When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
WhirlyBall Chicago
Why WhirlyBall Chicago is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
WhirlyBall Chicago offers a unique and exciting venue perfect for gathering with friends, family, or coworkers. Located at 1825 W Webster Ave, this destination combines an innovative sport that fuses elements of lacrosse, hockey, and basketball, all played while driving suped-up bumper cars. This blend of physical activity and playful competition creates a lively, memorable experience that is competitive yet accessible to all ages and skill levels. Beyond the game, WhirlyBall Chicago features multiple courts, so groups can share the fun simultaneously, maximizing entertainment value. The location includes a large, well-stocked bar with over 30 taps of craft beer and a rotating selection, alongside a full menu of elevated American fare, providing a comfortable and inviting atmosphere to relax and socialize before or after games. Other attractions such as pop-a-shot basketball, arcade games, and karaoke machines add layers of entertainment for different preferences, ensuring there is something enjoyable for everyone. The venue is spacious with plenty of seating, making it an ideal spot for celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, reunions, or corporate events. WhirlyBall Chicago’s distinctive mix of active play, casual dining, and social environment makes it a top choice for groups looking to meet up and have a dynamic, engaging outing.
Here's what people think of WhirlyBall Chicago
As of recent, WhirlyBall Chicago holds a 4.4-star rating based on 2155 reviews.
User reviews for WhirlyBall Chicago, collected from more than 2,000 patrons, average to a strong rating of 4.4 stars, which reflects generally positive experiences. Many reviewers praise the unique game itself for being unexpectedly challenging and a lot of fun, highlighting how quickly new players of varied ages and skill can pick up the gameplay and enjoy themselves. Positive feedback also emphasizes the excellent service from referees and staff during games, along with the quality and variety of food and craft beverages available at the bar. The venue's multiple courts and diverse entertainment options such as karaoke and arcade games are noted as additional highlights contributing to a fun group outing. However, some negative comments point out that the physical space and equipment can feel somewhat dated, with bumper cars being tight for taller individuals and causing discomfort like bruising due to confined seating and lap belts. Other criticisms relate to customer service issues during events, with complaints about upfront tipping expectations and occasionally unfriendly or inattentive service, as well as concerns over the handling of event contracts and complaints. Despite some drawbacks, most reviewers conclude that the distinctive and enjoyable experience WhirlyBall Chicago offers makes it worth returning to, especially for those looking to try something different and active with friends. The overall sentiment suggests it remains a popular and entertaining destination even with some room for improvement in facilities and customer relations.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jassmin Brown
Went with a group of students to play and we had a ball! I grabbed a cider, Caesar salad and pretzel bites from the bar and they were all delish. I was shocked how well the Caesar was. The bartender was awesome too. Everyone was very helpful! We played for a two hours after having so much fun the first one. I think I laughed the whole time we played!
Maurice “Reese” Herron
Great location, Online reservations recommended, Great food, Great for Groups, Laser Tag, Bowling 🎳, Whirlyball (3) Courts, Saturday’s After 7pm ID required for entry (21 & Older) #GoCubs⚾️🤘🏽🥃🍻🍷🤙🏽🤝🏽💪🏽💯
Nikki Lopez
Such a great venue for hosting large groups! We had a corporate happy hour and Lester was very friendly and efficient, helping to make our experience amazing!
Kendra B
Whirlyball is so fun! We loved the game & laser tag. I would highly recommend it, but eat first. My food was just okay, garlic parm wings and Caesar Salad. The salad had way too much dressing, and the wings were tough.
Cindy Hwang
so much fun!!! we did laser tag (Jerry L was awesome), Whirlyball, and bowling with apps. so much to do and lots of fun, great service (MaShaya was a lovely attentive server) had a great family outing and keep it mind for events - birthday parties and corporate outings.
How to reach WhirlyBall Chicago
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Why WhirlyBall Chicago may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at WhirlyBall Chicago with your friends? Because this vibrant venue offers a uniquely thrilling experience that merges fun, friendly competition, and social connection all under one roof. Unlike typical hangout spots, WhirlyBall Chicago combines the excitement of bumper cars with elements of basketball, lacrosse, and floor hockey, all played in custom electric “WhirlyBugs.” The result is an adrenaline-pumping activity that’s easy to learn, inclusive for all skill levels, and tremendously fun. Here, laughter and energy are contagious—as players dash, scoop, and score in a fast-paced, dynamic environment that gets everyone involved. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, planning a reunion, or organizing a corporate outing, WhirlyBall Chicago’s lively atmosphere offers the perfect backdrop for memorable moments. Beyond the main game, the venue also features bowling, laser tag, and a full-service bar and kitchen, ensuring there's always something happening to keep the momentum. This is not just a place to play; it’s a place to connect, compete, and create lasting memories with friends or family members. If you want a meetup spot that excites and entertains every participant while fostering team spirit and friendly rivalry, WhirlyBall Chicago is the go-to destination.
What activities can you enjoy at WhirlyBall Chicago?
WhirlyBall Chicago is a multi-entertainment center that specializes in the eponymous WhirlyBall game—a mashup of bumper cars, basketball, and lacrosse played using electric WhirlyBugs. Up to ten players per game ride these motorized vehicles equipped with scoops to catch and throw wiffle balls at goals, making it an action-packed, strategy-focused team sport perfect for groups. Importantly, the game accommodates all skill levels, meaning veterans and beginners alike can compete on an even playing field, encouraging camaraderie and plenty of laughs.
In addition to WhirlyBall, the venue offers 12 lanes of bowling that provide fun for all ages and skill sets. Bowling is a timeless social activity that fits perfectly into any group gathering, whether it’s a casual night out or part of a structured event. Also available is a multi-level laser tag arena, which heightens the excitement with neon-lit, futuristic combat. This intense, fast-paced game encourages teamwork, communication, and playful competition—ideal for corporate teams or large parties.
Complementing the gaming options, WhirlyBall Chicago offers a full-service bar and kitchen featuring an elevated American menu, craft beers, and signature cocktails such as the WhirlyPunch. This combination of activity and dining makes the venue a well-rounded entertainment destination, where guests can fuel up, unwind, and socialize between or after games. Whether your group wants to speed through WhirlyBall matches, engage in laser tag battles, or simply relax with bowling and good food, there’s an activity to fit every mood and interest.
Why is WhirlyBall Chicago perfect for group meetups?
WhirlyBall Chicago stands out as a meetup venue because it is designed specifically for groups ranging from small parties to large corporate events, with flexible accommodations for anywhere between 10 and 500 attendees. The vibrant space encourages interaction and bonding through team-oriented games that naturally promote communication, strategy, and friendly rivalry. This makes it ideal whether you're gathering family members, friends, or colleagues.
The well-trained staff assists with event planning, helping groups organize tournaments, catering, and special party setups. This level of service ensures that your event runs smoothly, letting you focus on socializing and competition rather than logistics. The venue’s relaxed yet upscale dining area adds an enjoyable social element, where teams can rest, share stories, and enjoy delicious food and drinks between high-energy sessions.
Furthermore, WhirlyBall Chicago is conveniently located in the Wicker Park/Bucktown neighborhood, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. With complimentary on-site parking and motorcoach parking available, transportation is hassle-free even for larger groups. Its proximity to downtown Chicago and major airports means it’s a practical choice for out-of-town guests or corporate clients. The combination of entertainment options, food and beverage services, and event planning support makes this venue uniquely suited to host meetups that are fun, memorable, and effortlessly coordinated.
How should you plan your WhirlyBall Chicago meetup?
Planning a meetup at WhirlyBall Chicago is straightforward and enjoyable thanks to their professional event coordination team. Start by defining your group size and preferred date, noting that the minimum group admission rate is 20, which suits many social gatherings and corporate outings. You can customize your package to include WhirlyBall matches, bowling sessions, laser tag, or a combination of all three, tailoring the experience to your group’s interests and energy levels.
Food and drink offerings can be incorporated into your event plan, with menus designed to please a crowd. From casual finger foods to elevated American fare, alongside over 30 craft beer taps and signature cocktails, the dining experience complements the active fun. You can even book private VIP spaces or the rooftop terrace for post-game celebrations or simple socializing in a relaxed atmosphere.
Make sure to communicate any special requests or occasion specifics to the event planners. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, team-building event, or casual reunion, the staff will help you create a seamless schedule including game times, breaks, and dining. This level of customization ensures your group doesn’t just play together but enjoys the entire experience from start to finish, making your meetup one that everyone will talk about long after the day is over.
What can you expect from the overall WhirlyBall Chicago experience?
Expect high energy, interactive fun, and a welcoming environment that caters to groups looking to connect through play. The WhirlyBall courts are spacious and well-maintained, with friendly referees and staff who enhance the gameplay and keep the atmosphere lively. The electric WhirlyBugs are easy to handle, so almost anyone can jump into the game quickly and enjoy the competitive yet lighthearted vibe.
The venue’s additional attractions — bowling and laser tag — broaden the appeal by offering different ways to engage, which is perfect for groups with diverse interests or when you want to switch up the action. WhirlyBall Chicago’s elevated dining experience complements all the physical activity with high-quality food and plenty of beverage choices, so there’s a perfect balance of play and relaxation.
Whether you come for a casual night out with friends or a structured corporate team-building day, WhirlyBall Chicago delivers a polished yet fun environment. The continuous cycle of games, socializing, and dining keeps energy levels high and spirits lifted. Attendees often leave raving about the unique blend of sports, social engagement, and excellent hospitality, making it an unforgettable destination for group gatherings.
Why do visitors rate WhirlyBall Chicago so highly?
With a 4.4-star rating across over two thousand reviews, many guests praise WhirlyBall Chicago for its originality, fun factor, and overall value as a group destination. Players appreciate the one-of-a-kind blend of bumper car-based sports, along with the clean, safe facilities and helpful staff. Guests regularly mention how well the venue serves large groups, with events flowing seamlessly thanks to attentive event planners.
The quality and variety of entertainment options—from WhirlyBall to bowling and laser tag—ensure that everyone in a group finds something exciting, contributing to positive group energy and making meetups more engaging. The food and beverage menu also receives high marks for its craft beers, signature cocktails, and freshly prepared dishes, which enhance the whole outing.
Groups from family reunions to corporate retreats report that WhirlyBall Chicago fosters teamwork and social bonding in a very natural and enjoyable way. This combination of entertainment, hospitality, and group-friendly facilities explains why so many return or recommend it as a premier meetup destination in Chicago. The consistently favorable reviews reflect an experience that’s fresh, fun, and tailored for groups who want to create lasting memories.