Nothing says summer like a cold beer—or any kind of alcoholic beverage really. Catch a buzz and maybe a tan at these ten local bars with beer gardens and patios, and see our Bar Guide for a full list of places to drink.
770 N. Milwaukee, 312-666-9292.
Old Oak Tap | Ukrainian Village
The 1,500-square-foot front patio gets jammed, and every third patron seems to be bouncing a baby between sips of Saison DuPont, but the craft beer list showcases a lot of crowd-pleasers—Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA, Firestone Walker Union Jack IPA, and a rotating Solemn Oath tap—as well as a couple of intriguing curveballs.
2118 N. Damen, 773-697-7221, reddoorchicago.com.
The Whistler | Logan Square
Part storefront art installation, part eclectic music venue (and record label), mostly craft-cocktail mecca, the Whistler remains a Chicago destination. The beer selection is solid and relatively upscale. Low-key rock, improv jazz, thump-thump dance, or whispery folk will likely be occupying the stage at some point throughout the week. The small patio in the back is cozy and intimate—a perfect setting to while away an hour or two in the late afternoon before the crowds attack.
