Hyde Park is known for being home to UChicago (read: people who LOVE to study) and the Museum of Science and Industry. What’s there to do past 5 o’clock? Where can I meet up with friends or just throw a few back on a Friday night?
We know that to find the best apartment for you, it needs to feel like home. And for some, that means being near the nightlife. Don’t worry, we got you! While most consider Hyde Park to be a quieter neighborhood, there’s plenty to do to let loose. So, without further adieu, here are |our favorite spots to go out.
TOP PICKS FOR HYDE PARK, CHICAGO NIGHTLIFE
BEST WEEKNIGHT BAR: COVE LOUNGE
1750 E 55TH ST CHICAGO, IL 60637
Image courtesy of Chicago Tribune
Cove Lounge is a beachy dive bar perfect for a weeknight hang. You’re welcome to bring your own food or cards/games for a casual hangout with friends. $10 cocktails can be hard to come by in Chicago, and Cove ups the ante with party pouches (think of it as an adult Capri Sun). Just make sure to stop at the ATM ahead of time, as they only accept cash.
BEST BAR FOR GROUPS: WOODLAWN TAP AKA JIMMY’S
1172 E 55TH ST CHICAGO, IL 60637
Image courtesy of Chicago Maroon
Woodlawn Tap, known by locals as Jimmy’s after the original owner, is a classic dive bar and true Hye Park staple. When you think of a dive, you typically imagine a small place, but not Jimmy’s. The whole place expands behind the main bar into separate rooms, making it a great spot to gather with friends for a birthday party or something similar. A select menu of bar foods is also available in case you need some munchies after consuming a few reasonably-priced libations. Like Cove, Jimmy’s is a cash-only establishment, so plan accordingly!
BEST CHOICE FOR MIXED GROUPS: SEVEN TEN SOCIAL
1055 E 55TH ST, CHICAGO, IL 60637
Image courtesy of Eater Chicago
Not everyone wants to go to a bar, and that’s okay! Seven Ten Social is a bar, bowling alley, and pool hall combo, meaning you’ve got options down the block that doesn’t require you to drink to have fun. Your foodie friends will rejoice with the delectable offerings courtesy of burgers, sandwiches, wings, and more courtesy of Chef Charlie McKenna (Lillie’s Q, LQ Chicken Shack). For those who are open to drinking, might we recommend one of their signature boozy shakes? It’s like a cocktail and a milkshake in one delicious drink.
BEST DRESSY CASUAL BAR: JOLLY PUMPKIN
5215 S HARPER CT, CHICAGO, IL 60615
Image courtesy of Hop Culture
A rustic-yet-chic brewpub in Harper Court, Jolly Pumpkin offers an eclectic array of specialty beers and cocktails. Their impressive dining menu includes tons of great options and shareable plates, perfect for a casual date night. During the warmer months, take the party outside to their patio with fairy lights twinkling above.
BEST UPSCALE COCKTAILS: MESLER KITCHEN | BAR | LOUNGE
1401 E 53RD ST, CHICAGO, IL 60615
Image courtesy of Chicago Magazine
Located inside Sophy Hotel, Mesler is available to all in the neighborhood–great news for our Ivy Blackstone residents next door! Opened in 2018, you’ll be taken aback by this art-infused lounge featuring works from local painters. Their extensive wine list is certainly something to note, but their high-end cocktail bar truly takes the cake. From the 53rd St. Old Fashioned with smoked rosemary to the First Kiss’s blend of gin, peach, and orange flavors, your taste buds are in for a treat. And of course, you can take your experience to the next level with their inspired dining menu, offering everything from salads to burgers to charcuterie and beyond.
BEST HAPPY HOUR: 14 PARISH
1644 E 53RD ST, CHICAGO, IL 60615
Image Courtesy of RollingOut
With half-priced cocktails on Tuesday–Thursday from 3-6 pm, there’s no wonder 14 Parish has made the list. It’s impossible to resist the island flavors in their rum cocktails and standard dining menu. But we also have a sweet spot for any place that offers a late-night menu, available until 1 am. I would list my favorite cocktail, but…they’re all incredible. Stop by and find your favorite this week!
