When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
BIG Bar
Why BIG Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
BIG Bar in Chicago is a lively and cosmopolitan venue located within the Hyatt Regency, offering a dynamic atmosphere ideal for meeting up with friends. Known for its large space and impressive cityscape views, particularly of the nearby river and Hyatt lobby, the bar provides a trendy yet casual setting for social gatherings. The venue features a diverse array of sporting entertainment on multiple televisions, complemented by stylish décor that adds to its vibrant ambiance. Guests can enjoy a wide selection of cocktails, along with a menu of delicious, freshly prepared food. The bar is a popular choice not only for casual evenings but also for special events like New Year's Eve parties and convention gatherings, making it a versatile destination for various social occasions. While the drinks are noted to be on the pricier side, BIG Bar’s friendly and attentive staff help create an inviting and enjoyable experience. Its extended weekend hours and suitability for breakfast are additional perks that make it a convenient and attractive meetup spot in downtown Chicago.
Here's what people think of BIG Bar
As of recent, BIG Bar holds a 4.3-star rating based on 473 reviews.
Reviewers have a mixed but generally positive impression of BIG Bar. Many appreciate the great service provided by the staff and praise the quality and freshness of the food, noting it as a highlight alongside the beautiful views and lively atmosphere. Positive reviews often mention the bar as a go-to spot for celebrations, with some guests returning for decades due to its consistent appeal and vibrant environment. The bar's spaciousness and décor also receive favorable mentions for creating a comfortable and trendy vibe. On the other hand, some negative feedback focuses on the high prices of drinks and the overwhelming number of televisions, which some find distracting and detracting from the ambience. A few users express that the atmosphere can sometimes feel too busy or noisy, affecting their overall impression. Despite these drawbacks, the majority of reviews reflect BIG Bar as a well-regarded place known for its excellent service and enjoyable social environment, especially suited for those looking to experience downtown Chicago nightlife or a stylish venue for special events.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
D Rose (drosemusic.com)
This hotel bar is on the 2nd flr of the Hyatt. Very fresh and open location. Filled with similar rooftop vibe and great views of nearby. Staff are friendly as well.
Adrian
Very good martinis, Juan one of the bartenders was amazing! The onion rings are part of the happy hour, really good. Nice atmosphere and if you sit at the bar nice view.
Rebekah Hall Evans
We had our first experience at Big Bar and loved it!! Great, fast service! Cocktails were delicious, and you can’t go wrong with the $5 onion rings durning happy hour!!! This was the perfect way to settle in after our flight and before dinner. We highly recommend!
Keeping It Covered
The Hyatt takes advantage of having customers that don't want to leave the hotel. Limited menu not many healthy options. Onions rings were tasty, spinach dip needs help. Drinks were delightful
Robert Rios
This bar is located inside the Hyatt Regency Chicago where I was staying on a trip to Chicago. I decided to have a drink there one evening kill time after exploring the Navy Pier and taking a River Boat tour. The bar is neat and clean but nothing to go out of your way to see. Half of the bar was blocked off for a dentist conference that night. I got to the bar before my group and didn’t realize I was sitting in the reserved area at first. Once a very nice dentist started speaking to me about the finer nuances of the Mesial, Distal and Buccal edges of a tooth, I realized my error. I thanked the kind dentist for the interesting information and excused myself as I saw my party entering the bar. When I made my way to the other side of the barrier and to the table where my party was seated, it did take a minute before the waiter made it to our table. It was quite busy that evening, so I was understanding of the situation. I ordered an Anti Hero IPA, which is a beer brewed by a local brewery called Revolution Brewing. The beer itself was hoppy and crisp. Quite bitter with hints of citrus and sweet caramel/butterscotch taste. I thought the beer was great and I ordered another one. In the end, we sat there for about an hour and enjoyed a few drinks. This is not a bad spot to sit and chill, especially if you’re staying in the hotel. Otherwise, it’s not a bar you need to go out of your way to visit. I’m giving the bar a four star review based on the beer, which was really good.
How to reach BIG Bar
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Why BIG Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Big Bar with your friends?
Gathering at Big Bar with your friends guarantees an unforgettable, energetic, and communal experience that goes beyond ordinary nights out. Big Bar’s defining characteristic is its emphasis on big — from spacious interiors and large-portion drinks to the vibrant, lively atmosphere that makes every visit feel like a celebration. It’s the ideal spot for groups seeking a high-energy environment where they can bond over unique cocktails, robust social interaction, and engaging activities. Whether you want to unwind after a long week, celebrate a special occasion, or just enjoy a night out with friends, Big Bar’s welcoming vibe and friendly staff create an inviting space that encourages fun and connection. The bar's reputation for generous drink sizes, including their signature massive fishbowl margaritas, ensures everyone in your group can share in the excitement and novelty. Plus, its location and design make it easy to accommodate groups, offering enough space for mingling and making memories. At Big Bar, your gathering becomes something special—big in spirit, big in fun, and big on memorable moments.
What kind of drinks and specials can groups enjoy at Big Bar?
Big Bar is famous for its massive drink offerings, making it a hotspot for friends who want to share laughs and libations over some truly memorable cocktails. The standout is the mammoth margarita fishbowl—a nearly gallon-sized blue margarita that’s perfect for either sharing in large groups or impressively tackling solo. Priced at around $20, it’s not just a drink, it’s an experience that sparks conversation and camaraderie. Beyond this giant novelty, the bar offers a well-rounded selection of craft beers, classic cocktails, and creative concoctions, catering to all tastes and preferences in a group setting. On weekends, the happy hour specials are notoriously generous, featuring 36-ounce drafts of select beers for $6, which makes pacing a night out with friends budget-friendly and fun. These tall pours and unique drink options set Big Bar apart from typical bars, emphasizing quantity and quality in a playful yet approachable way. The friendly bartenders also enhance the experience by mixing drinks quickly and engaging with patrons, which helps groups feel relaxed and welcomed.
What activities and entertainment make Big Bar perfect for group meetups?
Big Bar’s appeal goes beyond great drinks and food; it excels as a venue filled with activities and entertainment options designed to complement group gatherings. The bar frequently features a high-energy nightlife environment with a large dance floor where groups can dance the night away together. The lively DJ sets or music selections foster an atmosphere that’s both exhilarating and conducive to bonding, ideal for friends who want to combine socializing with dancing. Additionally, the bar hosts theme nights and special events on weekends, which provide fun focal points for groups looking for something special beyond the usual bar scene. Sporting events are commonly screened, turning Big Bar into a go-to spot for friends to rally and cheer on their favorite teams in a collective, spirited ambiance. This variety of entertainment options ensures that whether your group prefers to chat over drinks, dance, or watch sports, Big Bar can seamlessly accommodate your mood and interests.
How does Big Bar’s atmosphere support a fun group experience?
Big Bar strikes a perfect balance between a big, bustling venue and an accessible space that still feels intimate enough for meaningful social interaction. Its spacious layout allows groups to spread out comfortably without losing the energized vibe that keeps the event lively. The décor and setting convey a cool, contemporary urban bar feel—no pretension, just a friendly place where everyone is there to have a good time. The bartenders and staff are consistently praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, which helps groups feel looked after and ensures smooth service even during busy nights. Unlike some places where noise or crowds hamper conversation, Big Bar’s ambiance fosters both excitement and connection, making it easy for friends to engage deeply or just enjoy the buzz around them. The presence of a coat check, albeit modest, adds a convenience factor that big groups particularly appreciate on chilly evenings. Overall, the atmosphere at Big Bar is tailored to keep momentum going, so your meetups remain dynamic and memorable from start to finish.
Why is Big Bar’s food and drink portion size ideal for group gatherings?
At Big Bar, the philosophy that “bigger is better” extends to the culinary side, where generous portion sizes ensure everyone in your group leaves satisfied. The menu includes dishes that are perfect for sharing, letting groups sample multiple items without feeling stuffed after a single plate. Patrons rave about the food being fantastic, fresh, and hearty—key qualities when a night out includes both drinking and dining. Large portion sizes also mean your group can economize while still enjoying variety and quality, making it easier to coordinate group orders and split costs. Combined with their oversized drink servings, Big Bar’s food portions enhance the communal spirit by encouraging sharing and sampling, which naturally fosters conversation and connection. This emphasis on generous servings is one reason groups are motivated to return—they appreciate a place where they can both indulge and feel the value for their outing.
How does Big Bar cater to different group sizes and types?
One of Big Bar’s strengths is its versatility in accommodating a range of group sizes and dynamics. Whether it’s an intimate circle of close friends or a larger gathering celebrating a milestone, the space and service adapt accordingly. The large venue and open layout mean that even on busy nights, there’s room to move, mingle, and find a comfortable spot for your group. For more casual meetups, the bar seating and cozy corners offer a laid-back environment, while bigger parties can take advantage of the expansive dance floor or dedicated areas for celebrating. The friendly staff also helps groups feel welcome regardless of their reasons for coming together—be it after-work cocktails, weekend celebrations, or just casual catch-ups. The bar’s popularity among a diverse crowd—college students, professionals, neighborhood regulars—means your group will find a lively but not overwhelming crowd, enhancing the group vibe. This flexibility makes Big Bar a solid choice for any type of group meetup, where everyone can find their rhythm together.
What makes Big Bar stand out compared to other local bars?
Big Bar differentiates itself with its commitment to the “big” concept—offering an experience that embraces scale without sacrificing quality or atmosphere. Many patrons highlight the unique size of drinks as a novelty and a draw that immediately sets the bar apart. Compared to more traditional, smaller bars that might feel cramped or mundane, Big Bar delivers an energetic venue that’s not quite a massive nightclub but certainly bigger and more dynamic than average. Its well-curated happy hour specials, friendly bartenders, and a constantly buzzing dance floor provide a combination rarely found in local bar scenes. While some have noted minor issues like a small coat check area, the overall customer experience is one of fun, value, and inclusivity. Importantly, Big Bar manages to appeal to both the college crowd that loves the social drinking culture and older crowds who appreciate its lively but approachable vibe. This broad appeal makes it a mainstay destination for group outings that want more than just drinks—they want an entire experience.
How accessible and convenient is Big Bar for group meetups?
Convenience is critical when planning group meetups, and Big Bar’s location and amenities help make your planning easier and your night smoother. Located in lively city areas, Big Bar benefits from good access to public transportation and parking options, making it easy for anyone in your group to join regardless of their preferred mode of travel. The bar’s operating hours generally cover prime evening and late-night slots, giving plenty of flexibility for meetups after work or weekend parties. The reasonable drink and food prices support groups on a budget without compromising on fun or quality, reducing stress over cost-sharing. While it’s a large venue, Big Bar’s layout incorporates smart features like a coat check area and attentive bartenders that speed up service and reduce wait times—a big plus for groups eager to get straight to their night out. These practical aspects combine with Big Bar’s vibrant social atmosphere to create an ideal setting for hassle-free and enjoyable group gatherings.
What do customer reviews reveal about group experiences at Big Bar?
Customer feedback consistently highlights Big Bar as a welcoming, energetic place perfect for social gatherings. Many reviewers mention the fun, friendly bartenders and the inclusive vibe created by the diverse crowd, lending the impression of a neighborhood bar that’s alive with positive energy. The oversized drinks and generous portions are recurrent themes in reviews, often described as both a highlight and a reason groups choose Big Bar repeatedly. Some patrons note how the spacious environment makes it easier to socialize and dance, crucial for groups that want varied ways to connect. While a few reviews mention minor shortcomings like noise levels or limited coat check space, these are generally overshadowed by praise for the overall experience. Repeat visitors speak to Big Bar’s consistency in delivering a great night out, whether for casual pub crawls or special celebrations, which underlines its reliability as a group-friendly venue. These testimonials collectively position Big Bar as a trusted and beloved bar where groups can expect a big time.
This detailed overview captures why Big Bar is not only a good place but a great place to host meetups with friends or family, providing everything needed for a lively, memorable group outing.