There’s something special about seeing Chicago from above—the glittering skyscrapers, the sprawling lakefront, the endless city lights. Now, imagine enjoying that view with a perfectly mixed cocktail in hand. Chicago’s rooftop bars blend incredible scenery with top-tier drinks, making them the go-to spots for a night out with a view.

Aba

Nestled in Chicago's West Loop, Aba presents a lush, lounge-style ambiance that has made it a sought-after destination. Patrons can indulge in Mediterranean-inspired dishes such as Smoky Garlic Hummus, Whipped Feta Spread, and Shawarma-Spiced Skirt Steak. The cocktail menu is equally enticing, featuring selections like the Aloe? It's Me—a blend of mezcal, aloe, green juice, lime, and jalapeño. 

Address: 302 N Green St 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60607

Source: Aba

Tanta

For an immersive Peruvian culinary experience, Tanta in River North is a prime choice. The rooftop terrace offers a vibrant setting to savor dishes like ceviches, anticuchos, and empanadas. The cocktail menu emphasizes pisco, showcasing three variations of the classic pisco sour. Signature drinks include La Guapa, with lavender-infused gin, rhubarb, and Cremant de Bourgogne, and El Chingon, a savory mix of jalapeño-infused tequila, mezcal, and cilantro over a chili-infused ice sphere. 

Address: 118 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654

Source: Tanta Chicago

Pandan

Located on the 18th floor, Pandan stands out as a public-access poolside bar, allowing guests to enjoy a glass of bubbly while dipping their toes in the water. An order of the pork lumpia complements the experience, especially as the sun sets over the Chicago skyline.

Address: 1112 N State St 18th Floor, Chicago,

Source: Facebook

Cabra

Chef Stephanie Izard's Cabra, meaning "goat" in Spanish, draws inspiration from her travels in Peru. The menu features vibrant, shareable plates like chicken thigh anticucho with peanut chimichurri and yuzu cilantro, and pork shank accompanied by pickles, plums, and sweet potato flatbread. Seasonal ceviches and tiraditos are also highlights, all enjoyed amidst panoramic city views.

Address: 200 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607

Source: Cabra Chicago

VU Rooftop Bar

Situated 22 stories above street level, VU offers expansive views of Chicago. With three bars and two patios spread across 13,000 square feet, guests can enjoy signature cocktails and a variety of bites in a spacious setting.

Address: 133 E Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL 60616

Source: The Vendry

Lonesome Rose

In Logan Square, Lonesome Rose provides a hip atmosphere with crowd-pleasing food and an inviting patio scene. The menu boasts five different burritos, a medley of tacos—including a notable fried chicken option—and starters like cotija-topped street corn and southwest chicken empanadas.

Address: 2101 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Source: Lonesome Rose

Tetto Chicago

From the same team behind Recess, Tetto Chicago brings a fresh rooftop experience to the West Loop. The spacious layout and inviting ambiance make it an excellent choice for a night out with friends. With Italian-inspired cocktails and delicious slices from Professor Pizza, it's the perfect spot to relax, sip, and snack while taking in the neighborhood views.

Address: 406 N Sangamon St, Chicago

Source: Tetto Chicago

The Up Room

This intimate 13th-floor lounge atop The Robey Hotel in Wicker Park offers panoramic views. The cleverly named Oaxacan on Broken Glass combines Banhez mezcal, Hellfire bitters, and Ancho Reyes Verde chile liqueur, while the 5 O'Clock Tea features Knob Creek bourbon, Earl Grey tea, and peach shrub.

Address: 2018 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Source: CN Traveler

Celeste

Housed in a historic Louis Sullivan building, Celeste offers multiple levels of ambiance. The fourth-floor garden, with its retractable roof, floral-print Victorian furniture, tropical greenery, and vine-covered brick walls, provides an escape from the city's hustle. Weekend DJs enhance the mood by spinning hits.

Address: 111 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654

Source: Celeste Disco

NoMI Garden

Located on the 7th floor of the Park Hyatt Chicago, NoMI Garden features a 30-foot-long ivory bar and parasol-shaded seating. Guests can enjoy artisanal cocktails and a menu rooted in modern American fare with French technique, making it an ideal spot for both afternoon and evening gatherings.

Address: 800 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

Source: NoMI

Rooftop season in Chicago is something special, and these bars make the most of it. With incredible drinks, stunning views, and unbeatable vibes, they’re the perfect escape from the city streets. Grab your friends, head upstairs, and soak it all in.