When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
City Pool Hall & Sports Bar
Why City Pool Hall & Sports Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
City Pool Hall & Sports Bar offers a sophisticated and vibrant environment perfect for meeting up with friends and enjoying quality time. Unlike traditional, smoky pool halls, this spacious venue boasts a clean, well-maintained setting with a 3,000 square-foot carpeted playing area hosting a dozen high-end Brunswick Gold Crown IV tables, great for both novice and hardcore pool players. Its friendly atmosphere caters to all skill levels, making it a standout nightlife destination in Chicago. Beyond pool, guests can enjoy a small fenced patio that doubles as a beer garden and smoker’s lounge, alongside a variety of games including darts and arcade options, fostering social engagement in multiple ways. Food and drink options are broad, featuring a diverse menu with both classic bar snacks and full meals, complemented by an extensive beverage selection including beer, cocktails, and martinis. The venue’s daily drink specials and affordable pricing make it an attractive choice for casual outings. Open from 11 AM to 2 AM daily, City Pool Hall is ideal for daytime meetups or late-night fun, accommodating groups of all sizes with reservation options. Whether you're looking to sharpen your pool skills, enjoy a casual meal, or relax with friends over drinks, City Pool Hall & Sports Bar provides a refreshing take on the classic pool hall experience in a lively and welcoming Chicago setting.
Here's what people think of City Pool Hall & Sports Bar
As of recent, City Pool Hall & Sports Bar holds a 4.4-star rating based on 530 reviews.
User reviews generally praise City Pool Hall for its uniquely stylish and clean environment, which departs positively from the stereotypical dim and dingy pool hall. Many visitors appreciate the quality of the Brunswick Gold Crown IV tables and the friendly, welcoming atmosphere, highlighting it as a top spot for both serious and casual pool players. The diverse selection of games, the relaxed patio space, and the reasonable prices for both pool play and beverages also receive commendation in positive feedback. Customers enjoy the well-curated food and drink menu with frequent mentions of tasty wings, sliders, and a good beer selection, enhancing the overall experience at the bar. However, some negative reviews focus on inconsistent staff service and occasional dissatisfaction with the food quality, with a few critics calling out the cooking or preparation. A minority mention that pool pricing is somewhat steep compared to other venues, which may impact frequent visits. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment remains favorable, with patrons valuing the establishment’s quality, ambience, and community vibe. In conclusion, while not without occasional drawbacks, City Pool Hall & Sports Bar is well-regarded as a clean, friendly, and well-equipped venue that successfully blends the social buzz of a sports bar with a premium pool-playing experience, making it a recommended destination for friends seeking entertainment in Chicago.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jennifer Winthurst
I really enjoyed my time here. This place is very affordable. They have daily drinks specials. We went on a Saturday and they had $4.00 Angry orchard bottles. We didn't eat but their menu looked good. For pool prices one person is $14.00 an hour, Two people $18.00 an hour and Three or more$21.00 an hour. There are no time limits when you're playing pool. They had a game room, that has darts and some arcade games. They have a lot of pool cues and the blue chalk. They had an outdoor area. They also have pool leagues. They also have an ATM machine. I will definitely be back. It's also very clean and the staff was nice.
Meena Jain
The place has amazing vibes. People from various genres and corners of life gather here to play pool. So manageable and food here is good. Service e is good staff is very nice. Very alert and friendly. I had a good time mozzarella sticks with buffalo sauce is a must try thing. Tables are in good condition and of course you get house cues to play with bits interesting to watch people competitive leagues. In today’s times best place to spend time without screen. Cherry on the top is their music.
Rey Colón
I thought about this place after stopping at Output which had a 45 minute wait. Their wings are good but not worth the wait for this divey place. I remembered City Pool Hall, their food and the good memories there. It was a blessing in disguise. Full, but not slammed. Clean, controlled and chill atmosphere. Everything we ordered was delicious and cooked to order so there was a wait but for good reason. Beers, wings, chilli and fajitas. All on point, affordable and a better choice than where I was heading that evening. I will have to keep this place in mind. Especially when shooting some pool.
Asher Polo
One of the best places I have ever been to. Quiet and attentive staff. Tables are well taken care of and the only thing I didn't like is that the ball return sends everything to the same slot. But that's personal preference. Great place to play pool. Plus beers are cheap and cold ❄️ just how I like it. I just hope I can convince the wife to live closer to here. If I could walk there I'd be there every day
RICK BOGUS
The atmosphere of the bar/ pool hall was very chill. The drinks, however, tasted like cheap alcohol and not name brand. All the mixed drinks were bitter. Street parking was very accessible.
How to reach City Pool Hall & Sports Bar
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Why City Pool Hall & Sports Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
City Pool Hall & Sports Bar is an exceptional venue that invites friends and family to gather, enjoy good food, and engage in exciting activities in a lively yet comfortable setting. With a solid 4.4 rating based on over 530 reviews, it balances vibrant social energy with a welcoming atmosphere, making it the ideal spot to rally your group. Whether you are a seasoned pool player or just looking for a fun night out, City Pool Hall offers a polished, well-maintained environment far removed from the smoky, cramped pool halls of the past. Its location in Chicago’s West Loop means easy accessibility and a trendy neighborhood backdrop that enhances the overall experience. The venue artfully combines a high-quality sports bar with a restaurant and recreational hub, offering something for everyone in the group. With daily drink specials, a full menu of appetizing dishes, and a range of entertainment options, it’s not just a place to play pool—it’s a destination where friendships can be strengthened, celebrations can unfold, and a memorable evening is virtually guaranteed.
What fun activities can you find at City Pool Hall & Sports Bar?
The true heart and soul of City Pool Hall & Sports Bar lie in its impressive offering of sporting activities, especially for pool enthusiasts. The venue boasts nine meticulously maintained Brunswick Gold Crown IV pool tables, which are widely recognized among players as the best in the game. These tables include six 9-foot and three 8-foot tables, perfectly suited for both passionate competitors and casual players alike. Beyond pool, the facility provides a variety of additional entertainment options to keep everyone engaged, such as darts and several video arcade games. The pool playing area spans approximately 3,000 square feet, creating an open, spacious environment free of obstructive pillars, fostering uninterrupted gameplay and social interaction. Whether your group is looking to engage in friendly competition or just enjoy the casual ambiance of watching a sports event on any of the ten flat screen TVs scattered around the venue, City Pool Hall offers a dynamic atmosphere that caters to diverse tastes and interests.
How does City Pool Hall & Sports Bar enhance group meetups with food and drink?
The food and beverage offerings at City Pool Hall & Sports Bar play a crucial role in making it a standout destination for group gatherings. Patrons praise their diverse menu, featuring popular bar classics like wings, nachos, burgers, and sliders—all designed to satisfy different appetites and preferences. The kitchen consistently delivers well-prepared dishes that complement the lively, social environment, providing the sustenance needed for long hours of fun and conversation. Coupled with the food is an impressive full bar featuring daily drink specials, a broad selection of beers including zero-alcohol options, as well as cocktails and shots. This balance of quality cuisine and drink specials not only ensures affordability but also encourages guests to linger and enjoy the evening to the fullest. The presence of an outdoor sidewalk café further allows groups to enjoy pleasant weather while sharing a bite or drink, enhancing the venue’s suitability as a social hub throughout the year.
Why is City Pool Hall & Sports Bar perfect for various types of groups?
City Pool Hall & Sports Bar shines as a versatile venue capable of accommodating different group sizes and purposes. Whether it’s a casual meetup with friends, a family outing, a birthday party, or a corporate gathering, this sports bar’s layout and amenities provide an all-around excellent experience. The hourly pool pricing structure is straightforward: $14/hour for individual play and discounted rates for two or more players, making it budget-friendly for groups. The spacious interior and arrangement of tables encourage mingling without overcrowding, which is a critical aspect when hosting larger groups. The multiple televisions showing sports events further enrich the ambiance, allowing non-players or fans of different interests to stay entertained. Additionally, the attentive and friendly staff enhance the welcoming vibe, ensuring smooth service that keeps the group’s focus on enjoying the moment. For those wanting a blend of competitive fun, great food, and comfortable companionship, City Pool Hall offers an unbeatable combination.
What makes City Pool Hall & Sports Bar stand out compared to other venues?
City Pool Hall & Sports Bar distinguishes itself from typical pool halls and bars through its exceptional maintenance, quality offerings, and community-driven environment. Unlike many older, smoky pool halls with worn-out tables, this venue features top-tier Brunswick tables that appeal to both novices and experts, reflecting an investment in quality that speaks volumes. The spacious, carpeted playing area is meticulously kept, creating an inviting and clean atmosphere. The addition of darts, video games, and an outdoor beer garden/smoker’s lounge broadens the activity spectrum beyond pool, catering to more preferences within a group. Moreover, its central West Loop location makes it a convenient and trendy spot to visit. Taken together with prompt and pleasant service, affordable pricing, and a vibrant social setting filled with sports fans and game lovers, City Pool Hall & Sports Bar surpasses expectations for a modern sports bar experience. It successfully merges the spirit of competitive play with the comfort of a welcoming lounge, solidifying its place as a top choice for gatherings.
How accessible and convenient is the venue for a group meetup?
Accessibility and convenience are key strengths of City Pool Hall & Sports Bar that add to its appeal as a meetup spot. Open Monday through Saturday from 11 AM to 2 AM, it offers an extensive window for guests to drop in for lunch, happy hour, or a late night of pool and socializing. Located in Chicago’s bustling West Loop near Hubbard and Des Plaines, it’s well situated for locals and visitors alike, with a safe neighborhood offering ample transportation options. The venue’s design with a large playing area free of obstructive columns means groups can easily navigate and arrange seating or standing zones suited to their social dynamic. The onsite ATM and full-service bar further ease the practical aspects of group management. These factors ensure that no matter the occasion, City Pool Hall provides both logistical ease and the vibrant atmosphere vital for a successful group meetup.
What kind of crowd and vibe can guests expect at City Pool Hall?
At City Pool Hall & Sports Bar, guests can anticipate a friendly, energetic atmosphere that skillfully blends a sport-centered vibe with relaxed socializing. The clientele varies from die-hard pool competitors to casual players and sports fans who come to watch games or enjoy the bar setting. The venue explicitly appeals to both experts and newcomers, emphasizing community engagement and approachable fun, making it inclusive for all levels of skill and interest. Music, loud cheers over a good shot, and the buzz of conversation mix seamlessly with the ambient sound from the multiple flat screens showing live sports. While some reviews mention occasional inconsistencies in staff behavior, the overall consensus highlights a pleasant, attentive service team that contributes to an enjoyable experience. This collective environment fosters camaraderie and competition while allowing groups to bond over shared activities, drinks, and memorable moments.
What should you know before you go to City Pool Hall & Sports Bar?
Before heading to City Pool Hall & Sports Bar, there are a few practical points to keep in mind to optimize your visit. First, because of the popularity and limited number of pool tables (nine total), it’s wise to call ahead and reserve a table, especially if you’re coming with a larger group or during peak hours. Pool is charged by the hour with clear pricing tiers based on the number of players, which helps budget your time. While the food and drink offerings receive mostly positive remarks, be aware that a small number of patrons have expressed dissatisfaction with the food, so it’s best to explore the menu variety and seek recommendations from staff. The venue enforces an age restriction of 21 and over to shoot pool, so planning accordingly is important when bringing groups that include younger members. Lastly, take advantage of the outdoor patio during warmer months for a refreshing change of scenery. Understanding these elements will ensure a smooth, enjoyable outing whether for routine fun or special celebration.
City Pool Hall & Sports Bar embodies a refined yet vibrant place to socialize, compete, and enjoy delicious food and drinks. Its array of activities, comfortable environment, and friendly vibe make it a prime location for hosting meetups with friends or family. This is a venue where high-quality pool tables meet varied entertainment options and where guests are supported by attentive staff in a trendy Chicago neighborhood. Whether your group is looking to unwind after work, celebrate a special occasion, or simply gather for a spirited game night, City Pool Hall offers an inviting, well-rounded experience that keeps guests coming back.