Though this past weekend kept us on ice, Chicago will be on defrost mode as April marks the beginning of spring. How better to celebrate the mercury rising than raising a glass to the new season at one of our favorite rooftop bars? Here's our guide to drinking alfresco and sky-high this year.
ROOF on theWit: Known as "the" rooftop bar of Chicago, ROOF offers awe-inspiring views of the city and a clientele of Chicago socialites and social climbers. Try to grab a seat around the built-in fire pits or at the highly coveted tables near the edge of the deck. Their fruity concoctions will lead you to think you're in the tropics despite the 60-degree temps.Mon. and Tues. 4pm - 12am, Wed. 4pm - 2am, Thu. - Sat. 2pm - 2am201 N. State St.; 312-239-9501
Bottom Lounge: The antithesis of a hotel bar, Bottom Lounge's rooftop deck provides a laid-back, beer-garden feel for their rocker customers. Take in the entire skyline atop this deck in the old meatpacking district as you sip on a beer from the lounge's diverse menu of brews.Wed. - Fri. 6pm - 2am, Sat. 6pm - 3am, Sun. 6pm - 2am1375 W. Lake St.; 312-666-6675
C-View: Crowning the Affinia Hotel in Streeterville, C-View bears phenomenal views of the nearby Hancock Center and the Mag Mile. Take a breather here after a lengthy shopping spree on Oak Street or a grueling business meeting downtown. The bar is unique, with a wall of greenery and flowers, further strengthening the fact that you are outside -- even though you're 29 floors up.Tues. - Thu. 5 - 11pm, Fri. and Sat. 5pm - midnight (summer weekends noon - midnight)Affinia Chicago Hotel, 166 W. Superior St.; 312-523-0923
Citizen Bar: Enjoy a goat cheese pesto flatbread pizza or an Angus burger topped with your favorite ingredients at this River North neighborhood bar. And if a heights-fearing friend is tagging along, alfresco dining is offered both at ground level and above the bar.Mon. - Fri. 11am - 2am, Sat. 11am - 3am364 W. Erie St.; 312-640-1156