Best of 22 nightclubs in Chicago
Nightclubs in Chicago are renowned for their lively atmosphere and diverse music scenes. From the famous R&B and hip-hop clubs in the South Side to the electronic dance music (EDM) and house music venues in the West Loop, nightclubs in Chicago offer something for everyone. These entertainment hotspots are a magnet for locals and tourists alike, providing a space to let loose and dance the night away. However, it's important to remember to drink responsibly and arrange for safe transportation.
- 1. Surreal Nightlife & Bottle Service Chicago
- 2. PRYSM Chicago
- 3. Le Nocturne Chicago
- 4. Spybar
- 5. Primary Night Club
- 6. LITE Chicago
- 7. Sound Bar
- 8. Era Social Club
- 9. Seven Nightclub Chicago
- 10. Fantasy Nightclub
- 11. Watra Night Club
- 12. Detention Nightclub
- 13. Bodega Nightclub
- 14. Tunnel
- 15. Smartbar
- 16. Hydrate Nightclub
- 17. The Loft
- 18. Fame Nightclub
- 19. Heaven
- 20. LiqrBox
- 21. Transit
- 22. Electric Hotel
1. Surreal Nightlife & Bottle Service Chicago
Rooftop lounge with city views

St. Mary of the Angels is a must-visit destination, and while there, a trip to Surreal Nightlife & Bottle Service Chicago is highly recommended. The club's laing, cooked by a skilled chef, is a crowd favorite. Moreover, the staff at Surreal Nightlife & Bottle Service Chicago is known for their appealing demeanor, contributing to a positive visitor experience.
Surreal Nightlife & Bottle Service Chicago is located near the Damen (Blue Line) Metro Station and has received 71 reviews. The club can be found on Nicelocal, where you can also discover other similar nightclubs in Chicago. The club's laing and staff's hospitality make it a standout option for a night out.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
- Affordable Nightlife
2. PRYSM Chicago
Stunning rooftop views, expertly crafted cocktails

I recently visited DJ Elephante's performance and had a fantastic time. The crowd was lively and welcoming, and the music was energetic and entertaining. Although my friend and I were on the older side, we still felt comfortable and enjoyed ourselves. PRYSM night club is an excellent spot for socializing, dancing, or simply relaxing with a drink while observing the crowd.
During a recent birthday celebration, we chose PRYSM night club, known for its fantastic ambiance and music. The club attracts a diverse crowd, including many fashionable women. The upbeat atmosphere and music created a memorable experience for us.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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3. Le Nocturne Chicago
Exclusive wine list, knowledgeable staff, and live music

Le Nocturne is a bar known for its impressive sound system and smart lighting. The sound system, boasting a power of 25,000 watts from KV2 Audio, ensures every beat is crystal clear. The bar's lighting consists of 99 smart lights, making it a visual and auditory feast. Music-wise, while many styles are covered, Afro Fusion nights are particularly popular.
When it comes to drinks, Le Nocturne's gin is a must-try. The staff is reportedly friendly and hospitable, and the prices are attractive in the eyes of most guests. The atmosphere is consistently described as cool, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a drink.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
4. Spybar
Exclusive Atmosphere, High-End Drinks, Talented DJs

Jackie, our bartender, was a standout at the day party we attended. She was quick, friendly, and mixed delicious drinks. The music was excellent and added to the overall great atmosphere. As a New Yorker, I'm used to the nightlife, but this day party offered something unique.
Spybar is a remarkable venue, known for its intimate atmosphere and world-class DJs. The staff is highly professional, and the underground setting creates a perfect environment for music lovers who want to have a great time. I had an unforgettable experience there, thanks to the exceptional music and top-notch service.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
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5. Primary Night Club
Rooftop bar with city views, DJ booth, and dance floor

The venue features an LED wall, which adds to the overall ambiance and experience. Additionally, paneling from the original Sonotheque nightclub has been installed, paying homage to its history and providing a unique touch. This combination creates an atmosphere that is perfect for dancing and enjoying music, making it a great spot for both groups and singles.
The trendy vibes of the venue attract a specific crowd, making it a hotspot for those looking for a fun night out. DJs are often featured, providing the perfect soundtrack for a night of dancing and socializing. Whether you're with a group or flying solo, the venue offers a lively and enjoyable experience. The LED wall and paneling from the original Sonotheque nightclub add to the overall atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to let loose and have a good time.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
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6. LITE Chicago
Rooftop bar with stunning city views

A bouncer from another club recommended we check out LITE, and we were able to enter without paying a cover charge, which was a nice perk. The club may not appear as upscale as it does in some older pictures, but around 11 pm, it starts to get lively.
While the food options like monkfish and champagne may not be popular among guests, the staff is generally considered competent. The service has been described as satisfying by several visitors. Many guests find the prices to be average. The atmosphere at LITE is generally regarded as cool, but on Google, it receives lower-than-average ratings from guests.
TOPICS
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
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7. Sound Bar
Extensive drinks menu, sleek decor, knowledgeable staff

The venue is ideal for those who prefer a varied music experience, as the upstairs is dedicated to EDM while the lower level offers Top 40 and hip-hop music. This setup allows attendees to move around and enjoy different genres without committing to a single DJ or type of music for the entire night. However, it can be challenging to locate friends in the crowd if you get separated, as the dance floor is often packed and the smoke machines make it difficult to see.
Although it's not my personal preference, many of my friends enjoy the atmosphere. The upper level primarily features techno and house music, while the lower level offers a mix of more popular tracks. The venue attracts a sizable crowd, but this can make it difficult to navigate and locate people. Therefore, it's essential to stay together and pick a meeting point in case anyone gets lost in the crowd or the smoke.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Affordable Nightlife
- Late Night
8. Era Social Club
Exclusive speakeasy-inspired decor

Era Social Club is known for its welcoming and cozy atmosphere, making guests feel at ease and ready to enjoy their time. According to reviews on Google, the club has earned a rating of 4.3, reflecting the positive experiences of its visitors. Many guests highlight the great drinks and lively atmosphere as reasons to visit the club, especially during weekends.
The club's appealing environment and top-notch drink options have earned it a strong reputation among visitors. Many regulars recommend Era Social Club as the go-to spot for a fun night out, citing the excellent drinks and vibrant atmosphere that make it an ideal destination for socializing and letting loose. The club's popularity suggests that it successfully delivers an enjoyable experience for its guests.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
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9. Seven Nightclub Chicago
Spacious dance floor, VIP sections, and bottle service available

Seven Nightclub is a well-known destination in Chicago, known for its lively and exciting atmosphere. The club features great music and a fun-loving crowd, making it one of the top nightlife spots in the city.
The atmosphere at Seven Nightclub is electric, thanks to the fantastic DJs and reasonable drink prices. It's the perfect place to let loose and have a great time on a night out. The club's energy is contagious, making it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
10. Fantasy Nightclub
Themed Nights, Visually Stunning Decor, Top-notch Sound System

Fantasy Night Club Chicago, located in Chicago, Illinois, is a well-known and popular nightclub in the Boystown area. The nightclub has received an impressive number of 7,893 likes and 56 talks on its social media page, with a total of 27,683 recorded visitors. This vibrant and lively establishment is famous for its drag shows, talented DJs, and themed dance parties that cater to the gay community, providing a fun and entertaining night out for all who attend.
As one of the biggest nightclubs in Boystown, Fantasy Nightclub Chicago continuously offers a wide range of exciting events and activities to its patrons. With drag shows and themed dance parties, attendees are treated to spectacular and unforgettable performances, backed by the rhythm and beats of skilled DJs. The electric atmosphere and energetic vibe of the nightclub are infectious, providing an ultimate gay party night experience that keeps people coming back for more.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
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11. Watra Night Club
Spacious Dance Floor, VIP Bottle Service

Watra Nights offers a lively night scene in the South Side, known for its vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff. The venue is home to DJs and live music, providing a variety of music that is hard to beat. Unwind with a live DJ and enjoy the fresh drinks of your choice. This spot is highly recommended for those looking for a night of entertainment.
In addition to its nightlife offerings, Watra Nights also hosts private events. The venue is a great choice for those looking for a unique and entertaining space for their next function. With its lively atmosphere and top-notch service, Watra Nights is sure to make any event a success. Whether you're looking to host a corporate event, birthday party, or other special occasion, consider Watra Nights as your go-to destination.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
12. Detention Nightclub
Rooftop bar with city views

This establishment has received significant criticism for its poor service and management. On New Year's Eve, a patron paid $700 for a reservation two weeks in advance, only to be seated at the smallest table they had ever seen and still had to wait in line. The rude staff and patrons, as well as the overall unpleasant atmosphere, have led to negative reviews.
Additionally, a group of airline employees from Switzerland reported that they spent over $500 on a table for four, but were still kicked out because the table was sold to someone else. They urge potential customers to avoid this club, asserting that it is a place where one is likely to be ripped off.
TOPICS
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
13. Bodega Nightclub
Rotating DJs, VIP bottle service, themed nights

A friend and I had a distressing experience in Chicago when a bouncer punched him and then fled the scene as the police arrived. The physical altercation was severe enough to require emergency medical attention, but the bodega where the incident occurred refused to take responsibility or cover the associated medical fees. Instead, they shifted the blame onto the customers.
The incident occurred during a large event we hosted at a local club in the diverse Streeterville neighborhood of Chicago. The majority of the attendees were Chinese, and they helped make the night a success. However, the security team displayed poor performance and racist behavior towards Asians. We are deeply saddened to report that our friend was unjustly attacked without provocation.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
14. Tunnel
Underground location, hidden speakeasy

Tunnel is a lively spot located above Tree House in Chicago's River North Neighborhood. It is known for its great music, friendly staff, and excellent service. Angel and Charlie, in particular, are commended for their professionalism and contributions to the enjoyable atmosphere.
Despite the positive aspects, I was somewhat underwhelmed during my visit to Tunnel. Having heard many good things, I was expecting something new or exciting. While there are comfortable leather couches available, I found the overall experience to be quite ordinary, lacking the wow factor I was hoping for. Additionally, I was not particularly impressed with the crowd.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
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15. Smartbar
Offers trivia nights, DJ sets, and themed events

Smartbar is a top-rated nightclub in Chicago, known for its exceptional music and electric atmosphere. The club's sound system is top-notch, providing an immersive audio experience for partygoers. The drinks are reasonably priced, making it an excellent choice for a night out.
The atmosphere at Smartbar is always energetic and lively, making it a great place to let loose and have a good time. The music selection is diverse, catering to a wide range of musical tastes. Overall, Smartbar is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience Chicago's vibrant nightlife scene.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
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16. Hydrate Nightclub
Spacious dance floor, VIP booths, laser light shows

The bar is a lively and entertaining spot, perfect for a fun night out. It offers a great selection of drinks at reasonable prices, making it an ideal place for socializing. The bar is popular among both men and women, thanks to the attraction of good-looking dancers on the bar. Additionally, the bar provides excellent opportunities for people-watching.
Hydrate Nightclub is a vibrant and energetic venue, featuring top-notch DJs, pulsating lights, and an attractive crowd. The club is renowned for its captivating music and lively atmosphere, providing an unmatched experience for visitors. The combination of the club's features transports guests to a different world, keeping them engaged and entertained throughout the night.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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17. The Loft

Last but not least, The Loft offers a combination of great food, drinks and music. This urban style club has a relaxed atmosphere during the day that transforms into lively nightlife. From its rooftop location, you can enjoy stunning views of Changhua while taking in the urban rhythms.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- Late Night
18. Fame Nightclub
Rooftop terrace with city views

A friend and I visited a popular night club in Chicago, known for its lively atmosphere and unique events. One particular night we chose was the Albanian night, which was incredibly entertaining and enjoyable. However, our night took a turn for the worse when we later discovered that my friend had been overcharged by $500 on a $30 bar tab. We were shocked and outraged, as we felt that this was not just a simple mistake but an intentional act of theft.
This popular night club, often regarded as one of the best in Chicago, has sadly tarnished its reputation due to this incident. It is unacceptable for any establishment to take advantage of their customers in such a way, and we believe that it is our duty to inform others of our experience. While the Albanian night was a highlight of our visit, the outrageous overcharge has overshadowed our overall opinion of the club. It is crucial for businesses to maintain their integrity and ensure that their customers are treated fairly and honestly.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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19. Heaven

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
- Affordable Nightlife
20. LiqrBox
Exclusive spirits list, chic ambiance, and knowledgeable bartenders

Upon arriving for New Year's Eve, there was no wait to enter the venue. The cover charge was $40 for men. The establishment has three levels, one of which is a VIP/membership section that costs $120 per month. I am interested in learning about the additional benefits that come with this membership.
The upper level of the venue is a disco/nightclub featuring a mezzanine level where the DJ plays music.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
21. Transit
Spacious patio with fire pits and retractable roof

Transit is a club known for its nice decor and often uncrowded atmosphere. When my friends and I go, it's usually because one of us has won a party and we have access to a free open bar. The drinks are generally well-regarded. While the music is typically techno or house, the crowd tends to be relatively subdued and not very inclined to dance.
Those who purchase a bottle at Transit are granted access to a VIP area, complete with complimentary juice, champagne, and even cupcakes. This can be a nice perk for those looking to enhance their club experience. However, even without a VIP table, Transit offers a decent atmosphere for a night out, particularly if you're able to secure free drinks through other means.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
22. Electric Hotel
This converted River North warehouse looks like a German underground dance club. The name of the location at 222 W. Ontario St. pays homage to its previous version, as the headquarters of an electrical supply company. Today you'll find a mix of eye-catching neon installations, disco balls, video screens, exposed brick and a symphony of crystalline rhythms. The Electric Hotel may occasionally host an afternoon dance-lunch party. 08
TOPICS
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Asian Cuisine
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