Summer in Chicago is not something one should enjoy indoors; there’s plenty of time to hide during the other three seasons. Luckily, Chicago’s bar scene includes a multitude of spectacular patios perfect for drinking, eating, or just chilling. Beer, wine, cocktails, great views and vibes—you name it, Chicago offers it.

320 RiverBar at Westin Chicago | River North
RiverBar offers a stellar view of the city, beer, wine, excellent summertime cocktails, such as Cucumber Mezcalina, comprised of Mezcal, sangria, fresh lemon tajin, and a splash of club soda and cucumber. There's also handcrafted food designed by Executive Chef Chris Rolewicz whose menu reflects his passion for seasonal cooking, fresh fish, tropical fruits, sustainability, and urban gardening. RiverBar also features an original graffiti wall by famous graffiti artist, and Chicago-native, Mario Gonzalez Jr.

Noyane at the Conrad Hotel | Downtown
The Conrad already includes Baptiste and Bottle, a stellar whiskey bar and restaurant. But, in May of 2017, the Conrad added Noyanne, which translates to "hidden roof" in Japanese. The 4,405-square-foot, 200-seat patio is the perfect date spot. You can enjoy the extraordinary, aerial view of Chicago, sit by a fire pit, drink Japanese Whiskey or Sake, and eat sushi and sashimi.

Kaiser Tiger | West Loop
Don’t think every Chicago patio has a dress code. Kaiser’s beer garden is the quintessential backyard-style drinking spot that Chicagoans know and love. But, instead of watching your uncle burn burgers on the grill, Kaiser Tiger chefs adhere to the bar's “Sausage, Bacon, and Beer” philosophy with such dishes as “The Happy Gaucho: Spicy Argentinian chorizo sausage topped with fresh guacamole and tequila sour cream.” Wash it down with any of its many craft beer selections, and you are doing summer right!

Howells & Hood | Mag Mile
At Howells and Hood, you can enjoy everything from basic burgers to elevated cuisine: spirits, wine on tap, or any of the 119 different craft beer choices. With three bars, 360 taps, more TVs than you can count, and 17,300-square feet of space, there’s plenty of room to roam. But, the best spot is its 5,700-square foot, 300-seat outdoor patio. Located right in the heart of the Mag Mile within the old Tribune Tower, you can absorb the energy of the city while simultaneously relaxing with a beverage.

Raised: An Urban Rooftop | Downtown
The Raised name has many meanings. It represents Chicago’s many drawbridges, the elevated nature of good drinks and food, the art of growing crops (notably in an urban setting), and the art of raising glasses and saying, "Cheers." At Raised, you can gaze upon the skyscrapers that have been raised for more than 100 years and enjoy a menu designed by Executive Chef Daniel Perez, who relies on ingredients found no more than 200 miles from Chicago. As well, the cocktails highlight seasonal, fresh ingredients. The shareable plates and cocktails served in both glasses and decanters encourage guests to sample and share. So, put your phone down and raise your eyes to those around you because this is a place to socialize and have fun.

Streeterville Social | Downtown
It’s ONLY open during the warm season, so Streeterville begs Chicagoans and tourists to soak up the sun or enjoy the moonlight. Surrounded by Chicago's cityscape, you can indulge in quality beers or seriously skilled mixology, such as the ÉTÉ 17 with Tanqueray Gin, Strawberry, Lemon, Simple, Prosecco. And if you’re hungry, enjoy the gourmet pub grub including wings with Streeter dry rub and smoked peach barbecue sauce, seafood boils, Cuban sandwiches involving smoked suckling pig, capicola, swiss, citrus-dill mustard, banana pepper pickles, fries and much more.