When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar
Why RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar offers a unique and inviting space to meet up with friends in the heart of Chicago. Located on the third floor of the Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel, it boasts breathtaking views of the Chicago River and city skyline from its open rooftop deck. The venue blends a stylish industrial aesthetic with eclectic, raw finishes, creating an atmosphere that is both urban and relaxed. With comfortable seating options ranging from vintage leather couches to vibrant lounge chairs and communal tables, it caters to groups of all sizes whether you seek a cozy night out or a lively social gathering. The rooftop terrace is equipped with fire pits, heaters, Adirondack chairs, and couches situated for optimal scenic enjoyment, making it a perfect spot year-round. RAISED is well suited for celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, small weddings, and corporate events due to its versatility. Guests can enjoy a dynamic seasonal cocktail menu highlighting locally sourced ingredients and creative craftsmanship, alongside a menu of gourmet shareable plates with a modern twist on American cuisine. This blend of atmospheric design, stunning views, and quality food and drink offerings establishes RAISED as a standout urban rooftop destination for reconnecting with friends, celebrating milestones, or simply unwinding in style.
Here's what people think of RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar
As of recent, RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar holds a 4.2-star rating based on 1487 reviews.
Across nearly 1,500 reviews, RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar holds a solid rating around 4.2 stars, reflecting generally positive guest experiences. Patrons frequently praise the spectacular vantage points of the Chicago River and skyline offered from the rooftop, emphasizing how the views greatly enhance the ambiance. Many also commend the quality and creativity of the cocktails, noting the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and the inviting presentation of drinks. The interior's mix of comfortable, stylish seating and the welcoming, relaxed atmosphere are commonly highlighted as key features for socializing or special occasions. Positive feedback often mentions the attentive and friendly service, as well as the versatile space that accommodates both intimate gatherings and larger events. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional issues such as slow service during peak hours and higher price points which may not meet all guests' expectations for value. A few guests feel the bar can be crowded and noisy, which may detract from a quieter experience. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus is that RAISED provides a memorable rooftop bar experience with excellent drinks, views, and atmosphere. In conclusion, the positive aspects dominate the reviews, making it a recommended urban spot in Chicago for both casual nights out and special celebrations.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Arina Shevchenko
Such a great spot for cocktails with a view! 🍸 We stopped by for a few drinks and a bite, and it did not disappoint! The atmosphere is relaxed but lively, with stunning views of the Chicago skyline all around. Perfect place to unwind, enjoy well-crafted cocktails, and share some delicious bites. The food was surprisingly good for a rooftop bar, flavorful and nicely presented. Highly recommend for date nights, out-of-town guests or just treating yourself ❤️
Hilda Hernandez
The service was a little slow because they were busy, but nothing outrageous which was great. Despite the wait for an outdoor table, my friends and I had a great time. The food was really good and so was the atmosphere. There were nice areas to take pictures. The service was attentive. We had a blast.
Erick Melendez
I recently visited RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar. The service was great—friendly and attentive staff, and the vibe was really nice. Unfortunately, the food didn’t quite meet expectations. I ordered a burger and a type of steak stew, and both dishes were extremely salty, which made it hard to enjoy the flavors. I really wanted to love the food as much as the atmosphere, but I hope they make some adjustments in the kitchen. Still, a great spot for drinks and a view!
Ron Bononno
We expected a lot from Raised Rooftop bar and when it came to our loft drink expectations, the bar and service fully delivered....BUT we were deciding between a few roof tops bars for drinks and dinner and chose Raised.....this is NOT a rooftop....it's a patio, on the 3rd floor. We wound up just ordering fries (which were excellent) and moved on. Highly recommend this place but it is NOT a rooftop bar
Hannah I
The food was good! Portion sizes were also sufficient. I did find Taiwanese popcorn chicken oily and more batter than the chicken itself, so it was not my preferred choice. The mushroom truffle Sachetti was my favorite, with their special beetroot ravioli.
How to reach RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar
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Why RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Raised | An Urban Rooftop Bar with your friends?
If you’re looking for the ultimate gathering spot to rally with friends and family in Chicago, Raised | An Urban Rooftop Bar stands out as a prime destination. Located atop the Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel with breathtaking views of the Chicago River and the city skyline, this rooftop bar offers more than just a scenic backdrop—it creates an immersive social experience in a stylish, urban setting. The atmosphere here marries relaxed luxury with an eclectic, industrial-chic design that immediately puts you and your group at ease, striking the perfect balance between sophistication and comfort. The space caters to groups of all sizes, making it equally ideal for intimate celebrations or larger social reunions. You’ll find a mix of plush vintage leather couches, vibrant lounge chairs, communal tables, and cozy fire pits, accommodating different moods and group dynamics. Beyond the ambiance, Raised delivers on food and drink with an impressive seasonal cocktail menu featuring handcrafted drinks made from locally sourced ingredients, complemented by shareable gourmet bites designed to enhance social dining. Whether it's reconnecting over signature cocktails, snapping photos of the stunning skyline, or just unwinding together, Raised makes any meetup feel special and memorable.
What activities can I enjoy at Raised | An Urban Rooftop Bar for a group meetup?
Raised offers a vibrant variety of activities and settings perfect for groups seeking fun, relaxation, and connection. First and foremost, entertaining your group with their award-winning cocktails is a must; the bar rotates its seasonal menus to present fresh and creative concoctions year-round—from refreshing summer poptails to cozy winter warmers like hot toddies. These drinks not only delight the palate but are also incredibly Instagram-worthy, perfect for capturing moments with friends. Besides the drinks, the culinary menu focuses on shareable plates that encourage communal dining and foster interaction, featuring American fare with a creative twist, such as their signature frites and charcuterie boards. For entertainment, Raised provides an open rooftop terrace equipped with fire pits and Adirondack chairs under heaters, inviting your crew to lounge outside under the stars regardless of the season. Indoor spaces boast cozy banquettes and communal tables alongside a media room and A/V equipment, so private events can include presentations or music curated for your group. Raised also offers amenities like valet and street parking, handicap accessibility, and even a pet-friendly policy, meaning logistics won’t complicate your outing. Whether you want to dance, chat privately, or enjoy the cityscape, Raised's versatile spaces adapt to your group's vibe effortlessly.
Why is Raised ideal for hosting group events and celebrations?
Raised is not just a bar; it’s a venue designed with group events and celebrations in mind, making it a robust choice for birthdays, anniversaries, rehearsal dinners, corporate mixers, and reunion parties. The venue accommodates up to 200 guests standing or 100 seated, offering distinct event spaces like the Urban Blue room, the indoor bar, and the outdoor patio or terrace, each equipped with the latest A/V technology to meet various event needs. The ability to host both indoor and outdoor gatherings ensures comfort year-round, capitalizing on Chicago’s scenic views regardless of the season. Their in-house caterer and suppliers guarantee a streamlined, high-quality food and beverage experience, removing common event planning headaches. They also provide conveniences such as coat checks, WiFi, and breakout rooms, which help accommodate group movement and interaction during longer events. Additionally, the bar’s urban rooftop charm coupled with versatile layout options supports both informal social gatherings and more structured celebrations, all enhanced by attentive service. Group pricing and customized event proposals make Raised flexible to budgets and event styles, enhancing its appeal as a reliable yet trendy venue to host memorable meetups.
What is the ambiance and seating like at Raised?
Upon entering Raised, you immediately notice its industrial aesthetic combined with an eclectic urban style marked by raw finishes and a casual yet refined vibe. The interior boasts a diverse seating arrangement, including vintage leather couches for relaxed conversations, vibrant lounge chairs that energize the space, banquettes for closer group dining, and high-top tables for casual mingling. This variety caters to different group dynamics, whether your party wants to engage in intimate talks or lively discussions over drinks. Large windows and the open roof deck provide panoramic views of the Chicago River and downtown skyline, placing guests literally "in the mix" of the city's vibrant energy while enjoying a laid-back atmosphere. The rooftop terrace features fire pits and heaters, making outdoor lounging comfortable even on cooler nights, complemented by Adirondack chairs and couches strategically positioned for optimal scenic views. This enticing blend of indoor comfort and outdoor allure creates a dynamic environment that encourages socializing, reconnecting, and celebrating with friends regardless of weather or time of day.
What food and drink options can groups expect at Raised?
Raised offers a culinary menu thoughtfully designed for sharing, which perfectly suits group meetups aiming to enjoy both quality and conviviality. The menu concentrates on American cuisine with inventive twists, featuring crowd-pleasers such as their signature hand-cut frites—ideal for nibbling between conversations—and diverse charcuterie boards that present an assortment of cheeses, meats, and accompaniments to satisfy various tastes. This focus on shareable plates fosters communal dining, promoting interaction among guests. The cocktail program stands out with a rotating seasonal selection crafted from locally sourced ingredients, giving guests exciting new flavors regularly. Whether your group prefers an expertly mixed classic, a creative seasonal poptail, or a warming hot toddy, the beverage offerings have something for every palate and time of year. The bar’s commitment to quality is evident in its award-winning drinks that are as visually striking as they are flavorful, often featuring fresh herbs, fruits, and artisan spirits. This combination of elevated drinks and thoughtfully prepared food makes Raised a place where groups can enjoy both gastronomy and good company, enhancing the overall meetup experience.
How accessible and convenient is Raised for group gatherings?
Accessibility and convenience are key strengths of Raised that further make it ideal for group events. The venue is centrally located in Chicago’s Loop at 1 W Wacker Dr, providing easy access for guests coming from various parts of the city. It offers handicap accessibility, ensuring all guests can enjoy the space comfortably. Parking options include street parking and valet service, alleviating typical downtown parking concerns that might deter group outings. With amenities like coat check and WiFi, guests have practical conveniences that enhance their comfort and connectivity during the event. Raised's policy of accommodating pets also means that groups don’t have to leave furry friends behind, adding an extra layer of convenience for pet-owning guests. For larger parties (8 or more), the venue automatically includes an 18% gratuity, simplifying billing, and although bills can’t be split into more than three checks per table, this encourages streamlined transactions for group accounts. The kitchen operates until 10 pm, allowing for extended dining and socializing, so your gathering can last well into the evening without rushing.
In what ways does Raised cater to different types of social events?
Raised's versatility shines in how it embraces a broad spectrum of social occasions, from casual nights out to milestone celebrations and professional events. Its multi-level design with indoor lounges, media-equipped rooms, and the rooftop terrace allows it to customize the vibe and functionality depending on the gathering type. Wedding rehearsal dinners, anniversary parties, graduations, and corporate mixers all find suitable space and ambiance here thanks to the venue’s adaptable seating and full-service catering. The blend of industrial charm with urban elegance makes it particularly attractive for groups that want an energetic yet sophisticated environment. Raised offers event planning support and packages tailored to group sizes and event needs, simplifying collaboration for hosts. Music, lighting, and audiovisual setups can be adjusted to accommodate anything from lively dancing to quiet conversations or presentations. This adaptability extends to seasonal changes, with the rooftop and outdoor areas featuring heaters and fire pits to keep guests comfortable in cooler weather, ensuring the venue remains inviting year-round. Overall, Raised is designed to transform easily into the perfect backdrop for any social gathering.
What makes Raised | An Urban Rooftop Bar a memorable venue in Chicago?
Raised’s distinct combination of location, design, and guest experience creates a memorable venue that resonates with locals and visitors alike. Its rooftop vantage point offers stunning panoramic views of the Chicago River and skyline unmatched by many other rooftops in the city, providing a visual feast that sets the tone for every visit. The space’s industrial yet eclectic decor along with cozy, diverse seating options makes guests feel at once stylishly urban and comfortably welcomed. Raised also commits to quality in every aspect—from the handcrafted cocktails using local ingredients to the shareable gourmet dishes—making each visit a culinary delight as well as a social experience. Its year-round operation with amenities like fire pits and heaters extends the rooftop urban oasis vibe beyond the summer months, so groups can enjoy elevated city views even on chillier evenings. The attentive service, combined with the venue’s flexibility to host anything from informal hangouts to elegant private events, ensures that every gathering leaves a lasting impression, elevating Raised above just a typical bar to a true urban rooftop destination.