Hidden Speakeasies in Chicago & The Best Apartments Near Them

August 5, 2025

Looking for Chicago’s best hidden speakeasies? Whether you’re a cocktail lover, nightlife enthusiast, or simply want to uncover the city’s secret spots, these hidden bars offer unforgettable experiences - many just steps away from Reside Living apartments. If you're searching for apartments near Chicago’s top speakeasies, this list is your perfect starting point.


Magician holding a top hat and wand in front of a red curtain, performing a trick.

Chicago Magic Lounge – A Hidden Gem in Andersonville

Location: 5050 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640

What Makes It Special: Tucked behind a faux laundromat, this vintage-style venue blends magic, live performances, and craft cocktails in a one-of-a-kind setting.

Why You’ll Love It: This speakeasy offers an immersive 1930s vibe, perfect for date nights or entertaining out-of-town guests.

Nearby Reside Apartment: 5425 N Clark is just a short ride from the magic of Andersonville and its hidden hotspots.


A woman in flapper attire smiles, holding cash. She wears a headband, gloves, and a feather boa against a red background.

The Gatsby – Speakeasy in Lincoln Park

Location: 3125 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657

What Makes It Special: Located in the Bourgeois Pig behind an unmarked door beneath the bustling Wrigleyville scene, The Gatsby offers a secret 1920s cocktail bar experience with velvet booths and jazz-era ambiance.

Why You’ll Love It: Think Great Gatsby meets modern mixology - perfect for an upscale night out without leaving the neighborhood.

Nearby Reside Apartments: Lincoln Park – Located in Lincoln Park, you're within walking distance of The Gatsby and other hidden gems. Plus, you'll have easy access to restaurants, shops, and the lakefront.


Smiling woman in a flapper outfit holding money, wearing pearls, gloves, and a feathered headband. Red background.

Mile High Cocktail Club – A Sky-High Secret in West Loop

Location: 205 N Peoria St, Chicago, IL 60607

What Makes It Special: Located in the heart of West Loop, this elevated speakeasy channels the glamour of a 1960s first-class airport lounge - complete with vintage décor, plush seating, and jet-setting cocktails.

Why You’ll Love It: Retro charm, sleek design, and limited access make it one of the best-kept secrets in West Loop.

Nearby Reside Apartment: Gild – Around the corner from Gold Coast, this apartment community blends comfort and convenience with easy access to nightlife, dining, and CTA lines.


Woman in green sequined dress with feathered collar, arms raised in dance pose. Dark background.

Bordel – Vintage Paris Vibes with Burlesque in Wicker Park

Location: 1721 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622

What Makes It Special: Located above Mama Delia, Bordel is a Parisian-style speakeasy with candlelit tables, burlesque shows, and live jazz.

Why You’ll Love It: Romantic, mysterious, and packed with atmosphere - it’s one of Chicago’s most iconic secret bars.

Nearby Reside Apartment: 1846 W Division – Live steps away from nightlife, music, and culture while enjoying a quiet retreat with upscale features and modern design.

A person holds a coupe glass with a cocktail garnished with a blackberry and a miniature vial of liquid hanging from the rim.

Find Your Chicago Apartment Near the Best Hidden Bars

If you love discovering secret spots, Reside Living puts you in the center of it all. Our apartment communities are located near some of the best hidden speakeasies in Chicago - making it easy to enjoy everything the city has to offer, right outside your door.

Looking for an apartment near Chicago nightlife?


Explore ourReside Living communities today and find a place that fits your lifestyle—whether you’re drawn to Andersonville magic, West Loop exclusivity, or the electric energy of Wicker Park.


Person using a laptop while sitting on a couch with striped and gray pillows

How to Set Up Utilities in Your New Chicago Apartment

May 22, 2026
Moving into a new apartment in Chicago is exciting, especially when you’re settling into one of our city’s vibrant neighborhoods like Lakeview , Lincoln Park , Gold Coast , or West Loop . Whether you’re relocating across the city or moving to Chicago for the first time, setting up your utilities is a crucial step to ensure your home is move-in ready. At Reside Living , residents enjoy convenience, connectivity, and support, but understanding your utilities is key to a smooth transition.
Person relaxing on a beige couch, smiling with hands behind head, wearing an orange sweater.

How to Make a Rental Feel Like Home Without Losing Your Deposit

April 23, 2026
Learn how to make your rental feel like home without losing your deposit. Discover renter friendly tips for decor, storage, and layout.
Modern glass office building entrance with revolving doors and reflective windows

State & Chestnut Chicago Reviews

April 23, 2026
Discover why residents love State & Chestnut in Chicago’s Gold Coast—top-rated team, prime location, luxury amenities, and a standout living experience.
A happy light-colored dog stands on a wood floor under a table, looking up toward a nearby modern chair.

A Dog Owner’s Guide to Renting in Chicago

April 9, 2026
If you're moving into a Chicago apartment, this guide covers how to live with a dog in order to create the most pet-friendly home you can.

Moving to Chicago? Here’s Your Complete Checklist 🏙️📦

By Naecha Roberts • March 18, 2026
So, you’re thinking about moving to Chicago - exciting choice! From iconic neighborhoods and endless food options to world-class culture and lakefront views, the Windy City has a little something for everyone. To help make your move as smooth as possible, we’ve put together a complete Chicago moving checklist, filled with practical tips and helpful resources to guide you from apartment hunting all the way to settling into your new home. Whether you’re relocating from out of state or just moving across neighbourhood lines, this guide will help you stay organised and confident every step of the way.
Chicago skyline at dusk featuring the John Hancock Center towering over dense city buildings and the Lake Michigan shore.

Lincoln Park vs. Lakeview: Which Neighborhood Fits Your Lifestyle?

March 13, 2026
If you’re exploring apartments in Lincoln Park and Lakeview, this guide will help you decide which neighborhood aligns best with your lifestyle.
More Posts