The Ultimate Chicago Weekend Guide: Where to Find the Best Activities and Bottomless Brunch Options
Trying to figure out what to do with your weekend in Chicago? You’re not alone. Sometimes, all you want is a good meal, a few drinks, and something fun to keep the group entertained. That’s where places like AceBounce come in. Whether you’re looking for the best bottomless brunch Chicago has to offer or just want to try your hand at ping pong after a few mimosas, there’s plenty to fill your Saturday and Sunday. Here’s a simple guide to making the most of your time in the city, from brunch to late-night bites and everything in between.
Key Takeaways
- Bottomless brunch Chicago spots are more than just food—they’re a full experience with games and social energy.
- You don’t need to be a ping pong pro to enjoy competitive socializing at activity bars—everyone can join in, win or lose.
- Group packages make planning easy, whether you have a few friends or a big birthday crew.
- Chicago’s Loop is easy to reach by train or on foot, so you can brunch, play, and explore without worrying about parking.
- Don’t just stick to brunch—Chicago has great nightlife, craft cocktails, and shareable food that keep the fun going all weekend.
Kickstart Your Chicago Weekend With A Bottomless Brunch
The Ultimate Bottomless Brunch Chicago Experience
Chicago’s brunch scene is legendary, and for good reason. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a weekend ritual. Imagine this: you’ve just arrived, maybe you’re feeling a little tired from the journey, but you’re ready to dive into the city’s vibe. What better way to do that than with a bottomless brunch? It’s the perfect way to ease into your weekend, offering a relaxed atmosphere where you can catch up with friends, plan your adventures, or just enjoy some delicious food and drinks without watching the clock.
Why Chicago is the Perfect Brunch Destination
This city truly knows how to do brunch. From classic diners to trendy spots, Chicago offers a huge variety. You’ll find places that serve up hearty, comforting dishes alongside those offering more creative, modern takes. Plus, the energy of Chicago itself just adds to the experience. Whether you’re near the bustling Magnificent Mile or exploring a quieter neighborhood, there’s a brunch spot waiting for you. It’s a city that embraces good food and good company, making it ideal for a weekend getaway.
What to Expect from a Chicago Bottomless Brunch
So, what exactly does a “bottomless brunch” entail? It’s pretty straightforward, really. You typically pay a set price for your meal, and that price includes unlimited refills of certain drinks. Think mimosas, Bloody Marys, or even select beers and cocktails. The food menu usually features brunch favorites like pancakes, omelets, and breakfast burritos, but you’ll also find more substantial options like burgers and salads.
Here’s a general idea of what you might find:
- Drink Options: Usually includes mimosas, screwdrivers, and Bloody Marys. Some places might offer a wider selection of cocktails or even draft beers.
- Food Variety: Expect a mix of sweet and savory dishes. Many places offer build-your-own stations or a buffet-style setup.
- Atmosphere: Generally lively and social, perfect for groups. Expect music and a buzzing crowd.
- Price Point: Typically ranges from $30-$50 per person, depending on the venue and what’s included.
It’s important to remember that “bottomless” usually refers to a set time limit, often two hours. So, while you can keep the drinks coming, it’s within a specific window. Always check the details when booking!
Engaging Activities for Your Chicago Getaway
Competitive Socializing: Ping Pong, Beer Pong, and Shuffleboard
Forget the usual tourist traps; Chicago offers a vibrant scene for active fun. If you’re looking to inject some friendly competition into your weekend, look no further than the city’s array of social gaming spots. These aren’t your average bars; they’re places designed for interaction and a good laugh, perfect for shaking off the work week or just having a blast with friends.
The real magic happens when you combine a bit of playful rivalry with great company. Whether you’re a ping pong pro or have never held a paddle, these spots welcome everyone. They’ve got everything from classic ping pong and beer pong to the surprisingly addictive shuffleboard.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:
- Ping Pong: Think of it as table tennis with a twist. You can book a table for a set time, and it’s a fantastic way to get moving and challenge your pals. Don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned player; the atmosphere is all about fun, not just winning.
- Beer Pong: A nostalgic favorite, but with a more grown-up feel. Expect regulation tables and a lively vibe, perfect for groups looking to relive some college glory days.
- Shuffleboard: This game is all about strategy and a steady hand. It’s surprisingly engaging and a great way to chat and play simultaneously.
These interactive venues are designed to break down barriers. When you’re focused on sinking a shot or scoring a point, you’re not thinking about work or everyday stress. It’s about connecting with the people around you through shared activity and a bit of lighthearted competition.
Pricing Snapshot (per person for 55 minutes):
| Game | Price |
| Ping Pong | $10 |
| Beer Pong | $10 |
| Shuffleboard | $10 |
Note: Special pricing may be available on certain days, like ‘Play and Pour Thursdays’.
Unique Event Spaces for Any Occasion
Beyond just casual play, many of these spots offer private or semi-private areas that are perfect for hosting your own events. If you are looking for creative ways on how to celebrate a birthday with friends, imagine a party where everyone is actually engaged, or a corporate outing that doesn’t feel like a chore. These spaces can be tailored for various group sizes, from small gatherings to larger parties.
Elevated Food and Drink Offerings
No active outing is complete without good fuel. Forget bland snacks; these places often feature menus with scratch-made, shareable dishes. Think gourmet pizzas, tasty sliders, and other bites designed for easy eating while you play. The drink menus are usually just as impressive, with craft cocktails, a good selection of beers, and other options to keep everyone happy. It’s a far cry from the typical bar food, making your social gathering feel like a real treat.
Planning Your Perfect Chicago Itinerary
Location and Transportation
Chicago’s city core, especially the Loop, puts you right next to everything—iconic spots like the Riverwalk, Millennium Park, and the theater district are often just a short stroll away. The city’s public transit is surprisingly handy, too. If you hop off at the Clark/Lake stop, almost every train line drops you within a block or two of top brunch and nightlife venues. Union Station and Ogilvie are about fifteen minutes on foot, which is ideal if you’re rolling in by rail.
Driving in downtown Chicago can be a headache during weekends, so most locals stick to trains, Ubers, or simply walking whenever possible. Bikes and scooters can be fun if you’re feeling adventurous (just remember, the winds here are real). Parking garages are available but they add up quickly and can be tricky on packed weekends.
Transportation Quick Reference Table
| Option | Best For | Estimated Walk to Loop Attractions |
| CTA Train | Fast & budget-friendly | 1-10 mins |
| Rideshare (Uber) | Groups, late nights | Varies by traffic |
| Parking Garage | Must-have car, big groups | 5-15 mins |
| Walking | Exploring, bar/food hopping | 0-15 mins |
Don’t overthink it. Most attractions, restaurants, and bars in the Loop or River North are genuinely close together, so you’ll spend more time eating, drinking, or playing than figuring out how to get there.
Group Dining and Event Packages
If you’re planning with friends, a partner, or even a big team, Chicago’s best venues make group bookings a breeze—and the city is obsessed with multi-course, shareable meals. You’ll find:
- Pre-set group menus that turn decisions stress-free. This means everyone at the table gets enough to eat, and you don’t spend half the day arguing about appetizers.
- Replenishing food packages (think pizza, sliders, snacks that just keep coming until you’re happily stuffed).
- Drink packages for every preference: go classic with beer and wine, or spring for a craft cocktail setup where everyone can try something new.
- Dedicated event staff and games hosts, especially at gaming bars, who handle everything from checking you in to running tournaments and keeping glasses full.
Tables are sometimes held just for groups, but smaller squads (2–12) can almost always book online or just walk up if you’re feeling spontaneous. If you go bigger (say, bachelor parties or corporate outings), it’s best to reach out ahead so the staff can recommend the right food and space setups. Dietary restrictions? Just ask—vegetarian, vegan, and non-alcoholic options aren’t an afterthought here.
Sample Group Menu Options
| Package Name | Includes | Length | Perfect For |
| Six Pack | Four shareable bites, two pizzas | 2 hours | 4–6 friends |
| Perfect Ten | Six bites, four pizzas | 3 hours | Corporate event, 30+ |
| Drink Bundle | Domestic beer, wine, seltzer | 2–3 hours | Any celebration |
Making the Most of Your Visit
Maximize your Chicago weekend with a few simple moves:
- Book your main activities in advance—brunch tables, game rooms, and event spaces fill up fast, especially downtown.
- Map out food and bar stops so you don’t end up hangry or wandering. Chicago is easy to get lost in if you’re not careful, especially after a couple of bottomless mimosas.
- For groups, assign one person to keep things moving. (If nobody steps up, you risk everyone arguing in a coffee shop at noon about what to do next.)
Here’s what this could realistically look like:
- Grab brunch and stay for bottomless drinks.
- Walk to a game bar for a couple hours of ping pong (nobody has to be good—trust me).
- Take a breather on the Riverwalk, then head somewhere with craft cocktails and more sharing plates for the evening.
Sticking to a loose plan is your best bet. Chicago rewards curiosity but punishes indecision—lines get long, and you want to keep the fun going without missing out.
Beyond Brunch: Unforgettable Chicago Experiences
Team Building and Corporate Events
Forget those stuffy conference rooms and awkward icebreakers. Chicago offers a vibrant scene for team building that actually gets people excited. Think interactive games where colleagues can let loose and connect on a more personal level. It’s all about creating shared experiences that break down barriers and build stronger bonds. Whether it’s a friendly ping pong tournament or a lively shuffleboard showdown, these activities are designed to get everyone involved, laughing, and working together.
The best team-building events are the ones where people genuinely have fun.
Here’s what you can expect when planning a corporate event:
- Engaging Activities: Options like ping pong, beer pong, and shuffleboard provide a fun, competitive atmosphere that encourages interaction.
- Dedicated Support: Professional Games Hosts can guide your team, manage tournaments, and even lead an awards ceremony, taking the pressure off you.
- Flexible Spaces: Venues offer private and semi-private areas suitable for groups of various sizes, from small teams to larger company gatherings.
- Customizable Packages: Food and drink options can be tailored to your group’s needs, ensuring everyone is well-fed and happy.
Planning an event shouldn’t feel like another work project. The goal is to create an environment where your team can relax, compete, and connect naturally, leading to better collaboration back in the office.
Nightlife and Social Gatherings
When the sun goes down, Chicago truly comes alive. Beyond the usual bar scene, you can find spots that offer a unique twist on a night out. Imagine a place where you can grab a fantastic craft cocktail and then jump into a game of ping pong or shuffleboard with your friends. It’s the perfect blend of chill vibes and energetic fun, making it ideal for birthday celebrations, casual get-togethers, or just a fun night with pals. These venues are designed for socializing, offering a dynamic atmosphere that keeps the good times rolling.
Craft Cocktails and Shareable Bites
No great Chicago experience is complete without amazing food and drinks. Forget boring appetizers; think creative, scratch-made dishes designed for sharing. From gourmet pizzas to inventive sliders, there’s something to please every palate. And the drinks? Expect a well-curated selection of craft cocktails, local beers, and other beverages that perfectly complement the lively atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and make lasting memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book a reservation to play games or eat at AceBounce?
You don’t have to reserve a spot to visit AceBounce. Walk-ins are always welcome for the bar and high-top tables. If you want to guarantee time on the games, like ping pong or shuffleboard, it’s a good idea to book ahead, especially for bigger groups.
Are there food and drink options for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! AceBounce offers vegetarian and vegan menu items, plus non-alcoholic drinks like mocktails and sodas. You can ask your server for more details or check out the menu online.
Is AceBounce easy to get to using public transportation?
AceBounce is located at 230 N. Clark St. in downtown Chicago, right near the Chicago Riverwalk. It’s only a block away from the Clark/Lake CTA station, which has lots of train lines. Union Station and Ogilvie are about a 15-minute walk.
Can I host a private event or party at AceBounce?
Absolutely! AceBounce has special spaces for parties, team outings, birthdays, and more. You can book a spot for a small group right on the website, or fill out an event form if you have 13 or more people. The staff will help you plan the food, drinks, and games.
What kinds of games can I play at AceBounce?
You can play ping pong, beer pong, shuffleboard, and even a special game called Ping Pong X, which uses cool new technology. All the games are fun for both casual players and people who like a little competition.
Is AceBounce accessible for guests with disabilities?
Yes, AceBounce is ADA accessible. There are doors and elevators that meet ADA standards. If you need help when you arrive, just call the front desk at 773-219-0900 and someone will assist you.
