Chicago
Johnny's is an ice rink, which explains why you can practically see your breath in the upstairs bar. The wood-paneled, neon-lit room is prime for watching…
Must-see nightlife in The Great Lakes
Wicker Park, Bucktown & Ukrainian Village
This classic ‘slashie’ – the term for a combination bar/liquor store – has hours catering to third-shift locals and the most indomitable night owls. Order…
Chicago
Order a brewski at this bar named after the Cubs' famed announcer and then sip while perusing the photos and memorabilia of local sports heroes that are…
Northern Minnesota
This central coffee bar was the brainchild of owner Eric Faust, a passionate roaster dedicated to bringing good coffee to the downtown area. He succeeded,…
Wisconsin
Dependable downtown coffee dispensary with an inspiring riverside location. Locals know about the good breakfasts, including a classic eggs Benedict ($11)…
Kochanski's Concertina Beer Hall
Milwaukee
Live polka and rockabilly music rules at kitschy Kochanski's, with beers from Schlitz to Polish drafts to Wisconsin craft labels on offer. There's a great…
Ohio
The beer may not win any major awards, but it's good enough, and when you add in the leafy patio by the lake, the umbrella-shaded tables and dog-friendly…
Chicago
This Irish stalwart is a fine example of the corner saloons that once dotted the city. The ample selection of reasonably priced draft beer is served to…
Chicago
The dimly lit L&L is an unapologetic dive bar, complete with curt, seen-it-all staff. It's a great place to duck the Wrigleyville madness. Relax with…
Milwaukee
The northside locale of the local Colectivo coffee chain was the company's first stand-alone cafe and remains the main roasting plant. It's a neighborhood…
Northern Minnesota
With its sweet, lodge-like setting in downtown Grand Marais, this is one of the few places around offering take-away espressos and morning rolls and baked…
Duck Pond Eatery & Beer Garden
Upper Peninsula
It’s oddly located on the grounds of a camping resort 4.5 miles beyond Munising, but it’s one of the few places around where you’ll find a decent list of…
Chicago
The good-looking boys have a lot of action to choose from at the self-proclaimed 'upscale dive' @mosphere (not least the super-hot go-go dancers who…
Cincinnati
Copper kettles cook up the house beers, while the patio unfurls awesome views of the riverfront and Roebling bridge. It's a busy spot pre- or post-Reds…
Milwaukee
Legendary Wolski’s celebrated its 110th anniversary in 2018 and is still bringing them in for its choice local Lakefront beers on tap, darts, pool and…
Ohio
The Beer Barrel Saloon has plenty of space for imbibing – its bar is 406ft long, supposedly a world record. Live bands and Jello shots are also part of…
Minneapolis
A lawn bowling green on the roof, plus Brit's sweeping selection of Scotch, port and beer, is sure to unleash skills you never knew you had.
Cleveland
It's a lovely spot to sip on the riverfront patio with views of the skyline, bridges and boats gliding by; located on the Flats' West Bank.
Chicago
If you're dying for an alfresco drink while on Navy Pier, the beer garden pours them. Rock cover bands add to the quasi-cheesy vibe.
Minneapolis
This long-standing club has dancing, dining and drag shows that attract both a gay and straight clientele.
Northern Minnesota
A central spot for reliably good house-roasted coffees as well as smoothies and breakfast sandwiches.
Illinois
The VFW Hall provides an opportunity to sip cheap beer and watch TV alongside veterans of long-ago wars. Don't be shy: as the sign out front says, the…
