When it comes to rooftop bars, Chicago has some of the best. In the city that invented the skyscraper, could anything feel as resplendent as lounging atop one for a cocktail with a view? These high-altitude alfresco eating and drinking spots have some of the best views of the city’s landmarks—Lake Michigan, Wrigley Field, the skyline itself—while also crafting well-considered cocktail programs and good eats. Many even encompass indoor space, meaning they can be enjoyed year-round) even as the snow envelopes downtown. Read on for our picks for the best rooftop bars Chicago has to offer, each with its own distinct identity.
Read our complete Chicago travel guide here, which includes:
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.