About Chicago
Southwest of Lake Michigan in northeastern Illinois is where you will find the capital of this popular midwestern state, Chicago. Home to such powerhouse sports teams as the Blackhawks, White Sox, and the Cubs, Chicago is a thriving community of passionate sports fans, powerful business folks, and everything that has to do with the arts.
The weather can be blistering hot in the summer and winter is typically below freezing with lots of snow. If you do not like either of those prospects, you may want to make sure your happy hour location in Chicago is in spring or fall.
When it comes to setting up a happy hour location in Chicago, you have found the right place. In a city of over one million people, a happy hour is always going to be welcomed. There are major warehouse purveyors of alcohol with which to stock your happy hour, not to mention the great food options in the area.
Happy Hour Location Options in Chicago
When it comes to starting your Chicago happy hour location, make sure to consider these options. They can help to ensure that your project will be the best it can be.
- Bar Stools/Seating
The traditional seating arrangement for a happy hour location in Chicago is either stools or booths, or a combination of the two. However, it is up to your design aesthetic to figure out what is appropriate for your Chicago happy hour location. The main things to consider are comfortability, style, and quantity.
- Marketing
Get the word out about your happy hour location! Put up advertisements all over your place of business or where the event is going to take place. Take an advert out in a newspaper or even go to social media to promote.
- Catering
Your Chicago happy hour can be a big hit, but what makes it reach that next level is going to be the food. Some businesses like to offer a free snack bar or discounted food to pair with the discounted drinks. Make sure it is appropriate in style to the feel of the event.
- Entertainment
Live music can attract guests who may not have seen the ad for your Chicago happy hour location. Folks who were just walking by could be pulled in by the music and want to see what it is all about. Also, a good band or musician could be a drawing point if they already have a following.
Happy Hour Location Companies in Chicago
You still have a lot of work to do even after you secure your Chicago happy hour location. Be smart and hire some local companies to help you lighten the load.
- Ring of Music
If you are looking to have a full band play at your happy hour location, consider these folks. They cover all your favorite hits and add their own energetic twist. Good music is one of the main attractions to a happy hour anywhere and it is important for setting the right vibe.
- Corky’s Catering
Since the 1970s, Corky’s Catering has been serving Chicagoland functions in a big way. They have an amazing menu and can work with you to elevate your party to meet your vision. It doesn’t matter whether you invited 50 or 5,000, Corky’s Catering can feed them all whatever you like from appetizers to full meals.
- Tablescapes
This high-quality restaurant furniture and equipment could be the perfect place for your barstool rentals. They also supply linens and decorations. It is essential to have the right look to get the best reception from your happy hour guests. Tablescapes will make sure your place is perfect.
Pros and Cons of Happy Hour Locations in Chicago
There are always going to be a variety of factors that contribute to your decision whether or not to have your happy hour location in Chicago. Here are a few pros and cons to help guide your choice.
Advantages
- Friendly people
Happy hours are all about encouraging the community to get together. Chicago folks are some of the friendliest around, making them great patrons for your happy hour.
- Tons of museums
Chicago is a major cultural hub for the Midwest and is filled with amazing museums. These are great places for communities to enjoy and make memories, then they can come to your Chicago happy hour location and chat all about it!
- Amazing food options
Having once been named one of the top foodie cities in America, Chicago really puts emphasis on its bars and restaurants. There is already an active community in this respect, so why not bring it together with a happy hour?
Disadvantages
- Brutal winters
Lake Michigan is a monster when the winter weather months roll around. Chicago will be bone-chilling cold during parts of the year, which is likely to keep folks inside.
- Terrible traffic
Hopefully, your patrons have a plan to get home that has factored in traffic because the roads at rush hour are disastrous.
- Keep an eye out
In particular parts of the city at particular times of day or night, the crime rates tend to skyrocket. Be aware of your surroundings, and do your research, but remember that crime does play a factor in Chicago city life.
Famous Locations in Chicago
- The Arts Institute of Chicago
From Picasso to Renoir to Hokusai to Kerry James Marshall, AIC has a miraculous collection of some of the best artwork, writings, and exhibits in the world. It also has one of the largest collections of impressionist work outside of Paris. They showcase classic artists from around the world, as well as local Chicagoan artists.
- Lincoln Park Zoo
Who doesn’t love seeing a fantastical array of exotic animals all in one place? The Lincoln Park Zoo is a top attraction in the city. Constructed in the 1800s it has a long history of providing a nurturing and educational space for both animals and visitors of all ages. This place is great for a date or the whole family.
- 360 Chicago Observation Deck
This masterpiece experience can be found on the 94th floor of the observation deck of the John Hancock Center. Visitors get to see Chicago from a unique height, giving them 360-degree views of the Windy City. For adventurous folks, this location is a must-see.