When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
The Hangge-Uppe
Why The Hangge-Uppe is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Nestled in Chicago’s vibrant Gold Coast neighborhood, The Hangge-Uppe has been a cornerstone of nightlife for over 40 years, making it a legendary destination for those looking to dance the night away. This dynamic two-story venue features two fully staffed bars and two all-request DJs, creating an energetic atmosphere where patrons can enjoy nonstop music tailored to diverse tastes. Upstairs, the DJs spin contemporary Top 40 hits, while downstairs offers a nostalgic trip with classic tunes from the '70s and '80s, catering to fans of artists ranging from Drake to Madonna and AC/DC. The venue serves as an ideal meet-up spot for friends eager to experience a lively dance floor and an authentic Chicago dive club vibe. Special daily happy hour deals on popular spirits such as Fireball, Jameson, and Cuervo Tradicional Reposado add to the inviting atmosphere, making it easy to unwind and celebrate. Operating primarily on Thursday through Saturday late nights, The Hangge-Uppe comes alive when other bars close, positioning itself as the ultimate after-hours hub where everyone finishes the night with energy and fun. Whether seeking a spirited group outing or a dance-centric evening, The Hangge-Uppe offers a timeless, spirited environment that keeps Chicago’s nightlife heart beating strong.
Here's what people think of The Hangge-Uppe
As of recent, The Hangge-Uppe holds a 3.9-star rating based on 636 reviews.
Reviews for The Hangge-Uppe reflect a diverse range of experiences, contributing to its overall 3.9 rating from over 630 patrons. Many users praise the venue for its energetic dance floors and vibrant music selection, highlighting the two distinct music styles catering to both contemporary and classic rock and pop fans. Positive feedback often notes the fun, party-friendly vibe where guests enjoy dancing from the moment the night starts until closing. Reviewers have also applauded the friendly atmosphere and affordable drink specials, making it a popular destination for weekend social gatherings and after-hours celebrations. However, some negative reviews point to occasional issues with venue cleanliness, inconsistent service quality, and the dive club’s atmosphere not appealing to all tastes. A few patrons mentioned the crowd can get too crowded or loud, which might detract from the experience for those seeking a more relaxed environment. Despite these critiques, many acknowledge The Hangge-Uppe as a vital part of Chicago's nightlife scene, ideal for those looking to dance the night away in a casual, unpretentious setting. Overall, the reviews convey that while The Hangge-Uppe may not cater to everyone’s preferences, it remains a beloved after-hours hotspot that delivers memorable nights for its target audience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Debi
I used to love coming here because the basement plays 70’s and 80’s music, which they advertise on their website (and sometimes 90’s). So why am I coming here on a Saturday night and the basement starts playing 2010’s music at 11pm? Not even 2000’s. Now there’s people frat-flicking and pumping their fists in one place on both floors, and no groovy music to dance to. Y’all might wanna change your website description or hire a new DJ.
Emiliano Hernandez
To start with, the bouncer looked like a 15 year old and was giving us trouble about our IDs cuz we from outa state… newsflash it’s Chicago there’s a lot of people from all over the place visiting. And the dj on the night of July 25, 2025 had a whole sign that said “Requests” and didn’t take any requests. Playing some basic wedding music vibe type stuff.
Charles Randolph
The Hangge-Uppe is an absolute gem. The atmosphere is an easy 6/5—it’s lively, fun, and exactly what you want for a night out. The drinks are strong (no complaints there), and the music keeps the energy going all night. One thing that really stood out was how professionally the staff handled a situation where someone had to be kicked out. Security was quick, efficient, and didn’t escalate anything unnecessarily. If you’re in the area, it’s worth popping into.
Diana Kim
if you like basic wedding music vibes this will be your place. the drinks were expensive and the vibe was fine. the first floor is better than the basement imo
erica serna
0/0 would not recommend if you don’t like ignorant racists. We were there on Saturday 04/12/2025 and I asked male Caucasian DJ in the Sox baseball cap upstairs if he can play Bad Bunny to which he responded “we’re not in Mexico honey”. First of all obviously Bad Bunny is Puerto Rican which is obviously a U.S. territory. Second of all Chicago has such a high number of Spanish speaking people. Do not put a sign over the DJ stating “song requests” if DJ will not be doing his job and playing songs/artists being requested. Will not be going back. Ignorance is truly bliss.
How to reach The Hangge-Uppe
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Why The Hangge-Uppe may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Hangge-Uppe with your friends? The Hangge-Uppe offers an energetic and vibrant atmosphere for groups seeking a lively night out in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood. This bi-level bar is renowned for its eclectic decor and upbeat vibe, making it an ideal spot to gather, dance, and reminisce over classic ‘80s and ‘90s tunes that everyone loves. The dance floor vibrates with energy, making it a perfect place for friends to let loose and enjoy spirited moments together. While the venue can get hot and crowded, it’s precisely this bustling environment that fuels the excitement and closeness among groups. If you and your friends enjoy a place where music, atmosphere, and good times converge, The Hangge-Uppe is worth considering despite some reports of crowding and occasional rowdiness. It’s a space to rally not just for drinks, but for shared memories and collective fun that only a spot with its particular personality can deliver. Whether it’s a casual meetup or a special celebration, the bar’s unique blend of nostalgia and modern energy creates an unforgettable backdrop to your group’s night out.
What activities make The Hangge-Uppe perfect for a group meetup? At its core, The Hangge-Uppe is a destination for dancing and socializing. Its top floor boasts a lively bar and dance area where DJs spin a mix of throwback hits and popular tracks, encouraging guests to sing along and dance together. The music selection is curated to appeal broadly, featuring perennial favorites that inspire group singalongs and shared moments of joy. For groups that thrive on dancing and music, this place is a natural fit, providing enough room and an energetic crowd to keep the party alive for hours. Additionally, The Hangge-Uppe offers a bi-level layout; while the basement area features a more intense, sometimes overcrowded scene, the top floor tends to be the go-to spot for a comfortable yet exciting experience. The venue also provides a place to grab unique cocktails and quality drinks, which, although on the pricier side, contribute to the festive atmosphere. Overall, the activities here center around music, dancing, and lively social interactions — all crucial ingredients for memorable group meetups.
How does The Hangge-Uppe’s environment enhance your group’s experience? The vibe at The Hangge-Uppe is characterized by a unique mix of nostalgia and high energy. Its decor is quirky and eclectic, providing a visually engaging space that complements the vibrant music scene. Groups can enjoy people-watching, as the crowd is diverse and animated, adding to the dynamic social experience. Despite some reports of the venue becoming uncomfortably crowded and hot on busy nights, this intensity often magnifies the sense of camaraderie among friends. However, guests should be prepared for close quarters, which can sometimes lead to awkward encounters or aggressive behavior from others. Being aware of the atmosphere helps groups stay safe and keep their fun intact. The venue’s positioning in Chicago’s lively nightlife district also means it’s easily accessible and a great place to start or end a night out. The combination of music, decor, and the social energy creates an immersive experience that helps groups disconnect from daily routines and enjoy the moment together.
What food and drink options can groups expect at The Hangge-Uppe? While The Hangge-Uppe is primarily known as a bar and dance venue, its drink menu offers a variety of cocktails, beers, and mixed drinks designed to suit diverse tastes. The cocktails here may be considered a bit pricey, but many guests find them well-crafted and worth the splurge for a night dedicated to fun. The bar staff facilitate a fast-paced service environment to keep drinks flowing even on busy nights. Although The Hangge-Uppe does not specialize in full meals or extensive food menus, its focus on beverages complements the energetic dance floor and lively scene perfectly. This makes the venue better suited for a meetup centered around drinks, music, and socializing rather than dining. Groups looking to combine dinner with their night out can conveniently dine nearby before heading here for drinks and dancing.
What makes The Hangge-Uppe stand out as a party spot in Chicago? The Hangge-Uppe’s identity as a hotspot is grounded in its blend of nostalgic music, visual charm, and vibrant crowd energy. Unlike many venues that try to cater to every preference, The Hangge-Uppe embraces its niche: a place where people come to dance to ‘80s and ‘90s hits in a lively, slightly wild atmosphere. It is often compared to popular beach clubs but with its own urban Chicago flavor — energetic and sometimes intense. This commitment to a specific vibe ensures that groups arriving here know what to expect: a night filled with dancing, singing, and strong social connections. While the bar has had mixed reviews regarding its door staff and crowd management, regulars appreciate the unpretentious and unabashedly fun environment. For friends or family members who embrace nightlife’s spirited side, The Hangge-Uppe offers a reliably entertaining venue with authentic city flavor.
How accessible and convenient is The Hangge-Uppe for group meetups? Located at 14 W Elm St near Chicago’s Near North Side, The Hangge-Uppe benefits from being in a prime nightlife district with easy access to public transit and ample nearby amenities. This central location makes it straightforward for groups coming from various parts of the city to converge without logistical hassle. The proximity to popular areas like Oak Street Beach and The Magnificent Mile also means groups can easily extend their outing with dinner, sightseeing, or a stroll before or after their time at the bar. However, potential visitors should plan their arrival strategically to avoid long cover charge lines and the tightest crowds; early entry is recommended when possible. Parking and transportation options are plentiful, catering to both locals and visitors. The venue’s setup with multiple floors allows groups to spread out a bit, especially if some want to escape the densest crowds upstairs. This accessibility combined with a prime Chicago location boosts The Hangge-Uppe’s appeal for group outings and meetups.
What should groups be aware of before heading to The Hangge-Uppe? While The Hangge-Uppe delivers lively entertainment and a memorable music scene, groups should come prepared for a few challenges that have been noted by past guests. First, the venue tends to get very crowded and hot, which may be uncomfortable for those sensitive to such environments. The crowded space can sometimes lead to unwanted physical contact or encounters with aggressive patrons, so staying alert and sticking together as a group is advisable. Some visitors have reported encountering unfriendly or rude behavior, including from bouncers and staff, underscoring the importance of patience and composure. Drink prices are on the higher side, so budgeting accordingly is wise. Despite these points, many who value a high-energy, music-driven nightlife experience find these trade-offs acceptable. Groups prioritizing safety and mutual respect can still have a fantastic time at The Hangge-Uppe by setting clear expectations and looking out for each other throughout the night.