Chicago

Chicago – welcome to the Windy City.

In the 1980s, DJs Ron Hardy and Frankie Knuckles began spinning a new strain of disco music built from bass and drum machines in Chicago clubs, establishing the city as a hub of dance culture and the birthplace of house music. While you can’t bust a move inside the most legendary Chicago nightclubs, a new crop of late-night destinations has stepped up to make sure the beat goes on. Whether it’s the jam-packed season of summer music festivals or winter in Chicago, these dance clubs keep electronic acts and talented DJs onstage late into the night. If you’re looking for spots with crowded dance floors, energetic soundtracks and attractive clientele, hop in the queue at some of the best nightclubs and dance clubs in Chicago.

Check out our indepth guides to Chicago nightlife – clubbing & pool parties in Chicago:

• Best nightclubs in Chicago
• Best Hip Hop clubs in Chicago
• Best EDM clubs in Chicago
• Upcoming nightlife events in Chicago

Looking for more information on Chicago nightclubs? Check out our club guides below.

Don’t forget – we also have a free mobile app that you can download here. Use the app to see who’s spinning, sign up for guestlists, buy tickets, and book bottle service!

Chicago Nightlife FAQ

What are the hottest clubs in Chicago?

Tao Chicago, Liqrbox, Prysm, Studio Paris, Spybar, Masq, and Y-Bar are some of the current Chicago hot spots.

What are the best music festivals in Chicago?

Lollapalooza is the #1 music festival in Chicago. Lollapalooza rocks out with the biggest names in music across all the genres: hip-hop, electronica, reggae, indie, modern roots, and more, attracting more than 100,000 attendees each year. Other festivals in the windy city include Pitchfork Music Festival, North Coast Music Festival, Chicago Blues Festival, Spring Awakening, Grant Park Music festival, Chicago House Music Festival, and Chicago Jazz Festival.

What part of Chicago has the best nightlife?

River North, Wrigleyville and Lakeview has the best nightlife – clubs & bars. 

What are the best gay clubs/bars in Chicago?

The best gay clubs and bars are in Boystown in west Lakeview. The best gay clubs in the area are Berlin, Scarlet, Jeffrey Pub, Sidetrack, and Kit Kat Lounge.

What time is last call in Chicago?

Some bars and nightclubs in Chicago have late night licenses to sell alcohol until 4 AM sunday through Friday, and 5 AM on Saturdays.

What time do clubs close in Chicago?

On Fridays many clubs close around 4 AM, on Saturdays some clubs have late night licenses that allow them to close at 5 AM.

Is weed legal in Chicago?

Yes recreational weed is legal in Chicago for anyone 21+.

What are the best day parties in Chicago?

If you’re looking to party during the day we would recommend a Boozy Brunch at Fremont, or a Booze Cruise at Chicago Party Boat.

What are the best EDM clubs in Chicago?

The best EDM clubs in Chicago are probably Prysm, Spybar, Aragon Ballroom, Radius, and Concord Music Hall.

What are the best hip hop clubs in Chicago?

The best hip hop clubs in Chicago include Liqrbox, Cuvee, Tao, Park West, Masq, Studio Paris, Underground, and Tunnel.

What are the best after hours spots in Chicago?

Many Chicago clubs are open to 4 AM or later.

What are the best spots for day drinking in Chicago?

• Lonesome Rose (Logan Square)
• Estereo (Logan Square)
• Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club (Bucktown)
• District Brew Yards (West Town)
• Half Acre Balmoral Taproom (Lincoln Square)
• All Together Now (Ukrainian Village)
• Aba (West Loop)
• Middle Brow Bungalow (Logan Square)
• Beermiscuous (Lakeview)
• Hopewell Brewing Company (Logan Square)
• Sleeping Village (Avaondale)
• Big Star (Wrigleyville)
• Cabra (West Loop)
• Moonlighter (Logan Square)