When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
The Clayton Cigar Shop and Smoking Lounge Chicago
Why The Clayton Cigar Shop and Smoking Lounge Chicago is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Clayton Cigar Shop and Smoking Lounge in Chicago offers an unparalleled luxury experience for cigar aficionados and those looking to enjoy a sophisticated social environment. Located in the heart of Chicago's vibrant Fulton Market district, this expansive 14,000 square-foot private members social club is designed with discerning luxury in mind. The venue blends elegant, old-world design elements, such as gray-green leather chairs and marble tables, with modern comforts and artistic décor that create an inviting and comfortable atmosphere. Visitors can relax indoors or enjoy the striking outdoor garden terrace overlooking the Chicago River, making it an ideal spot for socializing with friends or conducting private events. The space features multiple private event rooms and a retail shop stocked with the world’s finest cigars and exclusive cigar accessories, catering to both novices and connoisseurs alike. The knowledgeable staff provide personalized recommendations and concierge service, ensuring every guest receives tailored attention to enhance their experience. The Clayton is known for its state-of-the-art smoke exhaust system that guarantees a clean, comfortable environment for all guests. Its limited membership preserves an intimate atmosphere fostering community and connection, making it one of Chicago's premier destinations for cigar lovers and a refined place to meet up with friends.
Here's what people think of The Clayton Cigar Shop and Smoking Lounge Chicago
As of recent, The Clayton Cigar Shop and Smoking Lounge Chicago holds a 4.7-star rating based on 201 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise The Clayton Cigar Shop and Smoking Lounge for its elegant ambiance, exceptional service, and top-quality cigars. Many reviewers highlight the helpfulness and expertise of the staff, especially for newcomers seeking recommendations or guidance in cigar selection. The luxurious décor, comfortable seating, and unique atmosphere—accentuated by vintage-inspired artwork—are frequently mentioned as standout features that set The Clayton apart from other lounges in Chicago. Positive feedback also often emphasizes the social, upscale vibe of the club, suitable for both casual visits and special events, as well as the well-maintained air quality thanks to the advanced smoke filtration system. However, some negative reviews note the limited hours of operation, particularly the early closing times on weekdays and Saturdays, as well as the closure on Sundays, which can be inconvenient for patrons wanting to enjoy a cigar lounge experience later in the evening. A few visitors have also mentioned that the club’s exclusivity and membership cap might make it less accessible. Overall, the reviews indicate strong customer satisfaction with the lounge’s atmosphere, service, and premium offerings, positioning The Clayton as a much-appreciated and refined oasis for cigar lovers in Chicago’s competitive hospitality scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lolita M
The selection, though limited is still pretty good. 5 stars for the environment and location. Ventilation is often an issue in lounges, but with the ability to open the windows, my goodness is this location perfect. Staff is nice and helpful. Prices are on par with city, luxury cigar lounges. Really enjoyed my time! Can’t wait to go back.
A R
The ClaytonCigar Shop is a beautiful cigar lounge / club located right across the street from Gibsons Italia. This is a perfect place to have a coffee and cigar after dinner. The lounge is absolutely stunning. They also have a wonderful high-end cigar selection to choose from. The establishment is a highly recommended experience!
Tayo A
Clayton in Chicago is a sophisticated cigar lounge with an impressive collection of cigars. The setting is elegant and the location is serene, providing a perfect escape. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the experience. However, note that alcohol is not available for purchase. It’s my go too place when I feel like smoking a cigar with friends, or solo while working
Tyler E
Decent selection with a couple of rare unicorns to find. Prices are a bit above average compared to lounges not in the metro area but for the location and cleanliness/classiness of the venue. Regular cigar smokers wouldnt be surprised at this pricing and if anything its very in line or below average pricing than tourist locations. You can smoke your own sticks but never forget the golden rule, support the shop with a cigar purchase if you plan on taking a chair. Smoke well
Sinisa Smitran
Very nice cigar lounge in downtown Chicago! Excellent choice of cigars and very friendly atmosphere. All recommendations.
How to reach The Clayton Cigar Shop and Smoking Lounge Chicago
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Why The Clayton Cigar Shop and Smoking Lounge Chicago may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Clayton Cigar Shop and Smoking Lounge Chicago with your friends?
Gathering at The Clayton Cigar Shop and Smoking Lounge in Chicago offers an exceptional blend of luxury, comfort, and a refined social atmosphere that makes it an ideal venue to rally your friends or family. Imagine stepping into a spacious, beautifully designed 14,000-square-foot building situated along the Chicago River in the vibrant Fulton River District, where the sleek modern aesthetic immediately sets a sophisticated tone. The lounge’s large glass humidor displays over 200 varieties of top-shelf cigars, including prestigious brands like Arturo Fuente, Davidoff, and Padrón, ensuring there’s a perfect smoke to match every palate. Its design by the acclaimed Rottet Studios combines elegance and warmth, making it inviting for both cigar connoisseurs and casual visitors. Unlike typical cigar bars, The Clayton boasts a state-of-the-art smoke filtration system that keeps the air clear and comfortable, so no one feels overwhelmed by cigar smoke. Whether you want to relax during a sunny afternoon or enjoy an intimate evening with close friends, The Clayton’s ambiance fosters great conversation and camaraderie. It’s more than just a place to smoke; it’s a chic social club where friendship and relaxation come to life under one roof.
What activities can you enjoy at The Clayton Cigar Shop and Smoking Lounge Chicago?
The Clayton offers a range of experiences tailored to enhance your time with friends or family. First and foremost, you can select from an exquisite cigar collection of more than 200 premium types housed within a striking glass-encased humidor. Whether you prefer a rich, full-bodied smoke or something milder, their knowledgeable staff is eager to help you find the perfect blend based on your taste or curiosity. Once you've chosen your cigar, you can settle into the comfortable lounge spaces designed for relaxation and conversation. The seating areas accommodate both small groups and larger meetups, providing a welcoming setting where you can enjoy your cigars undisturbed.
In addition to smoking, The Clayton hosts exclusive private events that elevate your social experience, bringing in partnerships with luxury brands in fashion, wine, spirits, and watches. These events offer the perfect chance to mingle, discover new interests, and deepen connections with friends in an upscale environment. Moreover, The Clayton’s dedicated personal concierge service ensures every visit can be tailored to your needs, from securing limited cigar releases to arranging unique experiences. Even though alcohol service is not available onsite, the lounge invites you to bring your preferred beverages, adding an element of personal freedom to your gatherings. With these offerings, The Clayton is ideal for enthusiasts who want to share their passion or newcomers eager to explore the cigar lifestyle together.
Why is The Clayton perfect for a group meetup?
The Clayton’s combination of space, ambiance, and amenities makes it impeccable for hosting meetups with friends or family. The lounge spans a sizeable 2,800 square feet on the first floor alone, ensuring groups of various sizes can gather comfortably without feeling crowded. Large windows bathe the interior in natural light during the day, creating a bright, uplifting environment that contrasts with the traditional dark and leather-heavy cigar bars. This contemporary design encourages a more relaxed and open atmosphere conducive to socializing and enjoying shared moments. Their smoke filtration system, which processes 6,000 cubic feet of air per minute, allows everyone to breathe easy regardless of the number of cigars being enjoyed, accommodating mixed groups including those who may be sensitive to smoke.
Moreover, The Clayton’s location near Chicago’s Loop and Merchandise Mart makes it incredibly accessible, perfect for both locals and visitors coming together. The staff’s expertise and personalized concierge service ensure that your group’s needs—whether selecting cigars, planning events, or arranging private experiences—are met with professionalism and enthusiasm. The club also fosters a sense of exclusivity and luxury without alienating newcomers, making it a welcoming place for people to connect regardless of their familiarity with cigars. Combined, these factors create an unbeatable environment for fostering friendship, celebration, and memorable moments with loved ones.
What makes The Clayton’s cigar selection stand out?
The Clayton’s cigar inventory ranks among the finest in Chicago, boasting an impressive and varied collection displayed openly in their signature glass humidor. This beautifully crafted humidor not only keeps cigars fresh but also showcases sought-after labels such as Arturo Fuente Añejo S.S.S. Shark No. 77, Fuente Fuente OpusX Lost City, various Warped cigars, and acclaimed names like Davidoff, Padrón, La Flor Dominicana, and Liga Privada. The diversity of offerings ensures that aficionados and novices alike can find something tailored to their tastes or mood. The staff’s deep knowledge complements this extensive selection, offering sound guidance that transforms cigar picking into an enjoyable, personalized journey.
The choice and quality at The Clayton go beyond mere quantity; it reflects a commitment to premium experiences. The presence of limited-edition and rare cigars enhances the allure for enthusiasts seeking unique and collectible smokes. This richly stocked humidor is a centerpiece for visitors, inviting exploration and comparison of various flavor profiles, strengths, and styles. Whether a group visits to share classic favorites or discover new blends, the experience surrounding the selection process is as much a part of the appeal as the smoking itself.
How does The Clayton balance luxury and comfort in its design?
Designed by internationally renowned Rottet Studios from New York, The Clayton exemplifies modern sophistication fused with inviting comfort. Unlike traditional cigar lounges that often emphasize dark woods and heavy leather, The Clayton embraces a brighter, cleaner look with contemporary lines and bespoke artwork adorning each floor. The design strategy focuses on creating private yet open spaces, so guests can enjoy both intimacy and sociability according to their preference. The abundant natural light filtering through large windows creates a refreshing ambiance during daytime visits, making the venue feel lively and airy rather than cloistered or stuffy.
This meticulous design extends to the technical infrastructure as well, as The Clayton boasts a cutting-edge smoke exhaust and filtration system that actively purifies the air. This innovation maintains fresh, breathable air quality even when multiple cigars are being enjoyed, allowing guests to focus on relaxation and socialization without discomfort. The layout incorporates luxurious materials and thoughtful details in seating arrangements, lighting, and decor, balancing aesthetics with functionality. Ultimately, the venue respects the traditional elegance expected of a premier cigar club while adapting to contemporary expectations of comfort and style, offering a unique environment that appeals broadly.
What exclusive services and events elevate the experience at The Clayton?
Beyond its exceptional venue and cigar offerings, The Clayton elevates the social experience through its exclusive member services and curated events. As a private members social club, it offers a dedicated concierge service that personalizes each visit by providing access to hard-to-get tickets, reservations, and luxury experiences beyond the lounge itself. This level of attention ensures that gatherings can seamlessly integrate custom touches and exclusive opportunities that impress friends and family alike.
The Clayton regularly hosts curated private events featuring collaborations with top luxury brands across sectors like fashion, premium spirits, wine, watches, and more. These events foster an enriched sense of community, making a visit not just about smoking cigars but about experiencing lifestyle and culture in an intimate setting. They provide excellent occasions to network, celebrate, and enjoy curated offerings that resonate with the club’s upscale ethos. For groups planning memorable meetups, these activities add value and create shared experiences that go beyond the typical lounge visit.
How does the location and accessibility contribute to making The Clayton a prime meetup spot?
Situated at 212 N Canal Street in Chicago’s bustling Fulton River District, The Clayton enjoys a strategic and highly accessible position near the city’s Loop and major landmarks like Merchandise Mart. This central location makes it easy for locals and visitors to gather, avoiding long travel times or complicated directions. Being in the heart of the city also means nearby restaurants, hotels, and entertainment complement a day or evening at the lounge, offering flexibility to extend plans before or after a visit.
The building’s proximity to public transit and major roadways makes it convenient for groups arriving from different parts of Chicago or its surroundings. The aesthetics and first impressions of the venue—modern glass architecture with a discreet entrance that contrasts with its rich interior—afford visitors a sense of discovery and exclusivity. This perfect blend of accessibility, prestige, and urban vibrancy helps explain why The Clayton has become a favored destination for groups wanting to share quality time in a sophisticated yet comfortable environment.
In summary, The Clayton Cigar Shop and Smoking Lounge Chicago offers an outstanding combination of premium cigars, luxurious yet welcoming design, exclusive services, and a prime location that perfectly suits gatherings with friends or family. Its modern smoke filtration, expansive and elegant spaces, diverse cigar selection, and curated social events create an atmosphere where connection and relaxation take center stage, making it a top choice for memorable meetups.