When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
The Hi-Lo
Why The Hi-Lo is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Hi-Lo is a renowned hotel known for its warm, friendly atmosphere and exceptional customer service, making it a perfect place to meet up with friends. Located just a couple of blocks from Portland's vibrant center, the hotel offers convenient access to some of the city's best eateries and attractions, making it ideal for social gatherings and casual meetings. What sets The Hi-Lo apart is its attentive and considerate staff who go above and beyond to ensure guests feel comfortable and cared for. Whether accommodating special requests like providing garment racks for travelers or offering in-room conveniences such as fridges and microwaves to enjoy local food, The Hi-Lo prioritizes guest needs. Guests also report the staff’s kindness in moments of illness, further highlighting the personal touch the hotel offers. This level of care creates a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that friends appreciate when planning get-togethers. The well-maintained hotel, coupled with its strategic location and superior service, make The Hi-Lo an excellent venue for social interactions and memorable stays in Portland.
Here's what people think of The Hi-Lo
As of recent, The Hi-Lo holds a 4.7-star rating based on 301 reviews.
Reviews of The Hi-Lo overwhelmingly highlight the friendliness and attentiveness of the staff, praising their thoughtful and proactive service. Many guests specifically mention the helpfulness of the front desk and bar staff, noting examples like providing emergency vitamin supplements and fresh orange juice on request. Positive reviews commend the hotel’s convenient location, its clean and stylish ambiance, and the extra amenities that allow guests to enjoy Portland’s rich culinary scene with ease. Guests frequently mention that the staff’s genuine kindness elevates their overall experience, contributing to a welcoming environment that feels like an "oasis of kindness." On the negative side, there are virtually no notable critical reviews about The Hi-Lo's service, atmosphere, or amenities from credible sources in the search results. This lack of substantial negative feedback speaks to the consistently high standards maintained by the hotel. Overall, the reviews underscore The Hi-Lo’s reputation as a top-rated and caring establishment, making it a trusted choice for visitors seeking comfort and a friendly environment during their Portland visits.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
SPICY
It's hard to find a really good, affordable craft cocktail bar. I snag a bar seat here, even so busy. Start with the Hilo Highball—it's super refreshing and delicious. You gotta try the Honeydew Crusher, first time filling , and end with the espresso martini. Amazing cocktail bar!
Andrea Kaji
I was so excited to check this place out. It’s absolutely stunning. The service outside was insulting. My friend and I wanted to split a frozen drink and the bartender refused to use two glasses. She was visibly annoyed that we had to ask for a glass. She said we could do it ourselves and it was against policy!? The drink was spilling from the cup and she didn’t offer to even clean it up or give us napkins. She was one of the weirdest people I’ve ever met. I spent a long time in Chicago Hospitality and she sucked. We still tipped her adequately, but she might need to find something else if she hates making people happy.
Minjeong Ryu (Mina)
They have a nice patio area! There is cozy fireplace and I really like vibes. I don’t really like too dark or loud bar but this bar was perfect for me. I visited Tuesday evening, I thought it would be empty but surprisingly it was little busy. I had a honeydew crusher(?) and my partner had a piña colada. Both drinks came out very sour. I expected more sweet notes. Drink was just fine.. though
Mikaela Bullard
I loved the vibe here! The clarified piña colada was my favorite out of the cocktails we ordered. It’s a dog friendly space as well, so it was nice to bring our dog along. The outdoor area is very spacious and partly covered with a lot of different seating options.
PH “Chi-Hammer”
Great staff and bar. Family/smoker/dog friendly 😎. Slo gin is very good. The patio is amazing! Thanks for hosting our intimate family event, she said yes! ❣️ Jan '23 - new patio enclosure with fire place is a perfect addition - nice work fellas!
How to reach The Hi-Lo
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Why The Hi-Lo may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Rallying with friends at The Hi-Lo offers a uniquely inviting atmosphere that perfectly balances intimacy, versatility, and excitement, making it an ideal spot to create lasting memories. Located in the vibrant Humboldt Park neighborhood of Chicago, The Hi-Lo welcomes groups of friends or family to enjoy its warm and cozy setting, both indoors and outdoors. One of the key reasons to gather here is its dual vibe: whether your group prefers lively socializing or a more laid-back evening, The Hi-Lo accommodates all energies with grace. The indoor wood-burning fireplace creates a snug, intimate feeling perfect for deep conversations or game nights, while the spacious patio offers a lively environment under an open sky, partially covered to maintain comfort regardless of weather. Furthermore, The Hi-Lo’s cocktail menu is cleverly split into “hi” and “lo” options, allowing guests to choose from robust, boozy drinks or lighter, lower-alcohol beverages—a perfect touch for groups wanting varied drink choices without forcing anyone into drinking more than they prefer. For those who value atmosphere, variety, and flexibility in their meetups, The Hi-Lo shines as a top-tier gathering spot.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at The Hi-Lo? The Hi-Lo stands out as a cocktail bar that fosters social connection through a range of appealing activities tailored to groups. One of the most popular is their game night vibe; the environment invites patrons to unwind over familiar board and card games, turning an ordinary evening into an engaging and interactive experience. This makes it an ideal venue for groups who want to engage with each other beyond just talking and drinking. Additionally, the bar's extensive drink menu itself constitutes an activity—sampling both the “hi” and “lo” cocktails invites guests to experiment with flavors and find personal favorites, sparking conversation and shared discovery. The outdoor patio transforms The Hi-Lo into an open-air social hub during warmer months, where groups can enjoy fresh air, warmth, and music while basking in the neighborhood's energy. Indoors, the fireplace adds ambience that encourages warmth and camaraderie, perfect for fall or winter outings. All these elements combine to offer a dynamic setting where groups can craft their own experience, making meetups more memorable than the typical bar outing.
Why is The Hi-Lo a perfect venue for a group meetup? Beyond its exciting activities and enviable location, The Hi-Lo impresses with an atmosphere designed explicitly for social ease and group enjoyment. The space’s division into attractive indoor and outdoor zones ensures that no matter your group’s size or preference, there’s an ideal nook or clearing for everyone. The cozy interiors promote intimate conversations and relaxation, while the large patio offers room for lively chatter and movement without feeling cramped. Moreover, The Hi-Lo’s reputation for maintaining a laid-back, friendly crowd means your group can feel comfortable and welcomed, which is key for any gathering aiming to foster connection. Operating seven days a week, with later opening hours on weekends starting at 2pm, The Hi-Lo provides flexible timing options, so groups can plan mid-afternoon hangouts or evening celebrations without hassle. The staff’s attentive approach ensures that service is smooth and unobtrusive, letting your group focus on each other rather than logistics. Altogether, these features create an environment that is both vibrant and supportive, making The Hi-Lo more than just a bar but a true community meeting place.
What makes the drink selection at The Hi-Lo special for groups? The drink menu at The Hi-Lo is expertly curated to meet different tastes and drinking moods, which is vital when hosting a diverse group. The split between high-ABV “hi” cocktails and lower-alcohol “lo” options recognizes that not every guest wants the same level of buzz. This thoughtful division invites guests to enjoy cocktails without pressure, which is especially considerate for group settings where everyone’s preferences should be respected. The cocktails themselves are crafted with attention to balance and creativity, offering a range from classic favorites to innovative concoctions. Such variety encourages sharing and discussion, as friends compare notes on their picks and perhaps try each other’s drinks. For those averse to alcohol or who prefer lighter options, the lo section presents a chance to socialize with flavorful drinks that keep the mood relaxed and convivial. This personalized drink experience helps make The Hi-Lo stand out as a bar that truly considers the needs of group gatherings, supporting both spirited celebrations and calm togetherness.
How does the location contribute to The Hi-Lo’s appeal for meetups? Nestled in the culturally rich area of Humboldt Park, The Hi-Lo benefits from being part of a neighborhood that boasts vibrant energy and artistic flair. This location offers groups a chance to explore the local culture before or after their meetup, turning a visit to The Hi-Lo into a more immersive experience. While some urban challenges exist around the area, the bar itself maintains a safe and welcoming environment, providing a comfortable retreat from the surrounding bustle. Its accessibility and proximity to other local attractions make it a convenient central meeting point for groups coming from different parts of the city. The neighborhood’s distinct character enriches the ambiance of The Hi-Lo, adding a backdrop of authenticity and community spirit that enhances any social occasion. For visitors or locals alike, this location supports both intimate and larger gatherings by combining convenience with local flavor.
What kind of crowd and vibe does The Hi-Lo attract? The Hi-Lo attracts a diverse but predominantly laid-back clientele, lending the bar a relaxed and approachable vibe. The crowd is known to include both regular locals who enjoy its ambiance and visitors eager to experience a neighborhood gem. It’s particularly favored by those who appreciate an environment conducive to hanging out with friends over extended periods—a place to chat, play games, and unwind without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The atmosphere encourages mingling without rowdiness, which supports meaningful connections rather than just loud partying. This temperament is perfect for groups looking to deepen friendships or celebrate significant moments in a comfortable setting. By cultivating this welcoming and steady vibe, The Hi-Lo differentiates itself from more transient or tourist-heavy venues, becoming a spot where groups feel at home.
What should groups expect regarding service and hospitality at The Hi-Lo? The Hi-Lo is praised for its attentive and friendly staff, who strive to deliver smooth service that keeps group gatherings running effortlessly. The team behind the bar is knowledgeable about the extensive cocktail menu and eager to offer recommendations tailored to group preferences, enhancing the overall experience. Wait staff balance attentiveness with unobtrusiveness, ensuring guests have what they need without feeling pressured or rushed. This allows groups to focus on enjoying their time together without interruptions. The Hi-Lo’s commitment to service extends beyond just the drinks, as the space is maintained to be clean and inviting, supporting the comfort of all visitors. Such thoughtful hospitality plays a critical role in making The Hi-Lo a dependable choice for hosting group meetups where every member’s enjoyment is a priority.
How does The Hi-Lo compare to other group meetup spots in Chicago? Compared to typical bars or cafes, The Hi-Lo stands out due to its combination of inviting ambiance, excellent cocktail selection, and dedicated group-friendly amenities. Where some spots may cater mainly to individual drinkers or small parties, The Hi-Lo’s layout and vibe embrace larger groups seeking both intimacy and social vibrancy. The clear division of cocktail options and emphasis on a balanced crowd makes it more inclusive for guests with varying tastes and social needs. Furthermore, its location in Humboldt Park offers a unique neighborhood feel different from the downtown cluster of bars, providing a sense of escape while still being accessible. This blend of qualities sets The Hi-Lo apart as an especially thoughtful venue for group meetups, catering to diverse preferences with a comfortable, stylish, and lively environment.
What practical tips can help make the most of a meetup at The Hi-Lo? Groups planning to meet at The Hi-Lo should consider arriving a bit early on weekends to secure good seating, especially on the popular outdoor patio or near the indoor fireplace. Taking advantage of the varied cocktail menu means discussing preferences ahead of time or encouraging newcomers to try something new, which adds fun to the occasion. Bringing along portable games or choosing to engage in the bar’s existing game options can enhance interaction and bonding. Also, since The Hi-Lo operates with friendly but not overly formal service, it’s good to be patient during busy times while still expecting high-quality hospitality. Finally, planning your meetup around the bar’s hours—open late on weekends starting mid-afternoon—allows for flexible scheduling whether your group prefers daytime or nighttime gatherings. These preparations help groups maximize their experience at The Hi-Lo and ensure a successful, enjoyable meetup every time.