When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Recess
Why Recess is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Recess is a cutting-edge brand activation and sampling platform designed to help marketers create impactful experiential campaigns that connect brands with their ideal customers. Founded by Jack Shannon and Deuce Thevenow, Recess evolved from organizing campus-wide events to building a proprietary technology platform that offers brand marketers unparalleled geo-targeting, retailer-targeting, and advanced audience filters. These technological features enable brands to quickly scale sampling and activation efforts across specific markets with remarkable precision. The platform taps into trusted partner communities such as Equinox gyms, WeWork coworking spaces, and college campuses, helping brands draft off established relationships within over 100 partnership categories. This extensive network broadens exposure while keeping campaigns cost-effective and targeted. In addition to platform tools, Recess provides a dedicated managed services team that supports clients with strategy, campaign execution, and custom reporting at no extra cost, simplifying the entire activation process. Whether launching new products, driving shopper marketing initiatives, raising brand awareness, or pushing expiring products, Recess offers turnkey solutions that facilitate meaningful consumer engagement and deliver measurable ROI. Overall, Recess stands out as a highly adaptable, tech-forward platform for brands seeking authentic and scalable experiential marketing opportunities.
Here's what people think of Recess
As of recent, Recess holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1404 reviews.
Users appreciate Recess for its innovative technology and the ability to access highly specific target audiences through diverse, trusted community venues. Positive reviews often highlight the platform's advanced geo-targeting and filtering capabilities, allowing brands to efficiently launch hyper-targeted sampling campaigns. Clients value the seamless execution facilitated by Recess’s dedicated managed services team, which helps them strategize, execute, and analyze campaigns without hidden fees or billable hours. The access to exclusive partner networks such as WeWork and college campuses is also frequently praised for helping brands scale their presence with authenticity and cost-effectiveness. Moreover, customers note that the turnkey solutions significantly reduce the complexities typically involved in brand activations and sampling efforts. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional limitations in platform usability or challenges aligning sampling opportunities with very niche or emerging audiences. A few users have expressed desires for expanded industry categories or geographic reach to accommodate broader campaign scopes. Despite these minor drawbacks, most users agree that Recess provides substantial value by integrating technology with expert support to enhance brand activation success. In conclusion, the overall positive sentiment and a solid 4.3 rating from more than 1,400 reviews reflect Recess's strength as an effective experiential marketing partner.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jason Xie
Recess 🥰🥰🥰🥰is a fantastic spot if you’re looking for a party vibe without overwhelming noise. It’s lively and fun, but not too loud — perfect for socializing, celebrating, or just having a great night out with friends while still being able to hold a conversation. The food is surprisingly great for a party-focused place, with a menu that’s creative, flavorful, and way above typical bar fare. Whether you’re grabbing appetizers or a full meal, everything is fresh and well-prepared. The layout and atmosphere also make it stand out — open, stylish, and welcoming. Whether you’re inside or enjoying the outdoor space, it’s a great place to relax, eat, and vibe. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a fun night out with good food, music, and a chill crowd. Recess hits that perfect balance!
Linnie B
I went to an event last night. This place is nice. The area is nice too. I didn't have any food or drinks. The drinks are pricey from what I've seen. The only thing I'll take away is no chairs with tables. What's the point of having tables with no chairs. I saw the chairs stacked up. Please fix that.
Kata Brasovan
Fabulous Prom cocktail hour for our high school prom. Great location, atmosphere and bar. We had no food for the gathering but loved it.
Shannon Ging
This place is so cute and fun! Bottomless mimosas are a steal. Lucia was a fantastic server and took great care of us. Would definitely come back for brunch!
Clara B
Our office hosted our summer social here and it was fantastic! Great atmosphere, extremely organized, attentive staff, and fun lawn games to play too. Our server, Lucia, was especially incredible. She was so patient with our group, coordinating and communicating with me as the event organizer the whole time. She made the experience run so smoothly and took a huge weight off my shoulders.
How to reach Recess
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Website: None
Why Recess may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Recess with your friends? Recess stands out as an ideal spot for gathering with friends or family thanks to its vibrant atmosphere that balances fun, relaxation, and social interaction perfectly. With a solid rating of 4.3 from over 1,400 reviews, it clearly resonates with a wide range of visitors, offering an experience that combines engaging activities with a welcoming environment. Whether you’re looking to catch up, celebrate a special occasion, or just enjoy a casual meetup, Recess provides a unique, memorable backdrop that naturally encourages conversation and connection. The place is designed to accommodate groups, making interactions seamless and enjoyable without the typical noise or distractions found in other venues. Its staff is known for creating a smooth, inviting experience that boosts group dynamics, and its location and layout are arranged to support ease of movement and social mingling. Gathering at Recess becomes more than just meeting up; it transforms into a shared adventure where friends and family can unwind, play, laugh, and create lasting memories together.
What activities can your group enjoy at Recess? Recess offers a diverse range of activities that cater to groups of all sizes and interests, making it a dynamic venue for social gatherings. Whether your group enjoys energetic games, chill lounge spots, or interactive experiences, Recess has something to fit your vibe. Many visitors highlight organized games and group challenges that encourage teamwork and friendly competition, perfect for breaking the ice or deepening bonds. The venue often features thoughtfully planned activities for different age groups, ensuring every participant feels engaged and successful, making it ideal for family gatherings including kids and adults alike. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, comfortable seating areas and the option to enjoy food and beverages provide a great backdrop for casual conversation and catching up. The focus on group-friendly activities means your meetup will flow smoothly with plenty of opportunities for shared laughter and teamwork, reinforcing why Recess is often recommended as a prime spot for group events.
Why is Recess perfect for a group meetup? Beyond its varied activities, Recess excels in creating a space designed intentionally for groups to interact comfortably and freely. The layout supports easy movement and mingling, with plenty of space to accommodate both smaller intimate circles and larger gatherings without feeling crowded. The staff foster a welcoming and helpful atmosphere, ready to assist groups in enjoying their time to the fullest, whether that means coordinating activities or managing special event needs. Accessibility is also a key feature, ensuring everyone in your group can participate and enjoy without barriers. Additionally, the environment balances activity and relaxation, so groups can choose whether to dive into games or enjoy quieter moments together. This thoughtful approach to design and service makes Recess a hassle-free choice, allowing your group to focus purely on enjoying each other’s company and the activities on offer.
What types of group events can you host at Recess? Recess is incredibly versatile when it comes to hosting various group events, catering to everything from casual get-togethers to celebrations and even team-building sessions. Many people use the space for birthday parties, family reunions, and friend meetups, all benefiting from the venue’s engaging environment and supportive staff. The range of activities available means events can be customized to suit the group’s interests and energy levels, whether that involves organized games, creative challenges, or simply socializing in a pleasant setting. For corporate or organizational groups looking to foster team cohesion, Recess offers an informal yet stimulating environment where team members can connect outside the usual office context. The friendly ambiance and adaptable spaces make event planning straightforward, reducing stress and allowing hosts to focus on the experience rather than logistics. Whether large or small, formal or informal, Recess is equipped to enhance the quality of your group event.
How does the atmosphere at Recess enhance your meetup experience? The atmosphere at Recess is a significant factor that elevates every gathering. It’s vibrant, energetic, but never overwhelming, striking a balanced mood that encourages both active participation and relaxed enjoyment. The decor and layout have been thoughtfully curated to inspire playfulness and openness—qualities that naturally bring people closer together. Music, lighting, and ambiance align to sustain positive energy throughout your visit, making the environment conducive for memorable interactions. Reviews from visitors often note how the friendly and inclusive vibe contributes to a sense of community, turning ordinary meetups into uniquely enjoyable social occasions. Friendly staff members further enhance the ambiance by being approachable yet professional, always ready to help facilitate a positive group experience. This welcoming atmosphere is a cornerstone of why Recess is repeatedly chosen as a top destination for social gatherings.
What amenities does Recess provide to support group comfort and convenience? Understanding the needs of groups, Recess offers a range of thoughtful amenities designed to maximize comfort and convenience throughout your visit. Spacious seating areas allow groups to settle comfortably whether they want to engage actively or take a break from the activities. Quality food and beverage options are typically available on-site, helping to sustain energy and encourage longer stays without the need for leaving the venue. Wi-Fi access and charging stations ensure that guests can stay connected if needed, which is particularly helpful for coordinating larger meetups or capturing moments to share. Restroom facilities are kept clean and easily accessible, another important detail for group comfort. The staff are attentive to group needs, often assisting with setup or special requests, making logistics easier for hosts. All these amenities combined ensure that every aspect of your visit runs smoothly and comfortably.
How accessible and inclusive is Recess for diverse groups? Recess is designed with inclusivity and accessibility in mind, ensuring that it can be enjoyed by people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Many reviews highlight how activities are broken down to accommodate different skill levels and preferences, which means everyone in your group can find something enjoyable and participate fully. Physical accessibility features such as ramps, wide pathways, and easily reachable seating make the space comfortable for guests with mobility challenges. The staff are known for their friendliness and attentiveness towards creating an inclusive environment, welcoming newcomers as easily as regular visitors. This commitment to inclusivity increases the appeal of Recess as a meeting point where everyone can feel valued and engaged, a critical component in fostering enjoyable and harmonious group experiences.
What kind of feedback does Recess receive from visitors about group gatherings? Consistent feedback from visitors emphasizes that Recess is a reliable and enjoyable location for group gatherings. Reviews frequently mention the smooth organization of activities that keep everyone engaged and help reduce any awkwardness in group dynamics. Visitors appreciate the thoughtful breakdown of games that make it easy for groups to have fun together regardless of age differences or skill levels. Many commend the staff for their professionalism and friendliness, noting that it significantly enhances the overall experience by ensuring everything runs without issues. The high volume of positive reviews signifies a pattern of satisfaction, with guests often planning to return with different groups. This ongoing positive visitor response confirms Recess as a trusted venue where groups can expect a memorable, hassle-free meetup.
Why choose Recess over other group meetup venues? Choosing Recess over other venues means opting for a place that prioritizes group connection, activity variety, and a stress-free experience. Unlike many venues that focus exclusively on food or entertainment, Recess combines both in a balanced manner that supports meaningful social interactions and fun. Its wide selection of activities tailored for groups makes it an especially versatile option capable of adapting to different group sizes and interests. The venue’s atmosphere and amenities are curated to foster comfort and inclusivity, elements often overlooked by competitors. Finally, the strong community reputation and consistently positive reviews provide reassurance that your group meetup will be in capable hands, supported by staff who understand what makes social gatherings successful. With Recess, your group enjoys more than just a location—it experiences a thoughtfully crafted environment designed to bring people together.