After visiting 6 rooftop bars in the lively area River North in Chicago, we could agree that some of the most spectacular rooftop bars in the city can be found here. River North is an upscale and vibrant neighborhood, which also reflects the rooftop bars. Most venues on this list are very luxurious and with a great vibe!
In this article we share our insights, photos, thoughts and much more. Enjoy, what we believe, are the best rooftop bars in River North this year.
This article comes packed with the following info about each rooftop venue:
Many of the rooftops in River North serve superb weekend brunches and some venues also hosts themed party nights. So, keep an eye out for that! "Dress to impress", is the most common dress code on these rooftops.
In short: Located on the 16th floor of Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago , the restaurant includes an expansive outdoor seating on its idyllic terrace.
View: Breathtaking views of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the river and Lake Michagan.
Menu: A vibrant menu featuring new American flavors, and an extensive craft cocktail program and thoughtful wine list.
Why visit: For an upscale rooftop experience and spectacular city views!
Dress code: The Terrace 16 dress code is business casual.
Price: Cocktails: $20 | Beers: $10
What we think: We visited Terrace 16 both in 2018 and in 2025, and we still love this rooftop. The sweeping city views are of course the most amazing thing up here. A great spot from some evening cocktails and bar bites. Or why not do the full weekend brunch. It’s both luxurious and tasty!
TERRACE 16
In short: Located at the 6th floor of the exceptional five-star luxury hotel The Peninsula Chicago, Z Bar is an upscale, refined and internationally inspired rooftop bar.
View: Amazing views over the central parts of Chicago.
Menu: Here you can indulge in both globally inspired cocktails and tasty bites, all served in a sophisticated yet lively and upbeat lounge atmosphere.
Why visit: For a luxurious and sophisticated evening amidst the Chicago skyscrapers.
Price: Cocktails: $22 | Beer: $9
Dress code: The Z Bar dress code is Smart Casual.
What we think: We were filled with positive vibes after our visit to Z Bar. The vibe was probably the best part along with the perfect cocktails. You can find better views than from here, but it’s still great. Expect high costs for drinks and bites though. Prices at Z Bar are on the step side, but then you do get a Chicago rooftop experience out of the ordinary.
In short: I|O Rooftop Lounge combines an upscale New American restaurant with a trendy lounge bar. Here you can enjoy lunch, dinner or weekend brunch.
View: Beautiful views of the southern Chicago skyline.
Menu: American menu with selections ranging from lamb lollichops and sushi to dishes off the grill.
Why visit: For a relaxed and elevated rooftop party!
Price: Cocktails: $15
Dress code: The I|O Godfrey Rooftop Lounge dress code is casual during the day, turning into smart, casual-elegant during evenings.
What we think: We’ve visited this rooftop for both a summer brunch and during winter. Both occasions offered a superb and unique experience. With so much to offer, it is hard to pinpoint a best time to visit the I|O Godfrey, but a rooftop weekend brunch is always something extra.
In short: Located in the heart of Chicago, the rooftop comes with both indoor lounge and a stylish, open-air terrace.
View: Set five floors up, you do not get the most panoramic views, but rather cool ones over the majestic buildings surrounding the terrace.
Menu: The rooftop bar offers a great selection of seasonal, inventive and well-crafted cocktails and sharable small plates.
Why visit: If you’re looking for rooftop hangout during all hours of the day and all year around.
Price: Cocktails: $20 | Beer: $12
Dress code: The Upstairs at the Gwen dress code is Smart Casual.
What we think: Open from early morning to late at night, this is a great spot for everything from breakfast and lunch, to relaxing and sunny afternoon cocktails, stylish pre- or post dinner drinks, and weekend Tipsy Tea. All served in a sophisticated and friendly atmosphere.
UPSTAIRS AT THE GWEN
In short: Up top you find the Joy District Roof, an urban and trendy rooftop bar, offering a vibrant atmosphere and impeccable views of Chicago's cityscape.
View: The rooftops is only located on the 3rd floor, so views are up towards the surrounding skyscrapers.
Menu: This is a party rooftop, so except both bottle service and a classic cocktail list.
Why visit: For one of the best rooftop nightclubs in Chicago! View is pretty cool as well.
Price: Cocktails: $14 | Beers: $9
Dress code: The Joy District dress code is casual during the day, but smart casual is recommended for nightly visits.
What we think: One of the best (club wise) party rooftops in Chicago. Joy District is also a great and highly customizable venue for private events. With a series of mezzanines and semi-private rooms, you can host anything from late night bachelorette parties to cocktail receptions.
JOY DISTRICT
In short: Located on the 8th floor of 640 N Lasalle Drive in River North, the lush and urban rooftop is inspired by the casual seaside diners in coastal Spanish & Portuguese towns around the Iberian Peninsula.
View: Here you get sweeping panoramic views of Chicago’s magnificent skyline.
Menu: Offering flavors of Spain and Portugal, featuring seasonal vegetables and seafood inspired shared plates, as well as refreshing and crafted cocktails.
Why visit: For delicious food and sweeping skyline views!
Price: Cocktails: $16 | Beers: $10
Dress code: The bar avec dress code is business casual.
What we think: We visited most for the food and vibe. Filled with a lively and comfortable atmosphere, bar avec is open seasonally from April to October, inviting to anything from quick drinks and bites, day drinking and brunch with friends, or a full dinner under the stars.
BAR AVEC
Rikard has spent the last 10 years exploring, enjoying, researching and working with rooftop venues. During these years he has visited more than 700 rooftops across the globe. The experience he has gained is used to create helpful, in-depth and accessible content, and to share his knowledge and rooftop expertise with fellow rooftop-lovers.
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