Lauren Mandel, the Director of Marketing at PartySlate, has planned enough bachelorette parties to become our go-to expert. Here she shares her secrets for delicious meals, nights out on the town, and touches to make your friend’s celebration extra special.
With chic beachfront spots, rooftop spaces with sprawling views, award-winning restaurants, and a hopping nightlife, Chicago has a lot to offer seasoned city-dwellers and visitors alike. In fact, there are so many options that it can be overwhelming to plan a weekend that’s both fun and practical.
When it comes to planning a fun bachelorette party, consider a mix of quieter moments for bonding and unique experiences that naturally create memories. My suggested itinerary includes all of the above, plus gives recommendations for chic hotels for your weekend stay, delicious brunch restaurants with the best private rooms, fun daytime activities, and more, plus a few tips to make any Chicago bachelorette party or wedding shower weekend memorable. Read on for the best bachelorette party ideas for Chicago that will make for a weekend that your bride bestie will be talking about long after her dream wedding.
*In no particular order…
FRIDAY NIGHT: ARRIVE & GET SETTLED
Choose a Well-Located Hotel
Even if you and your guests live in Chicago, it’s nice to have a home base for the weekend. Not only does checking into a hotel give the group a sense of community, but it also makes the bride-to-be feel extra special throughout her Chicago bachelorette party. Choose a space that’s relaxing to return to after long days and evenings of having fun together. Here are just a few of our top picks:
The Langham, Chicago
For a centrally-located hotel that’s glamorous and chic…
- The Langham, Chicago’s central location means your group can easily bounce around to each of your weekend locations
- The landmark building features iconic design grounded in Chicago’s long history of innovative architecture
- Stunning city views are available from almost all rooms and public spaces, adding a sparkling backdrop to your fun festivities
- The landmark building features iconic design grounded in Chicago’s long history of innovative architecture
- Don’t miss the opportunity to bond with the bride in The Langham, Chicago’s spa, sauna, or pool
Ace Hotel Chicago
For a West Loop spot with a hip rooftop bar…
- Ace Hotel Chicago is a newer option in the Windy City — meaning your friends probably haven’t stayed there before and will be eager to try a fresh spot
- Another architectural gem, Ace Hotel Chicago features Bauhaus-inspired rooms
- The best of old and new, rooms feature turntables for vinyl-lovers and the ability to text the front desk with requests for tech-fans
- The hotel draws raves for their “super accommodating staff” and “hip atmosphere”
W Chicago – Lakeshore
For panoramic views just steps from the beach…
- W Chicago – Lakeshore is conveniently located near nightlife and fun tourist spots
- The swanky hotel offers the opportunity for your girl group to indulge in glittering city views as well as sweeping lake views
- Ask for a lakeside room to enjoy a late-night viewing of the fireworks on Navy Pier from your W Chicago – Lakeshore room
- Bachelorette party hosts note that they appreciate the champagne welcome and assistance getting onto lists for hot Chicago nightlife spots
Hotel Zachary
For a swanky new spot near Wrigley Field…
- If you’re heading to a Cubs game or spending time in Wrigleyville, the newly-built Hotel Zachary is an easy choice
- Get a field-view suite for and authentic Chicago experience overlooking Wrigley Field
- Guests rave about Hotel Zachary’s accommodating and super friendly staff
- The perfect spot for enjoying Wrigleyville’s bustling dining and nightlife scene
The Talbott Hotel
For a modern boutique hotel filled with Chicago charm…
- The Talbott Hotel is a newly renovated boutique hotel full of clean, modern details and elegant touches
- Spacious rooms make this a great spot for friends to gather and lounge between bachelorette outings
- Centrally located on Chicago’s luxe Gold Coast, The Talbott Hotel is walking distance to great restaurants and even better shopping
- Reviewers laud the hotel staff for being friendly, helpful, and welcoming
Make Your First Dinner Memorable
Decide if you want a quiet and intimate vibe perfect for sharing stories and toasts, or an energetic crowd with a festive feel to kick off your fun weekend — then find the perfect spot on our list below.
Sunda New Asian
For one of the best Pan-Asian restaurants in Chicago…
- Located in Chicago’s bustling River North neighborhood, Sunda New Asian is a Michelin-recommended spot
- This high-energy, loud, darkly-lit spot is the perfect setting for bachelorette fun
- Don’t miss the crispy rice dishes and the Asian sangria will put you in a celebratory mood
- We suggest reserving the Veranda Room which feels super-exclusive and private or consider the Banquet Bar Party Room which boasts its own dedicated bar.
Somerset
For a modern, stylish spot with a gorgeous gathering spaces…
- Somerset, located inside the Viceroy Chicago (another favorite hotel!), is chic and modern and perfect for a bachelorette party dinner
- Its long Captain’s table in the Regatta Room seats 22 with exclusive private dining perfect for toasts
- Somerset is a member of Boka Restaurant Group, so you know the cuisine is reliably delicious
- The spot’s nautical country club vibe mixed in with dramatic gold decor sets the stage for a chic gathering
If You’re Not Ready to Head Back to the Hotel
Dinner and a show is always a magic combo. Stay out a little bit longer to share an experience.
The Magic Penthouse
For a fun and interactive magical experience…
- The Magic Penthouse is an interactive experience that proves magic isn’t just for kids
- Reviewers praise the close-up format, say that tricks are “mind-blowing”
- Stay after the show for cocktails and an opportunity to interact with The Magic Penthouse performers
- Magicians can either come to your hotel for a private show, or you can buy tickets to one of their scheduled performances
SATURDAY: BRUNCHING & BOATING
Start With a Hearty Brunch
Kick off your day with a hearty brunch — let’s be honest, you’ll probably value the carb-loading later on.
Beacon Tavern
For beautiful river views close to the bustle of the Mag Mile…
- A little rustic, a little vintage, and all beautiful, the Beacon Tavern is a great way to start your day of bachelorette fun
- Reserve the Executive Table to seat 12 to 20 guests, and you can customize a family-style brunch menu
- Diners love the light and airy quiche and the craft cocktails
- Beacon Tavern is well located for an afternoon of shopping or sightseeing in Chicago
Siena Tavern
For fresh from-scratch Italian-inspired fare from a celeb chef…
- Siena Tavern in Chicago’s River North is a bridge between old-world Italy and new-world tavern
- Plan ahead and reserve The Elevated Dining Space to be part of the scene and table hop in your own space or check out The Cellar for more privacy
- From chef and restauranteur Fabio Viviani of Top Chef fame, Siena Tavern offers the chance to try dishes you’ve only seen prepared on TV
- Try the breakfast pizza or the crowd-pleasing monkey bread and don’t forget the Mimosa kit which includes bottles of bubbly, fresh-squeezed oj, and fruit purées
Choose a Photographer to Capture Your Fun
Before you move forward with choosing a daytime activity, we highly recommend hiring a photographer to join you. You and your crew should focus on having fun — put your phones away and leave the photography to a professional.
Rebecca Marie Photography
For a natural aesthetic and relaxed approach…
- Rebecca Marie Photography offers a natural aesthetic and relaxed approach that’s ideal for any bachelorette party
- A photographer grounded in authenticity and the beauty of an everyday moment, she will capture those little interactions that make you smile in remembrance
Beller-Jones
For a duo boasting visceral reportage style…
- Beller-Jones seeks to evoke not only the sights, but the sounds, tastes, and feelings — and most of all the people — that populate important moments in your life
- These partner photographers offer special touches like quick image turnaround and single-image editing to make sure every picture is just-right
Explore Lake Michigan by Boat
Take your bachelorette and her party guests out on Lake Michigan for a day of boating. There’s no better way to explore a Great Lake-side city like Chicago than by boat.
Chicago’s First Lady Cruises
For changing skyline views and an accommodating crew/staff…
- Chicago’s First Lady Cruises has boats and yachts for all party types
- For an intimate bachelorette group of up to six, we love the Lady Grebe, a 48-foot beautiful vintage yacht, but there are options for every group size
- Chicago’s First Lady Cruises is renowned for their Architectural Boat Tours that boast knowledgeable guides and stunning views
Adeline’s Sea Moose
For a luxurious yacht that offers privacy and stellar service…
- No stranger to hosting talked-about-for-years bachelorette parties, Adeline’s Sea Moose is a luxe floating vessel that can accommodate up to 45 seated
- Check out this bachelorette party-wedding shower combo and this even-larger bachelorette party onboard for more celebration ideas
- Adeline’s Sea Moose offers Skyline Charter packages, Architectural River Tours, Navy Pier Fireworks Shows, and more
If Your Bachelorette Prefers Land to Sea
If the idea of a day spent on the water makes your bachelorette a little green at the gills, instead opt for some chic fun on land.
Shore Club Chicago
For a white sand beach boasting chic cabanas and cocktails…
- An upscale dining and entertainment destination, Shore Club Chicago is lies between Chicago’s Lincoln Park and Gold Coast
- Shore Club Chicago will give you all the beach and sea vibes without ever boarding a boat
- Your group can relax in outdoor cabanas in The Oasis while taking in unobstructed views of Lake Michigan, or reserve an area in The Restaurant for a temperature-controlled experience
City Winery Chicago
For an urban experience that evokes wine country…
- A relaxing afternoon wine tasting is another favorite Chicago bachelorette party activity, and City Winery Chicago is one of the best venues in the city
- The Private Barrel Room seats 32, and with views of the fully-functioning winery, it has all the charm of a Napa Valley vineyard
- City Winery Chicago offers perfectly-curated menu options, which include a sampling of wine and craft beer, plus seasonal crostini
Girls’ Night Out: Cocktails
Saturday night is the time to really go all out. Start your evening with pre-dinner cocktails at a trendy bar or lounge.
Stockton Restaurant and Lounge
For a bustling Rush Street locale and live lounge entertainment…
- Chic, almost-hidden Stockton Restaurant and Lounge is perfectly located high above Rush Street in the bustling Gold Coast
- Don’t miss Stockton Restaurant and Lounge’s seafood tower, crispy rice cakes, and innovative cocktails, but you can’t go wrong with anything on their sophisticated menu
- I recommend reserving a space in their bar area which can casually seat up to 30 in luxe booths, but also check out the bright atrium that boasts an inside rooftop feel
Girls’ Night Out: Dinner
Once you’ve had a cocktail (or three), it’s time for dinner. For the second night of a bachelorette party in Chicago, I like finding a restaurant with a fun vibe to help set the tone for the night ahead.
The Dawson
For a beautifully-appointed space serving up the most creative cocktails…
- The Devil’s Den at The Dawson seats 32 and is a beautiful space that is also totally customizable; opt for a large dining table, or choose sofas and cocktail tables for a more casual vibe
- Work with the staff at The Dawson to create the perfect menu for your group
- Don’t miss the “canteens” — large batches of mixed drinks brought to your table in camping-style canteens which you free pour yourself until they’re finished — and the “mini cocktails”
Momotaro
For authentic Japanese cuisine in a hip Chicago neighborhood…
- Located in the always-hip Fulton Market District, Momotaro is another Chicago favorite
- The Izakaya Private Dining Room is one of my favorite private event rooms in the city with half of the room filled with chic lounge furniture and the other half has long dining tables, perfect for enjoying a sushi dinner
- Momotaro features chef-driven cuisine that your entire party will love; try the robata-prepared fare (a Japanese charcoal grill) and freshest sushi ever
Girl’s Night Out: After-Dinner Fun
And now for the grand finale of a long and fun day: a night out on the town.
The Underground
For an iconic Chicago nightclub experience…
- When you arrive at the subterranean space that is The Underground, you’ll immediately understand why it’s consistently named one of Chicago’s best nightclubs
- The Underground, in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, is a favorite for both chic bachelorette parties and celebrities alike
- Cocktail in The Lounge then party and dance the night away in The Club
The J. Parker
Rooftop cocktails with weather-safe views…
- Located 12 stories up, atop the Hotel Lincoln, The J. Parker is well-located in Chicago’s Old Town/Lincoln Park area
- The J. Parker boasts some of the best Lake Michigan and Lincoln Park views in the city and fabulous signature cocktails perfect for toasting to your good fortune
- A retractable glass atrium means you can enjoy all that The J. Parker has to offer at any time of year
SUNDAY: END WITH A MEMORABLE BRUNCH
The Sunday of a bachelorette party can be rough, but you can’t bid your guest of honor farewell without one final brunch. If you can stomach it, grab a mimosa (or maybe just an orange juice) and cheers to a successful Chicago bachelorette party.
Chicago q
For one-of-a-kind BBQ in a space filled with Southern charm…
- Located in the Near North Side, Chicago q boasts Savannah style spaces and various (all delicious) Southern-style BBQ options
- Chicago q has one of my favorite Chicago brunches (don’t skip the pickles and chips!)
- Their Octagon Room is the ideal size for a bachelorette party, seating up to 16 in a bright space with towering ceilings and tall windows
Swift & Son’s Tavern
For delicious American-style fare with marquee views…
- Located in the “friendly confines” of Wrigleyville, Swift & Son’s Tavern is perfect for special occasions like your final weekend meal with your inner circle
- Swift & Son’s Tavern serves up American fare — delicious, familiar, comforting bites, perfect for the morning after a big night out
- The Marquee Room boasts floor-to-ceiling windows which overlook the historic Wrigley Field seats up to 20 guests; in season, ask for the windows open to hear the roar of the crowd on game day
