for fun. Drinks include creative shots and solid pizza to complement the playful atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a cool bar to take a break from the game room."

"I found the arcade had a great selection of new and old games."

"It's an amazing arcade with a huge collection of games for family fun."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but check social media for event closures.

2

A single game of pinball costs 5 credits, which can be loaded onto a reusable card.

3

The venue is popular for pre-gaming before concerts at the nearby Salt Shed.

10
Louie's Pub image 1

Small, intimate bar buzzes with lively karaoke and a diverse, friendly crowd that sings and dances together. DJ energy and music selection keep the atmosphere engaging and upbeat. Free buttery popcorn adds a unique touch to the fun neighborhood vibe.

A friendly neighborhood bar with no food but upscale drinks made fresh to prevent tampering. Karaoke nights feature a phenomenal DJ who keeps the crowd singing and vibing together.

Karaoke nights feature a lively DJ who keeps the energy high. Staff join in the fun, creating a vibrant atmosphere that draws a consistently engaged crowd.

People are saying

"The karaoke here is a blast with a lively crowd."

"This karaoke bar has great drinks and a lively atmosphere."

"It's a fun place for karaoke with the whole bar singing along."

Good to know

1

Karaoke gets popular on weekends, leading to long wait times for singing slots.

2

Expect to arrive early, as the karaoke list fills up quickly by 9 or 10 PM.

3

Drinks at Louie's Pub cost around $15-20 each, similar to stadium prices.

11
District Brew Yards image 1

Open-layout brewpub with self-serve beer taps and cashless system creates a casual, interactive atmosphere. Spacious indoor and dog-friendly outdoor seating accommodate groups and encourage relaxed socializing. Board games and a variety of beers from multiple breweries add to the laid-back, fun vibe.

Food matches classic bar style with great pub cheese and solid bar food options. Quality stands out in simple, familiar dishes.

A self-pour system lets people sample many drinks easily, making tasting interactive and fun. Trivia nights add an inviting vibe, and the spot works well for big groups looking to hang out in a laid-back setting.

People are saying

"You can pour your own beer and try a ton of options."

"It's a fun, interactive spot to sample a wide variety of beers."

"You use a card to pour your own beer from the taps."

Good to know

1

Trivia night occurs every Wednesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

The venue offers an all-you-can-eat and drink deal during special events.

3

Guests can pour their own beer from multiple breweries at their own pace.

12
Emporium Arcade Bar image 1

Large bar filled with classic arcade games and pinball machines creates a nostalgic vibe. Lighting is cute and seating includes picnic-style tables with an overflow area. Atmosphere stays lively but chill, with good music and a decent dance floor.

Lively atmosphere blends vintage arcade games with a great variety of beers and cocktails. Fast service keeps the fun going, while free pool on Mondays adds extra value.

A wide selection of arcade games creates a nostalgic and lively atmosphere. Friendly staff enhance the experience, making it a fun and affordable spot for events or casual hangouts.

People are saying

"It's a fun spot to hang out with friends and play some arcades."

"This bar has a lively atmosphere and tons of fun arcade games."

"The arcade games here are so fun, a great mix of classic and modern."

Good to know

1

You can bring your own food because they do not serve food.

2

Getting in is free, unless attending the Rage party, which costs $10.

3

Everyone is carded at the door, so have your ID ready.

13
Wax Vinyl Bar and Ramen Shop image 1

Bar combines modern design with a vinyl record theme and live DJs spinning soulful house and disco. Atmosphere feels cool and unique, with a spacious, thoughtfully detailed interior. Crowd enjoys socializing with drinks and flavorful ramen featuring gluten-free rice noodles and collard greens.

Wall of records creates a fun atmosphere with cool ambience and impeccably detailed design. The bar offers undeniable vibes and attentive service.

Great music and good vibes create a lively atmosphere. Food and drinks add to the overall fun experience.

People are saying

"The music and vibe here are really cool."

"The bar's music and vibes are amazing."

"The ramen here is flavorful and reasonably priced."

Good to know

1

Late-night hours provide a vibrant atmosphere with live DJ music.

2

The menu features gluten-free rice noodles instead of traditional ramen.

3

Parking is available nearby, but can be limited during peak hours.

14
The Dandy Crown image 1

Huge patio with fire pits and live music creates a lively outdoor space. Seasonal holiday-themed pop-ups and decorations add immersive, festive vibes. Loud music fills the air, making it energetic and social.

A cool cocktail lounge vibe sets the tone with an enormous patio for outdoor seating. The layout with couches, side tables, and an appetizer wall encourages mingling and interaction among groups.

Surprise drinks bring a boozy twist to the fun vibe. The ambience turns super fun during Halloween, keeping the energy lively.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating here is beautiful and cozy with a fireplace."

"The cocktails here are amazing and delicious."

"I loved the Halloween theme and spooky season vibes here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 drafts on Fridays from 4-7pm.

2

Live music occurs every Sunday, featuring DJ Gloria on 'Soulful Sunday.'

3

The venue hosts special pop-up events for Halloween and Christmas.

15
Izakaya Shinya image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Izakaya-style restaurant offers authentic Japanese decor with traditional seating and moody lighting. The atmosphere stays cozy and lively, featuring karaoke that energizes the space late into the night. Guests enjoy grilling at the table and a varied sake and cocktail selection.

A vibrant bar with a wide variety of options and simple bar foods featuring Japanese flavors. The atmosphere stays busy but welcoming, with excellent service and space at the bar even when crowded.

A lively atmosphere fills the inside with karaoke nights on Fridays and Saturdays. Drinks and singing create a very fun vibe that lasts late into the night.

People are saying

"The food here felt like being back in Japan."

"Karaoke nights here are so much fun and the vibe is super chill."

"Diana and Brianna at the bar were so welcoming and delightful."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Friday and Saturday night, starting at 9pm.

2

Happy hour offers $7 drinks, but only for the first drink.

3

The restaurant is open until 2 AM, perfect for late-night dining.

16
Aztec Dave's Cantina image 1

Bar and grill with stunning Aztec art and a community feel creates an intimate, lively atmosphere. Music features a DJ set that keeps energy high while multiple big screen TVs show games. Known for fresh margaritas and flavorful Mexican-inspired food, it blends a hipster dive bar vibe with quality offerings.

A community feel defines the bar with handcrafted margaritas mixed fresh at the counter. Friendly and professional staff create a quiet spot to relax, eat, and hang out.

Friday nights feature a fun group doing karaoke. Staff are consistently friendly and fun, creating a lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"These tacos are dynamite, smoky, and packed with flavor."

"The drinks at the bar are spectacular and delicious."

"The staff here is so nice and fun!"

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Friday night, starting at 9pm.

2

The restaurant has a parking lot across the alley for guests.

3

Tacos come with cilantro and onion only; additional toppings are available for an extra charge.

17
City Pool Hall & Sports Bar image 1

Pool hall offers 12 well-maintained tables including 9-foot tables in a laid back, friendly atmosphere with fantastic music. Space feels old school Chicago billiards with a no frills environment and a backyard smoking area. It gets crowded but maintains a hometown vibe with a mix of quiet and lively energy.

A full-service bar offers Prosecco for mimosas alongside a menu with quality pizza, burgers, and club sandwiches that stand out from typical bar food. The atmosphere stays laid back and friendly, with bartenders treating everyone kindly.

Playing pool and darts offers a fun way to hang out with friends. Friendly staff add to the lively atmosphere, and several additional games keep the energy up.

People are saying

"The food here is pretty damn good."

"I found the bar had lots of well-kept pool tables."

"I had a fun time playing pool and pop-a-shot here."

Good to know

1

Pool tables cost $14 per hour for one person, $18 for two, and $21 for three or more.

2

Expect to wait for a table on busy nights, especially league nights.

3

Parking includes metered and free spaces, with about 20 spots available in front.

18
Beauty Bar Chicago image 1

Retro salon decor and vintage Photo Booth create a fun atmosphere with a dance-forward vibe. Music mixes hip hop, oldies, and pop, keeping energy high and lively. Small, enclosed dance floor gets warm and crowded, encouraging close socializing.

Energy stays high with great throwbacks and a fun vintage vibe. Friendly staff serve quickly, and the crowd enjoys dancing without judgment in a welcoming space.

A fun atmosphere fills the space with a diverse crowd ready to dance and sing without judgment. Events like Recession Pop night and Y2K night add to the lively vibe, supported by friendly staff and vintage decor.

People are saying

"This dance spot has amazing DJs and fun throwbacks."

"You can feel welcomed and accepted while dancing here."

"It's a super fun and upbeat place with a great vibe."

Good to know

1

Entry is $10 on weekends, but free before 10pm.

2

Expect long lines outside due to popularity, especially on weekends.

3

The bar can get overcrowded, making it hard to dance.

19
Subterranean image 1

Small, vertical music venue with intimate atmosphere and close band proximity creates a personal vibe. Three levels offer unique views including balconies and catwalk-style bars. Loud sound system demands ear protection for a powerful live music experience.

A cool bar with a great atmosphere and fast, hilarious service from Carlos behind the bar.

Small venues with an upper balcony create a cozy and fun space. Both floors host local bands and artists, making it lively and supportive.

People are saying

"It's a small, intimate venue where you can get up close to the band."

"I heard great music at this bar."

"It's a fun space to see small bands and local artists."

Good to know

1

Entry fee is $15 at the door for concerts.

2

The venue opens at 7:30pm, not 6:30pm as scheduled.

3

Bring ear plugs as the venue can get very loud.

20
Phyllisโ€™ Musical Inn image 1

Classic dive bar with live jazz, rock, and blues music fills dim rooms and a beer garden patio with energy. Atmosphere blends older male clientele and rowdy younger groups, creating a lively, unpolished vibe. Furniture and decor show years of use, adding character and warmth to the space.

Offers an old style tavern atmosphere with live music and a dive bar feel. Features a wonderful outdoor area and bartenders who provide great service and music.

Events here bring a lot of fun and warmth. The atmosphere feels friendly and full of character.

People are saying

"The beer selection and atmosphere here are amazing."

"This bar has live music and a cool, old-school tavern atmosphere."

"The fun activities here have great energy and warmth."

Good to know

1

The bar is cash only, so bring cash for drinks.

2

There is no cover charge for entry.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere with local bands performing regularly.

21
Everything Bar image 1

Two-level bar with an outdoor patio offers distinct atmospheres: a lively main floor with sports screens and a hidden speakeasy downstairs featuring high-energy music and dancing. DJs keep the vibe fresh and in tune with the crowd, which gathers for games and nightlife. Food includes juicy burgers and crispy wings, complementing the energetic setting.

Two floors offer completely different vibes to match your mood. Screens are great for watching sports games with an electric atmosphere on game day.

Upstairs offers a lively atmosphere with good DJs and solid drinks. The crowd stays fun without feeling overwhelming.

People are saying

"The food here was phenomenal and served quickly."

"The bar's atmosphere is electric and so much fun."

"The vibe here is always on point with good music and a fun crowd."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 to 7 PM with $8 burgers and $5 drafts.

2

The Emo Christmas event includes a guaranteed 90-minute reservation and a complimentary drink.

3

The venue can get crowded, especially during popular events.

22
Little Victories image 1

Mid-century modern bar with moody lighting and an indoor/outdoor setup creates a lively yet welcoming atmosphere. Games like pool and darts occupy half the space, encouraging casual fun. The U-shaped bar serves exceptionally good cocktails, including standout espresso martinis.

Offers a great indoor/outdoor space with a friendly and helpful bar team. Stands out as a top neighborhood bar with a welcoming vibe.

Pool table and darts board provide fun ways to pass time. The space feels lively and offers a good spot to hang out with friends.

People are saying

"The bar's cocktails are creative and well-made."

"The chicken Caesar wrap and loaded fries are elite American food."

"They have fun activities like pool and darts."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day with a few discounted drinks available.

2

Half-price bottles of wine are offered on Sundays.

3

ID is required for entry, even for food orders.

23
Revolver image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with speakeasy vibes and a gorgeous interior offers an intimate patio between buildings. Energetic atmosphere features live DJs playing jazz and fun music. Drinks include expertly crafted cocktails like old fashioneds and signature gin mixes.

Quality drinks come with a cool speakeasy vibe and attentive service. The bar offers a Prohibition package with drinks and snacks at a reasonable price, and seating at the bar is easy to find.

Offers a fun atmosphere ideal for a ladies night out. The vibe stays lively and engaging throughout.

People are saying

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

"I love the creative cocktails and great music during Happy Hour."

"It's a fun place for a lively night out."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5:00 to 6:30 PM with $6 drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

3

Expect a 20% service charge added to your bill.

24
DSTRKT Bar & Grill image 1

Two floors offer live DJs and a huge dance floor with loud music that energizes the space. The basement hosts a low key upbeat vibe with another bar and DJ. Multiple TVs show games, attracting lively crowds who enjoy a mix of hip hop, R&B, reggaeton, and afrobeats.

Upstairs offers a great bar atmosphere while downstairs features a dance club vibe with a DJ and another bar. Wings and drinks stand out, and the place stays open late until 2 AM.

Lively atmosphere and relaxed vibe make it a spot for celebrations or just hanging out. People there are fun and the place keeps the energy up for a good time.

People are saying

"The Bottomless wings here are tender and fall off the bone."

"The wings at this Bar fell off the bone."

"The music here is awesome and the people are lively."

Good to know

1

Karaoke starts at 8 PM on Wednesdays with a lively atmosphere.

2

Wednesdays feature a $20 bottomless wings special, limited to 90 minutes.

3

Taco Tuesday offers $3 tacos and $5 margaritas.

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