The Pub Crawl Culture in Chicago: A Guide to Exploring the City’s Drinking Scene

Chicago, also known as the Windy City, is home to a bustling nightlife scene with a plethora of bars, clubs, and pubs. With such a diverse range of drinking establishments, it’s no wonder that pub crawls have become a popular activity for tourists and locals alike. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about the pub crawl culture in Chicago.

What is a Pub Crawl?

In simple terms, a pub crawl involves visiting various bars within a particular area. These crawls are often organized by groups of friends, pub crawl tour companies, or even charity organizations. The goal is to visit as many bars as possible while having a great time.In Chicago, you can find pub crawls centered around different themes, neighborhoods, and even holidays. For example, during the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in March, you’ll find a slew of pub crawls in the city’s Irish neighborhoods. At the same time, Halloween-themed pub crawls take place in different areas of the city on the night of October 31st.

Why Go on a Pub Crawl?

Going on a pub crawl is an excellent way to experience the city’s nightlife and connect with like-minded people. You get to visit different pubs or bars, try out different drinks, and socialize with people from different backgrounds. Also, it’s an excellent opportunity to explore new neighborhoods and discover new watering holes that you may not have known existed.For tourists, going on a pub crawl is an opportunity to see a side of Chicago that they may not get to experience otherwise. Pub crawls are an excellent way to meet locals and learn more about the city’s culture and tradition.

The Best areas for Pub Crawls in Chicago

Chicago is home to many vibrant neighborhoods, each with its distinct personality and nightlife scene. Here are some of the best places to head to for a pub crawl in Chicago:

Wicker Park and Bucktown

Wicker Park and Bucktown are two trendy neighborhoods located northwest of the city. These areas are home to a mix of dive bars, sports bars, speakeasies, and music venues. Some of the popular watering holes in Wicker Park and Bucktown include The Map Room, Emporium Arcade Bar, and The Whistler.

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is a popular neighborhood for students and young professionals due to its proximity to DePaul University. The area is home to several bars and pubs catering to college crowds, including the Lion Head Pub and The Barrelhouse Flat.

West Loop

The West Loop is known for its thriving food scene, but it also has several popular drinking spots. The area is home to trendy cocktail bars, beer gardens, and even a craft brewery. Some of the top spots in the West Loop include The Aviary, Haymarket Pub & Brewery, and Lone Wolf.

River North

River North is a popular nightlife destination, with a mix of trendy nightclubs, cocktail bars, and upscale restaurants. If you want to experience Chicago’s high-end drinking scene, head to River North. Some of the area’s top spots include Three Dots and a Dash, Gilt Bar, and The Violet Hour.

The Dos and Don’ts of Pub Crawling in Chicago

If you’re planning on going on a pub crawl in Chicago, there are several things you need to keep in mind. Here are some dos and don’ts of pub crawling in Chicago:

Dos

• Do pace yourself. Chicago’s drinking scene is known for its diversity, and the last thing you want is to be too drunk too early.
• Do bring cash. Some bars may not accept credit cards, so it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand.
• Do dress appropriately. Some bars may have dress codes, so make sure you check ahead of time.
• Do be respectful. Remember that you are a guest in these bars, so treat the staff and other patrons with kindness and respect.

Don’ts

• Don’t drink and drive. Always use public transportation or ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft to get around.
• Don’t forget to tip. Bartenders and servers rely on tips to make a living, so don’t forget to tip them generously.
• Don’t drink too much. It’s easy to get carried away during a pub crawl, but it’s important to drink responsibly and stay safe.
• Don’t be rude or disruptive. Remember that you’re not the only one in the bar, so don’t be loud or unruly.

The Bottom Line

Pub crawls are an excellent way to explore the city’s drinking scene, socialize with locals and experience new neighborhoods. While pub crawling in Chicago, always remember to drink responsibly, treat others with respect, and have fun. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, there’s no shortage of pubs and bars in Chicago to explore.