Summer time Chi is pretty tough to beat and it's hard to believe it's almost August... It's time to hit the ground running on our Summer bucket lists! One of the things I love to take advantage of in the Summertime is all of the amazing patios and rooftops around Chicago. Plus, I never mind an excuse to put together a cute outfit... (shop this one below). Now, let's keep in mind that I haven't been everywhere... But, here is my list of the best patios and rooftops in Chicago. Now it's time to make the most of the rest of YOUR Summer time Chi! Cheers!

Parsons Chicken & Fish: 2952 W Armitage Ave (pictured here)- picnic table and bleacher seating, amazing fish fry, hush puppies, hoppin' patio and frozen negronis? Parsons is such a fun place to spend a Summer time day or evening. Warning: the frozen negronis are so good... almost too good if you know what I'm saying...

London House: 85 E Upper Wacker Dr- This luxe rooftop is the perfect spot for drinks and apps during girls night. The views are insane and the vibes are just as good.

Cindys: 12 Michigan Avenue- This picture perfect spot in the Chicago Athletic Association has great cocktails and delectable bites. A perfect spot for any meal with great views overlooking Millennium Park. I love taking out of town guests here because to me, it has a quintessential view of Chicago.

Blue Door: 52 W Elm St- This charming patio is one of my favorite spots in the city. It's quaint and cute and the food is always great. Generally I find a good balance with one of their unique salads with a side of fries (in my opinion some of the best fries I've had). Their cocktails are also out of this world.

St Lou’s Assembly: 664 W Lake St- One of my favorite hangouts for a nice afternoon. Bacci ball, bleacher seating and good music, I love stopping here for drinks and bites.

Big Star: 1531 N Damen Ave- The infamous Big Star!... In my opinion, totally worth the hype. Sure, the wait may be long but the tacos are damn good and cheap too. It's always hoppin' making it a super fun spot to hang with friends and a few pitchers of margaritas! The patio is dog friendly too!

Parlor Pizza: 108 N Green Street & 1824 W Division St- This is a great spot to meet up with a group of friends and spend the day. Great food and and even more fun atmosphere. Another spot with a dog friendly patio too!

Publican Quality Meats: 825 W Fulton Market- Right in the heart of Fulton Market, this patio is cute and small but the real reason to go here is for brunch and the sandwiches... The best meats in the city and their sandwiches can't be beat.

The J Parker: 1816 N Clark St- This spot on the roof of the Lincoln Hotel is one of my favorites for weekend nights. Busy and fun but not too crazy with great drinks and delicious food. It's a great spot all year round too with great views of the lake and the city.

Shanghai Terrace: 108 E Superior St- Can you say lobster truffle dumplings? If you like dim sum and Chinese food, this gorgeous patio in the Peninsula Hotel is a beautiful, upscale spot to devour some unbelievable food. It's a great spot for a special occasion because it is pricey but the food is just unreal.

Photos by: Julie Kennedy Photography

Best Chicago Patios and Rooftops for This Summer

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