Apr 2, 2025

Carol's Pub Chicago

Country & Western dive

""Carol's Pub" has been a local favorite in Uptown Chicago for over four decades! IT's one of the few bars and dance floors that are open until 4 am..."

Carol’s Pub has been an Uptown local’s favorite for over four decades. Regulars, including myself, have cherished Friday nights for a particularly special band known as Diamondback. The lead singer, who kind of reminds me of a Chicago-style blend of Loretta Lynn & Reba McEntire, is somewhat royalty in the eye’s of Carol’s goers. She and her accomplices have taken song requests for years, so long as you stuck it to the official request pole wrapped in duct tape in front of the stage. It recently closed in 2016 for some necessary structural work and reopened under new owners who have maintained the spirit of Carol’s. They are committed to ensuring that dancing, live music and shenanigans fill the bar and dance floor to the wee hours–Carol’s Pub is one of Chicago’s few 4 a.m. bars (most nearby bars stop serving at 2 a.m.).

Diamondback is still on the schedule every other weekend, and a variety of other bands and musicians are scheduled Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, even Sunday night/early Monday morning. They range from Country to Bluegrass, Alt-Country and Folk, even some Blues and Gospel. I’ve been frequenting Carol's for almost ten years, and for many like me, it holds a dear place in the heart as a classic dive that’s primary focus is allowing locals to let loose.

The best way to get there via transit is the #22 Clark bus. It’s about a 10-minute walk west from the Wilson Red Line station. Best boot-scootin’ in Chicago!

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
029-guitar-instrument-1
Music

About this spot

North Clark Street 4659

Whiskey shots:

USD

6

7737548000

Find your way with 114 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters

Discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Chicago guide.

Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:

Discover all other hidden gems in Chicago

Bungalow

Natural wine meets fresh bread

I am always stunned by their appetizers, including "the big salad," which includes seasonal vegetables topped with plenty of pepper and shredded cheese.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 16, 2025

Pasta Bowl

Pasta to die for

"Pasta Bowl" in Chicago boasts about being a laid-back restaurant with fresh dishes, but if you're not in the mood for a bite, they also act as a cool bar.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 16, 2025

Vegan Plate

Hearty Thai food

I'm not vegan but I do think that "Vegan Plate" in Lincoln Park is one of the best bang-for-your-buck restaurants in Chicago. Try the curry combo plate!

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 16, 2025

Monk's Pub

Craft beer bar in the Loop

Monk's Pub is a snug beer bar suitable for anyone looking for a pint or their next meal. It's smack in the middle of Chicago, but you really can't tell...

028-beach-bar-1
Bars

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 16, 2025

Four Moon Tavern

Dive bar with panache

"Four Moon Tavern" in Chicago may seem simple on the outside, but this neighborhood bar has a lot to offer. Make sure to come here hungry!

028-beach-bar-1
Bars

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 16, 2025

Long Room

A cozy long room bar

"Long Room" in Chicago is as the name suggests: a long gathering room. Or rather, a long tavern. I love the wooden bar, the lack of television & the menu!

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 16, 2025

Chicago Athletic Association

Library bar

The "Chicago Athletic Association" (CAA) is an elite, hidden, and multifaceted space in the heart of the Loop. The gem of this hotel is the drawing room...

002-building
Art & culture
028-beach-bar-1
Bars
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 16, 2025

Reggies Chicago

Bar with music and shuttles

Reggies Chicago is a grunge bar, concert venue, and shuttle hub with great eats, Sox game packages, a beach bar and unique events like a pancake art show.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 13, 2025

aliveOne

Cozy music bar

aliveOne in Lincoln Park offers rock vibes, local music, a cozy atmosphere, pool, comfy couches, and the perfect spot to unwind or dance the night away.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 13, 2025

Side Street Saloon

Dive bar with pizza

Side Street Saloon in Lakeview is the perfect no-frills dive bar with a cozy Italian vibe in back, great pizza, pool, and a quirky neighborhood charm.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 13, 2025

Little Madrid

A bit of Spain in Chicago

Little Madrid in Chicago feels so European, it's surprising — trust me, I've spent some time in Madrid myself. Great place for a date or coworker night.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 12, 2025

Luft Balloons

Decorating Chicago with balloons

"Luft Balloons" in Chicago isn't just a balloon shop - it's a female-operated & owned business that makes balloon sculptures specifically for marches...

026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

by

Sophie

Amado

Apr 12, 2025

Heading to Chicago?

114 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

Authentic Stories by Real People

Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌

... for just €9.99

0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

114 Insider Tips

✓ Escape the Crowds

✓ Find Spots nearby

✓ Authentic Stories

... for just €9.99

App Download Download our app

City guides by those who know the city in and out!

Our Locals' Favorite Bars

Our team loves Chicago

Get to know our other Spotters from Chicago

As featured on:

New-York-Times
the-guardian
mashable
the-sunday-times
false
0
false
71
Filters