The dec
#The Lowdown

Windy City Rooftop Bars

By Travel Savvy

Chicagoans affectionately call the summer months "rooftop season" and head en masse to the nearest hotel penthouse bar for happy hour. Join the fun and check out one of Travel Savvy's picks for outdoor summer cocktails. 

The Dec 1

Photo Credit: The Dec Rooftop Lounge + Bar

The Dec - At The Ritz-Carlton

160 East Pearson St at Water Tower Place

(312) 573-5161

www.decarestaurant.com

Monday - Wednesday: 4:00PM - 12:00AM; Thursday - Sunday: 12:00PM - 12:00AM 

The Dec bar atop the Ritz-Carlton is an easy Chicago favorite. It's sophisticated and trendy, plus the bar menu includes everything from cocktails to scotches and everything in between. Sip on a Cottontail or Boulevardier, munch on some pretzel bites, and escape from the madness of downtown Chicago. 

Vertigo Sky Lounge 2

Photo Credit: Vertigo Sky Lounge Facebook

Vertigo Sky Lounge - At Dana Hotel & Spa

2 West Erie St

(312) 202-6060

www.vertigoskylounge.com 

Monday - Friday: 4:00PM - 2:00AM; Saturday: 2:00PM - 3:00AM; Sunday: 2:00PM - 2:00AM 

Vertigo is the perfect place to hit up on a weekday for some happy hour drinks and relaxation after work. But look out - when the weekend rolls around, this lounge turns into a poppin' bar with a DJ and chic vibe. Stop by the rooftop of the Dana Hotel for anything from a chill night to a vivacious soiree. 

The Terrace 3

Photo Credit: The Terrace

The Terrace - At Trump

401 North Wabash Ave

(312) 588-8000

www.trumphotelcollection.com 

Monday - Friday: 2:00PM - 12:00AM; Saturday: 12:00PM - 12:00AM; Sunday: 1:00PM - 12:00AM 

The Terrace has breathtaking views, delicious signature cocktails, and top-of-the-line cuisine. Like all Trump bars, patrons splurge on the drinks so they can bask in the swanky scene the brand is known for. Watch fireworks from the rooftop on Wednesdays and Sundays post Memorial Day and enjoy the sights of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan below. 

The J. Parker 4

Photo Credit: The J. Parker Facebook

The J. Parker - At Hotel Lincoln

1816 North Clark St

(312) 254-4747

www.jparkerchicago.com

Monday - Thursday: 5:00PM - 2:00AM; Friday: 1:00PM - 2:00AM; Saturday: 11:30AM - 3:00AM; Sunday: 11:30AM - 2:00AM

The J. Parker boasts a big 140-person outdoor seating area, but if Mother Nature isn't cooperating, the retractable roof keeps patrons warm and dry. Comfortable seating, beautiful views of the water, and Chef Paul Virant's delicious and easy bar bites make J. Parker a local favorite. 

ROOF 5

Photo Credit: TheWit Hotel

ROOF on theWit

201 North State St

(312) 467-0200

www.thewithotel.com 

Monday - Friday: 2:00PM - 2:00AM; Saturday: 2:00PM - 3:00AM

There's never a dull moment at ROOF. This is the 'in' spot for locals all evening, with the after-work crowd mixing in with later partygoers well into the night. Along with a full bar, the specialty menu features punch bowls, champagne magnums, mixed drink pitchers with cute names like Love Your #Selfie, and larger food platters. A perfect spot for large groups and good times. 

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