Best Fun Bars in Chicago with Games and Food

1. Emporium Arcade Bar

Alright, let’s talk about Emporium Arcade Bar. If you’re looking for a place that really leans into the whole arcade experience, this is it. They’ve got a few spots around the city, which is handy, but the Logan Square location is often cited as having the biggest game selection. We’re talking hundreds of games here – the classics you grew up with, the newer stuff, and even some indie gems. It’s not just about the games, though. They often have live music, karaoke nights, and even bingo, so there’s usually something happening beyond just trying to beat your high score.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:

Vast Game Selection: From vintage cabinets to modern marvels, pinball, air hockey, and more.
Multiple Locations: Logan Square, Wicker Park, and West Loop all offer different vibes.
Beyond the Games: Live music, karaoke, bingo, and other events keep things fresh.

You can easily spend an entire evening here without getting bored. The energy is usually pretty high, and it’s a great place to go with a group of friends who are all looking for a good time and a bit of friendly competition. Plus, they usually have a decent drink menu to keep you fueled up for those marathon gaming sessions.

2. Headquarters Beercade

Headquarters Beercade is one of those spots that really kicked off the whole arcade bar trend in Chicago. Located right in River North, it’s got this cool vibe that feels both retro and current. They’ve packed over 70 vintage arcade games and pinball machines into their two floors, so you’re pretty much guaranteed to find something that brings back memories or a new favorite to obsess over.

It’s a great place if you’re looking for some easy fun without a lot of fuss. You can just wander around, pick a game, and get lost in it for a while. Plus, they actually have pizza on the menu, which is always a win when you’re trying to fuel up between rounds of Pac-Man or Donkey Kong.

Over 70 vintage arcade and pinball machines
Two-story space in the heart of River North
Pizza available for a quick bite

Seriously, if you’re a fan of classic games, Headquarters is a must-visit. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend a whole evening just hopping from one machine to another, challenging friends or just enjoying the nostalgia.

3. Replay Lakeview

Replay Lakeview is a solid spot if you’re looking for a good time with a variety of games and a decent drink selection. It’s got that classic arcade bar vibe, you know, the kind where you can actually hear yourself think but still feel the energy. They’ve got a pretty good mix of old-school and newer arcade games, so whether you’re a fan of Pac-Man or looking to try something a bit more modern, there’s usually something to catch your eye.

Beyond the games, Replay usually has a good crowd, making it a fun place to meet up with friends or even strike up a conversation with someone new. The staff is generally friendly, and they keep the drinks flowing without too much fuss. It’s not overly fancy, which is part of its charm – you can just relax and play.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:

Arcade Games: A rotating selection of classic and modern cabinets.
Drinks: A solid bar with beers, cocktails, and other usual suspects.
Atmosphere: Casual, energetic, and good for groups.

It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose track of time, hopping from one game to another, maybe grabbing a drink in between. It strikes a nice balance between being a place to play games and a place to just hang out and chat.

4. Logan Arcade

If you’re looking for a place that truly lives and breathes arcade culture, Logan Arcade is it. This spot in Logan Square is packed to the brim with games, from the classics you remember to newer machines that are just as fun. They’ve got over 100 different games, including a massive collection of pinball machines and the epic 10-player Killer Queen arcade game. It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose track of time, just hopping from one game to the next.

Beyond just the games, Logan Arcade often hosts events and tournaments. It’s a great way to meet other game enthusiasts or just get a little competitive. They also have a decent selection of drinks and some snacks to keep you fueled up for those long gaming sessions.

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes Logan Arcade a must-visit:

Vast Game Selection: Hundreds of classic and modern arcade games, plus a huge pinball collection.
Killer Queen: Experience the unique 10-player arcade game.
Community Events: Look out for weekly leagues, competitions, and community nights.
Local Vibe: A true neighborhood spot with a dedicated following.

This place feels like a genuine celebration of all things arcade. It’s not just about playing games; it’s about the atmosphere and the shared love for the machines. You can spend hours here and still discover something new.

5. Spin Chicago

If you’re looking for a place in Chicago that’s all about ping pong and good times, Spin Chicago is definitely worth checking out. It’s a pretty big spot, offering a ton of space for social ping pong, which is great because you can actually get a game going without feeling cramped. They have 20 ping-pong tables available, and you can book them online, which is a smart move if you’re planning a visit.

Beyond the tables, Spin has a bar that serves up cocktails and beer on tap. The food menu has things like burgers and cheese curds – nothing too fancy, but they do the job when you need a quick bite between rallies. It’s one of those fun bars in Chicago where the activity is the main draw, and the drinks and food just complement the experience.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

Ping Pong: The main event, with 20 tables ready for action.
Bar: Serving up a variety of drinks to keep you refreshed.
Food: Casual bites perfect for refueling.
Social Leagues: For those who want to get competitive.

Spin Chicago is a solid choice for a group looking for an active night out. It’s less about a quiet drink and more about getting involved in the game, making it a lively spot for friends.

6. AceBounce

Alright, so if you’re looking for a spot that’s all about getting a little competitive while you sip on something good, AceBounce in The Loop is definitely worth checking out. They’ve basically turned ping pong into a full-on bar experience. It’s not just about hitting a ball back and forth; they’ve got a whole setup designed for fun. You can book tables in advance, which is a good idea if you’re rolling with a group, especially during peak times.

Beyond the main event, they also offer other games like beer pong and shuffleboard, so there’s usually something to keep everyone entertained. The food menu is pretty solid too – think elevated bar snacks and shareable plates that are perfect for fueling your game.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

Ping Pong: The star of the show, with plenty of tables available.
Other Games: Beer pong and shuffleboard add to the variety.
Food & Drinks: A good selection of cocktails, beers, and tasty bites.
Specials: Keep an eye out for their happy hour and bottomless brunch deals.

AceBounce really nails the vibe of a place where you can have a blast with friends, get a little rowdy with some friendly competition, and still enjoy some decent food and drinks. It’s a solid choice for a night out when you want more than just the usual bar scene.

7. Electric Shuffle

Alright, so if you’re looking for a spot that feels like a party but with a high-tech twist, Electric Shuffle in River North is where it’s at. Forget your grandpa’s shuffleboard; this place has 11 tables that are seriously decked out. We’re talking cameras that track your shots and live leaderboards so you can see how you stack up against everyone else. It’s a cool blend of old-school fun and modern tech.

Beyond the shuffleboard action, they’ve got a solid lineup of craft cocktails that are pretty creative. And the food? It’s not just your average bar snacks. Think more along the lines of gourmet bites that actually taste good, which is always a win in my book. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend a whole evening.

High-Tech Shuffleboard: Experience shuffleboard like never before with camera-vision scoring and digital leaderboards.
Craft Cocktails: Enjoy a menu of inventive and well-made drinks.
Gourmet Bar Bites: Satisfy your hunger with elevated food options.
Vibrant Atmosphere: The vibe is energetic, making it great for groups.

This spot really takes the game night concept and turns it up a notch. It’s a good place to go if you want to do something a bit different than just sitting around and talking.

8. Flight Club Chicago

Alright, so if you’re looking for a spot that’s a little different, Flight Club Chicago in the Loop might be your jam. It’s basically a bar centered around social darts. Think of it like a super amped-up version of playing darts at your buddy’s place, but with way cooler tech and a much better drink selection. They’ve got these fancy electronic boards that keep score for you, which is a lifesaver because, let’s be honest, who wants to do math after a couple of drinks?

What’s cool is that the whole setup is designed for groups. You get your own little area, kind of like a mini-lounge, where you can hang out, throw darts, and order food and drinks without having to constantly get up. It makes it feel more personal and less chaotic than just standing around a dartboard.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

Social Darts: The main event. Easy-to-use electronic scoring makes it fun for everyone, even if you’ve never played before.
Food & Drinks: They have a decent menu with things like pizzas and shareable plates, plus a good list of cocktails and beers.
Vibe: It’s usually pretty lively, with a modern, energetic feel. Good for a night out with friends or even a casual date.

The technology here really changes the game. Instead of just aiming for the board, you’re playing different games with specific targets and rules, all tracked automatically. Plus, when you hit a big shot, it can even trigger a video replay, which is pretty fun for bragging rights later.

It’s a solid choice if you want to do something interactive that doesn’t involve a screen or a loud arcade. You can actually talk to your friends while you play, which is a nice change of pace.

9. Sluggers

Right across from Wrigley Field, Sluggers is a classic sports bar that really leans into the game-day atmosphere. It’s been around for ages, and you can tell. The main draw here, besides catching a game on one of their many screens, is the upstairs batting cages. Seriously, where else in the city can you step up to the plate between beers? It’s a unique spot, especially if you’re a baseball fan or just looking to blow off some steam.

Beyond the cages, they’ve got a decent lineup of other bar games to keep you busy. Think electronic basketball, air hockey, and skeeball. It can get pretty packed, especially during baseball season, so if you’re looking to really focus on your swing without the crowds, maybe aim for an offseason visit.

Batting Cages
Electronic Basketball
Air Hockey
Skee-ball

While it might not be the fanciest place, Sluggers offers a straightforward, fun experience, especially if you’re already in the Wrigleyville neighborhood. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a drink, watch a game, and maybe even try to hit a home run.

10. Puttery Chicago

Looking for a fun spot in Chicago that combines mini-golf with a good drink? Puttery Chicago in the Fulton Market district is a solid choice. It’s not just about hitting a tiny ball around; it’s more of an experience. They’ve got two different 9-hole courses, each with its own theme – think cozy lodge vibes or a sophisticated library setting. It’s a great place for a date night or a casual outing with friends.

Each group gets about 90 minutes on the course, which feels about right to get your game on and still have time to relax. Besides the golf, there are plenty of lounge areas to just hang out. When you get hungry, they serve up some decent food, including pizzas and sliders, which are perfect for refueling between holes or after your game. It’s definitely one of the best bars in Chicago if you’re looking for something a bit different.

Two unique 9-hole mini-golf courses.
Themed environments add to the fun.
Lounge areas for relaxing before or after your game.
Food and drinks available on-site.

11. Big Mini Putt Club

Alright, so if you’re looking for a place that’s all about mini golf and having a good time, you’ve gotta check out Big Mini Putt Club. This spot in Wicker Park is Chicago’s first indoor 9-hole mini golf course, and the owners really put some thought into designing it. It’s not just some basic setup; they made it challenging enough to be interesting but still super fun for everyone, whether you’re a golf pro or, like me, can barely hit the ball straight.

They’ve got a couple of locations now, including one in Lakeview, so you’ve got options. It’s a good idea to make a reservation, especially if you’re planning a weekend outing or a group get-together. You can easily spend an hour or so putting your way through the course, and then, the best part? You can head over to their fully stocked bar. They’ve got all the drinks you need to celebrate a hole-in-one or commiserate over a triple bogey.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

Unique Course Design: Each hole is crafted to be a little different, offering a fun challenge.
All Skill Levels Welcome: Don’t worry if you’re not a golfer; it’s designed for maximum enjoyment for everyone.
Full-Service Bar: Plenty of drink options to keep the good times rolling after your game.
Great for Groups: Perfect for birthday parties, team outings, or just a fun night with friends.

It’s the kind of place where you can really let loose. The atmosphere is laid-back, and the focus is purely on having a good time with some friendly competition. You’ll find yourself laughing and maybe even getting a little competitive, but in the best way possible.

12. Pinstripes

Pinstripes in Streeterville is a spot that really tries to blend a few different experiences into one place. It’s got that upscale vibe, you know, the kind where you might actually want to dress up a little. They serve up Italian-American food, which is pretty solid, and have a decent rotation of craft beers and cocktails. But the main draw here, besides the food and drinks, is the chance to get a little competitive.

They offer both bowling and bocce ball. The bocce courts are pretty impressive, actually, with stadium-style seating, so you can really get into the game. It’s a good option if you’re looking for something a bit more refined than your typical bar scene, but still want to have some fun with games.

Bowling Lanes: Classic ten-pin bowling for groups.
Bocce Ball Courts: Multiple courts available, perfect for a friendly competition.
Full-Service Bar & Restaurant: Italian-American cuisine and a variety of drinks.

Pinstripes aims for a more polished atmosphere, making it a good choice for a date night or a gathering with friends where you want a bit of class alongside your games. It’s definitely not a sticky-floored dive, which can be a nice change of pace.

13. Kaiser Tiger

Kaiser Tiger is a spot in the West Loop that really knows how to do the whole beer garden thing right. They’ve got a solid rotation of over 20 beers, so you’re bound to find something you like. During the warmer months, you can get your game on with bocce ball and giant Jenga in their outdoor space.

But they don’t just pack it up when the weather turns cold. Kaiser Tiger actually sets up curling rinks in the winter, keeping the competitive spirit alive year-round. It’s a great place to gather your friends for some friendly competition, whether you’re aiming for a strike on the bocce court or a perfect slide on the ice.

When it comes to food, they’ve got you covered with some seriously good options. Think loaded nachos, hearty hot link platters, and even beer-battered cheesecake. It’s the kind of food that pairs perfectly with a cold beer and a good game.

They also offer a complimentary shuttle to Bulls and Blackhawks games, and some United Center concerts. It’s a nice perk if you’re heading to an event and want to avoid the parking hassle.

14. Park & Field

Park & Field really leans into a vintage gymnasium vibe, and honestly, it works. Walking in feels like stepping back in time, with all sorts of old sports gear decorating the place – think scoreboards, old rackets, and lockers. It’s a cool atmosphere, especially if you’re into that retro sports look.

Their outdoor patio is where it’s at, especially when the weather’s nice. They’ve got these heated bocce courts that are perfect for a friendly competition, and in the warmer months, it’s just a great spot to hang out by the fire pits. They also have bags (cornhole) out there, so there are a couple of game options to keep you busy.

When it comes to food and drinks, they’ve got a solid menu. It’s described as farm-to-fork, which sounds fancy, but basically, it means they have some good quality food. You can grab craft beers and cocktails to go with your game.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

Vintage Gym Decor: Lots of sports memorabilia throughout.
Outdoor Patio: Heated bocce courts and bags for year-round fun.
Food & Drinks: Farm-to-fork menu with craft beer and cocktails.

It’s a good place to go if you want to play some games outside and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. Just be aware that parking in the Fulton Market area can be a bit of a challenge, so factor that in if you’re driving.

15. The Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club

Step into The Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club and you’ll feel like you’ve landed on a tropical vacation, even though you’re still in Chicago. This place is seriously decked out with 11 full-sized shuffleboard courts, making it the main draw. It’s like a grown-up playground where the main event is sliding pucks down a long table.

But shuffleboard isn’t the only game in town. They’ve also got giant Connect Four, ring toss, and a photo booth that’s perfect for capturing some silly memories. The rooftop court is set up like a pool deck, and they even provide complimentary sunscreen, which is a nice touch considering how easy it is to lose track of time up there.

When it comes to food and drinks, expect tropical cocktails that are as fun to look at as they are to drink. They also bring in food trucks, so you can usually find something tasty to munch on while you’re playing. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for something a little different, especially if you’ve got a group.

Shuffleboard Courts: 11 full-sized courts available for walk-ins or league play.
Other Games: Giant Connect Four, ring toss, photo booth.
Vibe: Tropical, vacation-like atmosphere with a lively crowd.
Food: Rotating food trucks offering various cuisines.
Drinks: A wide selection of creative, tropical-themed cocktails.

16. WhirlyBall Chicago

Alright, so if you’re looking for something truly unique, WhirlyBall in Bucktown is your spot. It’s basically a mashup of bumper cars, lacrosse, and basketball, all rolled into one wild game. You’re in these little bumper cars, trying to score goals. It sounds a bit chaotic, and honestly, it is, but in the best way possible. It’s not exactly high-speed action, but the fun factor is through the roof.

Beyond the main event, WhirlyBall also has other activities to keep you busy. Think:

Bowling
Laser Tag
A full-service bar

They’ve got food and drinks to keep you fueled up between games. It’s a great place for a group outing, especially if you want to try something totally different from your usual bar scene. Just be prepared for some laughs and maybe a little friendly competition.

This place is perfect for when you want to do more than just sit around. The combination of the game itself and the other attractions makes it a solid choice for a night out with friends or even a team-building event. Don’t expect a quiet night, though; it’s designed for energy and fun.

17. Punch Bowl Social

Punch Bowl Social in Chicago’s West Loop is basically an adult playground, and honestly, it’s a pretty solid spot if you’re looking for more than just a drink. They’ve packed in a ton of activities, so you can easily spend a whole evening here without getting bored. Think bowling, a huge arcade with all sorts of games, and even private karaoke rooms if you’re feeling brave.

What really sets Punch Bowl Social apart is how they’ve combined all these games with a pretty decent food and drink menu. You can grab shareable plates that are good for a group, classic comfort food with a bit of a modern spin, and a solid selection of craft beers and cocktails. It’s not just about the games; the food holds its own.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can get into:

Bowling: Classic lanes for some friendly competition.
Arcade Games: A wide variety of machines, from old-school favorites to newer ones.
Karaoke: Private rooms mean you can belt out your favorite tunes without an audience (unless you want one).
Other Games: They often have things like giant Jenga or other tabletop games available.

The vibe here is pretty cool too. It’s got this industrial-chic look with some vintage touches, making it feel stylish but still relaxed enough to just hang out. It’s a good place to go with a group of friends or even for a more casual date night where you want to keep things interesting.

They also have this unique Nexus Gel Blaster experience, which is kind of like a mix of paintball and laser tag. It’s definitely an adrenaline rush and something different if you’re looking for a more active adventure. Just a heads-up, they get pretty lively on Friday and Saturday nights, and it’s 21+ after 10 pm.

18. Lucky Strike

Lucky Strike is a spot that really knows how to blend a lively bar scene with a ton of entertainment options. They’ve got a couple of locations in Chicago, and each one is packed with things to do. It’s more than just a place to bowl; it’s a full-blown entertainment hub.

When you walk in, you’ll notice the sheer number of arcade games. We’re talking hundreds of them, from classic favorites to newer machines. It’s easy to get lost in the flashing lights and sounds, trying to beat your high score or challenge a friend. And if you’re looking for something a bit different, they boast a unique immersive Daytona Championship gaming experience that really puts you in the driver’s seat.

Of course, bowling is a big draw here. The lanes are usually buzzing, and it’s a great place to gather a group. After you’ve had your fill of strikes and spares, you can easily transition to the arcade or just grab a drink and watch the action on their huge video walls. It’s a solid choice if you want a place where everyone in your group can find something they enjoy.

The vibe at Lucky Strike is energetic and fun, making it a good spot for both casual hangouts and bigger celebrations. They manage to keep the atmosphere lively without feeling too overwhelming, which is a nice balance.

19. The Game Room

Tucked away in the historic Chicago Athletic Association hotel, The Game Room feels like stepping back into a more refined era, but with way more fun. It’s basically the hotel’s old billiards room, all dressed up with a swanky bar and some seriously classic games. You can challenge your friends to a game of bocce right there in the built-in court, or try your hand at billiards and shuffleboard. They’ve also got chess and checkers if you’re feeling more strategic. It’s a cool spot to unwind, especially if you’re looking for something a bit more low-key than a loud arcade.

Here’s what you can expect:

Bocce ball (yes, a dedicated court!)
Billiards
Shuffleboard
Chess and checkers

While it might not have rows of flashing arcade machines, The Game Room offers a sophisticated yet playful atmosphere. It’s perfect for a relaxed evening where conversation and friendly competition take center stage, all while enjoying a well-crafted drink.

20. DMen Tap

Alright, so if you’re into Dungeons & Dragons, or just, you know, board games and pinball, DMen Tap in Avondale is your spot. It’s got this whole D&D theme going on, which is pretty cool if you’re into that kind of thing. They’ve got a back room set up for campaigns, which sounds intense, but also fun if you’ve got the right crew.

But don’t worry if dice rolling isn’t your jam. They’ve got a solid collection of board games you can play, plus pinball machines. And for the retro gamers out there, they even have an N64. Seriously, you can probably challenge someone to a game of Mario Kart 64 and settle it.

When it comes to food, they’re serving up stuff like döner kebab wraps and currywurst. It’s not exactly fine dining, but it’s good bar food that hits the spot while you’re busy trying to defeat a dragon or beat your high score.

This place is a good mix of themed fun and actual games. You can go for the D&D vibe or just chill with a board game and some grub. It’s a solid choice for a group that wants more than just drinks.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:

Games Galore: Dungeons & Dragons campaigns, a wide selection of board games, pinball machines, and an N64.
Themed Atmosphere: A unique D&D theme that adds to the experience.
Solid Bar Food: Think döner kebab wraps and currywurst.
Casual Vibe: A relaxed spot for friends to hang out and play.

21. Fireside

Fireside is one of those spots that feels like it’s been around forever, and honestly, that’s part of its charm. It’s technically a bowling alley, but the bar is so central to the whole experience, you’ll probably forget you’re there to knock down pins. It’s a great place to grab a drink and play some pool, maybe even as a warm-up before hitting up other spots in the neighborhood. Just be warned: the distinct smell of bowling shoes and the satisfying clatter of pins might just pull you onto the lanes before you even realize what’s happening. It’s like a weird, nostalgic trap, but in the best way possible.

Bowling Lanes: The main event, offering a classic bowling experience.
Pool Tables: Perfect for a more relaxed game before or after hitting the lanes.
Full Bar: Stocked with all your favorite drinks to keep the good times rolling.

The atmosphere here is unpretentious and laid-back, making it a comfortable spot for a casual night out with friends. Don’t expect fancy cocktails, but do expect a good time.

22. Seven Ten Social

Seven Ten Social in Hyde Park is a spot that really tries to cover all the bases when it comes to fun. It’s a great place if you’re looking to combine some classic bar activities with good food and drinks.

They’ve got bowling, which is always a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re a total pro or just out for a casual night with friends. It’s not just about the strikes and spares, though. The menu here leans towards comfort food, so you can grab something satisfying to munch on while you’re playing. And to wash it all down, they offer a selection of frozen drinks, which can be a nice touch, especially on a warmer evening.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:

Bowling: Multiple lanes available for booking.
Food: Comfort food options to keep you fueled.
Drinks: Classic frozen drinks and other bar staples.

It’s the kind of place that works for a family outing, a night out with friends, or even just a relaxed evening trying to get a good score. They aim to be a one-stop shop for a good time.

Seven Ten Social aims to be a versatile spot, offering a mix of activities and a solid menu that appeals to a broad audience looking for a fun, casual experience.

23. Meeting House Tavern

Meeting House Tavern is a classic neighborhood spot that feels like stepping back in time, but in a good way. It’s the kind of place where you can actually hear your friends talk, which is a nice change of pace these days. They’ve got a solid menu that covers all the bases – think burgers, sandwiches, and some decent appetizers. It’s not fancy, but it’s reliable, and that’s what you want sometimes, right?

What makes it stand out a bit is the atmosphere. It’s got that comfortable, lived-in feel that makes you want to settle in for a while. Plus, they usually have a good selection of beers on tap, which is always a plus in my book.

Good for a casual weeknight hangout.
Reliable food options.
Relaxed, unpretentious vibe.

If you’re looking for a no-frills bar with a friendly atmosphere and decent grub, Meeting House Tavern fits the bill. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t try too hard but still manages to be a good time.

They also have a pretty decent patio area that’s great when the weather cooperates. It’s a nice spot to grab a drink and some food without any fuss. It’s the kind of place that feels like it’s been there forever, and that’s part of its charm.

24. Big Joe’s

Big Joe’s is the kind of place you might walk past without a second glance, a true neighborhood bar that doesn’t try too hard. But don’t let its unassuming exterior fool you; this Andersonville spot has a secret weapon that sets it apart: turtle racing. Yes, you read that right. On certain nights, you can grab a drink and cheer on tiny shelled competitors as they make their way across a miniature track. It’s a quirky, low-key spectacle that adds a unique twist to a casual night out.

Beyond the shelled athletes, Big Joe’s keeps things simple and fun. It’s a place where you can just hang out, enjoy a drink, and soak in the local atmosphere. While they might not have a sprawling menu of gourmet dishes, they often feature a resident pop-up food vendor, adding some tasty bites to the mix. Think along the lines of fried cheese tacos or other casual, satisfying eats that pair well with a cold beer.

This bar is all about keeping it real. It’s not trying to be fancy or trendy; it’s just a solid spot for a relaxed time with friends, maybe with a side of unexpected reptilian racing.

If you’re looking for a place that feels authentic and offers a bit of unexpected entertainment, Big Joe’s is definitely worth checking out. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most memorable nights happen in the most unpretentious settings.

25. Weegee’s Lounge and more

Weegee’s Lounge in Logan Square is a spot that feels like stepping back in time, with a cool 1940s vibe. It’s not a huge place, but it’s got a relaxed feel that’s pretty nice after a long week. They serve up classic cocktails and craft beers, which is always a good start.

One of the main draws here is the shuffleboard table. It’s a fun way to spend some time with friends, and it’s not too serious, just good old-fashioned fun. Sometimes they even have live musicians playing, which adds a nice touch to the atmosphere.

Weegee’s is the kind of place where you can just chill, have a drink, and maybe play a game of shuffleboard without any fuss. It’s a good spot if you’re looking for something a little more low-key than the big, loud game bars.

While shuffleboard is the main game, the overall vibe makes it a good place to just hang out. It’s a solid choice if you’re in the Logan Square area and want a drink and a bit of casual entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of games can I expect to find at these bars?

You’ll find a wide variety of games! Many bars have classic arcade games, pinball machines, and even newer video games. Some spots also offer activities like ping pong, shuffleboard, bocce ball, mini-golf, bowling, and even batting cages. It really depends on the bar, so check out their specific offerings!

Do I need to make a reservation to play games?

For some popular activities like ping pong tables, mini-golf, or bowling, it’s a good idea to book ahead, especially on busy nights or weekends. Many places allow walk-ins, but reserving can save you from waiting. Check the bar’s website for their reservation policy.

Are these bars good for groups?

Absolutely! These bars are perfect for group outings. With lots of games and activities, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. Many places also have food and drink options that are great for sharing, making them ideal for parties or get-togethers.

What kind of food is usually available?

Most of these bars serve up classic pub fare and bar snacks. Think burgers, fries, pizza, and appetizers like cheese curds. Some places offer more unique or gourmet options, so there’s usually something tasty to munch on while you play.

Are there bars with specific themes?

Yes, Chicago has some uniquely themed bars! For example, there’s a Dungeons & Dragons-themed bar, and others that focus on retro vibes or specific sports. The variety means you can find a spot that matches your group’s interests.

Can I just go for drinks without playing games?

Of course! While the games are a big draw, all these places have a full bar. You can definitely go just to enjoy drinks and the atmosphere. The games are just an extra bonus to make your night out even more fun.