The 33 best outdoor bars in Chicago

What is it? A Logan Square bar with a massive backyard-style patio, lawn games and fire pits.

Why we love it: Though its kitchen and bar are housed in a former auto repair garage, Park & Field's main draw is its gigantic 6,000-square-feet patio, which features a bocce court, hammocks, fire pits and a camper that has been retrofitted to serve as an outdoor bar. Even if you visit during the coldest months, you can stay warm by cozying up next to flames. Summer, though, is when Park & Field turns into a lively adult playground packed with fun and games.

Time Out tip: Stop by on weekends for the boozy, all-you-can-eat brunch buffet.

Address: 3509 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Opening hours: Tue 5-10pm; Wed, Thu 5-11pm; Fri noon-midnight; Sat 10:30am-midnight; Sun 10:30am-10pm

What is it? One Off Hospitality's bustling Wicker Park taqueria.

Why we love it: People come to the Big Star patio to eat tacos al pastor while munching on chips and salsa, but they stay because someone at the table orders a second pitcher of margaritas or another round of beers. The moment temperatures in Chicago begin creeping up, the outdoor seating at the Wicker Park location seems to fill up instantly. Be prepared to wait for your turn, but know that chips, guac and margs are in your future.

Time Out tip: If you'd rather not risk a wait, there's a second Big Star location in Wrigleyville.

Address: 1531 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 11:30am-10pm; Fri 11:30am-11pm; Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-10pm

What is it? One of the largest and busiest patios in Chicago.

Why we love it: Set among a pile of shipping containers next to West Loop event space City Hall, Recess bills itself as one of the city's largest patios, complete with a multi-level set-up and multiple bars. Once you have a table, there's a ton of creative bar fare to choose between, like chicken and waffle fries and fried avocado wedges. And of course, you'll find plenty of cocktails (with or without CBD), local brews and rosé to sample during a long afternoon or a late night.

Time Out tip: There are plenty of games to play while you dine, from Uno and Jenga to air hockey.

Address: 838 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60642

Opening hours: Mon-Wed 4pm-midnight; Thu, Fri 4pm-2am; Sat 11am-3am; Sun 11am-10pm

What is it? A neighborhood favorite with a spacious back patio.

Why we love it: Charming Avondale dive bar Ludlow Liquors is home to a stellar garden patio. You'll find plenty of picnic tables where you can take a seat, sip a stiff drink, grab a burger and catch up with friends.

Time Out tip: The cheesesteaks, only available on Sunday and Monday, are worth planning around.

Address: 2959 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Mon-Wed 5pm-midnight; Thu 5pm-1am; Fri 5pm-2am; Sat 3pm-2am; Sun 3pm-midnight

What is it? A large outdoor patio where guests gather over chicken and frozen cocktails.

Why we love it: Parson's Chicken & Fish has two locations for folks to grab Negroni Slushies, but the original Logan Square outpost still seems like the best place to knock back some drinks under the sun, thanks to its slightly more spacious layout. That being said, if the patio there is full, you might as well go see if you can snag a seat at the other.

Time Out tip: While the fried chicken gets most of the attention, don't overlook the equally delicious grilled version.

Address: 2952 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Opening hours: Mon-Thu, Sun 11am-10pm; Fri, Sat 11am-11pm

What is it? A hidden neighborhood patio with lively atmosphere.

Why we love it: Sleeping Village's 2,000-square-foot patio is an ideal spot to grab a drink before heading inside for live music. The venue is open seven days a week, but you'll need to get there early because it fills up quickly.

Time Out tip: Guests are welcome to bring their own food, so grab takeout from nearby spots like Di Vita’s or Gorditas Loli’s #2.

Address: 3734 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Mon-Wed, Sun 6pm-1am; Thu, Fri 6pm-2am; Sat 6pm-3am

What is it? West Loop's buzzing beer garden.

Why we love it: If Ron Swanson opened a restaurant, it would probably be the Kaiser Tiger. The specialties are bacon, smoked sausages and beer. The rest of the menu is similarly meat-forward, with chicken and schnitzel to spare, plus Bavarian favorites like jumbo pretzels. But the real beauty of this spot is the patio out back, which boasts plenty of long tables and a bocce court.

Time Out tip: If you're headed to an event at the United Center, Kaiser Tiger offers complimentary shuttle service.

Address: 1415 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607

Opening hours: Mon-Thu noon-midnight; Fri noon-2am; Sat 11am-2am; Sun 11am-midnight

What is it? A Logan Square sports bar from the crew behind Scofflaw.

Why we love it: Yes, the Moonlighter is techincally a sports bar, but it's not usually the obnoxious kind. You can escape (most of) the TVs by having a drink under an umbrella on the 2,000-square-foot patio, which happens to be dog-friendly. Devour smash burgers, wings and hardshell tacos and sip a frozen cocktail or a sour beer while you gaze out at Kedzie Avenue.

Time Out tip: Vegetarians and vegans will find plenty to love, with most menu items available in meat-free versions.

Address: 3204 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 5pm-midnight; Fri 3pm-1am; Sat 11am-1am; Sun 11am-midnight

What is it? A cozy, all-season patio.

Why we love it: You’re spoiled for choices when it comes to eating and drinking outside along Pilsen’s main drag, but the secluded, cozy patio at Pilsen Yards, complete with twinkly lights and fire pit, is a favorite. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy summery cocktails like a mezcal marg or draft paloma alongside enticing bites like a piña colada ceviche or charred carrots served with al pastor-inspired fixins.

Time Out tip: If you like some beats with your cocktails and eats, Pilsen Yards has DJs spinning vinyl on the weekends. 

Address: 1163 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608

Opening hours: Wed, Thu 3-10pm; Fri 3-11pm; Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-9pm

What is it? An outdoor oasis tucked beside a busy six-way River West intersection.

Why we love it: Draped in greenery, and with a great view of the painted Doolin's sign on the side of the building next door, the Dawson's patio is a great place to gather just outside of the West Loop. Seasonal cocktails are balanced with wine and barrel-aged spirits—and there's beer on tap if that's what you prefer. Plus, the Grand Blue Line stop is just a few steps away if you need to take a tipsy train ride home.

Time Out tip: Happy hour offers $10 mixed drinks, plus a selection of beer and wine alongside bites like cheese curds and asada fries.

Address: 730 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654

Opening hours: Tue, Wed 4-9pm; Thu 4-10pm; Fri 4-11pm; Sat 10:30am-11pm; Sun 10:30am-9pm

What is it? One of the best divey bars in Chicago.

Why we love it: Brothers Chris and Calvin Marty bought the old Marble Bar and reopened it as Best Intentions. The dive bar charm remains, although the bar is a little sleeker and the drinks are much better. Settle into a table on the spacious big back patio with a cabana bar. The retro charm lures in many Logan Square locals, so be prepared to elbow your way through the crowd. Once you've secured a spot, indulge in a cocktail and order a Baker's Dozen round of 12 burgers for the table. 

Time Out tip: Try a $5 Angostura shot; Best Intentions claims to be the only bar in the world to serve it on draft.

Address: 3281 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Opening hours: Tue-Fri 5pm-2am; Sat 11am-3am; Sun 11am-2am

What is it? Chicago's iconic LGBTQ+ bar.

Why we love it: Northalsted's megabar is famous for its showtunes night, booze-laced slushies and, of course, its gigantic rooftop deck, which packs them in on sunny weekends and summer nights. Plenty of greenery and a multilevel layout provide an intimate feel despite the massive capacity.

Time Out tip: Visit during one of Sidetrack's themed nights, when the energy is at its most electric.

Address: 3349 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 3pm-2am; Sat 1pm-3am; Sun noon-2am

What is it? A laid-back Humboldt Park bar with a relaxing back patio.

Why we love it: Breezy vibes permeate throughout this Humboldt Park bar, thanks in large part to its comfy and spacious patio. Order a drink at the outdoor bar and head for the seats under the pergola. If the weather turns unpleasant, you can retreat to the all-seasons corner that’s equipped with a fireplace. On the beverage front, enjoy a collection of strong and boozy cocktails (Hi) or easy slippers (Lo), as well as several spritz offerings.

Time Out tip: There are plenty of non-alcoholic cocktails for those skipping the booze.

Address: 1110 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 3pm-2am; Sat 1pm-3am; Sun 1pm-2am

What is it? A legendary Andersonville beer bar.

Why we love it: Pretend you're dining alfresco somewhere in Europe when you escape to Hopleaf's courtyard patio, where a long list of Belgian brews are flowing and piles of the famous ale-steamed mussels are delivered to hungry diners. Just be warned that patio seating is first come, first served and this is one of Andersonville's most popular haunts.

Time Out tip: Ask the knowledgeable staff for beer recommendations—they won't steer you wrong.

Address: 5148 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640

Opening hours: Mon-Thu, Sun noon-11pm; Fri, Sat noon-midnight

What is it? A Bridgeport standout delivering Korean-Polish street fare.

Why we love it: Polish and Korean fusion purveyor Kimski has expansive outdoor seating options, with tables along the side of the building as well as a backyard patio. This Bridgeport spot always has the latest brews from Marz on tap—plus plenty of other interesting local beers to pair with sausages and pierogis.

Time Out tip: Beer lovers should pop into Maria's Packaged Goods and Community Bar next door for an extensive selection of brews.

Address: 960 W 31st St, Chicago, IL 60608

Opening hours: Wed-Sat 5-10pm; Sun 3-8pm

What is it? A classic neighborhood pub with a large beer garden.

Why we love it: The reasons to come to this six-decade-old Edgewater institution are many—towering trees shade most of the enormous two-level garden and straightforward half-pound burgers are a notch above average and taste like something your dad grilled when you were a kid. And while the beer list may not be impressive, there's a long list of cocktails (including a Long Island Iced Tea).

Time Out tip: If it's not patio season, cozy up by the indoor fireplace.

Address: 5910 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60660

Opening hours: Mon 4-10pm; Tue-Sat noon-11pm; Sun noon-10pm

What is it? A Ukrainian Village favorite with a lush backyard patio.

Why we love it: Sportsman's backyard has a fire pit, large tables and a canopy of twinkly lights. An in-house herb garden provides the bartenders with fresh ingredients. When it's time to come inside, animal heads on the walls and cozy booths with built-in chess boards make being indoors just as charming.

Time Out tip: Get there early for the Sunday Summer BBQ Series. A different guest chef is featured each week, and the first come, first served event always draws a crowd.

Address: 948 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Opening hours: Mon-Sat 5pm-2am; Sun 4pm-2am

What is it? A riverfront escape with bohemian flair.

Why we love it: An offshoot of the popular West Town dining destination of the same name, Beatnik on the River draws inspiration from the '50s and '60s, offering dishes and drinks in a picturesque riverside setting. The best tables in the house are on the 80-seat patio, which provides views of the water and is outfitted with colorful tile, Indonesian daybeds and fringe-lined umbrellas. Order a glass of bubbly and stay awhile.

Time Out tip: The menu is made for sharing so bring a group.

Address: 180 N Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606

Opening hours: Mon 11am-11pm; Tue-Fri 11am-midnight; Sat 10am-midnight; Sun 10am-11pm

What is it? A Logan Square wine bar with an expansive patio next to the "L" tracks.

Why we love it: If it’s space you want, you’ll definitely find it on the massive back patio at this laid-back Logan Square spot dotted with sleek picnic tables and canopies overhead for shade. Easy Does It is a spot for wine lovers first, although they offer solid beer, cider, cocktail and zero-proof selections too, making it a spot where anyone can take it, well, easy.

Time Out tip: Natural wine fans will find plenty to like.

Address: 2354 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Opening hours: Mon-Wed 5pm-midnight; Thu 5pm-1am; Fri 2pm-2am; Sat noon-2am; Sun noon-midnight

What is it? A relaxed wine bar with a hidden patio.

Why we love it: Located right next to sister spots Scofflaw and the Moonlighter, this Logan Square bar is ideal for when you want to sit back and relax over a bottle of wine. The menu specializes in natural wines but you’ll also find a curated selection of reds, whites and even brews if that’s more your style. Snag a seat on an adirondack chair and feel free to use your outside voice while chit-chatting and nibbling on meats and cheeses.

Time Out tip: Wine flights are available on Wednesdays.

Address: 3204 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Opening hours: Wed-Sun 5pm-midnight

What is it? A stylish River West cocktail bar with a outdoor patio featuring fire pits.

Why we love it: Flanked by vivid murals and trees that pick up all the colors of the seasons (including winter when they’re enrobed in colorful lights), this River West bar’s spacious patio is as colorful and inviting as its varied cocktail menu. Here you’ll find innovative creations by the bar staff alongside their takes on cocktails found in vintage publications for a historical treat. If you’re not drinking alcohol, the spirit-free offerings are a great option as well.

Time Out tip: The patio is dog-friendly and there's even a pup menu.

Address: 694 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 3pm-midnight; Fri 3pm-2am; Sat noon-3am; Sun noon-midnight

Flanked by vivid murals and trees that pick up all the colors of the seasons (including winter when they’re enrobed in colorful lights), this River West bar’s spacious patio is as colorful and inviting as its varied cocktail menu. Here you’ll find innovative creations by the bar staff alongside their takes on cocktails found in vintage publications for a historical treat. If you’re not drinking alcohol, their spirit-free takes on the classic highball is a great option as well. 

What is it? A casual neighborhood bar with a charming side patio.

Why we love it: Taking over an old Polish tavern in Avondale, Central Park Bar is a cozy place to grab a drink, especially when it's warm outside. An empty lot adjacent to the bar has been transformed into a 3,500 square-foot patio, complete with a covered bar (equipped with heaters for when it's chilly), picnic tables, porch swings, some outdoor games and a fire pit. It's a picturesque spot to sip a menu of classic cocktails or to order a beer.

Time Out tip: Half-price happy hour is every weekday from 4 to 7pm.

Address: 2924 N Central Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 4pm-2am; Sat noon-3am; Sun noon-2am