The 16 Best College Bars in Chicago

For college students looking for a place to unwind and socialize in the vibrant city of Chicago, college bars offer the perfect mix of fun and affordability. Whether you're in search of a place to grab a casual drink with friends or dance the night away, Chicago has a variety of bars to choose from.
From dive bars with cheap drinks to trendy spots with live music, there's something for everyone near campus. Take a look at the list below to discover the top college bars in Chicago and find the perfect spot for your next night out.
- Close proximity to campus
- Drink specials for students
- Live music and entertainment
- Outdoor seating options
- Diverse selection of beers and cocktails
Explore the list below to find the best college bars in Chicago and start planning your next night out in the city.
- 1. Timothy O'Toole's Pub Chicago
- 2. Monk's Pub
- 3. Rossi's
- 4. The Globe Pub
- 5. Kasey's Tavern
- 6. Brando's Lincoln Park
- 7. Theory
- 8. 2Twenty2 Tavern
- 9. The Lodge Tavern
- 10. ROOF on theWit
- 11. Streeter's Tavern
- 12. Mother Hubbard's Sports Pub
- 13. Ph.D Pub
- 14. O'Leary's Public House
- 15. Kelly's Pub
- 16. McGee's Tavern & Grille

- Monday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Tuesday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 12 PM–2 AM
- Thursday: 12 PM–2 AM
- Friday: 12 PM–3 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM–3 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM–2 AM
1. Timothy O'Toole's Pub Chicago
Information and Reviews
- Customers praise the excellent atmosphere with numerous TVs and a vast selection of drinks.
- The responsive and kind bar service stands out, with one customer highlighting a memorable experience with a bartender named Bobby.
- Many patrons appreciate the quick service and friendly staff, making their visit enjoyable and memorable.
- The food options receive mixed reviews, with some enjoying the menu offerings while others find them to be average.

- Monday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–5 PM
- Sunday: Closed
2. Monk's Pub
Information and Reviews
- Customers appreciate the good drinks and quick service.
- Visitors enjoy the delicious food offerings and cosy ambiance.
- Many highlight the friendly staff and the variety of beers available.
Whether you are looking for a place to relax with friends, enjoy a game, or indulge in some tasty treats, Monk's Pub has something for everyone. Don't miss out on this gem in the heart of Chicago!

- Monday: 9 AM–2 AM
- Tuesday: 9 AM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 9 AM–2 AM
- Thursday: 9 AM–2 AM
- Friday: 9 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 9 AM–3 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM–2 AM
3. Rossi's
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews rave about Rossi's, with many praising the bar for its welcoming vibe, friendly staff, and impressive selection of beers. Some key points from the reviews include:
- Great prices and good times, perfect for meeting new people
- Impressive beer selection with a welcoming ambiance
- Outstanding service from knowledgeable staff offering personalized recommendations
- Authentic dive bar experience with reasonable prices and a cash-only policy
With a solid rating of 4.6 stars and over 1000 reviews, Rossi's is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Chicago's craft beer scene. Make sure to stop by for a memorable experience that combines quality drinks, friendly service, and a vibrant atmosphere.

- Monday: 4 PM–12 AM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Thursday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Friday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 8 AM–2 AM
- Sunday: 8 AM–12 AM
4. The Globe Pub
Information and Reviews
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Great care during Arsenal matches with friendly and attentive staff.
- Fantastic atmosphere, exceeding expectations for Arsenal supporters.
- Quality viewing experience for sporting events with helpful staff.
- Efficient service during busy times with a diverse menu and drink selection.

- Monday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Thursday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Friday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM–3 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM–2 AM
5. Kasey's Tavern
Information and Reviews
- Customers appreciate the fast service and the great beer selection available at Kasey's Tavern.
- They also enjoy the casual and cosy atmosphere that the pub provides, making it a comfortable spot to unwind.
- Many visitors rave about the friendly service they received, with bartenders going above and beyond to ensure a pleasant experience.
One customer described it as a local pub with good crowd and immediate service, while another highlighted the fantastic smooth alt rock music playing and great cider selection. The consensus is clear - Kasey's Tavern is a must-visit spot for those looking for a welcoming environment, great drinks, and a good time.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Thursday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Friday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Saturday: 5 PM–3 AM
- Sunday: Closed
6. Brando's Lincoln Park
Information and Reviews
- Guests appreciate the strong shots and energetic music atmosphere.
- The ambiance is aesthetically pleasing, and the karaoke experience is exceptional.
- Some customers praise the friendly atmosphere and the helpful staff at the establishment.
Whether you're looking for a place to hang out with friends, enjoy some live performances, or simply relax with a few drinks, Brando's Lincoln Park is a top choice. Check it out and experience the excitement for yourself!

- Monday: 5–11:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–12 AM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–12 AM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–2 AM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 10:30 AM–3 AM
- Sunday: 7 AM–12 AM
7. Theory
Information and Reviews
Here are a few key points from recent customer reviews:
- Fun sports bar with a great energy and atmosphere. Good service despite busy hours, but small portion sizes for appetizers.
- Highly recommended for sports fans, with accommodating staff and delicious food like tots and fries.
- Excellent place for Tuesday Trivia night, offering excellent food, great staff, and fun vibes.
- Great atmosphere and service, but expensive food and unseasoned options like sweet potato fries and pretzel sticks.

- Monday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Tuesday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Thursday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Friday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Saturday: 3 PM–3 AM
- Sunday: 3 PM–2 AM
8. 2Twenty2 Tavern
Information and Reviews
- Great ambiance and lighting inside
- Wide selection of drinks including bourbon cocktails and beers on tap
- Deceptively large sports bar with various games and large TVs for sports enthusiasts
- Relaxing atmosphere with friendly staff and fun drink options

- Monday: 10 AM–4 AM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–4 AM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–4 AM
- Thursday: 10 AM–4 AM
- Friday: 10 AM–4 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM–5 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM–4 AM
9. The Lodge Tavern
Information and Reviews
- One customer described it as a "charming little pub with plenty of TVs to catch a game."
- Another praised the "friendly staff" and called it a "laid back pub."
- A third customer highlighted the "awesome vibes" and recommended it for a fun night out.

- Monday: 2–10 PM
- Tuesday: 4–11 PM
- Wednesday: 4 PM–12 AM
- Thursday: 4 PM–12 AM
- Friday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–2 AM
- Sunday: 1–7 PM
10. ROOF on theWit
Information and Reviews
Recent customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- Beautiful rooftop setting with a fun atmosphere, great cocktails, and a nice variety of local brews.
- Exciting ambiance for dancing, delicious food like sliders and pizza, and strong drinks.
- Excellent views, service, and a satisfying meal with cocktails, ideal for business trips or special occasions.
- Great experience with accommodating service, delicious drinks, and an amazing atmosphere that warrants a return on the next visit.

- Monday: 12 PM–4 AM
- Tuesday: 12 PM–4 AM
- Wednesday: 12 PM–4 AM
- Thursday: 12 PM–4 AM
- Friday: 12 PM–4 AM
- Saturday: 12 PM–5 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM–4 AM
11. Streeter's Tavern
Information and Reviews
- Cool place to stop off and grab a cold one and escape the madness of all day shopping.
- Great beer selection, friendly and attentive staff, clean environments.
- First time visitors fall in love with the ambience of the place. Cozy, underground setting with a different world vibe.
- Staff are focused and attentive, creating a super cool vibe with top-notch drinks service and fun bar games.
Customers have praised the service options available at Streeter's Tavern, such as outdoor seating and dine-in facilities. The highlights include bar games, fast service, great beer selection, cocktails, quiz night, and sports entertainment. The amenities offered by the establishment include toilets and Wi-Fi access, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all customers.

- Monday: 5 PM–4 AM
- Tuesday: 5 PM–4 AM
- Wednesday: 12 PM–4 AM
- Thursday: 11 AM–4 AM
- Friday: 11 AM–4 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM–5 AM
- Sunday: 7:30 AM–4 AM
12. Mother Hubbard's Sports Pub
Information and Reviews
- Clyde and Hannah provided exceptional service and made the visit memorable for a couple from out of town.
- The bar offers a wide selection of beer, multiple screens for sports viewing, and friendly staff.
- A romantic touch was added on Valentine's Day with personalized service, showing a dedication to the customers.
- While some reviews criticize changes in menu items, others praise the cozy and welcoming atmosphere of the pub.
Overall, Mother Hubbard's Sports Pub is a popular choice for sports enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike, with a welcoming environment and attentive staff ready to make each visit memorable.

- Monday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Tuesday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 12 PM–2 AM
- Thursday: 12 PM–2 AM
- Friday: 12 PM–2 AM
- Saturday: 12 PM–3 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM–2 AM
13. Ph.D Pub
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews:
- No kitchen, BYOF. The drinks were not made like a pro, my margarita tasted nothing like a margaritas, but the bartender checked in at least. It was too sweet but also very strong, which seemed like an oxymoron so I let it go and enjoyed the buzz. The prices are good. I'll go again!
- I love this place!! From the servers to the drinks, and always a nice crowd. Alexis the bartender is a sweetheart !..they have Giant Jenga or you can watch sports choose your own music on the boom boombox. Can't wait to go during summer and enjoy their patio.
- Super close location to the UIC college campuses to snag a beer between classes or study for finals while you watch the game. Also close to the baseball field to catch a game or happy hour special. Feel free to bring in food to BBQ with your friends and family before a game or order in anytime. There's a laid back but still classy atmosphere and music. From video games, ping pong table, video games, a guitar, darts, mega Jenga blocks, books and board games and lots of interesting people travel thru downtown. Train station and bus depot are easily accessible. Outside seating and heated outside tables...

- Monday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Thursday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Friday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM–3 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM–2 AM
14. O'Leary's Public House
Information and Reviews
Customers have left glowing reviews praising the lively atmosphere and friendly staff. In summary, reviewers highlighted:
- A fun Irish Pub with attitude and great service
- A relaxing and fun vibe with prompt service
- Amazing bartenders and a welcoming atmosphere
- Support for small businesses and a neighborhood feel
Visit O'Leary's Public House for a memorable pub experience filled with good drinks and even better company.

- Monday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Tuesday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–2 AM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–2 AM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–3 AM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM–2 AM
15. Kelly's Pub
Information and Reviews
- This is your classic narrow, cozy Chicago bar in the best possible way. Great draft beers and buffalo wings are must-tries.
- Best and ONLY Jags bar in Chiraq. Dustin is a baller bartender!
- Wednesday special with 50 cent wings and $2 off draft beer is a fantastic deal. Cool pub with a fun atmosphere.
- Wednesday Wing Special is great. Good selection of beers. Divey ambiance but friendly staff and fast service.

- Monday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Tuesday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Thursday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Friday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM–3 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM–2 AM
16. McGee's Tavern & Grille
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- Best smash burger in the city with a variety of beers on tap
- Friendly staff and clean atmosphere resembling an Irish pub
- Challenging experience with ID requirements, affecting older customers
- Mixed reviews on food quality, with notable dishes like pizza and grilled cheese
Whether you're looking for a place to watch the game, enjoy tasty food, or have a fun night out, McGee's Tavern & Grille is a popular choice with a vibrant atmosphere.
Map of College Bars in Chicago
Explore the vibrant nightlife scene in Chicago with our comprehensive map of college bars in the city. From bustling sports bars to trendy lounges, there is something for every student looking to unwind after a long day of classes. Plan your next night out with friends and discover some of the best spots to grab a drink and socialize.
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