14 Fun Things To Do In Chicago For Your 21St Birthday!

As the third-largest city in the United States, Chicago offers endless opportunities to celebrate your 21st birthday. Whether you're a local or visiting for the first time, the Windy City has something for everyone. From iconic landmarks to unique bars and restaurants, here are 14 fun things to do in Chicago to make your 21st birthday unforgettable. Get ready for a day filled with excitement, adventure, and of course, lots of drinks!

Have a drink at a rooftop bar

Turning 21 is a significant milestone in one's life, and it calls for a celebration. Chicago is a perfect destination for those who want to celebrate their 21st birthday in style. The city has numerous bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues that cater to all tastes and preferences. However, if you want to make your 21st birthday a memorable one, having a drink at a rooftop bar is a must-do activity.

Chicago has some of the best rooftop bars in the world, offering stunning views of the skyline and Lake Michigan. Here are some of the best rooftop bars in Chicago that you can visit on your 21st birthday:

• Cindy's Rooftop: Situated on top of the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, Cindy's Rooftop offers panoramic views of Millennium Park and Lake Michigan. The bar has a stylish vibe, and the drinks and food are excellent.
• The J. Parker: Located on top of the Hotel Lincoln, The J. Parker offers an intimate setting with fantastic views of Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan. The bar has an extensive collection of craft beers and signature cocktails.
• The Gwen's Upstairs: The Gwen Hotel's rooftop bar offers a chic and sophisticated atmosphere, with breathtaking views of the city's skyline. The bar has an extensive wine and spirits list, and the food is delicious.
• LondonHouse Rooftop: The LondonHouse Hotel's rooftop bar offers stunning views of the Chicago River and the Magnificent Mile. The bar has an elegant and luxurious ambiance, and the drinks and food are exceptional.
• Raised: Located on top of the Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel, Raised offers stunning views of the skyline and the Chicago River. The bar has a spacious outdoor terrace, where you can enjoy craft beers, cocktails, and small plates.

In conclusion, Chicago is an ideal destination to celebrate your 21st birthday, and having a drink at a rooftop bar is a fantastic way to mark the occasion. Choose one of the above bars or explore others in the city, and enjoy the stunning views and excellent drinks and food. Remember to drink responsibly and have a great time!

Go on a pub crawl in Wicker Park

If you're looking to celebrate your 21st birthday in Chicago, there's no better place to explore than Wicker Park. Located on the west side of Chicago, Wicker Park is known for its trendy bars, great food, and lively atmosphere. One of the best ways to experience everything that Wicker Park has to offer is by going on a pub crawl with your friends.

Start your pub crawl at The Violet Hour, a speakeasy-style lounge that serves up some of the best cocktails in the city. This bar requires a dress code and reservations, so make sure to plan ahead. Once you're inside, enjoy some of their signature drinks like the Bramble, made with gin, blackberry liqueur, and lemon, or the Old Fashioned, made with bourbon, sugar, and bitters.

Next up is Big Star, a popular spot for tacos, whiskey, and beer. This dive bar has a great outdoor patio and an extensive selection of tequila and mezcal. Try the al pastor tacos and pair them with a margarita or a beer from their impressive draft list.

If you're looking for something a bit more upscale, head to The Robey Hotel's rooftop lounge, Up & Up. This bar offers stunning views of the city skyline and a sophisticated atmosphere. Sip on a classic cocktail or try one of their creative concoctions like the "Bee's Knees," made with gin, honey, and lemon.

To end the night on a high note, head to Emporium Arcade Bar. This bar has a great selection of craft beer and classic arcade games like Pac-Man and pinball. Challenge your friends to a game of Street Fighter or Asteroids while sipping on a cold brew.

A pub crawl in Wicker Park is a great way to celebrate your 21st birthday in Chicago. With its diverse selection of bars and lively atmosphere, you're sure to have a night to remember. Just remember to drink responsibly and have a designated driver or use public transportation to get home safely. Cheers to another year!

Take a cocktail-making class at The Aviary

If you're looking for a unique and memorable way to celebrate your 21st birthday in Chicago, consider taking a cocktail-making class at The Aviary. This acclaimed cocktail bar, located in the city's trendy Fulton Market district, offers a range of hands-on classes that allow guests to learn how to create their own delicious and innovative cocktails.

One of the most popular classes at The Aviary is the "Cocktail Creation" course. During this three-hour class, participants will work closely with the bar's expert mixologists to learn the art of cocktail-making from start to finish. You'll learn how to mix, shake, and stir your creations, while also exploring different flavor profiles and techniques.

The Aviary's classes are designed to be fun and interactive, with plenty of opportunities to taste and experiment with different ingredients. You'll also get a behind-the-scenes look at the bar's innovative cocktail menu, which is known for its use of unusual ingredients, and cutting-edge techniques. By the end of the class, you'll have a newfound appreciation for mixology, and you'll be able to create your own signature cocktails at home.

While a cocktail-making class may not be the traditional way to celebrate a 21st birthday, it's a great option for anyone looking for a unique and memorable experience. The Aviary offers a beautiful and sophisticated setting, with sleek decor and stunning views of the city skyline. And of course, what better way to mark your milestone birthday than by learning how to make your own signature cocktails, and enjoying them with friends and family?

In addition to its "Cocktail Creation" class, The Aviary also offers a range of other classes and events, including wine tastings, beer tastings, and even cooking classes. So whether you're a cocktail enthusiast, a wine lover, or a foodie, there's something for everyone at this vibrant and innovative bar.

In conclusion, taking a cocktail-making class at The Aviary is a great way to celebrate your 21st birthday in Chicago. With expert guidance from the bar's mixologists, you'll learn the art of mixology while creating your own delicious and innovative cocktails. And with its beautiful setting and stunning views, The Aviary is the perfect place to mark your milestone birthday in style.

Sing karaoke at Lincoln Karaoke

Turning 21 is a big milestone that deserves celebrations and making unforgettable memories. If you are celebrating your 21st birthday in Chicago, then one excellent way to make it a memorable one is by heading to Lincoln Karaoke for a night of singing and fun.

Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Lincoln Park, Lincoln Karaoke is a high-energy karaoke bar that features private suites, state-of-the-art sound and lighting, and an extensive selection of song options. Here, you can sing your heart out with your friends while enjoying drinks and snacks.

To start your night, you can make reservations for a private suite that can accommodate you and your friends. Each suite is equipped with a flat-screen TV, microphones, and comfortable seating, offering you and your friends the perfect space to relax and sing your favorite songs.

Lincoln Karaoke has a vast selection of song options, ranging from classical to modern hits. You and your friends can browse through the song list, choose your favorite tracks, and belt them out to your heart's content. If you are a bit shy and need a little push, don't worry; the party atmosphere will soon get you to loosen up and have fun.

In addition to the extensive music selection, Lincoln Karaoke offers excellent food and drink options, including specialty cocktails, craft beers, and appetizers. You can enjoy tasty treats while waiting for your turn to sing or take a break between performances.

Overall, Lincoln Karaoke is an exceptional spot to celebrate your 21st birthday with your friends in Chicago. You can enjoy an experience that combines great music, delicious food and drinks, and a lively atmosphere. So gather your friends and family, head to Lincoln Karaoke, and sing your heart out on your special day. Cheers to a great 21st birthday celebration!

Visit unique bars like Three Dots and a Dash

Are you turning 21 and planning a trip to Chicago to celebrate? Congratulations, you have picked the perfect city for a memorable experience! The Windy City has a vibrant nightlife scene that offers an abundance of unique bars and clubs for party-goers of all tastes.

One of the most popular destinations in Chicago for a 21st birthday celebration is Three Dots and a Dash, situated in the River North neighborhood. This tiki-themed bar is ideal for those looking for a tropical ambiance, delicious drinks, and a fun atmosphere. The bar is named after the morse code for "V" which symbolizes victory and offers a range of rum-based cocktails that are served in coconut shells, tiki mugs, or conch shells. Indulge in their signature Zombies drink, a potent rum concoction, and don't forget to take a photo with their giant tiki statue.

Another unique bar that is perfect for a 21st birthday celebration is The Drifter in Wicker Park. This speakeasy-style bar is a tribute to the Prohibition era and offers patrons an intimate and mysterious atmosphere with dim lighting, vintage decor, and live jazz music. It is also notorious for its unpredictability, and each night is different with a surprise element that may include burlesque shows, magic performances, or live jazz bands.

If you're looking for a rooftop bar with breathtaking views of the city, the J. Parker Rooftop Bar is the place to visit. Located on top of the Hotel Lincoln, in Lincoln Park this bar offers a captivating panoramic view of the Chicago skyline, including the iconic Willis Tower and Lake Michigan. The bar's outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying a refreshing drink in the summer breeze, and they also offer a range of appetizers and snacks to complement your drink.

In conclusion, Chicago has no shortage of unique bars for a 21st birthday celebration that will give you unforgettable memories. Whether you're in the mood for a tiki-themed bar, a speakeasy-style lounge, or a rooftop bar with beautiful views, Chicago has something for everyone.

Take a sunset cruise on Lake Michigan

Celebrating your 21st birthday calls for a grand celebration, and what better way to do so than in the magnificent city of Chicago? The Windy City, as it is famously known, has plenty of activities to offer, but one experience that should be at the top of your list is taking a sunset cruise on Lake Michigan.

Lake Michigan, spanning across a distance of over 22,000 square miles, is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the United States. It offers magnificent views of Chicago's skyline, making it one of the best places to witness the beauty of the city.

To begin your birthday celebrations, head to Navy Pier, which is one of Chicago's most popular tourist attractions. Here, you will board one of the several boats that offer sunset cruises on Lake Michigan. Make sure that you book your tickets in advance, as these cruises tend to fill up quickly.

As you step aboard the boat, you will be greeted with stunning views of the city skyline. The boat will then set sail, and you will be taken on a leisurely tour of the lake. The views are breathtaking, and as you soak in the sights, you'll feel like you're on top of the world.

The sunset cruise is a perfect way to relax and unwind after a day of exploring Chicago. You'll have the chance to sit back, sip on your drink, and enjoy the stunning views of the city's architecture. You may even catch a glimpse of Chicago landmarks such as Willis Tower, the John Hancock Center, and the iconic Navy Pier Ferris wheel.

Most sunset cruises last for around two hours and include snacks and drinks. If you're looking to make your 21st birthday even more special, you may opt for a private cruise, which can be customized to your liking. You can choose your music, catering, and set a romantic ambiance, or have a party with your friends on the boat.

To make your birthday celebrations even more memorable, you can book a sunset cruise during one of the city's annual events. For example, during the summer months, the city hosts Navy Pier fireworks, and watching fireworks light up the night sky while sailing on Lake Michigan is a remarkable experience.

In conclusion, a sunset cruise on Lake Michigan is an ideal experience for anyone celebrating their 21st birthday in Chicago. From the stunning views of the city skyline to the relaxed ambiance of the boat, there's no better way to celebrate this milestone birthday than by taking in the beauty of Chicago from the water. So book your tickets now, and get ready for an unforgettable birthday party on the lake!

Attend a comedy show at Second City

Chicago is a fantastic destination for anyone celebrating their 21st birthday. With so much to do in the city, it can be a little overwhelming trying to decide what to do. However, one must-see attraction for any visitor to Chicago is attending a comedy show at Second City.

Second City is a world-famous comedy club that has been around since 1959, and it's the perfect place to celebrate your 21st birthday. The club has a long history of famous comedians, including Steve Carell, Tina Fey, and Stephen Colbert. It's the perfect place to enjoy an evening of laughs and fun, surrounded by other comedy lovers.

The shows at Second City are always changing, with new performances and sketches getting added all the time. This means that every time you visit, you're guaranteed a unique and unforgettable show. The sketches are funny, relatable, and often politically charged, making for a fun and exciting night out.

But Second City isn't just about the entertainment. They offer drinks, cocktails, and snacks during the show, meaning you can enjoy some great food and drinks while laughing at some of the best comedians in the business. Whether you're looking for a relaxed drink or a couple of cocktails to celebrate your big day, you'll find what you're looking for at Second City.

Furthermore, Second City is located in the vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops nearby, so you can continue your 21st birthday celebrations even after the show has ended. The area is easy to navigate, so you won't have any trouble finding your way around.

In conclusion, attending a comedy show at Second City is a must-do when celebrating your 21st birthday in Chicago. You'll have a great time, surrounded by fantastic comedy and delicious food and drinks. Plus, with the convenience of Lincoln Park and all the amenities nearby, the party doesn't have to end once the show is over. Don't miss out on this iconic Chicago experience.

Go to a Bulls or Blackhawks game

Chicago is an excellent destination for those looking to celebrate their 21st birthday, and one of the best ways to do that is by experiencing a Bulls or Blackhawks game. Both teams have a rich history and passionate fan bases, and attending a game is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

If you're a basketball fan, then a Bulls game at the United Center is a must-do activity. The Bulls have won six NBA championships, and their home stadium is considered one of the loudest and most energetic venues in the league. The arena features modern amenities such as LED lighting, a jumbotron scoreboard, and state-of-the-art sound systems. The best seats in the house are courtside, but even if you snag tickets in the upper levels, you're sure to enjoy the atmosphere and excitement of the game.

If hockey is more your speed, then you won't want to miss the Chicago Blackhawks. The team has won six Stanley Cups, and their games are known for their passionate and loud crowd. The United Center is also home to the Blackhawks, and the stadium offers a unique and exciting atmosphere, with fans cheering "Chelsea Dagger" after every goal. Like Bulls games, Blackhawks games are also known for their state-of-the-art technology and lively entertainment.

Aside from the games themselves, there are plenty of things to do and see in Chicago to make your 21st birthday celebration memorable. The city is famous for its architecture, museums, and music scene. You could head to Navy Pier for a ferris wheel ride or take a stroll through Millennium Park, admiring the public art installations like the famous "Bean." For a music lover, a visit to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra or a jazz club like the Green Mill could be an excellent way to cap off the night.

In conclusion, a Bulls or Blackhawks game is an excellent way to celebrate your 21st birthday in Chicago. The atmosphere and passion at these games are unmatched, and the energy will make your experience unforgettable. With plenty of other activities and sights to enjoy in the city, your birthday celebration in Chicago is sure to be an experience you'll never forget.

Have a fancy dinner at Alinea

If you're looking for a unique and memorable way to celebrate your 21st birthday in Chicago, look no further than Alinea. This world-renowned restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience that is sure to make your special day one to remember.

Alinea is widely considered one of the best restaurants in the world, and for good reason. The restaurant's renowned chef, Grant Achatz, is known for his innovative and creative cuisine that pushes the boundaries of traditional dining. From molecular gastronomy to avant-garde presentations, Alinea's menu is unlike anything you've ever seen before.

When you visit Alinea for your 21st birthday dinner, you can expect a multi-course tasting menu that will take you on a culinary journey. Each dish is carefully crafted to showcase unique flavors, textures, and presentations that will surprise and delight your senses. From edible balloons to floating desserts, the dishes at Alinea are truly works of art.

But it's not just the food that makes Alinea such a special place for a birthday celebration. The restaurant's sleek and modern decor creates a sophisticated atmosphere that is perfect for dressing up and celebrating in style. And the staff at Alinea are renowned for their exceptional service, ensuring that your every need is met with professionalism and care.

Of course, dining at Alinea is not a cheap endeavor, with the multi-course tasting menu starting at around $400 per person. But for a special occasion like your 21st birthday, it's worth the splurge to create a memory you'll never forget.

In conclusion, if you're looking to celebrate your 21st birthday in style in Chicago, consider making a reservation at Alinea. Here you will find an unforgettable dining experience that combines exceptional food, service, and atmosphere to create a celebration that is truly one-of-a-kind.

Visit the Skydeck at Willis Tower

If you're looking for a unique and exciting way to celebrate your 21st birthday in Chicago, then you absolutely must visit the Skydeck at Willis Tower. This iconic attraction offers breathtaking views of the city, and is sure to make your special day one to remember.

Located on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower), the Skydeck is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Chicago. From this vantage point, you can see up to 50 miles in every direction - including views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding suburbs. You'll feel like you're on top of the world as you take in the stunning skyline and Chicago's famous architecture.

One of the most thrilling aspects of visiting the Skydeck is its famous "Ledge" - a glass-bottomed platform that juts out from the side of the building. This allows you to step out into thin air and experience a vertigo-inducing view straight down to the street below. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're feeling brave, it's definitely an experience you won't forget!

In addition to the incredible views, the Skydeck also offers interactive exhibits and displays that showcase the history and culture of Chicago. You can learn about the city's many neighborhoods, famous landmarks, and cultural attractions. There's even a chance to test your knowledge and skills with a virtual reality experience that puts you in the driver's seat of a racing car!

Overall, a visit to the Skydeck at Willis Tower is an ideal way to celebrate your 21st birthday in Chicago. Whether you're a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, you'll be thrilled by the incredible views, heart-pumping thrills, and engaging exhibits. So why not add it to your birthday itinerary and make your day truly unforgettable?

Go to a concert at the Metro

Are you headed to Chicago for your 21st birthday and looking for something to do? Consider heading to the Metro to catch a concert and celebrate in style.

Located in the heart of Wrigleyville, the Metro is one of Chicago's most iconic music venues. It has hosted some of the biggest names in music, from Nirvana to U2 to Lady Gaga. With a capacity of 1,100, the Metro offers an intimate atmosphere that is perfect for a birthday celebration.

When planning your Metro experience, be sure to check out the venue's calendar to see who is playing. The Metro hosts a variety of musical acts, from indie and alternative to punk and metal. No matter what kind of music you're into, you're sure to find a show that will make your 21st birthday memorable.

In addition to great music, the Metro also offers a full bar and delicious food options. Grab a specialty cocktail or craft beer from the bar and enjoy it while taking in the show. Or, if you're feeling hungry, check out the venue's tasty menu of burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers.

But the Metro isn't just about the music and the food - it's also about the experience. With its unique history and iconic decor, the Metro is a Chicago institution that is a must-see for music lovers. Take a stroll around the venue and check out the vintage posters and memorabilia that adorn the walls. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, head down to the Metro's famous "bathtub" area for a truly unique view of the stage.

When it comes to celebrating your 21st birthday in Chicago, there are few experiences that can match the thrill of catching a concert at the Metro. So grab your friends, head to Wrigleyville, and get ready for a night of great music, good food, and unforgettable memories. Cheers to being legal!

Explore the Lincoln Park Zoo

Your 21st birthday is a very special occasion that deserves to be celebrated in an equally special way. So, if you're in Chicago and looking for a unique way to celebrate your big day, why not explore the Lincoln Park Zoo? The zoo is a great place to have some fun and experience the wonder of nature, no matter what your age is.

Here are some reasons why you should consider the Lincoln Park Zoo as a destination for your 21st birthday celebration:

It's affordable

One of the best things about the Lincoln Park Zoo is that it's completely free! That's right; you don't have to spend a single penny to enjoy all the zoo has to offer. This is great news if you're on a tight budget but still want to plan a memorable birthday celebration.

You'll get up close and personal with wildlife

The Lincoln Park Zoo is home to over 1,000 animals representing more than 200 species from around the world. From gorillas to penguins, lions to zebras, you'll have the chance to get up close and personal with some of the most fascinating creatures on the planet.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy

There's never a dull moment at the Lincoln Park Zoo. In addition to exploring the exhibits, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy, such as taking a ride on the Endangered Species Carousel, watching a feed at the Kovler Seal Pool, or taking a guided tour to learn about the zoo's conservation efforts.

You can enjoy a memorable meal

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, you can enjoy a meal at one of the many food stands located throughout the zoo. You can also take a break from the zoo and visit one of the many restaurants located nearby in Lincoln Park.

It's a great place to make memories

Lastly, the Lincoln Park Zoo is a wonderful place to make memories that will last a lifetime. From taking selfies with the animals to spending time with loved ones, you're sure to create some unforgettable moments that you'll cherish for years to come.

In conclusion, celebrating your 21st birthday at Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo is a smart choice. You get to experience the zoo's beauty, meet the animals, participate in interesting activities, enjoy unique meals, and create unforgettable memories. Go ahead, plan your celebratory zoo visit today!

Take a walk along the Riverwalk

If you're looking to celebrate your 21st birthday in Chicago, there's no shortage of things to see and do in the Windy City. One activity that should definitely be on your list is taking a leisurely stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk.

The Riverwalk is a 1.25-mile pedestrian walkway that extends along the south bank of the Chicago River from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street. It offers stunning views of the city skyline and is home to numerous restaurants, bars, and shops.

If you want to start your Riverwalk adventure with some brunch or lunch, head to Island Party Hut Tiki Bar & Grill. This tropical-themed spot serves up delicious food and frozen drinks, and is the perfect spot to kick off your day. Another popular option is City Winery, which boasts an extensive wine list and live music.

As you continue down the Riverwalk, you'll come across various public art installations and sculptures, including the famous "Chicago Picasso" sculpture in Daley Plaza. You'll also pass by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the history of the Chicago River.

If you're looking for a place to relax and take in the views, consider grabbing a seat at the City Winery River Dome. This geodesic dome offers a unique dining experience with stunning riverside views. It's also heated and enclosed during the winter months, so you can enjoy the Riverwalk year-round.

As you near the end of the Riverwalk, you'll come across various boat tour companies offering architecture and sightseeing cruises along the Chicago River. This is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and learn about its rich history and architecture.

In conclusion, taking a walk along the Chicago Riverwalk is the perfect way to celebrate your 21st birthday in Chicago. With stunning views, delicious food and drinks, and plenty of activities to keep you entertained, you're sure to make some unforgettable memories.

Do a brewery tour in the West Loop

When it comes to celebrating your 21st birthday in Chicago, there are so many options to choose from. However, if you're a fan of beer, then you should definitely consider doing a brewery tour in the West Loop. The West Loop is known for its thriving beer scene, and there are plenty of breweries to explore. So, grab your friends and let's take a look at why a brewery tour in the West Loop is the perfect way to celebrate your 21st birthday.

First and foremost, let's talk about the beer. The breweries in the West Loop offer a wide variety of options, from classic ales to more experimental brews. Each brewery has its own unique spin on the beer-making process, and doing a tour allows you to learn more about the brewing process and taste some delicious beers. You'll get to sample different styles of beer, like stouts, IPAs, and wheat beers, and learn about the different ingredients and techniques that go into making them.

In addition to the beer, brewery tours in the West Loop offer a fun and laid-back atmosphere. You'll get to hang out with other beer enthusiasts and bond over your love of all things hoppy. Most breweries have a tasting room or taproom where you can enjoy more beer, play games, or grab a bite to eat. It's the perfect place to relax and celebrate your 21st birthday with friends.

Another great thing about doing a brewery tour in the West Loop is that it's affordable. Most tours are reasonably priced and often include a commemorative glass or other souvenirs. It's a great way to spend your birthday without breaking the bank.

Lastly, doing a brewery tour is a unique way to celebrate your 21st birthday. You'll make memories with your friends that will last a lifetime, and you'll get to explore a new and exciting area of Chicago. Plus, you'll get to learn something new about beer and have a great time in the process.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a fun and unique way to celebrate your 21st birthday in Chicago, consider doing a brewery tour in the West Loop. With great beer, a relaxed atmosphere, affordability, and the chance to make memories with friends, it's the perfect way to mark this milestone birthday. Cheers to a great birthday celebration!

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