Arcade Games:
Photo Credit: Emporium
Emporium
2363 North Milwaukee Avenue | 1366 North Milwaukee Avenue
With locations in Logan Square and Wicker Park, this local favorite has plenty of games and craft beer to keep you entertained in a laid-back atmosphere. Make sure to check out their event calendar, as they host various pop-up concepts throughout the year, with the latest being Stranger Things-themed, The Upside Down.
Photo Credit: Dokk Aebi
Logan Arcade
2410 West Fullerton Avenue
This neighborhood staple has the largest public collection of pinball and arcade games in Chicago. Aside from taking your shot at all the games that line the walls, the bar also hosts weekly tournaments as well as movie and record nights.
Photo Credit: Project Parties
Headquarters Beercade
213 West Institute Place
Being one of the most well-known arcade bar concepts, this bar is a definite must. This hip location in River North has tons of classic games, along with rare beers. Even though the one in Lakeview has been renamed Replay, it still has the same entertainment and vibe.
Photo Credit: For The Win Entertainment
FTW
322 East Illinois Street
There’s no shortage of fun at this bar and entertainment space that offers over 130 games. The photo booth, HD projector screen, mini golf course, full bar, craft beers, and delicious food are enough to keep you busy for an entire day.
Outdoor Games:
Photo Credit: Kaiser Tiger
Kaiser Tiger
1415 West Randolph Street
This West Loop outdoor patio bar known for its selections of sausage and beer is great for bocce in the summer, but it doesn’t stop there. Bocce games turn into ice curling in the winter.
Photo Credit: Park & Field
Park & Field
3509 West Fullerton Avenue
A large patio with fire pits and bocce is perfect for groups. There’s ample space – 6,000 square feet to be exact – for outdoor fun at this vintage sports club-themed bar and restaurant.
Indoor Games:
Photo Credit: Pinstripes via Instagram
Pinstripes
435 East Illinois Street
Although there are multiple locations throughout the Chicagoland suburbs, the River East location offers awesome views to pair with your bowling match and bistro eats.
Photo Credit: AceBounce
AceBounce
230 North Clark Street
Originating in London, this concept is totally made for parties. The US’ first location is all about ping pong, and also offers elevated food and cocktails, bottomless brunch, and happy hours.
Photo Credit: SPiN Chicago
SPiN
344 North State Street
Hailing from NYC, this ping pong bar now has locations across the country, and Chicago is one of them. Sandwiches, salads, shareables, and flatbreads are great finger foods to accompany your game. If you’re really invested, try joining one of their leagues.
Photo Credit: Clayton Hauck for Land and Sea Dept
Chicago Athletic Association – Game Room
12 South Michigan Avenue
Leave it to the Chicago Athletic Association to have a game room, amongst all their other top-notch amenities. Head to the second floor for chess, billiards, bocce, checkers, shuffleboard, and of course, cocktails.
