The Ultimate Guide to Pub Crawling in Chicago, IL

Join me as I take you through the best pub crawl route in Chicago, IL. From historic jazz clubs to hidden speakeasies, this ultimate guide will give you a taste of the city's vibrant nightlife.

The Ultimate Guide to Pub Crawling in Chicago, IL

As an expert in the Chicago bar scene, I am here to guide you through the best pub crawl route in the city. Chicago, IL, is known for its vibrant nightlife and bustling bar scene. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to plan a pub crawl in the Windy City. But fear not; I have curated the ultimate pub crawl route that will take you through some of the most iconic and unique pubs in the city.

The Basics of Pub Crawling in Chicago

Before we dive into the best pub crawl route, let's go over some basics of pub crawling in Chicago.

First and foremost, make sure to have a designated driver or use public transportation. Chicago has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains, making it easy to get around without a car. Secondly, be prepared to pay cover charges at some bars. While not all bars in Chicago have cover charges, some popular ones do, especially on weekends. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for these situations. Lastly, pace yourself and stay hydrated.

With so many amazing pubs to visit, it can be tempting to drink more than usual. But remember, the goal is to enjoy the experience and not end up with a hangover the next day.

The Best Pub Crawl Route in Chicago

Now that we have covered the basics let's get into the main event - the best pub crawl route in Chicago. This route will take you through some of the most iconic and unique pubs in the city.

Pubs in Chicago IL: The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge

We start our pub crawl at The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, a historic jazz club that has been around since 1907. This iconic bar has hosted famous musicians such as Al Capone and Frank Sinatra. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with dim lighting and vintage decor.

Order one of their signature cocktails and enjoy some live jazz music before moving on to the next stop.

Pubs in Chicago IL: The Violet Hour

Next up, we have The Violet Hour, a speakeasy-style bar that will transport you back in time to the Prohibition era. This hidden gem is known for its creative and delicious cocktails, made with fresh and high-quality ingredients. The entrance is unmarked, so keep an eye out for a large blue door with a small sign that reads 'The Violet Hour'.

Pubs in Chicago IL: Three Dots and a Dash

Our third stop is Three Dots and a Dash, a tiki bar that will make you feel like you're on a tropical island. This bar is known for its elaborate and Instagram-worthy cocktails served in fun tiki mugs.

Don't forget to try their famous Zombie cocktail, but be warned - it's strong!

Pubs in Chicago IL: The Billy Goat Tavern

No pub crawl in Chicago is complete without a stop at The Billy Goat Tavern. This iconic dive bar has been around since 1934 and is famous for its 'cheezborgers' (yes, that's how they spell it). The atmosphere is lively and unpretentious, making it the perfect spot to grab a quick bite to eat and continue on our pub crawl.

Pubs in Chicago IL: The Map Room

Our last stop on this pub crawl route is The Map Room, a cozy neighborhood bar with an impressive selection of craft beers from around the world. The walls are adorned with maps, giving the bar a unique and eclectic vibe.

This is the perfect spot to end the night, sipping on a cold beer and reminiscing about the amazing pubs we visited.

Other Honorable Mentions

While our pub crawl route covers some of the best pubs in Chicago, there are many other great options that didn't make the cut. Here are a few honorable mentions that you can add to your pub crawl if you have time:
  • The Aviary - a high-end cocktail bar with innovative and theatrical drinks
  • The Hopleaf - a Belgian-inspired bar with an extensive beer list
  • The Whistler - a hip bar with live music and creative cocktails

In Conclusion

Chicago is a city that knows how to have a good time, and its pub scene is no exception. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this pub crawl route will give you a taste of some of the best pubs in the city. So gather your friends, put on your drinking shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable night in Chicago.

The entire team extends heartfelt appreciation to Echo Limousine, which stands out for its exceptional limo service in the Chicago suburbs, for their steadfast support. Their commitment has been instrumental in enriching our blog and providing valuable resources to our readers.


For those seeking the best limo service in the Chicago suburbs, we wholeheartedly recommend contacting Echo Limousine. With their dedication to excellence and top-notch transportation options, they ensure a memorable and comfortable experience for every ride. Don't hesitate to reach out to them today to arrange your next journey and experience the unparalleled service of Echo Limousine.


Echo Limousine
3821 N Narragansett Ave.
Chicago, IL 60634
(773) 774-1074

Erica Salas
Erica Salas

Amateur music aficionado. Total tv enthusiast. Typical zombie practitioner. Devoted twitter fanatic. Amateur music buff. Avid bacon buff.