Admit it: the best thing about wedding season is the bachelorette parties. It’s the perfect excuse to hang with your squad, paint the town red, and make sure that your bride-to-be bestie gets everything her heart desires. If you’re looking for a destination with a killer nightlife, amazing food, and unique city experiences, then Chicago is the place to be!
Not only is Chicago more fun than Vegas (we might be biased?), but the city also perfectly caters to all types of Chicago bachelorette party ideas and experiences.
For example:
Want to do an all-female version of The Hangover? Chicago can offer that!
Want something that’s a bit more holistic and quiet? You’ll find it here!
Want to pretend you’re a mermaid for the day? Hey, we won’t (sort of) judge!
We have 16 fun and unique recommendations for your daytime and early evening bachelorette party activities in Chicago. Don’t resort to the old mainstays of teetering in heels from one run-of-the-mill bar to another. Our guide will take your celebration from basic to brilliant.
Is your bride more worried about the caterer than the officiant? Let her take a big bite out of the city’s culinary scene with these Chicago bachelorette party ideas for foodies.
While many distilleries offer tours, Hollow Leg provides a deep dive into the art and science of mixology. Their hands-on cocktail classes are perfect for a bridal party that wants to learn how to balance flavors while enjoying a few drinks in a lively, educational atmosphere. It’s a great way to kick off a Chicago bachelorette weekend.
Photo Source: Chicago Food & City Tours
Regardless of whether the bride wants hidden gems or in-your-face classics, Chicago Food & City Tours has your group covered. Food tours are the "new black" of the bridal scene, helping you up your party game to a whole new level.
Our expert food ambassadors take you to the most-buzzed-about eateries and mom-and-pop specialty stores while sharing fun facts about the neighborhoods. Many bachelorette parties opt for the Gateway to the West Loop Food Tour, which covers award-winning chefs and eclectic hotspots. Another winner? The Iconic Foods of Chicago Tour in Streeterville. All private experiences are customizable, include a full meal's worth of food, and offer add-ons like champagne toasts!
Photo Source: @eatalychicago
Eataly Chicago, the bustling Italian marketplace, is a haven for the bride who loves a good domestic goddess skill (and a lot of wine). Their pasta making classes teach you the secrets of authentic Italian cooking. These classes are interactive, delicious, and very high-end.
Photo Source: Bunny Slope
Want to relive a weekend in the woods without leaving the city? Acme Hotel’s Bunny Slope offers a post-slopes après-ski vibe featuring a private hot tub, a reserved bar, and a private bartender. It’s a retro, intimate lounge perfect for groups of up to 15-20 who want to soak and sip in style.
If your BFF is a traditional bride-to-be, she’ll want celebrations that reflect a timeless style. These sophisticated Chicago bachelorette party activities are elegant without sacrificing the fun.
Photo Source: @interconchicago
Planning a wedding is hard work. The InterContinental Chicago Mag Mile boasts a historic day spa featuring a junior Olympic-size pool, sauna, and customizable treatment rooms. From aromatherapy massages to antioxidant facials, it’s the ultimate way to prep for the big day (or recover from the night before).
Everyone loves a great brunch, and Cindy’s at the Chicago Athletic Association features one of the best views in the world. Their panoramic look at Millennium Park and Lake Michigan is the perfect backdrop for Instagram-worthy moments. Afterward, head downstairs to the Game Room for bocce ball, shuffleboard, and billiards.
For a luxury alternative, head to Kohler Waters Spa in Lincoln Park. This high-end sanctuary offers therapeutic water treatments, thermal suites, and a "Hydromassage" pool that provides a deeply relaxing escape for the whole squad.
If your bride isn't average, her party shouldn't be either. Here are some unique bachelorette party ideas in Chicago for the offbeat bride.
Photo Source: The Second City
If you’re the Tina Fey to her Amy Poehler, nothing beats a show at The Second City. Most of the legends of comedy started here, and their fast-paced improv shows are guaranteed to get the whole bridal party laughing.
Live out your diva dreams at Louie’s Pub, a Wicker Park staple. They offer a massive selection of karaoke songs, group table reservations, and wireless mics so you can show off your choreography. It's time to bust out that "Total Eclipse of the Heart" routine from middle school!
Pro Tip: Check out our recommendations of the best Wicker Park restaurants
Photo Source: Chicago Tiki Boat
Heat up a summer weekend on the Chicago Tiki Boat. These BYOB vessels come with a cooler, a grill, a Bluetooth sound system, and best of all, a waterslide! It’s a no-frills, high-fun way to see the skyline while splashing around with your besties.
Pro Tip: Even if you do not have a bachelorette party to celebrate, the Chicago Tiki Boat is also one of the best activities to enjoy summertime in Chicago.
Watson Adventures organizes clever scavenger hunts at locations like the Art Institute or the Field Museum. It’s a stimulating, interactive way to explore the city while engaging in some friendly competition.
Photo Source: Aquamermaid
Make like Ariel and put on a tail! AquaMermaid offers themed bachelorette parties where you’ll learn how to swim like a mermaid, play games, and pose for photos. It’s the definition of #squadgoals for the bride who truly believes life is better under the sea.
It’s her last hurrah, so make it count! These flirty and flawless themes are for the bride who wants to turn heads.
Photo Source: Bombshell Movement Studio
Learn the art of the pole, lap dances, or "twerk-n-twirls" in a safe, inclusive space. Bombshell Movement Studio offers private party packages that include champagne toasts and a gift bag for the guest of honor.
Photo Source: Vavoom Pinups
Tired of the same old selfies? Vavoom Pinups offers vintage-style photo shoots with a professional glam team. They provide hair, makeup, and a collection of retro wardrobe pieces to transform your group into classic pinup girls.
Photo Source: @therobeychicago
Pack your favorite bikini for The Cabana Club at The Robey. This stylish Wicker Park rooftop features a dipping pool, tropical cocktails, and 180-degree views of the skyline. It’s the coolest spot for a summer bachelorette hangout.
Photo Source: Vaudezilla
Whether you want to see a world-class burlesque show or book a private "Femme Fatale" workshop for your group, Vaudezilla creates an unforgettable cabaret experience. Their shows are theatrical, empowering, and a total blast for a night out.
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