The 16 Best College Bars in Chicago

Timothy O'Toole's Pub 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.

Timothy O'Toole's Pub Chicago

+1 312-642-0700

  • 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

4.4/5 (More than 4783 reviews)
622 N Fairbanks Ct, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Sports bar

Information and Reviews

Timothy O'Toole's Pub Chicago is a vibrant sports bar located in Chicago, IL. Known for its fast service, great beer selection, and bar games, this pub offers a lively atmosphere for locals and tourists alike. Customers can enjoy a variety of food and drinks options such as beer, cocktails, and spirits, and even take advantage of happy-hour deals.

  • 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.
Monk's Pub

+1 312-357-6665

  • 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

4.5/5 (More than 2325 reviews)
205 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
Pub

Information and Reviews

Monk's Pub is a pub located in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. With a rating of 4.5 based on 2325 reviews, Monk's Pub is known for its fast service, great beer selection, great cocktails, and sporty atmosphere.

  • 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!

Rossi's

+1 312-644-5775

  • 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

4.6/5 (More than 1016 reviews)
412 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
Bar

Information and Reviews

Rossi's is a popular bar in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. Some key highlights include fast service and a great beer selection, making it a favorite spot for many. The bar is known for its casual and cosy atmosphere, perfect for groups looking to unwind.

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.

The Globe Pub

+1 773-871-3757

  • 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

4.6/5 (More than 945 reviews)
1934 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60613, United States
Bar

Information and Reviews

The Globe Pub is a renowned Bar located in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to ensure a memorable experience for its customers. Some of the highlights of this establishment include Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Great beer selection, Live performances, and Sport events. Customers have praised the Fast service, Casual and Cosy Atmosphere, and the Wheelchair-accessible entrance that make this place welcoming for everyone.

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.
Kasey's Tavern

+1 312-427-7992

  • 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

4.6/5 (More than 888 reviews)
701 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60605, United States
Pub

Information and Reviews

Kasey's Tavern is a beloved pub located in Chicago, offering a range of services and amenities to its patrons. With a rating of 4.6, it's clear that customers have had overwhelmingly positive experiences at this establishment.

  • 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.

Brando's Lincoln Park

Phone not available

  • 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

4.8/5 (More than 275 reviews)
2265 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, United States
Bar

Information and Reviews

Brando's Lincoln Park is a vibrant bar in Chicago that offers a range of services to cater to every guest's needs. From delicious food for dine-in options to thrilling karaoke nights, this bar has it all. The business boasts fast service and a wide selection of great cocktails, making it a hot spot for those looking to unwind and have a good time.

  • 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!

Theory

+1 312-644-0004

  • 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

4.5/5 (More than 1135 reviews)
9 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
Bar

Information and Reviews

Theory is a lively bar located in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to ensure a great experience for its customers. Some of the highlights include outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The bar also prides itself on its fast service, great beer selection, great cocktails, and live performances, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. With a 4.5-star rating and over 1100 reviews, Theory has garnered positive feedback from its customers.

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.
2Twenty2 Tavern

+1 312-878-9994

  • 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

4.4/5 (More than 934 reviews)
222 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60604, United States
Bar

Information and Reviews

2Twenty2 Tavern is a popular bar located in Chicago, offering a variety of options for their customers. From dine-in to a selection of alcohol, arcade games, and even happy-hour drinks</b, this tavern has something for everyone. The casual and trendy atmosphere provides a relaxing setting to enjoy great beer selection and cocktails. Customers have praised the fast service and live performances, making it a go-to spot for those looking to have a good time.

  • 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
The Lodge Tavern

+1 312-642-4406

  • 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

4.5/5 (More than 383 reviews)
21 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60610, United States
Bar

Information and Reviews

The Lodge Tavern is a popular bar located in Chicago. Known for its fast service and great beer selection, this cozy establishment offers a welcoming atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists. Customers praise the friendly staff, dog-friendly policy, and the option for outdoor seating with heating. The alcohol offerings include a variety of beers, cocktails, and spirits, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a drink with friends.

  • 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.
ROOF on theWit

+1 312-239-9502

  • 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

4.2/5 (More than 1795 reviews)
201 N State St 27th Floor, Chicago, IL 60601, United States
Bar

Information and Reviews

ROOF on theWit is a vibrant Bar located in Chicago, offering a range of exciting services and features. With options for Outdoor seating, Takeaway, Dine-in, and more, customers can enjoy their experience in various ways. The bar is known for its Fast service and impressive selection of Great beer, cocktails, and wine. Additionally, customers can appreciate amenities like Live music and Live performances in a trendy and upmarket atmosphere.

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.
Streeter's Tavern

+1 312-944-5206

  • 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

4.3/5 (More than 762 reviews)
50 E Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Bar

Information and Reviews

Streeter's Tavern is a popular bar located in Chicago, offering a variety of services and features to its customers. With a rating of 4.3 stars out of 5, this establishment has garnered 762 reviews from satisfied patrons.

  • 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.

Mother Hubbard's Sports Pub

+1 312-828-0007

  • 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

4.2/5 (More than 1290 reviews)
5 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
Sports bar

Information and Reviews

Mother Hubbard's Sports Pub is a bustling sports bar located in Chicago, offering a variety of services to cater to different preferences. Customers can enjoy delivery, takeaway, or dine-in options. The pub boasts an array of highlights including bar games, fast service, a great beer selection, great cocktails, and a passion for all things sports. With a rating of 4.2, Mother Hubbard's has garnered positive reviews from 1290 customers.

  • 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.

Ph.D Pub

+1 312-226-1010

  • 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

4.4/5 (More than 334 reviews)
1257 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
Pub

Information and Reviews

Ph.D Pub is a beloved establishment in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. With options like Outdoor seating, Takeaway, Dine-in, and a Great beer selection, this pub ensures a memorable experience for all visitors. The Fast service and Bar games further enhance the atmosphere, making it a go-to spot for many.

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...
O'Leary's Public House

+1 312-661-1306
Website not available

  • 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

4.3/5 (More than 436 reviews)
541 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
Pub

Information and Reviews

O'Leary's Public House is a vibrant Pub located in Chicago, known for its fantastic service options such as outdoor seating and dine-in experiences. This establishment offers a variety of amenities, including bar games, fast service, a great beer selection, and delicious cocktails.

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.

Kelly's Pub

+1 773-281-0656

  • 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

4.4/5 (More than 208 reviews)
949 W Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, United States
Pub

Information and Reviews

Kelly's Pub is a classic Pub located in Chicago, that offers a variety of services including Outdoor seating, Takeaway, Dine-in, and more. The highlights of this establishment are its Fast service, Great beer selection, and Sport atmosphere. Customers have praised Kelly's Pub for its cozy ambiance and menu offerings.

  • 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.
McGee's Tavern & Grille

+1 773-549-8200

  • 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

4.0/5 (More than 566 reviews)
950 W Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, United States
Sports bar

Information and Reviews

McGee's Tavern & Grille is a lively sports bar located in Chicago, offering a variety of services and features to ensure a great time for all customers. With options like outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, they cater to different preferences. Visitors can enjoy bar games, great beer selection, great cocktails, karaoke, live music, live performances, quiz night, and other exciting activities.

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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