When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market

Why Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market in Chicago offers a unique and captivating open-air movie experience atop the fifth-floor terrace of The Emily Hotel. This venue provides an enchanting atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends under the sky, complemented by stunning rooftop views of the Chicago skyline. Guests can enjoy a diverse lineup of films, ranging from classic favorites like “Mamma Mia,” “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” and “Pulp Fiction” to beloved contemporary movies. The setting encourages a relaxed social vibe where visitors arrive early to engage in lawn games, savor refreshing mimosas, and take in the cityscape before the screenings begin. Seating is available in single chairs or loveseats on a first-come, first-served basis, and attendees listen to the films through provided headphones, ensuring immersive audio without noise disruption. With ticket prices varying by seating and time, the club balances affordability with a premium rooftop cinema experience. The location within the vibrant Fulton Market district, known for its rich cultural attractions, dining, and nightlife, further enhances the appeal, making it an excellent choice for a memorable night out with friends.
Here's what people think of Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market
As of recent, Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market holds a 4.6-star rating based on 332 reviews.
User reviews of Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market give it an impressive 4.6-star rating based on over 300 reviews, indicating strong overall customer satisfaction. Positive feedback frequently highlights the spectacular rooftop setting and breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline that elevate the movie-watching experience. Guests appreciate the selection of classic and contemporary films as well as the quality of the LED screen and personal headphones that deliver clear sound. The social atmosphere with lawn games and pre-movie mingling is often mentioned as a highlight, making it a fun, casual gathering place with a trendy vibe. On the critical side, some guests mention the absence of reserved seating as a downside, occasionally leading to wait times for preferred spots. A few reviews note that ticket prices can feel high depending on the time and seating choice. Additionally, since seating is on the terrace, weather conditions can impact comfort. Despite these minor drawbacks, the majority of visitors conclude that Rooftop Cinema Club offers a distinctive and enjoyable cinema experience in an exceptional location, making it a recommended spot for friends seeking a blend of entertainment, ambiance, and city views.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Theresa Ousley
Great experience. We went in the evening around 10pm. The weather was perfect. They provide headphones to cancel out the outside noise. The seat are comfortable. There is a nice concession with food and drinks. I would definitely recommend.
Cierra
I had an incredible time at the Rooftop Cinema! I snagged last-minute tickets—thankfully, a few options were left, including one that came with popcorn. Even though we arrived 20 minutes late, the check-in process was a breeze, which set the tone for a fun evening. The popcorn was piping hot and absolutely delicious, and the drinks were refreshing, too. I highly recommend this experience! They offer a fantastic lineup of movies that cater to all tastes, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.🥰🍿📽
Deidre M Williams
It was a nice time here@Rooftop Cinema. The chairs are phenomenal. Not necessarily leaning back, but you are comfortable, and the head rest is a good addition. You can't revoke my black card, but I've never seen Love Jones before in its entirety. I know, i know, but what a love story it was. I'm happy I got a chance to see it here in this space. It was chilly this night, but we had blankets, and it was a beautiful sky. The popcorn was fresh and hot. I will go back again.
Jassmin Brown
Been seeing so many post about this place and finally got to check it out. It’s located on the 6th floor of the Emily hotel which has a beautiful lobby. Me and some friends went to see Sandlot on a cloudy and windy day. Still had a great time! I love how they give you headphones to wear to make sure you can hear it. You can bring your own blanket as well. They have movie theater type of snacks and drinks, nothing fancy. I would love to go back on one of their themed movies, a date night, or day date!
Theisha Frazier
Convenient and Easy to find location in Fulton Market. The cinema is beautifully decorated. I didnt pay for my ticket so idk how much the ticket was but it came with popcorn. The popcorn wad good. The headphones were adjustable and I was able to control the volume. The seats ate a little low for my liking but I am on thr taller side and i get the vibe they are trying to set. My friend went to get drinks and came back empty handed. Canned pop was $5 and she mentioned the mixed drink she wanted was $18. Way too overpriced. No issues with the movie. Would I go back? For sure. Would i pay to go back? Idts.
How to reach Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market
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Why Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable outing calls for a place that effortlessly combines entertainment, atmosphere, and social interaction—and Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market in Chicago’s vibrant West Loop does just that. This unique venue invites groups to experience movies like never before: under the open sky atop the fifth-floor terrace of The Emily Hotel. Imagine sitting side-by-side on comfortable deck chairs while panoramic views of Chicago's skyline provide an unforgettable backdrop. This setting encourages relaxed conversation before the film begins and a shared sense of excitement throughout the screening. The outdoor environment breaks from the usual enclosed theater, giving guests fresh air and a casual ambiance that’s perfect for mingling or celebrating special occasions. With a diverse lineup of classic to contemporary films, the Rooftop Cinema Club offers a curated experience that caters to various tastes, ensuring everyone in your group finds a favorite. The fusion of scenic beauty, cultural energy of Fulton Market, and quality entertainment creates an inviting space where friendships deepen and memories are made. It’s not just a night out; it’s an event designed to bring people closer in a lively, scenic, and socially friendly environment.
What activities can groups enjoy at Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market?
Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market offers much more than just watching a movie—it's a full social experience. Upon arrival, groups can settle into spacious deck chairs equipped with wireless headphones specially designed to provide crisp, immersive sound tailored directly to each viewer. This feature keeps noise levels comfortable while allowing the crowd to engage in quiet conversations. Before the show, guests can explore the vibrant bar serving classic cocktails, craft beers, and wine, perfect for toasting to the evening ahead. Snack options are also thoughtfully selected, ranging from gourmet popcorn with exciting flavor twists to sweet treats and refreshing non-alcoholic beverages, creating a complete cinema dining experience. The venue frequently hosts themed nights, special screenings, and occasionally live DJ sets or interactive events that turn a movie night into an evening of entertainment layers. This versatility ensures that groups can customize their visits to match their mood, whether they prefer a laid-back film screening or a more lively social gathering. The open-air rooftop setting means you can enjoy the cool breeze and city lightscape, turning simple activities into memorable moments shared with friends or family.
Why is Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market the perfect spot for group meetups?
Choosing a venue to meet with friends or family involves considering comfort, ambiance, and the ability to foster connection—all qualities that Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market delivers with distinction. The outdoor rooftop translates to an expansive space that feels intimate yet not crowded, fostering easy conversation and group bonding without the noise and distractions typical of indoor venues. The layout, featuring rows of deck chairs spaced to allow private group clusters, respects personal space while keeping everyone within sight and voice range. This thoughtful design is suited to small and medium-sized groups looking to enjoy a relaxed evening together, whether celebrating a birthday, hosting a reunion, or simply catching up after a busy week. Moreover, the central location in the Fulton Market District means groups can seamlessly extend their outing by visiting nearby trendy restaurants, bars, or galleries, integrating the cinema experience into a full evening out. The staff at the Rooftop Cinema Club are known for their friendliness and attentiveness, further contributing to a welcoming environment where guests feel taken care of from check-in to closing credits. All these aspects combine to make the venue an ideal backdrop for meaningful social gatherings complemented by entertainment.
What makes the movie experience at Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market unique?
Several elements distinguish Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market from traditional cinemas, elevating it to an extraordinary experience for movie lovers and social groups alike. First, the use of a state-of-the-art LED screen ensures bright and clear visuals that remain vivid even as the sun sets. Paired with high-quality wireless headphones, each attendee enjoys crystal-clear sound personalized to their seating, eliminating common urban noise interference and enhancing dialogue and soundtrack details. This audio setup allows for different volume levels based on personal preference, which is especially appreciated in group settings. The open-air rooftop contributes to an immersive atmosphere under the stars, merging the cinematic world with the real-time city ambiance, making every screening feel one-of-a-kind. Unlike standard indoor theaters, you won’t feel confined or removed from your friends; instead, you share the magic of the movie in a shared open space enriched by fresh air and stunning views. This social and sensory combination creates a multi-dimensional event that is as much about connection and environment as it is about the film itself.
How does the location of Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market enhance group gatherings?
Situated in Chicago’s trendy West Loop, the Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market benefits immensely from its prime location atop The Emily Hotel. The Fulton Market District is an urban hub known for its energetic blend of vibrant nightlife, innovative dining options, and public art, providing groups with ample opportunities to explore before or after the movie. Its proximity to established restaurants and bars offers convenient options for pre-show dinner or late-night drinks, making it easy to craft a full evening experience tailored to group preferences. The district’s walkability means guests can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood, experiencing its unique character and vibe without needing transportation. This central accessibility also appeals to diverse groups coming from various parts of Chicago, ensuring a hassle-free meetup spot. Furthermore, the rooftop’s elevated position provides commanding views of Chicago’s skyline, which adds an aesthetic pleasure that complements the entertainment and encourages memorable photo moments. Being in the heart of a cultural hotspot solidifies the Rooftop Cinema Club as a vibrant gathering point that connects friends not just through movies, but also through the dynamic city energy.
How does the ambience at Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market support a high-quality social experience?
The ambience of Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market carefully balances relaxation and excitement to support social connections among groups. The open terrace creates a laid-back yet upscale environment, with chic furniture and ambient lighting setting a warm mood that complements the evening sky. The design encourages guests to interact naturally—comfortable seating arrangements are perfect for intimate chats while still allowing a sense of community with other filmgoers. The overall vibe is casual without sacrificing style, making it an ideal space for both casual gatherings and more special celebrations. Adding to this, the gentle sounds of the city below and the sparkle of distant lights heighten the sensory experience, turning a simple movie screening into an event filled with atmosphere. The thoughtful touches in service—such as attentive staff and easy headphone distribution—mean guests can focus on enjoying their time together without interruptions or logistical concerns. This carefully curated ambience ensures that the Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market stands out not just as a cinema but as a memorable venue where social bonds grow stronger amid a beautiful setting.