Home to several of Chicago’s most notable tech companies (Salesforce and Groupon immediately come to mind), River North is bustling with busy worker bees during the day. But people can’t seem to force themselves away from this exciting Chicago neighborhood, even at night when work is over. As a result, River North plays host to some of Chicago’s finest nightlife offerings.
Due to the high-rent nature of River North, you’ll want to make sure your bachelor party doesn’t mind throwing down for cocktails that start at $12 per drink. If you’re looking for a luxe night out for the groom-to-be’s last stand, River North is the perfect destination.
Dinner Before Drinks
Or dinner and drinks at the same time. Whatever your style, it’s worth starting the evening at one of River North’s highly-acclaimed dining establishments. Here are a few to choose from that’ll make sure you start off the night on the right foot:
GT Fish & Oyster
531 N Wells St
GT Fish & Oyster is perfect for the groom who can’t get enough of seafood. This Bib Gourmand winner (to name just one of their accolades) promises only the freshest offerings. Their oysters are not to be missed!
RPM Steak or RPM Italian
66 W Kinzie St & 52 W Illinois St
You may not care that owners Bill and Giuliana Rancic can be frequently caught dining here, but you should care that
Topolobampo
445 N Clark St
Don’t expect to leave
Bavette’s Bar and Boeuf
218 W Kinzie
Dining at this Chicago establishment is usually reserved for birthdays and promotions, making it the ideal place to celebrate your groom’s last days of freedom. It’s the perfect location for a classy steak dinner before a night out on the town.
After Dinner Drinks
River North has a bustling night life, but before hitting the clubs, grab a craft cocktail from one of these neighborhood favorites.
Gilt Bar
230 W Kinzie St
Enjoy classic craft cocktails in a speakeasy environment. Ask to be seated in “The Library”, and you’ll be led downstairs to a secret room worthy of the drinking adventures of Al Capone.
Three Dots & A Dash
435 N Clark St
Your crew might feel a little silly in this tiki-inspired bar, but there’s nothing silly about the alcoholic punch these drinks can pack. Like The Library at Gilt Bar, it’s slightly hidden away, in this case, a River North alley.
Headquarters Beercade
213 W Institute Pl
Bring the boys to Headquarters for small bites, craft cocktails (try The Motts), and free arcade games. It’s the perfect place to get your drink on before heading out to River North’s exciting club scene.
River North Clubs
Once you’ve sufficiently liquored up, it’s time to head out to River North’s fun club scene, unparalleled in the rest of the city.
Untitled Supper Club
111 W Kinzie St
It’s hard to think of a location more suitable for a boy’s night out than Untitled Supper Club. Besides delicious drinks and food, there’s often something exciting going on – like a burlesque show or live musical entertainment. A caveat: their dress code is among the most strict of all Chicago clubs. Brush up on it before heading in so there are no disappointments!
Underground
56 W Illinois St
This military-themed nightclub often has a wait. For the smoothest experience, seek out one of their promoters so that you can get your friends on their list.
Underground Wonder Bar
710 N Clark St
If you’re tired of the typical club crowd, sneak on over to Underground Wonder Bar. This bar is known for blues, jazz, and reggae live acts.
If you buy a copy of our book Historic Bars of Chicago ($12), you can get a Chicago Trolley $45 coupon that is more than 10% off for most
If you have better ideas for a River North, or want help planning an itinerary, email us. We can also help with booking private party rooms if you plan to stay in one location!