When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Joe's on Weed St.
Why Joe's on Weed St. is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Joe's on Weed St. is a large, energetic venue in Chicago that blends the best of a sports bar, live music stage, and private party hub all under one roof. Spanning 20,000 square feet, this warehouse-style space near Lincoln Park offers a rich mix of American bar and pub fare alongside a lively ambience perfect for hanging out with friends. Whether you're looking to catch your favorite team on one of the many flat-screen TVs, enjoy a live music performance, or celebrate a special occasion, Joe's accommodates it all with style. The venue features multiple bars, a spacious dance floor, a permanent live music stage, and numerous seating options including large booths with individual flat screens. Its rooftop patio and expansive private event spaces make it a standout spot for groups large and small. Sophisticated yet casual, Joe's welcomes guests for lunch, dinner, late-night drinks, and weekends filled with robust happy hours and live entertainment. This venue brings together sport, sound, and social interaction in a way that keeps regulars coming back and new visitors discovering a versatile Chicago hotspot.
Here's what people think of Joe's on Weed St.
As of recent, Joe's on Weed St. holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1490 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Joe's on Weed St. for its vibrant and fun atmosphere, ideal for catching sports games and enjoying live music performances. Positive feedback highlights delicious sandwiches with reasonable pricing and friendly staff, contributing to a welcoming environment. Many guests appreciate the venue’s spacious layout and variety of screens making it perfect for sports fan gatherings and private celebrations. The private booths with personal flat screens and multiple bars throughout the space are frequently mentioned as a favorite feature for comfort and convenience. However, some negative reviews point to occasional understaffing during busy times which can affect service quality, and a few guests have noted inconsistency in attentiveness from waitstaff. A very small number of visitors have mentioned experience issues, but these are outnumbered by enthusiastic recommendations. Overall, the majority of reviews reflect a positive experience at Joe’s with guests frequently returning for its enthusiastic vibe, great party spaces, and an enjoyable blend of sports, music, and good food. It remains a well-regarded venue in Chicago’s bar scene for those seeking both casual meetups and memorable private events.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ashley Chandler
Had such a blast! Great place, great people, and even better entertainment
James K
1st time for Live Music. The QR code ( menu) at the table wasn't working even though the server was told by management it would be working in a few minutes. Service was slow, and it was not busy at all, 12-14 tables were occupied. Messed up our 2 appetizers. they push you to keep a tab open then keep your CC. Not sure where it's kept. Not very secure. With all of the available tableside technology, they should be able to have a table kiosk where you can initially place an order with a server. The kiosk records the order then i have the ability to order refills and such then pay at the table. The Live concert was great, fun and intimate space with 3 available bars.
Jeff Hunt
Great Venue! Awesome show by Cooper Alan last night! Very entertaining and high energy. Nice open area with 3 Bars. Plenty of room and service. No lines for drinks. Will definitely consider coming back to Joe's for future shows.
Alexander Wolodzko
This place could violate every OSHA and FDA regulation and be on the verge of condemnation and I would still rate it 5 stars. IU ride or day baby. IU for life. Hoosier nation. Also the drinks were pretty good. Snacks good, too. *** Note: Facility seemed to be compliant in every respect Cream and crimson in my veins.
Zarifa M. El
Burners are needed to keep the food warm, or a microwave to heat up appetizers on the downstairs and upstairs priority areas. More seating was needed. Great photos, nice rooftop. Thanks, for the free beer! Floor was sticky by mid dj booth. Some crazy drunk hater, should have been sent out by security. Omg, Doug E Fresh, Estelle, and Goapele, surprised this place wasn't packed, a Monday night was a strange night I guess. Please, get some premier bottled water, like Fiji or evian. Who drinks tap?
How to reach Joe's on Weed St.
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Why Joe's on Weed St. may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Joe's on Weed St. with your friends?
Joe’s on Weed St. in Chicago offers a vibrant and energetic atmosphere that makes it a perfect destination for gathering with friends or family. Whether you're looking to enjoy lively live music, watch sports with a passionate crowd, or just share a meal and drinks in a relaxed, yet upbeat setting, Joe's delivers an experience that caters to groups well. The venue's reputation for friendly staff and good service creates a welcoming environment where guests feel at ease to chat, laugh, and create memories together. The diverse lineup of country and other music genres ensures there’s something for everyone’s taste, making it an ideal rallying spot for mixed groups. Moreover, with a full-service bar and restaurant onsite, you can enjoy delicious food and a wide selection of drinks before or during shows, making the entire evening seamless and enjoyable without needing to move venues. The location’s reputation for quality entertainment combined with a social, communal vibe makes Joe’s on Weed St. an unbeatable choice when planning a fun and memorable meetup with friends or family.
What activities are available at Joe's on Weed St. that make it ideal for group meetups?
Joe's on Weed St. offers a variety of activities and entertainment options that create an engaging environment for group gatherings. Primarily, the venue is famous for its live music shows, featuring a solid lineup of country music alongside other genres that attracts both locals and visitors. These concerts provide a shared experience to enjoy with friends, creating lasting memories in a festive setting. Alongside music, Joe’s frequently hosts sports viewing events where groups can come together to cheer on their favorite teams, surrounded by a lively crowd that enhances the excitement. Additionally, Joe’s has a full-service bar and restaurant, where friends can start an evening by sharing appetizers like their signature huge soft pretzel and sandwiches that have won praise for their flavor and value. The venue’s design encourages mingling, with ample seating and a social space that facilitates conversation. The option to get dinner before a show or stay late into the night makes it versatile for any meetup length or type. These combined features ensure Joe's provides an all-in-one experience perfectly suited for group socializing.
Why does Joe's on Weed St. stand out as a venue for group entertainment?
Joe’s on Weed St. stands out because it blends top-notch live entertainment, quality food and drinks, and a warmly social atmosphere all under one roof. Its focus on genres like country music offers something unique in Chicago’s bar scene, drawing enthusiastic crowds who are actively engaged and fun-loving, which greatly enhances the group experience. The staff's reputation for excellent service, including beer sold directly on the concert floor by servers walking through the crowd, highlights the venue's commitment to guest convenience and enjoyment. Moreover, the venue's layout promotes comfort while providing energy, balancing a lively concert hall atmosphere with spaces to converse and relax before and after shows. For groups wanting to do more than just drink, Joe's offers a well-rounded night out — you can enjoy a meal, watch a concert or sports game, and socialize in a friendly, dynamic environment. This combination of factors makes it a standout choice for anyone planning events or casual gatherings with friends or family.
What kind of food and drink options can groups expect at Joe's on Weed St.?
Groups visiting Joe’s on Weed St. can expect a varied menu of classic bar fare and comforting dishes designed to please a crowd. Popular offerings include huge soft pretzels, sandwiches, and other satisfying items that pair well with the venue’s wide selection of drinks. The bar serves a robust lineup of cocktails, beers, and other beverages, ensuring that every guest can find something to enjoy. The food and drink prices are generally reasonable, allowing groups to dine without breaking the bank. The options are well-suited for sharing among friends, making it easy to sample several dishes in a communal style. Additionally, the friendly and attentive staff contribute to a pleasant dining experience that keeps groups coming back. Whether arriving early for a meal before a show or stopping by for drinks and snacks during an event, Joe’s menu supports a relaxed, social vibe that enhances group bonding.
How accessible and convenient is Joe's on Weed St. for hosting group events?
Joe’s on Weed St. offers convenience and accessibility that makes it suitable for groups planning meetups. While street parking near the venue is limited, there is a nearby pay lot at 1555 N Sheffield with prices ranging based on the day and duration, which simplifies parking logistics for visitors arriving by car. The venue has coat check available for most shows, adding a layer of convenience when attending events in cooler weather, especially for larger parties. Its weekday and weekend hours cover prime times for evening entertainment and late-night socializing, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays catering to groups wishing to stay out late. The venue also welcomes event inquiries, and their dedicated events team assists with group bookings, which is ideal for birthdays, reunions, or other celebrations. With a mix of live shows, food service, and an accommodating layout, Joe’s on Weed St. provides a well-rounded, accessible option for hosting an effortless, enjoyable gathering.
What should groups consider when planning their meetup at Joe's on Weed St.?
Groups planning to meet at Joe’s on Weed St. should consider a few practical details to maximize their experience. Because the venue is popular for live music and sports, it can get crowded, especially during highly anticipated events, so it’s wise to plan for early arrival or make reservations where possible. Given that the venue enforces no flash photography and has a cell phone policy to maintain the concert experience, guests should be prepared to respect these rules for performers and other attendees. The dynamic atmosphere means noise levels can be high, which is great for an immersive experience but might not suit groups seeking quiet conversation, so planning meetups around dinner or less busy times could be beneficial. Also, attendees should factor in parking logistics in advance since street parking is limited, and use the nearby lots to avoid stress. Finally, checking the event schedule and booking through the venue’s events team can ensure smooth group coordination. Overall, understanding these considerations can help groups fully enjoy all Joe’s on Weed St. has to offer.
Why is Joe’s on Weed St. highly rated by its visitors?
Visitors frequently highlight Joe’s on Weed St. for its great live music, friendly staff, and tasty food offerings, which together create an engaging and welcoming environment. Many reviewers praise the venue’s concert sound quality and the variety of musical acts, especially country music shows, making it a favorite spot for enthusiasts to gather. The staff’s attentive and friendly customer service, including innovative touches like mobile beer servers during events, enhances the overall experience. Visitors also appreciate the affordability of the food menu paired with generous portions, contributing to high overall value. While some past reviews mention occasional service slowness, many guests find that the lively atmosphere and quality entertainment outweigh minor inconveniences. The combination of a strong entertainment lineup, solid food and beverage options, and convivial ambiance supports its consistent 4.3-star rating from nearly 1,500 reviews, underscoring why it remains a go-to venue in Chicago for fun group outings.
How does Joe's on Weed St. accommodate diverse groups and events?
Joe’s on Weed St. is flexible and welcoming to a wide range of groups and event types, making it an adaptable venue for everything from casual friend meetups to more organized celebrations. The venue actively encourages musicians and bands to collaborate, offering opportunities for live performances that keep the entertainment fresh and exciting. Their event team is available to assist with specialized event planning needs, allowing groups to customize gatherings with food, drinks, and space arrangements suited to their preferences. The combination of live music nights and sports viewing means groups can tailor their visit to their interests, whether that’s a lively concert or a game day party. Joe’s layout also supports both smaller, intimate groups and larger parties, with enough room for mingling and socializing comfortably. This versatility ensures Joe’s on Weed St. is more than just a bar or concert hall—it’s a community hub where diverse gatherings can thrive.
What makes Joe's on Weed St. an unbeatable choice for memorable meetups?
Joe's on Weed St. combines a unique mix of quality entertainment, social atmosphere, and practical amenities that few other venues in Chicago can match. Its reputation for delivering live music shows — especially country — in an environment where guests feel engaged yet comfortable is exceptional. Coupled with a well-stocked bar, hearty food options, and a staff that puts customer experience first, it creates the perfect backdrop for friends and family to come together and celebrate. The venue’s attention to convenience through services like coat check and event support further enhances its appeal for group events. With a large number of positive reviews attesting to the enjoyable experience and many visitors returning for repeat visits, Joe’s on Weed St. has earned its spot as a top pick for anyone looking to plan a fun, hassle-free night out with their favorite people. It’s a place where great entertainment meets good company, ensuring every meetup is memorable.